Approved Freight Forwarders https://www.approvedforwarders.com/ Thu, 22 Feb 2024 00:42:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2019/09/site-favicon.png Approved Freight Forwarders https://www.approvedforwarders.com/ 32 32 Transloading vs. Intermodal Freight Shipping: Make the Right Choice for Your Business https://www.approvedforwarders.com/transloading-vs-intermodal-freight-shipping/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/transloading-vs-intermodal-freight-shipping/#respond Thu, 22 Feb 2024 09:00:56 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7729 Understanding the difference between transloading and intermodal freight shipping can help you keep your cargo moving efficiently—and save you money. Not sure what these logistics terms mean? We'll walk you through the definitions of both, and explain which method to choose when—and why. We'll also throw in a quick discussion of another similar term, [...]

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Understanding the difference between transloading and intermodal freight shipping can help you keep your cargo moving efficiently—and save you money.

Not sure what these logistics terms mean? We’ll walk you through the definitions of both, and explain which method to choose when—and why.

We’ll also throw in a quick discussion of another similar term, transshipping, so you can understand all of these logistics strategies and pick the right one for your freight.

What Does Transloading Mean in Shipping?

Transloading refers to moving cargo from one mode of transportation to another. More specifically, when cargo is transloaded, it’s unloaded from one transportation method (such as an ocean freight container) and reloaded into another (such as a truck trailer).

Transloading may involve:

  • Unpacking goods and palletizing them for their ongoing journey
  • Storing cargo until the next mode of transportation is ready
  • Services at either origin or destination—or both

To help you better understand transloading, let’s look at an example involving a business receiving goods from their supplier in Vietnam. The cargo travels in an ocean freight container from the factory in Vietnam through the Port of Ho Chi Minh City to a West Coast port and then to a nearby warehouse. At the warehouse, the goods are unloaded from the ocean freight container, and placed in the warehouse. A few days later, the goods are loaded into a truck trailer for transportation to the business’s nearest distribution center.

That’s an example of transloading.

What About Cross-Docking?

If you’ve looked into transloading, you may also have heard about cross-docking, which can be a smart way to reduce your storage use and keep your freight moving.

Cross-docking is similar to transloading, in that it’s a strategy that involves moving goods from one method of transportation to another.

Here’s the difference: In a cross-docking scenario, your cargo doesn’t get stored in a warehouse, and it doesn’t get repackaged. Instead:

  • The inbound cargo is removed from the container or trailer and placed right on another dock.
  • As soon as the outbound container or trailer is ready to receive the cargo, it’s loaded and sent to its next destination.

When you choose cross-docking, your goods spend as little time as possible sitting around. They’ll also stay in their original packaging. There’s no breaking down of cargo or reconfiguring of pallets. This maximizes efficiencies of both time (by keeping the cargo moving) and cost (by minimizing storage and handling/packaging costs).

Now that we’ve covered transloading, let’s look at another logistics strategy that shares some similarities.

 

What Is Intermodal Freight Shipping?

Cargo Containers Transportation On Freight Train By Railway. Intermodal Container On Train Car

As you probably know, inter- means between, so intermodal freight shipping means between modes.

Given that transloading also involves moving cargo between shipping modes, you might be wondering…

What’s the difference between intermodal and transloading?

In both intermodal shipping and transloading, cargo is transferred from one freight mode to another—from truck to rail, for example.

However, there’s a key difference:

  • When transloading, cargo is unloaded from its container or trailer and then reloaded into a new container or trailer.
  • In intermodal shipping, cargo is loaded into intermodal containers. These containers are simply transferred from mode to mode. They remain closed, and the cargo isn’t unloaded from the container until it reaches its final definition.
The Bottom Line: In intermodal shipping, cargo stays in the same container throughout its journey.

Domestic Intermodal vs. International Intermodal

Some of the confusion around intermodal freight transportation and transloading comes from the way domestic and international intermodal freight interacts in the U.S.

First, it’s important to understand that international intermodal containers are different than domestic intermodal containers:

  • International intermodal freight moves in the standard 20-foot and 40-foot containers you’ll see used for ocean freight.
  • U.S. domestic intermodal freight moves in 53-foot containers, which are most often transferred between truck and rail.

When goods arrive in an international intermodal container, they may be transloaded into a 53-foot domestic intermodal container for ease of movement around the U.S.

In other words, there is a reason that an intermodal container would be opened and the cargo removed (i.e. transloaded): if it’s coming from an international destination and being transferred to a standard domestic intermodal container. However, once that cargo is in the domestic intermodal container, it will stay inside until it reaches its final destination.

Why Choose Intermodal vs. Transloading When Moving Freight?

Now that we’ve explained the differences between these two shipping strategies, let’s take a closer look at when you might choose intermodal freight transport and when you might choose to transload.

Timing

Intermodal shipping can occasionally be subject to delays due to congestion or equipment shortages. Transloading can offer more flexibility for keeping your cargo moving.

Efficiencies

Would you rather move five 40-foot containers or three 53-foot domestic containers? Depending on the size and shape of the cargo you’re moving, transloading the contents of 40-foot containers to 53-foot domestic containers could mean fewer trips, saving you money.

Potential Damage & Security

Although transloading providers are experts at what they do, the increased handling that comes along with transloading also comes with risks. These include potential damage during repackaging or cargo loss. Some shippers prefer intermodal solutions that mean a sealed container from origin to destination.

Additional Services

If you’re working with a transloading service provider, they can offer assistance when things go awry with your shipments. For example, if you’ve missed a delivery window, they can offer short-term storage. They might also be able to reload and restack any pallets that may have gotten damaged during the first leg of transit, which can prevent further damage and salvage final deliveries.

If you need some help making the decision for your business, reach out to our experts for a complimentary consultation. We’d be happy to talk it through with you.

Finally, let’s talk about one more related term: transshipping.

How Does Transshipping Work?

containers on cargo

Transshipping is a pretty simple concept. It means moving a container from one ship to another.

Think of transshipping like booking a plane ticket with a layover. If you’re flying between large hubs, like Los Angeles and New York, you can often get there in a single flight. The same is true for cargo traveling between major ports.

However, if you’re going from Los Angeles to Detroit, you may need to stop at an intermediate airport and connect to a second flight.

That’s essentially what happens in transshipping. Cargo travels to one port, where it’s removed from the first ship, then put on a second ship to its final destination port.

What Is the Difference Between Transloading and Transshipping?

The big difference between transloading and transshipping is that the cargo never leaves the container when it’s being transshipped. Additionally, transshipping takes place between two ships, whereas transloading usually involves different modes of transportation.

What Is the Difference Between Intermodal and Transshipping?

Intermodal shipping involves transferring cargo between more than one mode of transportation, such as ocean to truck or truck to rail. In a transshipping situation, the transfer happens between sea-going vessels.

Transloading vs. Intermodal vs. Transshipping: Know Your Logistics Strategies

Now that you’ve got a handle on the differences between transloading, intermodal freight shipping, and transshipping, the next step is to maximize your efficiencies by using the right strategies for the right situation.

One of our experts would be happy to help. We’ll sit down with you and take a holistic look at your cargo flow to identify areas where we can save you time and money. Reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation—and start leveraging the right logistics strategies for your business.

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Moving Cargo from Asia to Hawaii? Choose the Right Option for Your Budget https://www.approvedforwarders.com/moving-cargo-from-asia-to-hawaii-choose-the-right-option-for-your-budget/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/moving-cargo-from-asia-to-hawaii-choose-the-right-option-for-your-budget/#respond Thu, 01 Feb 2024 09:00:29 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7706 Choosing a freight mode always involves a consideration between speed and cost. When you're moving cargo from Asia to Hawaii, air freight offers a fast, but pricey solution. Ocean freight offers a more cost-effective avenue—but a much slower one. In this article, we'll walk through the two options for moving cargo from Asia to Hawaii. [...]

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Choosing a freight mode always involves a consideration between speed and cost.

When you’re moving cargo from Asia to Hawaii, air freight offers a fast, but pricey solution. Ocean freight offers a more cost-effective avenue—but a much slower one.

In this article, we’ll walk through the two options for moving cargo from Asia to Hawaii. Understanding both can help you strike the right balance between cost and speed—and establish a freight mix that keeps your business moving forward while protecting your bottom line.

Option #1: Air Freight from Asia to Hawaii

Transit Time: 1-2 days

Cost: $$$

There’s no question: Air freight is the fastest way to get goods from Asia to Hawaii. When time is a factor, air freight is the obvious choice.

However, it’s also the most expensive.

Additionally, some items simply aren’t suited for air freight, including oversized freight with measurements greater than 20′ long x 8′ high x 8′ wide. Hazardous freight may also be challenging to move via air, depending on the airline.

The Bottom Line

Air freight is best for moving time-sensitive goods to Hawaii. When time is your most important factor, air freight is the right choice.

