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Seasonal Supply Chain

In the dynamic realm of logistics and supply chain management, navigating the rhythmic ebb and flow of seasonal supply chain shifts is both an art and a science. The ability to harmonize your operations with seasonal fluctuations can spell the difference between triumph and turbulence for your business. Whether you’re peddling sunscreen in summer or crafting holiday magic in winter, understanding and conquering these seasonal shifts is paramount. In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of seasonal supply chains and unveil ingenious strategies to help your business not just survive but thrive amidst these shifts.

Decoding Seasonal Supply Chain Shifts

Seasonal supply chain shifts are the balletic movements of commerce, choreographed by the calendar and consumer whims. They materialize when consumer demand for particular products or services experiences pronounced variations throughout the year. These variations are often orchestrated by a symphony of factors, including weather patterns, cultural events, holidays, and economic triggers. Here are some illustrative examples:

Weather-Driven Seasonality: Companies dealing in weather-sensitive wares, such as swimsuits and ski gear, sway with the seasons, adapting their supply chains to these meteorological rhythms.

Festive Frenzy: Retailers, whether physical or online, witness a surge in demand during the festive season, necessitating a flawless fusion of augmented inventory, nimble distribution, and top-notch customer support.

Agricultural Rhapsody: The agricultural sector performs its seasonal sonata as crops are harvested at specific times of the year, affecting not only growers but also the entire supply chain downstream.

Back-to-School Ballet: Businesses peddling school supplies and uniforms orchestrate their operations for the back-to-school season, a crescendo of demand.

Key Strategies for Synchronizing with Seasonal Shifts

Demand Anticipation: Accurate demand forecasting acts as the conductor of your seasonal supply chain orchestra. Harness historical sales data, market intelligence, and predictive analytics to anticipate the crescendos and diminuendos of demand. This enables you to fine-tune inventory levels and production schedules.

Flexibility in Supply Chain Design: Inject adaptability into your supply chain’s DNA to harmonize with changing demand. Embrace flexible staffing arrangements, dynamic warehousing solutions, and versatile transportation options. Temporary personnel and rented storage spaces can be instrumental in hitting the right notes during peak seasons.

Supplier Synergy: Cultivate strong partnerships with suppliers, sharing your seasonal symphony well in advance. Collaborate closely to ensure a steady supply of materials and products when the demand crescendos.

Inventory Virtuosity: Mastery of inventory management is paramount. Employ techniques such as just-in-time inventory, safety stock, and ABC analysis to fine-tune inventory levels. This prevents surplus during lulls and staves off shortages during high-demand periods.

Technological Crescendo: Invest in cutting-edge supply chain technology and automation to streamline processes and elevate efficiency. These tools enhance visibility, orchestrate real-time inventory tracking, and facilitate agile responses to demand fluctuations.

Logistics Choreography: Ensure your transportation and logistics networks possess the grace to handle peak-season volumes. Consider alternative routes and transportation methods to sidestep potential bottlenecks.

Customer Engagement: Keep your audience informed about product availability and delivery schedules during peak seasons. Implement responsive customer support channels to address inquiries and concerns with finesse.

Post-Season Encore: After each peak season performance, conduct a thorough post-season analysis. Uncover areas for refinement, fine-tuning your seasonal supply chain symphony for a stellar encore.

Seasonal supply chain shifts are the verses and choruses of many businesses’ financial songs, and conducting them with mastery is the key to sustained success. By immersing yourself in the rhythm of seasonal demand variations and orchestrating astute strategies, your company can not only meet customer expectations but also transform seasonal challenges into opportunities.

In this harmonious journey, Taylor Logistics stands as your trusted partner, ready to help you hit all the right notes. With their extensive experience and expertise in supply chain management, Taylor Logistics can provide tailored solutions that synchronize your operations with seasonal shifts. Their innovative approach, backed by cutting-edge technology, ensures that your supply chain performs like a well-rehearsed symphony, delivering efficiency and precision.

In a competitive landscape, adaptability and agility during seasonal supply chain shifts are the notes that harmonize with long-term prosperity. So, step onto the stage, embrace the music of the seasons, and let Taylor Logistics choreograph your supply chain for a standing ovation in the world of seamless success.

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Cincinnati 3PL

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive business environment, logistics and supply chain management play a crucial role in the success of any company. One strategic approach that has gained significant traction in recent years is the utilization of a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) network of warehouses. Among the various locations available for such a network, Cincinnati has emerged as an ideal choice due to its strategic positioning and numerous advantages. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of having a 3PL network of warehouses in Cincinnati, perfectly positioned to enhance your business operations.

1. Strategic Geographic Location: 

Cincinnati’s central location in the United States makes it a prime hub for distribution and transportation. Situated within a one-day drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population, it provides easy access to major markets in the Midwest and along the East Coast. This strategic location minimizes transportation costs and reduces transit times, ensuring faster deliveries to customers.

2. Cost Efficiency: 

Cincinnati offers a cost-effective solution for warehousing and distribution. Compared to major coastal cities, the cost of real estate and labor is significantly lower, allowing businesses to allocate more resources to other critical aspects of their operations. This cost-efficiency extends to transportation, as reduced travel distances translate to lower shipping expenses.

3. Scalability and Flexibility: 

Partnering with 3PL providers in Cincinnati allows businesses to scale their operations up or down based on demand. Warehouses in the region are equipped to handle various types of goods, and their flexible storage solutions ensure that your inventory is managed efficiently, even during peak seasons.

4. Access to Expertise: 

Cincinnati has a well-established logistics and transportation industry. Partnering with 3PL providers in the region grants access to experienced professionals who understand the local market intricacies, compliance regulations, and best practices. This local expertise can be invaluable in streamlining your supply chain operations.

5. Reduced Transit Times: 

With Cincinnati’s proximity to major highways, rail networks, and air cargo facilities, your products can reach their destinations faster. Reduced transit times not only satisfy customer expectations for quick deliveries but also help in optimizing inventory levels and minimizing carrying costs.

6. Mitigated Risk: 

Natural disasters and disruptions in one region can have a significant impact on the supply chain. Cincinnati’s geographical stability and resilience to extreme weather events make it a safe choice for warehousing. Businesses can rest assured that their inventory is less susceptible to unforeseen disruptions.

7. Improved Customer Service: 

Faster deliveries, reduced shipping costs, and reliable service contribute to enhanced customer satisfaction. By positioning your 3PL network in Cincinnati, you can provide your customers with a competitive advantage that sets you apart from the competition.

8. Focus on Core Competencies: 

Outsourcing your warehousing and distribution needs to a 3PL provider in Cincinnati allows you to concentrate on your core business activities, such as product development, marketing, and strategic planning. This can lead to increased innovation and profitability.

In conclusion, establishing a 3PL network of warehouses in Cincinnati, with its strategic location and various advantages, can be a game-changer for businesses looking to optimize their supply chain operations. Whether you are a growing e-commerce company or a large manufacturer, Cincinnati’s perfectly positioned logistics infrastructure can help you reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ultimately deliver better service to your customers. Consider leveraging this thriving logistics hub to propel your business to new heights in today’s competitive marketplace.

