Logistics is the inseparable link between supply and demand. While warehousing is equally important when it comes to assessing the customer requirements, the logistical considerations actually play a pivotal role when it comes to amplifying the credibility of an enterprise. Needless to say, most organizations are on the constant lookout for lowering down the logistic costs which in turn saves a lot of money for them.
The latest marketing trend for companies is to outsource the logistics via select 3PL service providers. However, there are times when outsourcing adds to the hassles and sabotages the growth of an organization. Therefore, it is evident that most logistics companies try to minimize the headaches associated with deference and outsourcing. Although, technology can always extend a helping hand, it’s all about assessing the requirements beforehand and modifying strategies, accordingly.
Reducing Logistics Costs and Headaches: Best Possible Solutions
- Utilizing Open Spaces
The first approach involves identifying and eliminating vacant spaces associated with a container. However, this needs to be done in a diligent and highly organized manner. Increasing storage density is one way of looking at lower logistics costs. This involves full truck utilization where a company can pack in a few more options, thereby lowering the overall costs. Strategies like these lower freight costs and even encourage organized operations. The perks of utilizing spaces include asset utilization, inventory accuracy and even labor efficiency.
- Understanding Your Competition
Companies offering services related to warehousing, distribution and packing must be cognizant of the market competition. Having the best price for services can automatically attract a greater customer base, thereby improving revenue generation. Cutting logistics costs isn’t only associated with the freight storage and movement. Even if a company quotes lower prices as compared to some of its contemporaries, profits can still be generated if the underlining costs are lower than the expenses. This can be easily achieved by implementing streamline processes— including efficient management of accounting and transportation teams. Proper accounting is yet another technique for lowering logistics costs despite the concerned company quoting reasonable rates for its services.
- Carrying a Safety Stock
Logistical considerations can get tricky at times. Companies offering services aren’t always in direct contact with the retailers and miscommunications can hamper the credibility quotient. Therefore, it is advisable to carry a safety stock, especially for premium and loyal customers. The safety stock offers a backup plan in case the expedited shipments aren’t in the desired condition upon delivery. Although some companies consider safety stock as an additional expenditure, it helps create great relationships with buyers. Not just costs, utilizing this approach also minimizes the headaches associated with logistics.
- Having Customized Containers for Liquids
Liquids, when transported in bulk, are prone to spillage. From an economic standpoint, it is always advisable to use Intermediate Bulk Containers or IBCs for the same. While the standard drums are good for basic orders, the cost to spillage ratio is something which needs to be assessed. With IBCs in place, companies can move a substantial amount of liquid using fewer containers. This minimizes overall costs and also offers a sense of assurance to the customers and service providers.
- Opting for Automation
Believe it or not, automation actually simplifies the way companies undertake logistical activities. In the truest possible sense, an automated approach comes with myriad regulatory measures which are difficult to initiate manually. Moreover, manual labor requires constant validation and therefore incurs higher costs. Automation seems more like a one-time investment which seamlessly handles logistics, transportation and a host of other activities sans human intervention. It needs to be understood that automation holds true for every aspect of logistics and the quicker companies opt for it, the better it is for them.
- Tracking the Inventory
Companies that regularly track their inventory are better off at saving money. Updated inventory levels prevent overstocking, which in turn minimizes overall costs. Having a spreadsheet to fall back upon is yet another option for the enterprises. In addition to that, it is essential to keep a note of the available merchandise and the quantities asked for. If an organization is good at replacing the merchandize, it need not worry about the deadlines and additional costs. Moreover, an adequately stocked inventory minimizes the logistics headaches and hassles; thereby adding a sense of credibility to the affairs.
Bottom Line
Logistics companies usually have a lot on their plate when it comes to user requirements. Be it working overtime during a busy season or handling multiple customers at the same time— there are a host of elementary issues to deal with. However, at the end, it all comes down to the costs and efforts associated with the same. While the mentioned strategies can surely help an organization minimize the overhead costs and lingering discrepancies, it is all about innovation that assists a logistics company when it comes to surviving and growing in this keenly contested market.