(Tip: Looking into air freight consolidations can assist with lowering your freight bills.)

Option #2: Ocean Freight Direct from Asia to Hawaii

Transit Time: 17-22 days days from mainland China ports to Honolulu

Cost: $

As you can see, there’s a significant difference in transit time between Asia-Hawaii air freight and ocean freight. While air freight can arrive in a matter of days, ocean freight takes a few weeks.

However, the cost is considerably lower when you’re using ocean freight.

Additionally, some items simply aren’t suited for air freight—like hazardous materials. We ship a significant amount of freight containing lithium batteries to Hawaii via ocean freight. Oversized and overweight freight also has to travel over the ocean.

The Bottom Line

 

If budget is your primary consideration, ocean freight from Asia to Hawaii will be your top choice. Additionally, if your freight contains hazardous materials, or would be considered oversized or overweight, you may need to move your goods by sea.

(Tip: Don’t have enough to fill a container? Less-than-container load options are available as a cost-effective method for moving smaller loads from Asia to Hawaii.)

The Green Factor: Your Carbon Footprint

If your company is focused on reducing your environmental impact, consider ocean freight. It’s the greener choice, by a significant margin. According to statistics from the International Chamber of Shipping, air freight releases 435.0 grams/tonne-km in CO2 emissions, versus the 3.0 released by very large container vessels.

Bonus Option: A Mix of the Two

The costs to run a business in the Aloha State are considerable, and our Hawaii customers are always looking for ways to lower their freight bills.

For many Hawaii-based businesses, the answer lies in finding the right mix between air freight and ocean freight.

  • When you’re able to plan ahead and order in advance, ocean freight can be the right solution for moving your freight. (And it will keep your landed cost down!)
  • When you have a time-sensitive need—such as a critical order for a key customer or an important restock—you may need to use air freight. Although the shipment will be expensive, it might be necessary for keeping your business moving forward until your next ocean freight shipment arrives.

Looking for Storage Options on Oahu?

Our sister company, Royal Hawaiian Movers, offers warehousing and storage solutions on Oahu, as well as on-island delivery to make restocks simple. To learn more, reach out to our team.

Making the Right Choice for Your Business

At the end of the day, selecting between transportation modes—and routes—can be complex. For many companies, it’s about establishing a mix that gets cargo where it needs to go, while protecting their bottom line. Understanding all the available options will only help you make better decisions in this arena, while keeping your freight bills as low as possible.

Want some help establishing the right freight mix for your Hawaii business? Our experts would love to help! We have decades of experience helping Hawaii-based businesses get the freight they need to keep their businesses moving, while balancing cost and speed. Just reach out for a quote to get started.

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Hawaii Air Freight: Your Guide to Fast & Easy Cargo Shipments https://www.approvedforwarders.com/hawaii-air-freight-cargo-shipment-guide/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/hawaii-air-freight-cargo-shipment-guide/#respond Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:00:57 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7596 Hawaii imports about 85% of the goods used in the state. Residents and businesses alike rely on air freight to deliver high-value goods, time-sensitive items, perishables like fresh seafood products, and more to the Aloha State. In this article, we'll show you everything you need to know to make your next Hawaii air cargo [...]

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Hawaii imports about 85% of the goods used in the state. Residents and businesses alike rely on air freight to deliver high-value goods, time-sensitive items, perishables like fresh seafood products, and more to the Aloha State.

In this article, we’ll show you everything you need to know to make your next Hawaii air cargo shipment simple. We’ll walk you through some facts and figures to give you a lay of the land. We’ll show you the advantages air freight offers Hawaii shippers. And, finally, we’ll show you what you need to know to move your air cargo to or from Hawaii with ease.

In This Article


Understanding Hawaii Air Freight: Facts and Figures

  • Inbound Air Freight
  • Outbound Air Freight
  • Common Origin and Destination Points: Domestic & International

Why Choose Air Freight for Hawaii Shipments?

  • Shorter Timelines
  • Less Handling
  • Fewer Fees

5 Must-Knows About Hawaii Air Cargo

  • Service Levels
  • Pickups & Deliveries
  • Multi-Modal Providers
  • Hawaii-Specific Restrictions
  • Air Freight Restrictions

Understanding Hawaii Air Freight: Facts and Figures

Along with ocean freight, air freight is a key mode for moving goods and supplies to and from Hawaii.

Inbound Air Freight

Between 1990 and 2019, the volume of inbound Hawaii air cargo more than doubled. What kind of items do Hawaii shippers bring in via air freight? Check out the following list of the most common air freight commodities headed to Hawaii.

Most Common Inbound Air Freight Commodities

Domestic: Electronics; precision instruments; miscellaneous manufactured products; machinery; motorized vehicles; transport equipment; textiles/leather; pharmaceuticals; articles of base metal; and meat/seafood.

International: Exports of repaired/returned imports; handbags, wallets, and jewelry cases; jewelry and precious metal; watches; fresh and chilled fish; computers and parts; art paintings and drawings; seats and parts; medical, surgical, and dental equipment; and natural and cultured pearls.

Outbound Air Freight

Between 1990 and 2019, outbound Hawaii air cargo didn’t see as much growth as inbound air cargo. Instead, outbound cargo only increased by about 50% during that 29-year period. If you’re curious what kind of items Hawaii shippers export via air freight, you’ll find a list of the most common commodities below.

Most Common Outbound Air Freight Commodities

Domestic: Mixed freight; pharmaceuticals; other foodstuffs; meat/seafood; other agricultural products; textiles/leather; alcoholic beverages; printed products; and electronics.

International: Aircraft parts; turbojets and turbopropellers; electric telephone parts; live and fresh crustaceans; aircraft engines and parts; military apparel and equipment; parts and accessories; tank and armored fight vehicles; fresh melons and papayas; coffee and coffee husks.

 

Common Origin and Destination Points for Hawaii Air Freight

Hawaii air freight comes and goes from all over the U.S.—and the world. Next, we’ll take you on a quick tour of the most common origin and destination points for Hawaii air cargo.

Top Destinations for Outbound Domestic Air Freight from Hawaii

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK)
  • Ontario International Airport in Southern California (ONT)
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Top Origin Points for Inbound Domestic Air Freight to Hawaii

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
  • Ontario International Airport in Southern California (ONT)
  • Memphis International Airport (MEM – a FedEx hub)
  • Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF – a UPS hub)

Top Destinations for Outbound International Air Freight from Hawaii

  • Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Australia (SYD)
  • Auckland Airport, New Zealand (AKL)
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
  • Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan (HND)
  • Vancouver International Airport, Canada (YVR)

Top Origin Points for Inbound International Air Freight to Hawaii

  • Narita International Airport, Japan (NRT)
  • Tokyo Haneda Airport, Japan (HND)
  • Chubu Centrair International Airport, Japan (NGO)
  • Kansai International Airport, Japan (KIX)
  • Incheon International Airport, South Korea (ICN) in South Korea

Finally, Hawaii has 15 airports across the state, nine of which receive air cargo. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) on Oahu receives far and away the most air freight, as measured in cargo tons.

Here’s how all of Hawaii’s airports stack up, in order of most air cargo tons received to least:

1. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Oahu (HNL)

2. Kahului Airport, Maui (OGG)

3. Hilo International Airport, Big Island (ITO)

4. Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, Big Island (KOA)

5. Lihue Airport, Kauai (LIH)

6. Kapalua Airport, Maui (JHM)

7. Molokai Airport (MKK)

8. Lanai Airport (LNY)

9. Kalaupapa Airport, Molokai (LUP)

Now that you’ve got a good lay of the land in terms of Hawaii air cargo, let’s take a closer look at why Hawaii shippers might choose this mode of transportation.

 

Why Choose Air Freight for Hawaii Shipments?

When you price it out, you’ll discover that air freight is often the most expensive option for moving goods and supplies to Hawaii. However, along with that cost comes three distinct advantages.

 

Air Freight Advantage #1: Shorter Timelines

When time is tight, air freight is the right choice to get your items to an isolated archipelago like Hawaii. Air freight can arrive in Hawaii in as little as a few days—or faster, depending on how much you’re willing to pay.

In contrast, the ships carrying ocean freight can take anywhere from five to nine days to transit from California to Hawaii. Plus, you’ll need to add additional days on either end for the ship to get loaded and unloaded.

Bottom line: When your timelines are critical, go with air freight.

 

Air Freight Advantage #2: Minimal Handling

Air cargo freighter

When you move items to Hawaii via ocean freight, they’re subject to all kinds of forces along the way. This includes the loading and unloading of the container, plus the impact of the wind and waves on the steamship as it crosses the Pacific Ocean. (That’s why it’s so important to package your ocean freight correctly!)

Despite all the care that goes into your shipment, sometimes goods that travel via ocean freight arrive with an occasional bump or bruise.

In contrast, air freight shipments are subject to minimal handling. As a result, air freight usually arrives in impeccable shape.