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June 2023 Freight Market

As we dive into the midpoint of 2023, the freight market continues to evolve, presenting challenges and opportunities for shippers worldwide. In this blog, we will look closer at the current state of the June 2023 freight market and explore what the rest of the month holds for shippers. Understanding these dynamics can help shippers make informed decisions and optimize their supply chain operations.

Demand and Capacity

The freight market in June 2023 is witnessing robust demand for shipping services across various industries. In addition, economic recovery from the pandemic is gaining momentum, leading to increased consumer spending and heightened manufacturing activity. As a result, shippers can expect strong demand for their products, driving the need for reliable transportation services.

However, this surge in demand has led to capacity constraints in the freight market. The imbalance between supply and demand has resulted in higher freight rates and reduced availability of trucking, ocean, and air freight capacity. Shippers should anticipate these challenges and plan their shipments accordingly.

Freight Rates

Due to the demand and capacity imbalance, freight rates increased in June 2023. Shippers should be prepared for higher transportation costs, particularly trucking and container shipping. Budgeting accordingly and negotiating favorable rates with carriers and logistics providers is crucial.

Shippers can explore alternative transportation modes to mitigate the impact of rising freight rates or consider collaborating with freight forwarders who can leverage their networks to secure competitive rates. Optimizing shipment consolidation and employing efficient logistics strategies can also help reduce costs.

Technology and Digitization

Technology is vital in navigating the freight market in this increasingly digital era. Shippers should leverage digital platforms and transportation management systems (TMS) to streamline operations and gain better visibility into their supply chain. In addition, real-time tracking and analytics can provide valuable insights, enabling shippers to make data-driven decisions and optimize freight movements.

Emerging technologies like blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) are also revolutionizing the freight industry. These technologies enhance transparency, traceability, and security throughout the supply chain. Therefore, shippers should explore opportunities to incorporate such innovations into their operations to gain a competitive edge.

Sustainability and Green Initiatives

Sustainability is a growing concern in the freight industry. As a result, shippers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly transportation solutions to reduce their carbon footprint and meet regulatory requirements. In June 2023, we expect more shippers to adopt green initiatives and collaborate with carriers offering sustainable transportation options.

Shippers can contribute to sustainability goals while maintaining operational efficiency by utilizing intermodal transportation, optimizing routes, and embracing alternative fuels. In addition, partnering with environmentally conscious logistics providers can help shippers align their supply chain with sustainability objectives.

Conclusion

As we progress through June 2023, the freight market presents a mixed landscape of opportunities and challenges for shippers. Understanding the current dynamics and proactively adapting to market changes are key to success. By considering factors such as demand and capacity, freight rates, technology and digitization, and sustainability initiatives, shippers can navigate the freight market effectively and ensure the smooth transportation of their goods.

Partner With Taylor

When meeting your freight needs, Taylor Logistics brokerage services stand out as an excellent choice. With their extensive expertise and industry knowledge, Taylor offers a comprehensive range of logistics solutions tailored to your requirements. Whether you need assistance with transportation management, freight optimization, or supply chain consulting, Taylor Logistics has the expertise and resources to deliver results. They leverage their vast network of carriers and deep understanding of the market to ensure efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Taylor Logistics provides personalized support and real-time visibility, allowing you to track your shipments and make informed decisions. By partnering with #TeamTaylor, you can streamline your supply chain operations, optimize costs, and enhance overall efficiency, ultimately helping your business thrive in the dynamic freight industry.

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3PL Provider Taylor Logistics Cincinnati Ohio

Companies always look for ways to reduce costs and increase efficiency in today’s highly competitive global economy. To handle their supply chain needs, many companies outsource to third-party logistics providers (3PL).In addition to warehousing, order fulfillment, and transportation, 3PLs offer various services. The benefits of these services can be significant for companies, but they need to be appropriately considered before deciding to use any 3PL. To evaluate a 3PL provider, you should follow these ten steps.

Compare Costs

It is essential to compare the costs of their services to in-house operations as a first step. By doing this, you can determine whether 3PL’s services are cost-effective and if they provide value for money. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs such as setup, technology, and transportation fees.

Analyze On-Time Delivery Rates

An essential aspect of 3PL management is measuring on-time delivery rates. If the 3PL meets customer expectations, this will give you an idea of its reliability. On-time delivery rates are vital for companies that operate in industries where timeliness is critical.

Inventory Accuracy

Inventory accuracy is another important metric to look for in a 3PL provider. This will let you know how well the third-party logistics provider is managing your inventory and whether they can monitor stock levels. Since this can significantly contribute to errors and delays, measuring the 3PL’s capacity to track inventory in transit is also critical.

Customer Satisfaction

Numerous methods, including customer surveys, reviews, and feedback, can be used to gauge customer happiness. You can determine how well the 3PL is meeting consumer expectations by asking for a customer promoter score and referrals.

Return on Investment

Keeping track of your costs will provide insight into the amount of extra revenue your business obtains from the 3PL. In addition, analyzing the revenue generated by the 3PL and comparing it to the costs associated with their services will enable you to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your overall return on investment.

Results

Following the steps outlined above can help you evaluate a 3PL provider and see if they are providing value for the money. With the right metrics in place, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to continue working with them.

Bottom Line

?Selecting the right 3PL provider is an important decision that can significantly impact your company’s success. Evaluating a 3PL provider’s industry experience, technology and tools, services offered, customer service, pricing and agreements, security and compliance, scalability and flexibility, and reputation will help organizations meet their logistics needs and gain a competitive edge. As a result, you can make more informed decisions.

It’s essential to thoroughly research any 3PL provider before making a decision. This includes asking the right questions and conducting due diligence to verify vendor credentials and capabilities. By selecting a 3PL provider that best suits their needs, companies can improve the efficiency of their supply chain, reduce costs, and improve the customer experience. Questions or need to speak with an expert? Talk with Taylor!

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Taylor Smartway Carrier

We are proud to announce that we have renewed our partnership with SmartWay® for the fifth year in a row, a qualifying sustainability program run by the Environmental Protection Agency. Our fleet consists of US EPA SmartWay®-designated trucks. In addition, our trucks are equipped with anti-idling and fuel-saving equipment for minimal environmental impact and maximum fuel savings. SmartWay® sets standards for all modes of North American transportation businesses ?seeking to differentiate themselves and look for sustainable partners.

What is SmartWay®?

SmartWay is a program that was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help address the trends and challenges that the growing logistics industry poses to the environment. It was founded in 2004 as a voluntary, public-private association where private companies can find more sustainable resources to manage their supply chains. Companies can use SmartWay to help measure, benchmark and improve logistics operations to help reduce their environmental footprint and see significant savings to their bottom line.

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Happy #EarthDay! As temporary custodians of our planet, we must ensure that future generations will enjoy our earth’s benefits. We believe in positively impacting the environment by implementing new technologies and reducing our emissions. Learn more about Taylor sustainability here: https://taylorlogistics.com/sustainability/

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Four Functions of 3PL Providers

As a business expands and you need to get products in new markets to more customers, there comes a time when it must determine whether to outsource its supply chain operations.

