August Transportation News Round Up
We’ve kept track of the many news stories and topics affecting transportation, supply chain and logistics this month. Here is quick summary of some of the trendiest topics out there:
The Debate: CDL Minimum Age
The Commercial Driver Act (S.1672), introduced last month by Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) would let truck drivers under the age of 21 operate commercial motor vehicles across state lines. Now, 18- to 20-year old drivers are only allowed to drive intrastate. Participating states would have to enter the agreement and standardize the licensingrequirement for drivers who will travel between states.
PLS Logistics Services Named One of Pittsburgh’s 100 Fastest Growing Companies
On Aug. 20, the Pittsburgh Business Times unveiled the Pittsburgh 100 Class of 2015, consisting of 100 firms that had the largest rate of growth over a three-year period from 2012 to 2014. PLS ranked 83rd on the list of the region’s fastest-growing companies.
The 6 Step Freight Claim Process
Handling freight claims requires time and effort from a shipper. There are certain processes, rules, and regulations that should be followed to ensure freight claims are resolved. A third-party logistics (3PL) provider, like PLS Logistics, works on behalf of the shipper and processes a clients’ freight claim from beginning to end. A 3PL does not have liability for freight loss or damage; instead, it works as a liaison with trucking companies and provides communication through the claims process. Shippers benefit from the expertise of freight claims management when claims are properly filed and processed without any holdups.
Market Update: Shippers are Outsourcing Transportation Management
Why are Logistics Costs Rising? According to the 26th Annual State of Logistics Report, the cost of logistics for U.S. businesses in 2014 rose 3.1 percent to just under $1.45 trillion. The total cost of logistics is equal to about 8.3 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP), a value that, by itself, is not alarming; however, all signs indicate that this number will rise significantly in the coming years.
Tips to Avoid Failure in Inbound Vendor Management
Inbound transportation management is complex and requires a lot of attention. It often leaves shippers at a loss for proper strategy and tools. Inbound supply chain processes usually suffer because of a lack of control and poor visibility, compared to outbound transportation initiatives. According to an Aberdeen survey, 90% of shippers say they are not prepared to manage inbound freight. Deploying effective inbound management improves transportation efficiency, reduces cycle time and leads to cost reduction.
Reduce Cycle Time, Improve Efficiency
In logistics, time is critical. A company’s cycle time is a significant, yet complex process that runs from the time a vendor ships materials to you through the point when you ship the final product to the customer.
PLS Logistics Services Ranks on Inc. 5000 List of Nation’s Fastest Growing Companies
This year, PLS ranks as number 4921 on the Inc. 5000 list. The ranking is based on growth and revenue over the past 3 years. During that time, PLS grew by 45%, with 2014 revenue coming in over $515 million, and created 225 new jobs.
Logistics Challenges of Same Day Delivery
How do some businesses keep pace with customer demands, while others fail? What logistics challenges do businesses face with same day delivery? Here, we answer these questions and examine lessons learned from companies like GAP and Starbucks.
4 Logistics Solutions for Struggling CPG Shippers
Two Major Obstacles for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) Shippers CPG shippers have been facing significant obstacles in transportation over the past few years. A recent study from the Boston Consulting Group and the Grocery Manufacturers Association shows that 80% of CPG shippers consider shipping their biggest business obstacle. What are the main obstacles in transportation for CPG shippers?