To offer one example, did you happen to notice the handbags, wallets, and jewelry listed among the most popular air freight commodities above? Luxury retailers rely on air cargo to move their most expensive items so they arrive in perfect condition.

 

Advantage #3: Fewer Handling Charges (or None at All!)

calculating cubic feet

If you’re familiar with ocean freight, you also might be familiar with all the line items on an ocean freight invoice—terminal handling charges, drayage charges, wharfage charges, and more. All of these little items can really add up.

In contrast, air freight shipments are generally subject to fewer “extra” charges. Some companies may add on documentation, handling, or other miscellaneous fees to handle an air freight shipment. However, Approved Freight Forwarders doesn’t charge any additional fees for air freight shipments. We only charge for the freight itself.

This can make it a lot easier to understand your all-in cost for moving items to Hawaii—and it can make air freight a more budget-friendly choice.

5 Must-Knows About Hawaii Air Freight

Air freight

Now that you understand why you might choose air freight for a Hawaii shipment, let’s talk about a few must-knows so you can execute that shipment with ease.

 

Must-Know #1: You’ll Have Some Choices to Make

Air freight comes in a number of different service levels, each with their own speed and pricing. As you might guess, the faster your shipment moves, the more expensive it will be. (Generally!)

Below, you’ll find a list of available air freight service levels, so you can get a sense of what’s available:

  • Air Charter – The top level of air freight service in which you hire an entire airplane for your exclusive use.
  • Part Charter – A high-priority service in which you move your cargo on an already-scheduled charter flight.
  • First Flight Out – Secures a spot for your cargo on the next available flight(s) between two points.
  • Express – Your cargo moves on the first available flight with the quickest transit time.
  • Standard – General, all-around air freight service.
  • Deferred – A lower-cost service that moves your items on flights more convenient for the airline. Comes with cheaper rates but longer transit times.
  • Consolidated – The lowest-cost air freight service. For a consolidated shipment, a freight forwarder accumulates freight headed for a common destination and ships it either on a set schedule or once the freight reaches a certain weight/volume.

Not sure which service level is right for you? Talk to your forwarder about your goals and budget, and they’ll match you with the right air freight service.

 

 

Air Freight Consolidations: A Budget-Friendly Option

As we mentioned above, air freight consolidations (also called consols) are your most budget-friendly option for Hawaii air cargo. Like a less-than-container (LCL) ocean freight solution, your shipment “shares” space in a larger shipment, and all the shippers in the consolidation essentially split the cost.

 

For certain types of shipments, consolidated air freight can make financial sense—and it will often get your goods to Hawaii faster than ocean freight. To learn more, get a quote from our Hawaii air cargo experts.

Request A Quote

Must Know #2: Not All Providers Offer Pickups & Deliveries in Hawaii

Some air freight providers solely deal with airport-to-airport cargo shipments and don’t offer door-to-door service. Other providers may do pick-up and delivery on the U.S. mainland, but not in Hawaii. Still others may offer service to certain areas of Hawaii and not others.

For maximum flexibility, look for a one-stop provider who can offer door-to-door services on both ends. You might not need pickup and delivery services immediately. However, there may come a day when you need help getting a shipment to or from the airport. If your provider offers door-to-door service, even in Hawaii, you’ll save yourself a ton of hassle.

 

Must-Know #3: Seek Out Multi-Modal Capabilities

Along similar lines, consider choosing a provider that can handle both Hawaii ocean freight and air freight. These capabilities will give you more options and more flexibility, both in terms of cost and speed.

For example, let’s say you run a retail business in Honolulu, and you’ve run out of an item that a customer needs urgently. However, you only need a few pieces to get you through until your next big restock arrives.

If you’re working with a provider who arranges both air freight and ocean freight, they can solve this problem in a single phone call. For example, a freight forwarder could move the pieces your customer needs via air freight. Then, your forwarder could follow up with a (lower-cost) ocean freight shipment to get your stock back up to normal levels.

This solution will solve your immediate needs, while saving you some money along the way. And rather than having to coordinate with multiple carriers, the right forwarder could handle the whole thing for you—adding significant ease to your Hawaii cargo flow.

 

Must-Know #4: Be Aware of Hawaii Import Restrictions

Because of Hawaii’s isolated position in the Pacific Ocean, the islands have a unique ecosystem, with many of species of flora and fauna you won’t find anywhere else. To protect this delicate ecosystem, the state has requirements in place for the import of fish, wildlife, and agricultural products.

If you’re shipping products that fall into these general categories, mention it up front to your forwarder or carrier. They can run you through any restrictions or procedures that apply to your individual situation.

 

Must-Know #5: Some Items Can’t Go Via Air Freight

Finally, you should also be aware that some items simply aren’t suited for air freight. This includes:

Large, oversized items (bigger than 20’ long, 8’ high, and 8’ wide), which are extremely difficult to move via air freight.

Heavy items, which can be challenging and expensive to move via air freight.

Hazardous materials, some of which can’t ship via air freight. For example, lithium batteries have become increasingly challenging to move to Hawaii. In 2019, the FAA banned the transportation of lithium ion cells and batteries as cargo on passenger aircraft. They can still travel on cargo-only planes, but that means fewer options for shippers.

To move these types of items, you may need to use ocean freight.

If you’re looking for options for hard-to-ship materials, reach out to one of our experts. We’ve moved just about everything you can think of to Hawaii, and we can get your cargo to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and both sides of the Big Island, safely and affordably.

 

The Air Freight Advantage

For many shippers, air freight offers exactly what they need—a quick solution for moving high-value cargo to or from the Hawaiian Islands. For others, ocean freight is the better solution. Either way, now that you have a deeper understanding of Hawaii air freight, you’ll have a better sense of which one is right for you—and how to make your next shipment simpler.

If you’re moving cargo to Hawaii, our experts would be happy to help! We offer air freight and ocean freight solutions to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. We also have terminals, teams, and trucks on all four islands, so we can get your cargo exactly where it needs to go. Reach out for a free quote to get started, and we’ll be in touch.

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Maximize Your Holiday Season with These 5 Logistics Insights for Retailers https://www.approvedforwarders.com/maximize-your-holiday-season-with-logistics-insights-for-retailers/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/maximize-your-holiday-season-with-logistics-insights-for-retailers/#respond Tue, 07 Nov 2023 10:00:33 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7550 The holiday season can be a make-or-break one for many retail businesses. Statistics from the National Retail Federation (NRF) reveal that retailers earn, on average 19% of their total sales during the last two months of the year. (Or more, depending on the business!) As you prepare for the holiday season, we've got five [...]

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The holiday season can be a make-or-break one for many retail businesses. Statistics from the National Retail Federation (NRF) reveal that retailers earn, on average 19% of their total sales during the last two months of the year. (Or more, depending on the business!)

As you prepare for the holiday season, we’ve got five insights for you. These tips will help you optimize your logistics, protect your margins, and keep your holiday stress to a minimum—at least where your business is concerned!

 

#1: The “Holiday Season” Starts Earlier Every Year

Remember the days when the holiday shopping season (semi-)officially kicked off with Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving?

21%

Percentage of holiday shopping complete by mid-October

Those days are long gone, with new statistics showing that holiday shoppers have, on average, finished 21% of their holiday shopping by mid-October, according to a Google/Ipsos survey.

Additionally, half of the consumers surveyed were willing to consider shopping with new stores or brands, giving retailers extra incentive to be fully stocked and ready to go at the start of October.

If you’re one of those retailers coming off the big back-to-school rush, it’s important to plan inventory restocks early. That way, your storefront will be ready to capture as much business as possible in early October.

Holiday Insight: To maximize your revenue—and your profits—plan ahead with both your suppliers and your freight forwarder. Start by working backward from the dates you’ll need your inventory in hand. Your freight forwarder can help you calculate the necessary shipping times. (Plus a little extra cushion. More on that in a moment!)

Thoughtful planning will ensure optimal stock levels—and enable you to take advantage of the most economical methods of shipping your inventory, such as ocean freight.

#2: “Peak Season” Presents Shipping Challenges

In straightforward economic terms, you’ll see the principles of supply and demand in action as retailers all over the globe stock up for October, November, and December sales.

As you prepare to ship your holiday inventory, you’re likely to see:

 

Higher, More Volatile Freight Rates

During the run-up to the holiday season, demand allows freight carriers to charge higher rates, including peak season surcharges. Additionally, for ocean freight shipments, congestion at the ports could mean long lines for drivers picking up containers, which may result in detention charges.

Your freight forwarder will be an invaluable partner in estimating these costs, so you can set your own prices accordingly.


Small Parcel Pricing Can Go Up, Too

During the holiday season, FedEx and UPS add demand surcharges to their prices. (The USPS did the same during 2022 but opted against it in 2023.) If you’re shipping to customers using any of these carriers, keep these extra costs in mind. (We’ll also talk more about final mile delivery in the next section!)