To meet customer demand, shippers turn to a third-party logistics (3PL) provider to do just that.

But not all 3PLs offer the same services and capabilities. For example, some just focus on transportation, and some just on fulfillment. But what about a full-service logistics provider that can do it all? Learn more about the functions of a full-service 3PL like Taylor.

1. Shipping and Receiving

Taylor helps companies with shipping and receiving; our brokerage team manages the shipping process from start to finish. As a technology-driven organization, our transportation management system (TMS) allows for managing carrier relations, freight data, and matrix reports for real-time visibility and increased transparency throughout the shipping process.

2. Transportation

As a multi-service 3PL that also handles transportation, we are responsible for transporting goods between locations, from manufacturer to fulfillment to any brick-and-mortar store, and even direct parcels to your doorstep. Because we have our in-house brokerage and local Cincinnati fleet, there’s no need to leverage another partner to complete any shipping needs.

3. Warehousing

Warehousing is typically the most common function of a third-party logistics provider. To no surprise, warehousing is a large portion of our service portfolio; from multi-client public warehouses to dedicated client contract facilities, we’ve altered our warehouse services to meet the needs of our business partners. Taylor provides customizable ways to handle storage, distribution, and transportation.

4. Value-Added Services

In addition to transportation, warehousing, and distribution, several 3PLs like Taylor also provide a wide variety of value-added services, including eCommerce, pick & pack, kitting, custom labeling, manufacturing, Amazon prep services, and design. By outsourcing these services, business partners can focus on their core business. 

Need a full-service 3PL partner?

Fill out the form below and a member of our team will reach out asap. Questions? Inbox us at info@taylorlog.com or call 513-771-1850

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The 2023 Inbound Logistics Planner is here, and you can read all about Taylor! From our outstanding team to what sets us apart and how Taylor technology improves customers’ supply chains. Here’s our entry:

As the longest-standing 3PL, we know that offering one supply chain service decreases overall efficiency and sustainability; that’s why we’ve altered our business to be a full-service omnichannel 3PL for our customers.

What Does Taylor Do Differently?

We provide SQF food-grade public warehousing, contract dedicated warehousing, B2B & B2C fulfillment services, freight brokerage, asset local Cincinnati fleet, dedicated fleet services, D2C e-commerce, packaging, drayage/ port management services, kitting, and subscription services.

We support large and mid-sized companies in the food, beverage, flavoring, ingredient, pet food, CPG, retail, PPE, packaging, and automotive spaces.

Creating Long-Lasting Relationships with Our Customers

As a privately held family business with over 170 years of experience, we are an agile company that scales and grows with our customers. We are small enough to care and have excellent customer service with dedicated teams to some of our clients, yet large enough to have the technology and infrastructure needed to scale. Our goal is always to exceed customers’ expectations and build long-term relationships.

Technology-Driven Operations

A part of our competitive advantage is that we continuously invest in technology to offer our customers the latest and greatest for complete customization, visibility, tracking, and reporting. Technology creates a stronger bond between our team and our customers, mainly due to improved communication, information sharing, and meaningful collaboration that produces better results. From finding the best shipping rates to inventory optimization and forecasting, our systems are paramount in customers’ cost-saving strategies.

Emphasis on Food Safety

While we partner with several industries, we pride ourselves on an extensive food-safety program that is rooted in principles verified by the Safe Quality Foods Institute (SQF). All of our public warehouses are food-grade, and we offer SQF to be established at our contractual locations as well.

It’s Because of Our Team

We make supply chains stronger. This industry requires hard work and dedication; our team always makes the impossible possible for our customers. Through a collaborative and safe culture, we are always one team, one mission.

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Regardless of the time, day, month, or year, we can provide a precise update on what is happening with your cargo. If there are any problems, we will notify you so that a solution may be implemented before matters escalate. In addition, the information provided is so accurate that you do not have to worry about complaints later for incorrect information or the correct information at the wrong time. If you’re not already partnering with a 3PL with container tracking capabilities, let’s walk you through how your business can benefit.

How Container Tracking Works

Container tracking is a series of technological functions that allows shippers, carriers, and freight forwarders to access the latest status updates on cargo. The technology is effective regardless of location, time zone, route, port, personnel, and cargo type. Despite these benefits, experts are still trying to understand why the technology is not widely used in the sector.

Container Tracking Increases Efficiencies

Container tracking provides operations teams with accurate freight arrival and departure times, improving personnel productivity and exception management by reducing manual detective work by 20-50%.

Better Visibility Further Mitigates Risk of Detention and Demurrage

The ocean carriers have been slower to introduce this new technology because hours and minutes matter in trucking, whereas ocean shipping thinks more in terms of days. Identifying and responding to potential disruptions can significantly reduce demurrage fees and accessorial charges. This innovation and profit-boosting system for container tracking requires on-demand access to accurate and reliable accountability streams.

By partnering with Taylor, you gain access to our container tracking capabilities; we constantly evolve our technology to be best in class. That’s why we partner with project44 to provide our customers with the best data. project44 delivers, covering more than 96% of the world’s container volumes, with the highest data quality and most accurate ETAs available. Have questions? Please fill out the form below, and a member of our team will reach out ASAP.

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Each year, Robert Handfield, Ph.D. of North Carolina State University, predicts what’s in store for global commerce and supply chains for the next 365 days. While these predictions are perhaps not completely original, his takeaways and supporting evidence are worth considering. Please see the full article from NCSU here.

Inflation will persist.  Jason Miller from Michigan State is an expert at navigating the many different publicly available government database, and interpreting the tea leaves.  He writes a weekly blog on Linked In which I follow religiously.  He is the most accurate forecaster I know, because unlike many speculators and economists, his observations are based on actual data!    He believes that inflation isn’t going to go down going into 2023 – but will persist.  He writes that“While it is good news that we are starting to see the inflation of goods slow down, I would caution anyone who expects goods to go through a deflationary cycle that the data (to me) isn’t pointing in this direction to a meaningful degree. Data below from three series from the BLS PPI program obtained from FRED (with call codes after the labels), all set such that 100 = January 2019.  Implication:  the best-case scenario I see for the price of finished goods is that their prices stay relatively unchanged from the 3rd quarter of 2022….we are going to see meaningful deflation in finished goods prices as we move into 2023, which will in turn impact PCE price index that the Fed monitors for consumer inflation.”   Unfortunately, this also means that the Fed will likely keep interest rates high through much of 2023 – and will likely increase rates again in February and June.  Inflation is indeed going down slowly– but not as fast as the markets would like.

