5 tips for effectively managing logistics
Useful strategies to help SMEs optimise their logistics
The supply chain represents a
fundamental element of a company’s production, regardless of its size and
structure. However, it can be difficult for an SME to implement
the strategies that will ensure the effective management of each process. This
is in part because the logistics sector has been affected by significant
changes in recent years.
The considerable increase in the demand for more advanced
products and services, linked to the continuing growth of online commerce, has
highlighted the need for greater storage space, which can be difficult to
obtain in the short term. This has revealed the difficulty SMEs have in
supporting sudden peaks in demand for their products and creating simple and
streamlined development models.
Against this background, it’s easy to see why a move towards
more sustainable, digitised and integrated logistics would be a good thing,
allowing for a review of all processes and a significant reduction in the
margins of error in each operation. In most cases, a transformation like this
will require small businesses to outsource their logistics to enable them to
manage flows more effectively.
Recent data bears out this approach. The Global Contract
Logistics Industry 2022 report tells us the market grew by 8.7% year-on-year in
2021 and a further 7.1% in 2022. A recent McKinsey study estimates overall
investment in automation will grow by 3-5% by 2025, while Innovecs data shows
that software integration makes supply chains 20% more efficient. But how can
small businesses realise these benefits cost-effectively?
Essential logistics advice for small businesses
Here are some tips for small and medium-sized business that will
help them embrace the new opportunities in the logistics sector and respond to
the demands of the digital age.
1.
Streamline the stages of the supply chain
Implementing
innovative solutions to integrate and streamline processes can have a dramatic
effect on logistics efficiency. Investing in management software allows you to
monitor all flows in real time and optimise each step of the supply chain,
offering greater transparency to customers.
2.
Focus on customised and sustainable packaging
Create a
memorable unboxing experience by investing in customised packaging that helps
strengthen your brand and differentiate it from the competition. Experimenting
with new, environmentally friendly materials for product packaging also demonstrates
the brand’s sustainable credentials and helps enhance public perception.
3.
Check and plan inventory
Integrating
processes is essential if SMEs are to effectively meet customer needs. This is
particularly important in e-commerce operations, where the integration of
online and offline leads to a flexible multi-channel approach that can deliver
true competitive edge. Working with a single partner for logistics allows you
to offer customers an end-to-end, personalised service that goes beyond simple
shipping to provide support for a range of operational activities, from
collection and packaging to product delivery.
4.
Adopt a data-driven approach
A data-driven
management approach will allow you to improve productivity and increase the
traceability and safety of shipments. For e-commerce businesses, data
monitoring can help optimise the phases of the supply chain and warehouse
maintenance to avoid waste, save resources and reduce the impact of returns. An
effective strategy to make all stages of the supply chain more punctual, speed
up warehouse operations and delivery times, and meet customer expectations.
5.
Work with third-party logistics experts
To respond
flexibly and promptly to market demands, small and medium-sized enterprises can
outsource services, relying on third-party companies that specialise in the
logistics sector. This strategic solution allows them to effectively manage
picking, packing and shipping activities at any time of the year, saving time
and resources.
For small and
medium-sized enterprises it is not always easy to find logistics operators able
to provide a service suited to their needs. Mail Boxes Etc. is a unique partner
in the market, able to offer personalised logistics close to you.
As well as the management of picking processes, MBE experts take care of the
packaging of product, to help you find the ideal solution for the safe
transport and shipment of goods and keep flows under control all year round,
adding value to your business.