Delays & Interruptions

 

When ocean freight demand rises, so do the possibilities of congestion, delays, and rolled cargo—i.e., when a vessel is overbooked and your cargo is pushed to the next sailing.

A good freight forwarder has a few strategies in their toolkit to combat these issues. For example, if you’re sending several containers, your forwarder may want to separate them into several bills of lading (BOLs). This reduces the possibility of your entire shipment from getting rolled (although it doesn’t prevent it entirely).

Your best strategy is to plan as far ahead as possible, leaving extra cushion in case of delays or interruptions.

It’s also important to remember that ocean freight transit times are only one piece of the puzzle. Once the ship arrives in port, it will need to be unloaded. Then, your goods will need to be picked up from the port and prepared for delivery. Your freight forwarder can help you estimate the door-to-door timing so you can plan.

Holiday Insight: Need some of your goods fast? A good freight forwarder can also connect you with air freight solutions. Air freight consolidations can make this mode a little more affordable. Expedited LCL is another option that offers a faster alternative to traditional ocean freight.

#3: Free Shipping Still Matters

During the holidays, carriers deliver as many as ~90 million parcels a day.

46%

Percentage of shoppers who cited “free shipping” as the most important consideration for shopping online

You can’t deny the importance of small parcels during the holiday season, which is why we wanted to spotlight one of the most important factors consumers cite when choosing an online retailer: free shipping.

46% of consumers in a CivicScience survey cited “free shipping” as the most important factor in choosing where to shop online. For comparison, “buying from a trusted website” was the next most popular factor, selected by just 20% of people.

In other words, free shipping matters to consumers. It’s an important possibility to consider during the holiday season.

As we noted above, small parcel carriers may charge demand surcharges, so it’s also critical to weigh consumer preference against the potential cost to your business.

One option to consider: buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) options. BOPIS strategies can reduce your final mile shipping costs by offering consumers “free” delivery options that don’t cost them anything out of pocket (but do require them to stop by a retail location).

As a bonus, offering BOPIS options to your customers can also:

Side Note: If you’ve only got a brick-and-mortar presence, we’ve good news. Brick-and-mortar numbers for holiday shopping have been trending upward since 2021. In other words, consumers are increasingly willing to do some of their shopping in person—which takes shipping out of the picture entirely.

Holiday Insight: Offering BOPIS options means you may need to adjust your inventory strategy to keep a deeper backstock of popular items. Monitor your inventory levels closely so you can prevent out-of-stock situations, which may mean losing out to a competitor.

#4: Returns Come with Pluses and Minuses

Holiday returns can be notoriously costly for retail operations.

18%

Returns rate during the
holiday season

In fact, retailers can see a returns rate as high as 18% during the holiday season. Additionally, returns fraud can also be a problem, with the National Retail Federation estimating that as many as 10.4% of returns are fraudulent.

That said, easy returns remain important to consumers, with 98% of consumers in a FedEx study reporting that fast and convenient returns make them more likely to order again.

Understanding the cost—and knowing the importance to consumers—retailers need to strike a balance between convenience for customers and expenses to the operation.

Interestingly enough, more than half of the respondents in the FedEx study were willing to pay for hassle-free returns. In other words, there’s room for retailers to recoup some of their costs—as long as they provide a smooth and easy system for returns.

Holiday Insight: Retailers might also consider BORIS options—buy online, return in store. These options can eliminate the significant cost of return shipping. However, like BOPIS strategies, BORIS options require operations to rethink their inventory management strategies to handle the new inflow of stock, which may or may not be in sellable condition.

#5: Take a Breath, Evaluate, and Prepare for Next Year

Finally, when all is said and done, it’s tempting to have a seat, wipe your brow, and leave all the holiday craziness behind.

Before you close the book on the year, spend some time to look back on your holiday season. While everything is still fresh in your mind, consider a stop/start/continue analysis to capture insights. This format offers a simple way to evaluate what went well, what didn’t, and what you can learn from everything that happened to make next year’s holiday season even better.

Ask yourself:

  • What do we need to stop doing?
  • What do we need to start doing?
  • What do we need to continue doing?

A couple of areas to consider:

  • Suppliers – Do you need to find any alternate suppliers to reduce risk during future “rush” seasons?
  • Inventory – Did you have enough on hand? Or do you need to strike a better balance between your just-in-time/just-in-case strategies?
  • Logistics – How well did your freight flow work? Do you need to start planning earlier? Try different modes? Or do you need a different freight forwarder in your corner?

Get everything down while it’s still top of mind, and you’ll set yourself up for an even more amazing holiday season next year.

Holiday Insight: Don’t forget that Lunar New Year is right around the corner! Like the holiday season, Lunar New Year can mean higher freight prices and delays. Get ahead with our guide to Lunar New Year freight shipping.

Making the Most of the Busiest Shopping Days of the Year

The holiday season is a stressful, yet rewarding time of the year for retailers. By planning ahead, in concert with your suppliers and your freight forwarder, you’ll be prepared to maximize your revenue—and your profits.

Need some help planning your freight flow for the busy season? Our experts would be happy to help! Just reach out for a complimentary consultation. Together, we’ll take a holistic view of your freight needs and uncover the most efficient ways to keep your operation stocked, even during its busiest months.

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Approved Freight Forwarders Earns EPA SmartWay® Certification https://www.approvedforwarders.com/approved-freight-forwarders-earns-epa-smartway-certification/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/approved-freight-forwarders-earns-epa-smartway-certification/#respond Wed, 01 Nov 2023 19:52:46 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7533 Approved Freight Forwarders Joins EPA SmartWay® Transportation Partnership: A Commitment to Sustainability October 23, 2023 Approved Freight Forwarders has announced its membership in the SmartWay® Transportation Partnership, a program initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Thanks to its extensive usage of SmartWay-certified carriers, the company has achieved certification as a SmartWay Logistics Company. [...]

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Approved Freight Forwarders Joins EPA SmartWay® Transportation Partnership: A Commitment to Sustainability

October 23, 2023 Approved Freight Forwarders has announced its membership in the SmartWay® Transportation Partnership, a program initiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Thanks to its extensive usage of SmartWay-certified carriers, the company has achieved certification as a SmartWay Logistics Company.

This impressive accomplishment shows that Approved Freight Forwarders is committed to being eco-friendly, teaming up with similar partners and organizations to make the future more sustainable.

The Significance of SmartWay® Transportation Partnership

The SmartWay® Transportation Partnership, a program under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is a comprehensive initiative to enhance fuel efficiency and curb emissions within the transportation industry. This voluntary collaboration between the government, transportation sector, and shippers gives companies powerful tools to reduce their environmental impact.

Approved Freight Forwarders: A Commitment to Sustainability

Approved Freight Forwarders, a Southern California-based company, is acutely aware of the environmental impact of the transportation and logistics industry. This awareness prompted them to prioritize reducing their ecological footprint. The company’s commitment is clear, and the SmartWay program offers powerful tools to choose carriers with a similar commitment.

The Benefits of SmartWay Certification

Approved Freight Forwarders’ registration in the SmartWay Partnership empowers the company to monitor the current environmental footprint of its operations. This includes tracking emissions and fuel usage from the partners responsible for carrying Approved Freight Forwarders’ freight.

Environmental Impact of the SmartWay Partnership

The EPA estimates that the SmartWay Partnership has achieved significant environmental savings. These savings include 336 million barrels of oil, $44.8 billion in fuel costs, 143 million metric tons of CO2, 2.7 million short tons of nitrogen oxides (NOx), and 112,000 short tons of particulate matter (PM). This is equivalent to eliminating annual energy use in over 21 million homes. The partnership boasts nearly 4,000 partners, including shippers, logistics companies, truck, rail, barge, and multimodal carriers.

Approved Freight Forwarders’ inclusion in the SmartWay® Transportation Partnership and their attainment of SmartWay Logistics Company certification exemplify their unwavering commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible practices. As they join forces with like-minded partners, they take significant strides towards a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future in the transportation and logistics industry. Their dedication to reducing their ecological footprint sets an inspiring example for others to follow.

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What Is Drayage? What Role Does It Play in Logistics? https://www.approvedforwarders.com/what-is-drayage/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/what-is-drayage/#respond Tue, 17 Oct 2023 19:53:47 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7502 Drayage acts as a crucial link in getting cargo to its final destination. These short-haul trucking services offer vital connections between ports, rail spurs, warehouses, storefronts, and other destinations. In other words, drayage is an essential logistics function that keeps freight moving. By definition, drayage refers to trucking freight over short distances. In this article, [...]

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Drayage acts as a crucial link in getting cargo to its final destination. These short-haul trucking services offer vital connections between ports, rail spurs, warehouses, storefronts, and other destinations.

In other words, drayage is an essential logistics function that keeps freight moving.

By definition, drayage refers to trucking freight over short distances. In this article, we’ll give you a deeper dive on this concept so you can understand why drayage is so vital to logistics. You’ll also understand why you might see a drayage line item on your freight invoice, and you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for when you’re shipping freight.