Inventory will remain bloated for the first half of 2023, – and supplier relationships will be tested.  Here again, my prior blog notes how much inventory we have in supply chains today – and how certain parties are pushing back their excessive demand forecasts, and punishing their suppliers.   For instance, a large apparel brand requested about 20 of their largest textile mills (many in Pakistan, Singapore, China, and other regions) to travel all the way to San Francisco for a “Vendor Summit”.  They then sequestered each individual in a room, and two individuals came in and told them that they needed to reduce their prices by 20%.  Walmart  is moving their vendors from FOB (Free on Board) to domestic buying, and the shift is happening fast.  Walmart will pay more for domestic sources, but will not be burdened with the inventory and purchasing FOB.  They are also canceling orders, decreasing quantities, and deducting off invoices, which they claim as “chargebacks” for “late deliveries”, from shipments which were received as late as last year.  These kinds of behaviors by buyers will come back to bite them in the future…

Despite having more inventory – we won’t stop having shortages. Unfortunately, a lot of the bloated inventory is stuff that consumers don’t want – or can’t afford.  But that doesn’t mean we will stop having shortages of critical materials.  One reason for this is that the COVID crisis in China is escalating to incredible levels, and that is shutting down a lot of manufacturing hubs.  In particular, a lot of maintenance parts for equipment, replacement parts for appliances, automobiles, and larger (>48 nm) chips are still produced in Asia – and we will continue to see shortages of these component parts.  That means that repair may take longer than you think.  Labor and material shortages for factories are going down – but still are at a much higher rate than they were in 2019.

Mexico will become a destination hub for many companies in the US – but within reason. As I noted in a prior blog, and as discussed in the New York Times today – Mexico is a great option – but the capacity isn’t there yet.  More importantly, the supply chain isn’t there yet!  I spoke to a CPO who mentioned that his CEO was a big proponent of bringing all supply to Mexico – but despite this fact, we are still largely dependent on China for raw materials!  As pointed out in the NY Times – even apparel manufacturing in Mexico is largely dependent on fabric produced entirely in China!  As such, it is unlikely we are going to lose our dependence on Chinese products.  Price is still the determining factor here.  Chinese manufacturing is of such scale, that moving it to the US or Mexico is unlikely.

The US Government will play more of a role in promoting domestic supply chains. Not only did the US government, pass the CHIPS Act – but they are actively promoting the domestic production of semiconductors.  As noted in one of my blogs, however, producing a fab plant is a good step – but the supply chain for chips is still largely in Taiwan.  There is massive flux in the chip industry – which seems to be on a different cycle than most demand cycles.  What was once a one year backlog has shrunk and chips are now readily available – to the point where semiconductor companies are cutting back on capital investment!  This will continue to be a real problem – and I believe we will see “capacity as a service” models begin to emerge in the chip sector – where buyers will reserve capacity based on actual forecasts, not guesses or bets on what they think they will need next year.  This will stabilize production – and lead to improved availability and assurance of supply.

Healthcare supply chains will remain strained. Despite having a lot more PPE in warehouses, hospitals are still struggling with a lot of shortages.  Jim Wilson, an expert in medical intelligence, advocates that hospital monitoring programs is a critical area of government investment.  One area is generic drugs – such as amoxycillin.  We wll have shortages of baby formula as well.  For this reason, I believe the government should be creating incentives to increasingly healthcare supply chain.  To address this issue, one recommendation I am advocating would be to create government industrial policies that are targeted at supporting a domestic “stop gap” manufacturing capability. Secondly, partnerships should be developed with distributors to enable visibility into their inventory systems, and ensure they enter contracts which set aside inventory for government allocation under different conditions of duress.  This will require a set of common data standards and a common architecture to create a dashboard and control tower.  In addition, a multi-agency materials inventory portfolio based on in-depth supply market analysis is needed.  At a minimum, this should include specialists in the following categories:  semiconductors, precious metals, electric vehicle batteries, medical supplies (PPE, gowns, gloves), medical devices, pharmaceuticals, plastics and resins, medical equipment, biologics, healthcare personnel, and respiratory products. This will require team of supply market analysts with special knowledge of these categories, that track the condition of critical supply markets for medical supplies, the supply risks within those markets, and acquisition strategies to manage the risks.  Multi-tier supply chain mapping can provide clues as to critical points of risk that can “shut down” the US healthcare sector, based on multiple forms of risk assessment.

Growth in 2023 will be positive – but lean. As noted in a lecture by the Economist which I attended, the greatest risks looming ahead are concentrated in 2023.  Next year will see some positive growth but only 1.7%, reflecting slowing growth in the US in China and recession in Europe.  Global monetary tightening will take some time to kick in – likely in the second half of 2023.  The US will likely see only 0.5% growth in 2023, the EU 0.4%, which in turn will impact other regions of the world.  China will likely see a modest rebound after the 2022 slump, moving to only 5% growth.  However, there are always risks that will move the needle, including the escalation of the Ukraine war, more COVID-19 variants, spikes in energy prices, and sovereign debt pile-ups.

Government regulation of Artificial Intelligence will increase. As I noted in a blog of a recent SAS INNOVATE conference, Henry Kissinger described AI as the new frontier of arms control during a forum at Washington National Cathedral on Nov. 16. If leading powers don’t find ways to limit AI’s reach, he said, “it is simply a mad race for some catastrophe.”  The former secretary of state cautioned that AI systems could transform warfare just as they have chess or other games of strategy — because they are capable of making moves that no human would consider but that have devastatingly effective consequences.  This is true not just in warfare, but also in supply chains.  As we move towards a digital future where we increasingly will be ceding control to machines who call the shots, not humans, what are the risks of doing so?  Increasingly, more and more data is being stuffed into the cloud, which certainly allows us access to more readily access reams of data which can be processed by algorithms for decision-making.  We have to be able to trust these algorithms to make the right decisions.  But driving towards AI standards to increase trustworthiness is easier said than done.  The UK has also begun pursuing this goal, as has the EU, who are likely to explicitly define AI and how to use it.  The government will begin to mandate a more  comprehensive approach, which spans the entire organization.  Three primary elements determine the fiduciary responsibility for trustworthy AI:  Duty of Care, the Business Judgement rule, and Duty of Compliance Oversight.   These pillars are required to understand the historical biases that so often find their way into AI algorithms, which have created historical injustices and inequities, meaning that the government is surely going to step in.

Electric vehicle parts will remain in short supply. In a recent blog, I noted how there is still a massive shortage of the so-called “green metals” required to meet the burgeoning demand for EV’s. Environmentalists and automotive companies have committed to converting all of their vehicles to electric power.  GM has committed to 30 new electric vehicles by 2025.  Ford is committing to an all-electric vehicle platform with zero emissions by 2035.  But nobody is talking about the supply chain for these vehicles, and the capacity required to build them.  Converting an entire supply base of automotive suppliers, who are all focused on building of combustion engine-powered vehicles, and moving them all to electric vehicles, will be a superhuman feat.  What will happen to those manufacturers that can’t or won’t convert?  They go out of business?  And is there enough capacity to produce the new types of vehicles?  And what raw materials are required to convert to EV in the future?  I don’t think executives have really given any meaningful thought to the answers to these questions yet… I predict a rough road ahead for EV’s.  Perhaps I’m a voice in the wilderness – except maybe for Toyota – they have the same doubts as I do.

Demand for supply chain graduates will go through the roof in the next two years. To summarize – global supply chains remain fragile – and we are in a period where things are starting to change.  Supply chains will look very different in two or three years from what they are today. 

