To aid in managing inventory for your business, you may be interested in using cross docking services. Having a trusted partner in the third-party logistics (3PL) space can help you with this process. Learn more about the cross docking advantages you can expect to receive when using this technique.
Greater Efficiency in the Supply Chain
Cross docking is a logistics strategy that limits storage in warehouses. Depending on the situation, your 3PL provider might unload goods directly from a delivery vehicle into a vehicle for immediate shipping.
By deploying cross docking, companies can take advantage of inventory reduction. Waste minimization is another key factor in deploying this technique.
Depending on the way your business operates, you might be able to reduce or eliminate the need for product storage in a warehouse. However, to make cross docking work efficiently, you need a 3PL partner that has experience delivering the precise coordination this technique requires.
Better Speed in Shipping
Delivery optimization is one of the biggest advantages of cross docking. Companies that offer cross docking services can often ship your products faster than a standard warehouse.
If you deal with goods that need to quickly move through the supply chain because of concerns regarding freshness, cross docking techniques work exceptionally well. It’s not unusual to move products in and out within a 24- or 48-hour timeframe.
Reduced Costs for Your Business
One of the biggest cross docking advantages is providing cost efficiency for your business. You need less warehouse space utilization by using this technique, which provides long-term savings. Because the products move into shipping so quickly, you don’t spend as much money on inventory tracking, either.
Your goods require less direct handling meaning you’ll experience reduced labor costs. Less handling reduces the chances of products suffering damage before they ship, too.
Depending on the way your 3PL partner works, you might see a reduction in shipping costs using the cross docking technique.
Enhanced Experiences for Your Customers
Because customers receive products via shipping so frequently today, they expect a perfect experience every time. By deploying cross docking, you increase the likelihood of delivering the results your customers expect.
Some of the ways cross docking benefits your customer experience include:
- Expedited shopping options
- Less risk of product damage
- Products arrive fresher
If you’re a smaller business, you can potentially match the delivery speed of larger competitors by making use of cross docking. Your customers will appreciate receiving products that don’t risk becoming spoiled or stale by sitting in the warehouse too long.
Streamline Fulfillment Can Match All Your Cross Docking Requirements
When you need a trusted 3PL partner for your business, our team at Streamline Fulfillment is ready to serve you. We offer reliable and stress-free service throughout the United States from our West Coast warehouses.
Whether you need to understand using distribution vs. a fulfillment center or the cross docking advantages, we can help. Our team never cuts corners when seeking the best results for our partner clients. To learn more, call us today at (509) 888-2880.