By the way, if you have questions about any other industry terms, make sure to check out our Approved glossary of freight and logistics terms!

What Is Drayage? What Role Does It Play in Logistics?

 

Simply put, freight simply couldn’t move from its origin to its destination point without drayage. Let’s take a look at a definition of drayage so you can understand why:

 

Drayage: A Definition

Drayage is a local trucking service that moves cargo over short distances.

To better understand the role drayage plays in logistics, let’s take a look at an example. A 40-foot ocean container is making its way from a vendor in Shanghai to a retail company located in Los Angeles, California. Along the journey, drayage services would come into play in the following areas:

  • To get the container to the port in Shanghai, a driver will need to pick it up from the vendor’s warehouse in Shanghai and move it to the port. This service would be considered drayage.
  • After the container arrives at the Port of Los Angeles, a driver will retrieve the container from the port and move it to the retail company’s nearby warehouse. That service would also be considered drayage.

Other examples of drayage include:

  • Transporting an intermodal container from a sea port to a rail yard to continue its journey to the final destination.
  • Moving an intermodal container from a hub to a nearby warehouse.
  • Transporting goods via truck between distribution centers located in the same metropolitan area.

The common thread in all of these examples is this: Drayage involves short trips via truck. It also often connects different modes of transportation to keep freight moving toward its destination.

FreightWaves reports that there are more than 60 million drayage movements in North America alone each year. This gives you a good sense of just how vital a role drayage plays in the movement of goods.

Drayage Services Explained

Now that we’ve offered you a definition of drayage, as well as some examples, let’s take a deeper look at the range of services that can fall under the category of drayage.

The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) breaks down drayage into six different types in their glossary:

Six Types of Drayage

1. Cross-Town or Inter-Carrier Drayage: A movement of an intermodal unit across town from one railroad to another for continuance of the move.
2. Door-to-Door Drayage: Retail drayage involving over-the-road movement of a unit to a customer location.
3. Expedited Drayage: Movement of an intermodal unit over the road to get it there on time. This exceptional drayage usually involves time-sensitive freight.
4. IMX or Intra-Carrier Drayage: Movement of an intermodal unit from a carrier’s rail hub to the same carrier’s intermodal hub. IMX drayage extends the reach of an intermodal hub.
5. Pier Drayage: An over-the-road movement of an intermodal unit from a carrier’s rail hub to a port’s dock or pier.
6. Shuttle Drayage: A movement of an intermodal unit either loaded or empty from a hub to another parking lot because the railroad has run out of room at the hub.

These six types of drayage offer you another look at the way it acts as a vital connection when transporting freight. It bridges two transportation modes. It moves cargo between two nearby locations, and it can even facilitate logistics by alleviating backups at hubs.

Drayage Charges & Costs

Occasionally, shippers are introduced to the term drayage when they’re reviewing their shipping invoices.

Some freight providers offer all-in-one invoices that reduce all shipping costs to a single line item.

However, other freight providers will break out all the shipping charges, so that shippers can see a separate line item marked drayage.

What factors go into the cost of drayage? When calculating the price, your provider will consider things like:

  • Distance
  • Shipment weight
  • Shipment packaging and how easily it can be moved/transported
  • Any required special handling

Shippers may also be subject to additional fees during drayage services. Depending on the circumstances of your shipment, these charges may include:

  • Tolls – If the driver has to pay a toll at any point during drayage service, those tolls will likely be charged back to the shipper.
  • Detention fees – Typically, a certain amount of waiting time is included when the driver is picking up or dropping off cargo. If the driver has to wait longer than the included “free time,” shippers may be charged a detention fee.
  • Demurrage fees – If the shipper isn’t able to arrange for a timely pickup of their container via a drayage provider, they may be subject to demurrage fees. Demurrage fees are charged when a container is left at the port or terminal beyond the agreed-upon “free time.”

When you’re getting a quote for your shipment, make sure to ask about any additional fees, such as the ones listed above. A good freight provider will walk you through any “extras”—and help you estimate your final cost so you can protect your bottom line.

Drayage: The Challenges

As with any link in the supply chain, there are a few challenges that can crop up around drayage. While these challenges are largely out of shippers’ control, it’s important to understand them—and plan for them—so you can effectively manage your supply chain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drayage

Finally, let’s go through a few questions we often get about drayage service. If you have any additional questions, you can always contact our team.

What Is Drayage Service?

Drayage service moves cargo over short distances via truck. For example, moving a container from the Port of Los Angeles to an intermodal hub would be considered drayage service.

What Does Drayage Do?

Drayage is a short-haul trucking service that moves freight to a nearby location. It might connect two modes of transportation, such as ocean and long-haul trucking. Drayage can also move freight between locations within a contained area, such as two distribution centers located in the same greater metropolitan area.

What Is an Example of Drayage?

If a driver picks up a container at the Port of Long Beach and delivers it to a nearby warehouse for unloading, that would be an example of drayage.

Why Do They Call It Drayage?

Drayage finds its origin in the word dray—a cart used to move heavy loads. These carts were pulled by horses, called dray horses. The goods loaded onto these carts were heavy, so the dray horses could only take them so far. As a result, drayage became synonymous for moving cargo over short distances.

What Is the Difference Between Drayage and Long-Haul?

The difference between drayage (short-haul trucking) and long-haul trucking lies mainly in the distance traveled. Just as it sounds, short-haul trucking/drayage involves quick trips, while long-haul trucking involves transporting cargo over greater distances.

Because of this difference, drayage and long-haul trucking utilize different equipment. Long-haul trucks are designed for extended journeys, while drayage trucks are designed for trips that last no longer than a day.

What Kind of Trucks Are Used for Drayage?

The trucks used for drayage are generally heavy-duty, Class 7 and 8 trucks. Traditionally, these vehicles have been diesel powered. However, there’s a significant movement toward zero-emissions drayage trucks. This is especially true in California, where Advanced Clean Fleets regulation is aimed at 100% zero-emission drayage trucks in the state by 2035.

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The Benefits of Guam Air Freight: Tips for Simple Shipments https://www.approvedforwarders.com/guam-air-freight-tips/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/guam-air-freight-tips/#respond Mon, 18 Sep 2023 06:38:52 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7471 When you need to get cargo to Guam fast, air freight is your best bet. This mode of transportation can move freight to Guam in as little as a few days, and it has the added benefit of subjecting your cargo to minimal handling.   In this guide, we'll show you everything you need [...]

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When you need to get cargo to Guam fast, air freight is your best bet. This mode of transportation can move freight to Guam in as little as a few days, and it has the added benefit of subjecting your cargo to minimal handling.

 

In this guide, we’ll show you everything you need to know to send air freight to Guam with ease. We’ll cover 1) the main advantages of air freight over other modes of transportation, 2) whether your air cargo needs to clear Guam customs, and 3) five must-knows to make planning your next shipment a snap.

 

In This Article:

Let’s start with what sets air freight apart from other modes of transportation.

 

Why Choose Air Freight? 3 Advantages to Consider

Air freight is often the most expensive way to move cargo to Guam. However, that cost buys you three distinct advantages:

Advantage #1: Shorter Timelines

If you’ve got something that absolutely has to get to (or from!) Guam in the shortest timeline possible, air freight is the way to go. In fact, when FEMA urgently needed to move recovery supplies to Guam in the wake of Typhoon Mawar, they chose air freight to get those initial supplies to the island as soon as possible.

 

In contrast, ocean freight from California takes about two weeks in transit time to Guam. When you add in freight cut-offs, loading, and unloading, you’re probably looking at about three weeks from start to finish. (Read more about how long it takes to ship freight to Guam.)

 

When your timeline is critical, air freight is far and away your best choice for moving cargo. Its shorter delivery times can give a business an edge by getting goods in the hands of customers faster.

Advantage #2: Minimal Handling

Items that move to or from Guam via ocean freight are subject to all kinds of forces during their journey—loading and unloading, plus the wind and waves during the two-week ocean transit. (That’s why packaging your ocean freight correctly is so important!) As careful as the carriers who touch your container are, ocean freight sometimes arrives with an occasional bump or bruise.

 

In contrast, air freight shipments are subject to minimal handling, so it arrives at its destination in impeccable shape. Those who sell luxury goods in Guam’s high-end stores especially appreciate this aspect of air cargo. Their items can only be sold in perfect condition, and they’ll often choose air freight for that reason.

Advantage #3: Fewer Handling Charges (or None at All!)

If you’ve ever looked at an ocean freight invoice, you’ll see all kinds of line items, including terminal handling charges, drayage charges, wharfage charges, and more. These can really start to add up.

 

In contrast, air freight shipments are generally subject to fewer “extra” charges, although some companies may add on documentation, handling, or other miscellaneous fees. Approved Freight Forwarders doesn’t charge any additional fees. We only charge for the air freight itself. This can make it a lot easier to understand your all-in cost for moving goods to Guam. For some shippers, it can make choosing air freight more economical.