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CINCINNATI, OH — December 20, 2022 — At Taylor Logistics Inc. (TLI), our partners are critical to our continued growth and success – and we’re delighted to recognize a logistics partner and the impact they have on our customers and business. This year we are pleased to announce that Crowley Logistics Inc. is our 2022 Logistics Partner of the Year.

“Faced with another round of intense labor discussions with three of the largest rail unions in the country and a pending strike, Crowley worked exclusively with our team locally to ensure increased communication and foresight during and after the disruption from the short strike,” said Will Roberson, COO, Taylor Logistics Inc. “It is an honor to recognize Crowley as Logistics Partner of the Year for all their resilience, agility, and responsiveness. We look forward to continuing a successful partnership.”

This award was based on evaluating each company’s service portfolio and partnership scorecard performance – a rating system that assesses quality, extraordinary partnership, collaboration, and integrity – and input from Taylor senior leadership. In total, there were four partners nominated for this award.

About Crowley: Jacksonville-based Crowley Holdings Inc., a holding company of the 123-year-old Crowley Maritime Corporation, is a privately held family and employee-owned company. The company provides project solutions, energy and logistics services in domestic and international markets by means of six operating lines of business: Puerto Rico/Caribbean Liner Services, Latin America Liner Services, Logistics Services, Petroleum Services, Marine Services and Technical Services. Offered within these operating lines of business are: liner container shipping, logistics, contract towing and transportation; ship assist and escort; energy support; salvage and emergency response through its 50 percent ownership in Ardent Global; vessel management; vessel construction and naval architecture through its Jensen Maritime subsidiary; government services, and petroleum and chemical transportation, distribution and sales. Additional information about Crowley, its subsidiaries and business units may be found at www.crowley.com.

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Cincinnati, Drayage, Intermodal Transportation, Transloading
Taylor Logistics Inc. Transloading in Cincinnati Ohio Drayage Team

Transloading services are an essential part of the supply chain, primarily when shipping with intermodal drayage. When cargo is moved from rail to a truck (or the other way around), the transloading area is where an experienced team uses forklifts, cranes, and other equipment to ensure a seamless transfer of freight. Often, shippers want to combine the economic advantages of rail shipping with the flexibility of over-the-road trucking, using affordable rail shipping for the long haul and trucks for final delivery. Here’s our drayage team tips on how to save:

But First, Products That Can Be Transloaded


Standard Rail Commodities: Lumber, metals, paper, rebar bundles, palletized products


Liquids: Ethanol, biodiesel


Oversized: Transformers, wind blades, and machinery


Bulk: Sand, plastic pellets, food product


Service Sensitive/Critical: Auto parts, parcel, frozen food, and perishables


Everything: Bricks, floor tile, coil, solar panels and nearly everything else 

Container Capacity


Don’t waste container space! Abiding by container rules and regulations, strive to consolidate as much freight as possible into a larger container. For example, the contents of three 40 ft containers can fit into two 53 footers. Thus, reducing your overall costs significantly..

Check Your Container Cartons


If your container is hauling more cartons than the allocated number, you could incur extra fees. Stay up to date on regulations to avoid paying more.

Try To Palletize Your Products


To save space, putting your product on pallets always helps. When freight arrives at the transloading area, palletize cargo to make distribution handling more efficient.

Partner With A 3PL


Taylor has a full drayage team of transportation professionals that know what to look for to help you cut costs and streamline your supply chain with transloading. Get a rate now!

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Carriers, Customer Experience, Drayage, Flatbed, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Operations, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Third Party Logistics, Truck Driving
Four Seasons of Freight

Every year, freight shipping is different. However, in a lousy year or a good year – there is always a particular pattern. According to this pattern, we forecast and plan for the whole year. Like fall, winter, spring, and summer, the transportation industry has four seasons. Below are the four seasons of freight shipping.

January – March


It’s a new year; the holidays are past us, and freight volume is declining. Not to mention these months are the peak of winter, and the frigid temperatures and snowy roadways are not shipping-friendly. Typically during these months, logistics companies are recovering from holiday shipping. As a result, freight volume will start to progress as the months approach the spring season.

April – July


With the arrival of spring, the produce season begins. Freight volumes will increase, and carriers will have more loads to choose from, allowing them to pick and choose different loads. With pickier carriers, finding trucks becomes more challenging, and rates increase. In certain parts of the United States, the capacity and shipping rates change significantly for non-produce shippers, as carriers are massively switching to high-paying produce loads. 

August – October


Produce season has come to an end; however, the hecticness doesn’t stop here. It’s time to prepare for the back-to-school season and start planning for the upcoming holidays. During these months, sales are typically up, and companies rapidly ship products in and out of their facilities to ensure all inventory is ready for the holidays. As a result, rates are still climbing, and freight volumes are towering. 

November – December


Happy Holidays! It’s that time of year again; companies are rushing to complete last-minute purchase requests before the holiday closures. The new year is rapidly approaching, and no one wants to leave freight behind and drag it into the new year. The roads start to get busy with people taking time off for long weekends, holiday gatherings, and vacation time. It’s a time that needs to be carefully planned as last-minute items can pop up, and delays are likely.

Taylor Logistics has experience in each shipping season. We want to help you through each season and ensure you get the most out of each month. If you wish each year to be smooth and efficient, get a quote and partner with Taylor today. 

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Amazon, Amazon Fulfillment, B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Cincinnati, Customer Experience, D2C, Drayage, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Food Safety, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Fulfillment, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Third Party Logistics, Value-Added Services, Warehousing
Cincinnati Distribution

The home of the greatest quarterback ever, Joe Burrow, is also the ideal place to store and distribute your products – that’s right, Cincinnati, Ohio. Why? Great question here’s a few key selling points:

Cincinnati is 24 hours from 70% of the United States population, so getting your products quickly and efficiently to the consumer will never be an issue. If you are doing a lot of eCommerce, look no further, as transit times for parcels are the best in the country in Cincinnati.

The Cincinnati region boasts the largest inland port in the country and the 14th largest in the country by cargo volume. Products coming into the Cincinnati rails? If so, we have a dedicated Cincinnati drayage team ready to assist.

So now, with the ideal location for warehousing, distribution, eCommerce, and transportation, you need a team. That’s where we come in; not only are we positioned in the most marvelous city ever, but we have the solutions for your business. Talk with our team today. Fill out the form below and a member of #TeamTaylor will reach out in no time.

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Carriers, Drayage, Fleet, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Technology, Third Party Logistics, Transloading
Taylor 2022 Imports

Contrary to recent news headlines, port volumes increase and are speculated to continue. We’ve all seen the clickbait titles stating “U.S. Import Demand is Dropping off a Cliff (June 7, 2022)” or even “U.S. Retail Cargo Seen Cooling in Second Half as Inflation, Rates Bite (August 8, 2022)”. But is there any truth to these reader-inducing headlines? Not really – While there is no doubt that economic growth in the U.S. has slowed substantially from the breakneck pace experienced last year, a closer look at the subcomponents for GDP suggests that domestic and international transportation providers can expect demand to hold strong through the remainder of 2022. Here’s what our team found after scouring the web to find factual metrics from reliable sources: 

Despite the dollar being incredibly strong relative to other currencies, US exports increased 3.7 percent between the first and second quarters of 2022. On a non-seasonally adjusted basis, this increase was larger, at 5.1 percent. This suggests demand for American products despite the higher costs other nations are paying for them. Supporting article.