 

Note: Air freight going to Guam has to pass through the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA). Clearing Guam customs comes with an additional charge. We’ll cover that next!

Get a Quote

Weekly Air Freight Consolidations to Guam

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly air freight solution, consider a consolidation, also called a consol. In an air freight consolidation, different shippers’ cargo is gathered in a warehouse, and then it’s all sent to the same destination at the same time. Essentially, these shippers “share” space in a larger shipment—and share the cost.

 

Sending your item in a consolidation might mean waiting a bit longer in contrast to a dedicated air freight shipment. However, it’s significantly less expensive.

 

In partnership with our sister company, DeWitt Guam, Approved sends a weekly air freight consolidation to Guam. If you deliver your freight to our City of Industry, CA warehouse by noon on Thursday, it will arrive on Guam on Monday.

To qualify, your shipment:

  • Must measure less than or up to 20’ long, 8’ high, and 8’ wide
  • Must not contain perishables, pets, or vegetation
  • May contain hazardous materials, dependent on airline approval
Get a Quote

5 Must-Knows About Guam Air Freight

To add ease to your next Guam air freight shipment, we’ve compiled our list of the top five things you need to know. With these distinctions, you’ll avoid the most common pitfalls and simplify your future air freight shipments.

 

Must-Know #1: All Shipments to Guam Must Pass Through Customs

As we mentioned above, Guam has its own customs agency. The Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA) clears all arriving shipments to Guam, both international and domestic.

This means customs fees for air freight shipments:

 

The first 100 lbs. of air cargo are assessed a $125.00 fee, and a $.0012 fee will be charged for every pound thereafter.

 

You’ll also need to collect the right paperwork for the CQA, including a commercial invoice. Your forwarder can assist you in gathering all the required documentation.

Will You Need to Pay Use Tax on Your Air Freight Shipment?

Guam’s use tax law states that “Every person who imports into Guam, or acquires in Guam from any other person, any property for his use or consumption shall be subject to 4% Use Tax based on the landed value of such property. This is not applicable to items imported for resale.”

In other words, if you’re importing items intended for business or personal use, your shipment will be subject to a 4% use tax. This tax must be paid before your items are released to you.

However, if you’re running a licensed business in Guam and sending items to the island intended for resale, your shipment will not be subject to the 4% use tax. You will, though, pay the 4% gross receipt tax when the goods are sold on Guam.

These rules apply to both domestic and international air freight shipments to Guam.

By the way, if you’re sending air cargo from Guam to the U.S., it will be considered a domestic shipment. However, your shipment will still need to clear U.S. Customs at its first point of entry. Your forwarder can assist with preparing the paperwork you need for quick and easy clearance.

Must-Know #2: Air Freight Comes in Different Service Levels

Above, we mentioned our weekly consolidated air freight shipment to Guam. Consolidated service is just one of several air freight service levels available. Higher levels of service mean faster delivery, but they also mean a higher cost.

 

No matter your budget, it’s important to get a sense of the entire landscape so you know what’s available to you—just in case:

  • Air Charter – Just as it sounds, an air charter involves hiring an entire airplane for your sole use. This is the top level of service for air freight.
  • Part Charter – A high-priority air freight service that allows you to secure a spot on a scheduled charter flight.
  • First Flight Out – For cargo that needs to move quickly, first flight out service means your cargo moves on the next available flight(s) between two points.
  • Express – This priority-level service books space on the first available flight with the quickest transit time.
  • Standard – General, all-around air freight service. Compared to options like ocean freight, standard air freight offers a relatively speedy delivery time.
  • Deferred – This lower-cost service puts your cargo on flights that are more convenient for the airline. Rates are often cheaper, but longer transit times are also likely.
  • Consolidated – The lowest-cost air freight service, in which a freight forwarder accumulates freight and ships either on a set schedule or once the freight reaches a certain weight/volume.

Not sure which service is right for you? Talk to your forwarder about your goals and budget, and they’ll match you with the right service.

Must Know #3: Not All Providers Offer Pickups & Deliveries on Guam

Some air freight providers are just that: They deal solely with airport-to-airport cargo shipments, with no options for door-to-door service. Other providers may be able to offer door pick-up and delivery on the U.S. mainland, but not on Guam.

 

For maximum convenience, look for a one-stop provider who can offer door-to-door air freight services on both ends. You might not need it right now. However, down the road, that kind of flexibility can come in handy. It will save you from calling (and coordinating with!) a multiple providers, should you need help moving your cargo to or from the airport.

Must-Know #4: A Multi-Modal Carrier Can Offer Advantages

Along those same lines, look for a provider that can assist with multiple modes of transportation—such as air freight and ocean freight. At the end of the day, these providers can offer you more flexibility, both in terms of transit times and budget.

For example, let’s say you’re running a business on Guam, and you’ve run out of some inventory you need urgently. However, you don’t need the entire shipment, just a couple of pieces to get you through.

 

If you’re working with a provider who handles air freight and ocean freight, you can solve this problem with one phone call. For example, a freight forwarder could arrange to move a small shipment of inventory via air freight, with the rest to follow in a few weeks via ocean freight, a much cheaper mode of transportation. This will get you the inventory you need, and save you some money along the way. Rather than having to contact multiple carriers, a forwarder could arrange it—and coordinate the whole thing for you.

 

This kind of partnership can add significant ease to your Guam freight going forward.

 

By the way, FEMA used a similar strategy to move recovery materials to Guam after Typhoon Mawar. As we mentioned earlier, they used air freight to move critical supplies to the island in the immediate aftermath of the storm. Then, they followed those air freight shipments with ocean freight shipments to support ongoing recovery efforts in the weeks that followed.

Must-Know #5: Some Items Can’t Go Via Air Freight

Finally, you should also know that air freight comes with a few more restrictions than ocean freight.

  • Large, oversized items (bigger than 20’ long, 8’ high, and 8’ wide) are extremely challenging to move via air freight.
  • Additionally, heavy items can be difficult—and they’ll also be expensive to move.
  • Finally, certain hazardous materials can’t be shipped via air freight. For example, lithium batteries have become increasingly challenging to move, ever since the FAA banned the transportation of lithium ion cells and batteries as cargo on passenger aircraft. They can still travel on cargo-only planes, but that means fewer options for shippers.

To sum it up, despite the advantages that air freight has to offer, some shipments are simply better suited—or only suited—for ocean freight.

 

If you’re looking for options for hard-to-ship materials, reach out to one of our experts! We’ve been moving all kinds of freight to Guam since 1991, and we can get your cargo to the island, safely and affordably.

Choosing the Right Mode of Transportation

For certain shipments, air freight is the perfect solution with plenty of advantages. For others, ocean freight is the way to go. However, now that you have a deeper understanding of Guam air freight, you’re perfectly positioned to decide which one is right for your business—and your budget.

 

If you’re moving freight to Guam, our experts would be happy to help! We offer air freight and ocean freight solutions to Guam, depending on your needs and your budget. Reach out for a free quote, and we’ll be in touch.

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8 Innovative Ways the Freight & Logistics Industry Leverages AI https://www.approvedforwarders.com/ai-in-freight-logistics/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/ai-in-freight-logistics/#respond Mon, 11 Sep 2023 06:35:07 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7462 Complex, interdependent processes. Tons of historical data. A constant drive to create efficiencies and reduce waste. These characteristics of the freight and logistics industry all set the stage for significant impact from artificial intelligence technology.   As you might expect, AI technology is first and foremost assisting many freight and logistics companies with supply [...]

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Complex, interdependent processes. Tons of historical data. A constant drive to create efficiencies and reduce waste. These characteristics of the freight and logistics industry all set the stage for significant impact from artificial intelligence technology.

 

As you might expect, AI technology is first and foremost assisting many freight and logistics companies with supply chain optimization.

15%
improvement in logistics cost

Data from management consulting firm McKinsey & Company revealed that companies using AI for supply chain management have improved their logistics costs by 15% and their service levels by 65% in comparison to peers who didn’t adopt these technologies.

Beyond supply chain optimization, the freight and logistics industry is also leveraging AI in increasingly innovative ways. Driver health, employee development, and customer service are all areas in which AI technology has made an impact. Given the technology’s ability to solve problems and make decisions in ways that feel surprisingly human, these “softer” AI applications feel almost natural.

 

Below, we’ll take a deeper dive into eight ways that AI technology within the freight and logistics industry is creating efficiencies, solving problems, and even promoting mental health.

Fully Autonomous Sales & Operations Planning Drives Revenue Increases

As a McKinsey & Company report revealed, integrating a company’s supply chain from end to end opens the door for fully autonomous planning, powered by AI. In other words, when an integrated system gathers data from events occurring up and down the supply chain, forecasts can be tweaked, supplies ordered, and production schedules adjusted (and more!)—all without the intervention of a human being.

4%
revenue increase

After studying large, Asia-based consumer packaged goods companies, McKinsey quantified the benefits from fully autonomous planning. Their data revealed revenue increases of up to 4% and decreases in supply chain costs of up to 10%.

However, 80% of the consumer packaged goods companies that McKinsey talked to were still using traditional sales and operations planning procedures—often because they lacked the necessary end-to-end integration. Ultimately, only 7% of the surveyed companies used real-time optimization across fully automated digital systems in their sales and operations planning.

 

As hard data continues to emerge supporting the benefits of fully autonomous sales and operations planning, more companies will likely make the investment—and turn over their planning processes to AI.

Route Planning Reduces Mileage & Emissions

To increase efficiencies, reduce fuel costs, and lower emissions, UPS developed ORION (On-Road Integrated Optimization and Navigation) route-optimizing software. The platform’s goal? To leverage predictive algorithms in concert with UPS’s tracking systems to create better routes than human drivers could develop on their own.

 

At first, the idea was a hard sell. Could an algorithm truly create outperform an experienced driver with years of experience on the road?

100m
miles saved per year

Ultimately, the answer was yes. In the first eight years of its deployment, ORION saved about 100 million miles and 10 million gallons of fuel per year. UPS anticipates even more savings as the technology continues to improve. More recent upgrades to the system have added real-time updates for drivers in transit, based on changing road conditions.

In addition to using ORION for route planning, UPS also uses the system to predict future package volume so they can adjust capacity accordingly, saving more than 85 million miles driven per year.

Chatbots Deliver 24/7 Customer Service

Love ’em or hate ’em, chatbots are becoming increasingly prevalent in logistics applications.

 

Take, for example, DHL’s chatbot, “Marie.” If you’ve got a relatively simple question, Marie can assist. The AI technology powering Marie allows her to field plain-language requests at all hours of the day. For example, if you need to know the status of a package en route, Marie can assist. More complex requests ultimately get passed off to a human customer service representative.

 

Other logistics companies have also hopped on the chatbot bandwagon. DB Schenker has “Betty,” their digital assistant who helps with tracking questions 24/7.

XPO is using their AI chatbot technology to facilitate last-mile service. Their chatbot makes automated phone calls to customers, leveraging real-time Google Maps data to confirm the exact timing of their delivery. It also diverts drivers when customers aren’t home to receive their packages, resulting in both fuel and emissions savings.

Mobile App Monitors Driver Health to Improve Safety

While startups launch pilots for autonomous robot deliveries in Europe, other startups are looking at ways that AI technology can assist human drivers still behind the wheel.

 

The AI Mood Mobile Application, an AI-based predictive mood tracking mobile application, was designed to help identify early signs of stress among courier drivers. The app was created through a partnership between SalesChoice, an AI SaaS startup; Purolator, a courier and logistics company; and Ontario’s Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network.

 

The app monitors drivers for signs of stress, which can lead to higher road accident rates. The app got its first road test in 2022, during a pilot program that involved 125 drivers. That data will be analyzed to determine the scalability of the program, and its effectiveness in impacting health and safety targets.

AI Spearheads Employee Development & Promotes Retention

Kuehne+Nagel’s AI technology picks up where employee job boards end.

Rather than leaving it to their staff to peruse internal job listings for advancement opportunities, Kuehne+Nagel, a global logistics company, uses the power of an AI-driven internal talent mobility platform to nurture retain its 82,000 employees worldwide.

 

In addition to delivering tailored career content, the platform also serves up customized job recommendations from Kuehne+Nagel’s internal job board. It even offers tailored professional development suggestions to aid employees in their advancement through the company, promoting retention in a competitive job market.

 

AI Facilitates Smart Picking Solutions in the Warehouse

Picking can be one of the most labor-intensive parts of a warehouse operation, making it a ripe target for automation.

 

If there’s only one type of item in the warehouse, automating that process is one thing. However, most businesses have a warehouse full of items that vary in size, shape, and even color. (Talk about a challenge!)

 

Enter Fizyr’s deep learning algorithms. The technology proposes more than 100 grasp poses each second to handle items of varying size and shape. See this fascinating tech in action below:

 

 

Fizyr’s software has been deployed across several industries, including e-commerce, retail, food, manufacturing, and more. Ultimately, technology like Fizyr’s opens the door for automated picking of all types of items, which is poised to revolutionize warehousing going forward.

Digital Twins Model Solutions and Anticipate Challenges

Simply put, a digital twin is a virtual representation of a real-world system. For example, a company might make a digital twin of its warehouse or its entire supply chain.

 

A true digital twin, as defined by DHL research:

  • Is a virtual model of a real “thing.”
  • Simulates both the physical state and behavior of the thing.
  • Is unique and associated with a single, specific instance of the thing.
  • Connects to the thing, updating itself in response to known changes to the thing’s state, condition, or context.
  • Provides value through visualization, analysis, prediction, or optimization.

Given those conditions, a digital twin powered by machine learning technology can offer a number of benefits, including:

  • Proposing new workflows and testing them in a virtual setting to determine the most effective solutions before making changes in the real world.
  • Identifying more efficient warehouse layouts for improved storage and retrieval.
  • Running worst-case simulations to test the resilience of the system so supply chain managers can better prepare for challenges.
  • Predicting future scenarios based on incoming data from connected devices, sales dashboards, warehouse management systems, inventory management systems, supplier data feeds, and more.

Of course, building a true digital twin that’s integrated end-to-end with all available systems means a significant cash outlay. However, considering these benefits—and the insights that machine learning can deliver—some companies may deem it a worthy investment.

Dynamic Pricing Responds to Changing Conditions

Airlines are using it. Hotels are using it. And dynamic pricing, powered by AI, may come to LTL shipping sooner than many people think.

 

Airline and hotel revenue management systems leverage an algorithm to set fares in real-time based on factors like capacity and demand.

 

LTL pricing, in contrast, has been relatively static throughout its history. However, AI-powered dynamic pricing—similar to that leveraged by other industries—may soon arrive on the LTL scene, adjusting pricing based on client profiles and market conditions.

 

For now, it’s all speculative. However, if (when?) it arrives, dynamic LTL pricing will mean a big change, one that will mean an adjustment for many companies.

AI Technology in Freight & Logistics: Potential and Possibilities

The recent explosion of interest in AI technology means that even more applications will pop up in the freight and logistics industry in coming years. Expect continued innovation as this emerging technology moves beyond supply chain optimization into further applications in sales, marketing, human resources—and beyond.

 

Looking for new ways to optimize your freight and logistics? Our experts would be happy to help. Reach out for a complimentary consultation to get started.

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Inbound vs Outbound Logistics: What’s the Difference? https://www.approvedforwarders.com/inbound-vs-outbound-logistics/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/inbound-vs-outbound-logistics/#respond Mon, 04 Sep 2023 06:11:18 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7456 Inbound logistics and outbound logistics are the lifeblood of a company that sells physical products to customers. These processes bring in all the supplies, raw materials, and inventory the company needs (inbound logistics) and put products into customers' hands (outbound logistics).   Understanding these processes inside and out—and using that knowledge to optimize the [...]

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Inbound logistics and outbound logistics are the lifeblood of a company that sells physical products to customers. These processes bring in all the supplies, raw materials, and inventory the company needs (inbound logistics) and put products into customers’ hands (outbound logistics).

 

Understanding these processes inside and out—and using that knowledge to optimize the way they operate—holds significant benefits for any business. In this article, we’ll offer an overview of both inbound and outbound logistics. We’ll also cover the differences between these two sets of processes, so you get a solid, start-to-finish foundation in logistics.

Inbound vs. Outbound vs. Reverse Logistics

Want to learn more about these critical logistics processes—and the differences between them? Check out our other articles on these topics:

  • What Is Inbound Logistics? How Does It Work?
  • What Is Outbound Logistics? How Does It Work?
  • What Is Reverse Logistics? How Does it Work?

The Basics: What Is Inbound Logistics? What Is Outbound Logistics?

Let’s begin with a few basic definitions, starting with the word logistics itself. Below, you’ll see how Investopedia defines it:

Logistics

The overall process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to a final destination.

Inbound Logistics

The processes that move supplies, raw materials, or goods to a company. Inbound logistics activities include procurement, transportation, receiving, and storage.

Outbound Logistics

The processes that move goods to a customer. Outbound logistics activities include order processing, fulfillment, and delivery.

Reverse Logistics

 The processes that move goods from a customer back to the manufacturer or seller. Activities involved with returns, refurbishing, remanufacturing, recycling, and disposal processes all qualify as reverse logistics.

So, What’s the Difference Between Inbound & Outbound Logistics?

The main difference between inbound and outbound logistics lies in the direction the items are moving:

  • If they’re headed for the company, the actions to move them are considered inbound logistics.
  • If they’re headed for the customer, the actions are considered outbound logistics.