Descartes Systems Group (Nasdaq: DSGX) (TSX:DSG), the global leader in uniting logistics-intensive businesses in commerce, released its July 2022 report on the ongoing global shipping crisis and analysis for logistics and supply chain professionals. The report shows another record month of U.S. ocean container import volume in June 2022 versus June 2021. While volumes are lower than May 2022’s record, they remain above the level that has caused port congestion and delays for the last 15 months. Supporting article.

Taken together, the more granular data that underlies the GDP statistic suggests demand for transportation services, both domestic and international, is unlikely to cool substantially as we move through the second half of 2022. Rather than falling off a cliff as some have foretold, it appears we are moving toward a phase where freight markets are normalizing after two years where nothing has been normal.

In today’s market, it’s essential to ensure a successful supply chain. You can achieve this by partnering with a port solutions provider that offers reliable service, timely pick-ups, and supply chain visibility. In addition to this, #TeamTaylor provides free ocean container tracking. Partner with Taylor today.

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Carriers, Cross-Docking, Customer Experience, Drayage, Flatbed, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Intermodal Transportation, Ominchannel, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Third Party Logistics, TMS, Transloading, Value-Added Services
Taylor Logistics Port Services

Team Taylor helps manage domestic freight shipping needs for any port located in the United States

Providing solutions to managing port chaos is our thing here’s how we do it:

With Real-Time Visibility

We offer real-time GPS tracking, automated status updates, and notifications for every container. Leveraging the power of the project44 cloud-based platform allows Taylor to provide customers complete visibility throughout the supply chain.

Flexible Capacity

Whether you are shipping a couple of containers or hundreds, Taylor has a vast network of vetted carriers ready to handle your freight seamlessly from port to store or anywhere in between.

Fast Implementation

When it comes to port services, speed is of the essence. That’s why our teams are quick to deploy solutions for your needs. So if you’re looking for speed and high service levels, look no further- partner with Taylor.

Customized Customer Portals

Our easy-to-use cloud-based customer portal gives you access to real-time insights on your freight while in transit and allows you to review scheduled loads.

We Are Wherever You Need Us 

Taylor Logistics Port Services

Questions? Talk With Taylor Today

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Amazon, Amazon Fulfillment, B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Cincinnati, Customer Experience, D2C, Drayage, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Fulfillment, Leadership, Ominchannel, Operations, Packaging, People, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Technology, Third Party Logistics, Value-Added Services, Warehousing

Startup CPG has curated the first list of warehouse and 3PL fulfillment providers just for CPG companies (created and crowdsourced by Startup CPG members). Startup CPG previously released a list of 3PLs focused on DTC fulfillment in August 2020, and this new list replaces that resource with expanded options for B2B fulfillment and storage-only options. We are honored to be included in this incredible resource for growing + emerging brands!

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B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Carriers, Drayage, Fleet, Food Safety, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Intermodal Transportation, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Third Party Logistics, Truck Driving
2022 Hurricane Season - Supply Chian

Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, are predicting above-average hurricane activity this year — which would make it the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. 

Managing a supply chain is a complicated business on the best of days. However, under the unfavorable conditions of a tropical storm or hurricane, a supply chain can swiftly move from complex to chaotic, causing severe supply chain disruptions.

Potential Supply Chain Issues


Knowing the areas most likely to experience hurricane-related damage is vital when it comes to supply chain management. So is understanding which links in the chain are most likely to encounter disruption. These notably include the nation’s ports. Fulfillment centers and warehouses also are high on the list, as they often are built on low and within proximity to port terminals. Transportation routes are also a vulnerable spot, as floodwaters can wash out road surfaces. Even with major highways, such as Interstate 10 during Hurricane Katrina.

How to Prepare?

Awareness
The first step for prevention is awareness. Identifying facilities that are in high-risk areas helps managers prepare for the worst. This also includes maintaining a consistent system for checking on the weather every day along with the supply chain footprint.

Alternate plan
Having an emergency plan in place that includes factors such as alternative routes for drivers and procedures for production outside facilities in the path of potential disaster. If possible, ensuring that production is ramped so essential goods can get to their destinations before disaster strikes.

Coordination
Coordination between supply chain partners inside and outside your business is crucial. Establish a team that will be responsible for making decisions during a crisis, and communicate it throughout the supply chain. When communication channels break down, people often act and react on their own, thinking that they are doing the right thing, which may hurt the overall plan.

Supply Chain Intelligence Center for Disaster Information

 

The American Logistics Aid Network, in collaboration with different logistics and supply chain companies, has created a supply chain dashboard. The Supply Chain Intelligence center monitors the real-time status of roads, ports, and airports in disaster-impacted areas. Register to request access here.

Work with an Agile 3PL Provider

When a hurricane or tropical storm is on the horizon, it can be challenging to prepare your business for possible supply chain disruption. The best way to create a plan for your supply chain is to work with a proactive logistics solutions provider. We help companies of all sizes within various industries prepare for supply chain uncertainty. Talk with Taylor today. Fill out the form below, and a Team Taylor rep will be in touch in no time. 

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CINCINNATI, Ohio. – MAY, 24th 2022—Taylor Logistics, a third-party logistics solutions provider, announced that it has partnered with project44 the world’s leading Advanced Visibility Platform™ for shippers and logistics service providers. 

Leveraging the power of the project44 cloud-based platform allows Taylor to increase operational efficiencies, reduce costs, improve shipping performance, and deliver an exceptional customer experience. Connected to thousands of carriers worldwide and having comprehensive coverage for all ELD and telematics devices, project44 supports all transportation modes and shipping types. 

“We are excited about our partnership with project44. This allows our customers complete visibility throughout the supply chain that we were missing on the front end,” said Vince Bonhaus, Vice President of Logistics, Taylor Logistics Inc. “project44 was the obvious choice for our growing business.” 

project44 is a Leader among Real-Time Transportation Visibility Providers, according to the Gartner Magic Quadrant. To learn more, visit www.project44.com

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Customer Experience, Drayage, Fleet, Freight, Freight Technology, Leadership, Operations, Processes, Safety, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Sustainability, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Technology, Third Party Logistics

Happy #EarthDay! As temporary custodians of our planet, we must ensure that future generations will enjoy our earth’s benefits. We believe in positively impacting the environment by implementing new technologies and reducing our emissions. Learn more about Taylor sustainability here: https://taylorlogistics.com/sustainability/

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Hiring-Drivers-Taylor-Logistics-Inc-

Our drivers are the backbone of our success; we couldn’t do what we do without them. Taylor has been in business since 1850, building upon a rich history is a foundation that is still family-owned and operated. Grow with us. As customer needs continue to grow, so do the career opportunities within our network. When you join #TeamTaylor, you can choose what personal career growth looks like for you.

Safety

Safety is our number one priority and is one of our five values, top-of-the-line technology, and an entire safety team dedicated to compliance and our drivers.