What About Reverse Logistics?

Given the above definitions, where does reverse logistics fit in? Because reverse logistics move goods back to a company, they’re considered inbound logistics. But while all reverse logistics processes are considered inbound logistics, not all inbound logistics processes are reverse logistics processes.

 

To explain, let’s take a closer look at inbound logistics vs. outbound logistics processes so we can understand the differences between them.

Inbound and Outbound Logistics Processes

To further illustrate the above definitions for inbound and outbound logistics, let’s take a closer look at the processes that fall in each category:

Inbound Logistics Processes

  • Procurement – Locating suppliers of raw materials, supplies, and finished goods, as well as purchasing items from those suppliers by negotiating contracts and placing an order.
  • Transportation – Moving those raw materials, supplies, and goods where they need to go. This might involve hiring a trucking company, for example, to pick up the goods from the supplier and deliver them to a warehouse.
  • Receiving – Evaluating shipments for accuracy, inspecting shipments for damage, and adding the contents of the shipment to an inventory or warehouse management system.
  • Storage – Moving items to their location in a warehouse or a distribution center, one that will protect them from damage and ensure they’re easy to access as needed.
  • Inventory Management – Monitoring and ordering stock/supplies as needed to ensure consistent supply according to projected forecasts.

Outbound Logistics Processes

  • Order Receipt, Processing, and Fulfillment – Validating, picking, and packing orders as they come in and managing warehouse activity as it relates to filling customer orders. Also may include managing any partners, like 3PLs, who assist with order fulfillment processes.
  • Shipping – Transporting items to customers, including transportation management, carrier management, and last-mile delivery.
  • Customer Service – Ensuring customer satisfaction through order tracking and troubleshooting services.

Reverse/Inbound Logistics Processes

  • Customer Service – Communicating with customers sending items back and troubleshooting any challenges.
  • Shipping – Moving items from the customer back to the company so the item can be evaluated and moved to the next step.
  • Receiving & Evaluating – Logging arrivals and moving them to the right station for further evaluation, as needed (i.e., for repairs or disposal).
  • Restocking & Storage – Placing items back in the supply chain that can be sold again and storing them in a location where they can be pulled when an order comes in.

Inbound vs. Outbound Logistics: Real-World Examples

To give you an even more concrete understanding of these concepts in action, let’s take a look at real-world examples of both inbound and outbound logistics.

Inbound Logistics: KitchenAid Stand Mixers

KitchenAid’s iconic stand mixers are assembled in their Greenville, Ohio plant. All of the processes that bring parts and materials to the plant constitute inbound logistics. That would include things like sourcing and procuring parts and/or raw materials; receiving those parts; logging them in an inventory/warehouse management system to ensure enough materials on hand to fulfill orders; and storing the parts until they’re needed for the assembly process.

Outbound Logistics: KitchenAid Stand Mixers

When a customer places an order at kitchenaid.com, the outbound logistics process starts up. The order is validated and processed, and then sent for picking and packing. At that point, the product is removed from the shelf, packaged for shipping, and labeled for the right carrier, with tracking data. The carrier picks up the shipment, and then delivers it to the customer, effectively ending the outbound logistics process.

Optimizing Inbound & Outbound Logistics

While they might focus specifically on inbound or outbound logistics at certain times, supply chain managers ultimately aim to optimize both. To get a sense of the benefits that supply chain managers can generate by examining inbound and outbound logistics activities, let’s take a closer look.

 

Optimizing Inbound Logistics

By setting key performance indicators (KPIs)—like freight bill accuracy, transportation costs, lead times, and receiving times—supply chain managers can get a better handle on their inbound logistics and uncover new efficiencies. Overall, this process has the potential to:

  • Shorten time to revenue by eliminating inefficiencies that increase lead time.
  • Maintain stock and inventory at ideal levels, balancing inventory carrying costs with product availability.
  • Increase customer satisfaction by keeping inventory in stock, which reduces order delays.
  • Decrease freight costs by minimizing or eliminating emergency restocks.

To learn more about the benefits of optimizing inbound logistics (and the accompanying challenges!), check out our article: “What Is Inbound Logistics? How Does It Work?”

 

Optimizing Outbound Logistics

On the other side of the operation, there are also plenty of benefits for optimizing a company’s outbound logistics. By looking at KPIs like order fill rate, order accuracy, order processing time, delivery time, and customer service complaints, supply chain managers can tweak their processes to reduce waste and increase efficiencies, resulting in benefits like:

  • Cost savings, often in last-mile delivery, which can be notoriously expensive.
  • Faster delivery of goods, which can mean receiving revenue more quickly for companies who collect on or after delivery.
  • Creating greater levels of customer satisfaction with faster, error-free deliveries.

For more on the benefits and challenges of outbound logistics, take a look at our other article: “What Is Outbound Logistics? How Does It Work?”

 

Keeping Your Supply Chain Running Smoothly

A strong understanding of your supply chain can only be a benefit. Whether you’re taking a closer look at your inbound logistics, outbound logistics, or reverse logistics, the more you know, the better equipped you are to make improvements. Whether they’re incremental or significant, these optimizations will lead you toward lower costs, reduced waste, and happier customers.

 

Looking for ways to optimize your logistics? Our freight experts would be happy to help you analyze your transportation usage and budget to uncover new efficiencies. Reach out for a complimentary consultation to get started.

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What Is Supply Chain Analytics? Why Is It Important? https://www.approvedforwarders.com/supply-chain-analytics/ https://www.approvedforwarders.com/supply-chain-analytics/#respond Fri, 25 Aug 2023 20:15:25 +0000 https://www.approvedforwarders.com/?p=7446 Data drives better decisions. That's the foundation underpinning supply chain analytics, a discipline that allows organizations to mine insights from its procurement, manufacturing, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution activities.   Leveraging these insights, companies gain the opportunity to reduce costs, increase efficiencies, better manage potential risks, plan more effectively, and create a more resilient [...]

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Data drives better decisions. That’s the foundation underpinning supply chain analytics, a discipline that allows organizations to mine insights from its procurement, manufacturing, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution activities.

 

Leveraging these insights, companies gain the opportunity to reduce costs, increase efficiencies, better manage potential risks, plan more effectively, and create a more resilient supply chain that’s capable of flexing in response to today’s challenges.

 

In this article, we’ll walk you through a complete explanation of supply chain analytics: what it is, why it’s important, what benefits it can offer, and what challenges companies might encounter in this arena. With this understanding, you’ll have a better grasp on this logistics concept—and whether it’s something you want to investigate further.

What Is Supply Chain Analytics?

Supply chain analytics involves analyzing the data from all the activities along the length of a company’s supply chain—including procurement, manufacturing, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution. As a crucial aspect of supply chain optimization, supply chain analytics offers companies the opportunity to make better decisions as they plan, source, produce, and deliver products.

 

Supply chain analytics may gather data from a variety of different systems: inventory management, order management, warehouse management, and transportation management—among others. Some of these systems may come with their own analytics tools already installed. Other companies may choose an external solution that integrates all of their systems and gathers data in a single spot.

 

What Is the Objective of Supply Chain Analytics?

The objective of supply chain analytics is to give an organization the data-driven insights it needs to make better business decisions, both now and into the future. Supply chain analytics offers companies a way to spot emerging problems, better manage future risks, plan more effectively for the future, and create efficiencies that reduce both costs and waste.

What Is an Example of Supply Chain Analytics?

PepsiCo’s Sales Intelligence Platform offers a tangible example of the power of supply chain analytics in practice. The company—whose brands include Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Quaker, and Frito-Lay—uses the platform to combine data from retailers along with data from PepsiCo’s own supply chain predict when items will go out of stock. After all, simply put, if items aren’t available on grocery store shelves, they simply can’t be sold.

 

With the data from their Sales Intelligence Platform, PepsiCo’s field teams can approach store owners with a recommended list of items to stock up on to prevent out-of-stock situations. As a result of its supply chain analytics efforts, PepsiCo has seen a measurable decrease in out-of-stock scenarios, while increasing sales.

What Is the Benefit of Supply Chain Analytics?

Supply chain analytics offer better insight into a company’s operations, including areas that are going well and areas that could be improved. When paired with machine learning tools, supply chain analytics software can transform a massive amount of historical data into useful, actionable information.

 

All of this allows a company to:

 

The Challenges of Supply Chain Analytics

Of course, as with any initiative, companies will experience some challenges in their supply chain analytics activities, which include:

 

Better Data, Better Visibility, Better Decisions

Supply chain analytics offer companies a significant opportunity—a chance to use the past to improve upon the future. This includes the possibility for reducing costs, increasing efficiencies, managing potential risks, and planning more effectively—all of which add up to a supply chain that’s built to last.

Want to talk with our experts further about leveraging technology to manage and optimize your supply chain? Reach out for a complimentary consultation. We’d be happy to help you uncover new efficiencies to help your supply chain perform at its peak.

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