Company Drivers

The greater Cincinnati area is a vital part of Taylor as Cincinnati is the largest inland port in the country. We have some great opportunities out of the tri-state area, including local home daily fleets, dedicated regional fleets, and regional drayage. Because of the role drivers play in the success of our company, we’ve expanded our private fleet. With our ever-increasing customer needs and freight demands, we continue to recruit the best and safest talent in the transportation industry. Top talent deserves top pay for more than just your miles. Join the Taylor family!

Owner Operators

Join Taylor’s owner operator program and get the best of both worlds. The freedom to choose your loads, your home time, and reliable freight and pay come with Taylor’s stable foundation of well-known customers. Plus, you’ll have the support of TeamTaylor and a fuel program that’s second to none. So whether you already own your truck or you’re looking to make the move to owner operator, choose Taylor, where we’re here to help you succeed.

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Cross-Docking, Customer Experience, D2C, Drayage, Flatbed, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Intermodal Transportation, Ominchannel, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Third Party Logistics, Transloading, Value-Added Services
Taylor Logistics Cross Dock

What is cross docking?


Cross docking is the transfer of inbound goods to an outbound carrier through the use of a cross docking facility – that is, a temporary storage terminal that cuts out or reduces the need for inventory storage. All incoming goods are sorted and loaded onto outbound trucks as quickly as possible – often immediately.

It’s trending!


The cross docking market is growing yet again! Globally it’s expected to reach US$342 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of around 6%. This growth is fueled by increasing consumer expectations for delivery times, putting pressure on the supply chain through the ‘need for speed’.

Cross docking benefits


Reduced costs, particularly any costs associated with long-term inventory storage and associated facilities, labor and utilities

Improved stock turnover, as the goal of cross docking is to get goods in and out as efficiently as possible

Minimized risk, given there’s reduced handling of goods and no long-term storage that could increase the chance of spoilage

Need a cross dock solution? Talk with Taylor!


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Cold Supply Chain, Cross-Docking, Drayage, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Intermodal Transportation, Internet of Things, Inventory Management, LTL, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Third Party Logistics, TMS, Transloading, Truck Driving

Halloween is this weekend; pumpkin-spiced everything has been taking up menu real estate at your local coffee shop for some time, and turkey is right around the corner. So not only is it the start of the holiday season, but it’s also the start of peak shipping season. Our experts give pointers on how to succeed during this busy season and how 2021 is already shaping up differently from years past.

What is peak season shipping?

There are four seasons of freight shipping and the peak season of shipping starts at the end of the summer. This time is considered a peak shipping season because there is a combination of demand from different markets. Businesses start stocking up for the upcoming holiday season, there is back-to-school shopping time, and retailers try to sell out their inventories from the summer season. During this peak time, freight rates are at the highest, and the capacity is tight.

What are the four seasons of freight shipping?

  • The Quiet Shipping Season (January – March)
  • The Produce Shipping Season (April – July)
  • The Peak Shipping Season (August – October)
  • The Holiday Shipping Season (November – December)

How to be successful throughout the peak shipping season

Knowing the market


The key to navigating peak shipping season is to understand the truckload demand and market specifics across various industries. In 2020, demand was low, and freight rates were higher than usual. In 2021 however, shippers are less cost-sensitive, and freight volumes are extremely hot. If you plan to work with high-quality carriers, start navigating the market during spring and early summer. Create a proper shipping strategy to help you define the market trends and successfully ship goods. 

Utilize Technology


During the peak shipping season, you need every advantage you can get! Here’s an example, you can efficiently utilize a transportation management system (TMS) to optimize route planning and ensure efficient deliveries. You can also use other supply chain technology to automate warehousing processes and inventory control, providing up-to-the-minute data on your entire operation.

Work with reliable a 3PL 


Reliable 3PL here, and we will make sure you have fast and reliable shipping services. Our team knows that freight, more often than not, is time-sensitive, and capacity can be tight. So we work with a wide variety of professional, high-quality carriers to ensure your products are delivered timely and with ease. 

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Carriers, Cold Supply Chain, Cross-Docking, Drayage, Flatbed, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Food & Beverage, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, LTL, Ominchannel, Operations, Port Services, Processes, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Technology, Third Party Logistics, TMS, Transloading, Truck Driving
FREIGHT UPDATE 2021 q4
This update is a report that analyzes data from multiple sources, including but not limited to FreightWaves SONAR, DAT, American Shipper, Morgan Stanley Research, FTR Transportation Intelligence, Journal of Commerce, and National Retail Federation(NRF).

The broken record phrase of “freight volumes continue to rise” is still in play. The current Outbound Tender Volume Index is roughly 3% higher year-over-year (YOY). We get that 3% might sound and look like a minimal increase but keep in mind volumes were accelerating quickly over the last several months of 2020. So while the comps are more challenging as we get into the more difficult months of 2021, the volumes are still dominating what they were a year ago. Our team is digesting the 2021 peak season and the factors that are currently influencing the market. 

Ports Delays Continue to Rise 

Many anticipated a slowdown in import activity, as ports are overburdened with operations and equipment trying to keep up with the constant influx of ships waiting to unload their cargo. But that is hardly the case. While the numbers fluctuate from day to day, there were 70 container ships in the queue on Monday in late September 2021, with a total capacity of 432,909 twenty-foot equivalent units. To put the vastness of that number in perspective, that’s more than the inbound container volume the Port of Long Beach handled in the entire month of August. It’s roughly what Charleston handles inbound in four months and what Savannah handles in two. So why the boom? Well, consumers are spending. eCommerce, a rise in CPG, the upcoming holiday season are driving demand for imported goods, requiring ships for transportation.

What happens when the cargo finally reaches the port? First, available trucks will flock to these locations due to the increased pay possibilities that this freight represents. Second, shippers and retailers waiting for their long-dormant freight will pay above-market rates to get their goods rushed directly to their destinations.

Consumers Buying Trends Continue to Increase 

Consumer goods have encountered extensive growth since the start of the pandemic, and there are no signs of this trend slowing down. Employment numbers, a reliable predictor of spending, are the strongest since March of last year. While consumer spending did not need employment numbers to remain elevated for the past year, a more stable job market bodes well for the economic outlook and trends to continue. In August, consumer spending bounced back from a mid-summer lull. During the past month, it jumped .8% after a decline of .1% in July. Moreover, income rose by .2% as consumer prices increased by .4%.

Partner With a Logistics Solutions Provider to Navigate Peak Season 

Our team is here for you. No matter the situation, we’ve got your back. 

We are here as your partner — we are an extension of your team with a clear understanding of our responsibility to replicate the strategic business goals of your organization. No matter the size of your business, we help our customers achieve the best possible freight outcomes and decrease overall costs.

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Carriers, Cold Supply Chain, Drayage, Flatbed, Flatbed Transportation, Fleet, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Freight Brokerage, Intermodal Transportation, Inventory Management, Leadership, Operations, Port Services, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Technology, Third Party Logistics, Transloading, Truck Driving

If you’ve seen higher than expected freight rates, we hear you, we see you. There’s a couple of potential factors for these increases. Since Q2 of 2020, the freight markets have shown robust growth, which has raised rates dramatically. While this is good news for carriers and manufacturers, it has caused CPG shippers to pay the price in rising freight rates. In this week’s blog, our team analyzes the various factors that are driving up freight rates and why they are happening.

Factor 1 | Port Congestion 


With pandemic-related consumer shopping habits, many West Coast ports operated at maximum capacity during the summer. In 2021, the uptick in imports has compounded the situation and caused even more congestion. March retail sales increased by 9.8% sequentially and 14.3% year-over-year. A 27.7% jump led to an increase in sales of food services. With more imports on board, shippers should brace for capacity constraints. As the produce season gets underway, rates will also rise.

Factor 2 | Produce Season


The start of the produce season typically occurs in February in the southern US. By spring/summertime, it has reached the majority of the US. During this time, capacity is tightened as refrigerated carriers dedicate a lot of their space to hauling produce. Other products that can ship via dry van or on refrigerated trucks will move to van transport, thus increasing freight rates across the board.

Factor 3 | Reliance on Split Shipments 


eCommerce brands have been comprehensively using split shipments for years. Firstly goods need to be picked from inventories across different locations. With not enough room on a single truck or plane for an entire shipment, it may have to be divided into individual boxes and delivered individually. Split shipments happen to occur even more often during cross-country or international shipment of goods. The more the shipments, the costlier the shipping costs; therefore, the trend ends up being a pricey affair and often harmful to the shipping ecosystem.

Counter Rising Rates with these Techniques: 

Advance Planning


One of the most effective ways to combat these high freight rates is planning shipments far in advance. Cargo cost is increasing every day. To avoid paying surged charges and avail early bird facilities, companies have to plan their shipments well in advance strategically. Working with a team of transportation experts (Like Taylor) that uses digital platforms to leverage data on the freight costs to predict rates and trends affecting the rates will help to plan and lower costs. 

Work With A Team Of Experts

Work with a dedicated logistics team to ensure conditions do not endanger profitability. Teaming up with a partner like Taylor can help your organization correctly forecast costs and find more favorable pricing through consolidation or mode optimization services.

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Cincinnati, Drayage, Intermodal Transportation, Transloading
Taylor Logistics Inc. Transloading in Cincinnati Ohio Drayage Team

Transloading services are an essential part of the supply chain, primarily when shipping with intermodal drayage. When cargo is moved from rail to a truck (or the other way around), the transloading area is where an experienced team uses forklifts, cranes, and other equipment to ensure a seamless transfer of freight. Often, shippers want to combine the economic advantages of rail shipping with the flexibility of over-the-road trucking, using affordable rail shipping for the long haul and trucks for final delivery. Here’s our drayage team tips on how to save:

But First, Products That Can Be Transloaded


Standard Rail Commodities: Lumber, metals, paper, rebar bundles, palletized products


Liquids: Ethanol, biodiesel


Oversized: Transformers, wind blades, and machinery


Bulk: Sand, plastic pellets, food product


Service Sensitive/Critical: Auto parts, parcel, frozen food, and perishables


Everything: Bricks, floor tile, coil, solar panels and nearly everything else 

Container Capacity


Don’t waste container space! Abiding by container rules and regulations, strive to consolidate as much freight as possible into a larger container. For example, the contents of three 40 ft containers can fit into two 53 footers. Thus, reducing your overall costs significantly..

Check Your Container Cartons


If your container is hauling more cartons than the allocated number, you could incur extra fees. Stay up to date on regulations to avoid paying more.

Try To Palletize Your Products


To save space, putting your product on pallets always helps. When freight arrives at the transloading area, palletize cargo to make distribution handling more efficient.

Partner With A 3PL


Taylor has a full drayage team of transportation professionals that know what to look for to help you cut costs and streamline your supply chain with transloading.

Talk With Taylor


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Amazon, Amazon Fulfillment, B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Customer Experience, D2C, Drayage, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Essential Workers, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Fulfillment, Internet of Things, ISDT, Key Performing Indicators, Leadership, Ominchannel, Operations, Packaging, People, Retail, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Team Taylor, Teamwork, Third Party Logistics
People Products Taylor Logistics  Inc

At Taylor, we know your products have important places to be, like a child’s 5th birthday, signing the papers for a new car, running a marathon, or happy hour. We’re here to help make sure they get there, from getting your products to Whole Foods or Ralphs to creating multipacks so people can enjoy more of your brand. We help brands explode & we go where you need us. We are your supply chain management experts.

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Drayage, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Intermodal Transportation, Port Services, Team Taylor

The talk of freight, logistics, and supply chain publications has been port congestion. It’s a trending topic and issue for several shippers. From the recent Chinese Lunar New Year to the Covid-19 pandemic, several factors have contributed to the congestion in 2020 and into this year. Port congestion is not over yet for America’s largest gateways. Record import levels could extend through the first half of 2021, according to the National Retail Foundation (NRF). In this post, our team covers the cause of this congestion, the services that can help bypass a possible jam, and our team’s tips and tricks.  

What’s the cause of this Congestion? 


You could say there’s been a lack of planning and forecasting. This season has been more stringent than others because of the pandemic, excess volume, and the vessel alliances omitting and consolidating ports. For various reasons, it’s creating this large logjam.

Southern California Ports 

The Los Angeles and Long Beach ports have been accentuated with the rapid increase in imports since June of 2021. Some difficulties they have encountered are vessel bunching at the port, congestion at the marine terminals, lack of operators and chassis, and warehouse capacity. These ports have both announced initiatives that they will enact to decrease congestion at the terminals currently and moving forward throughout the year.  

New York and New Jersey Ports 

The New York and New Jersey ports have been experiencing similar issues as the Southern California ports. These two are the largest US gateways receiving imports of eCommerce goods, personal protective equipment (PPE), and home improvement goods during the pandemic.

Some Tips For Navigating Port Congestion: 


Can Transloading Help? 

Transloading can be great, especially in Seattle/Tacoma, to certain parts of the US. There are direct points from Seattle/Tacoma to Chicago, Minneapolis, and the Ohio Valley that can offer faster transit times. Domestic trailers move daily, versus maybe weekly for ocean containers, so congestion inland isn’t as bad for domestic containers. Often transloading pricing is very competitive from port to door. Learn more about Taylor’s port-to-door services here. 

Use an Asset-Based Drayage Team 

A partner that owns its chassis can be ideal when dealing with port congestion. Rentals can become unpredictable when ports are jammed; partnering with an asset-based provider will help boost capacity. 

Remain in close contact with your 3PL! 

This way, you are notified immediately of any opportunities for getting your product where it needs to go. 

If you are currently importing cargo via the US Port terminals and are tired of delays, inbox Team Taylor; we are happy to work out a different routing plan and schedule with you to optimize your shipping practices. Our team is vastly experienced with imports and exports and is well equipped to create a solution plan for your company. Please fill out the form below to chat with us or email us at info@taylorlog.com!

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Cincinnati, Drayage
Taylor Logistics Inc. Blog

Drayage provides a critical link between container terminals and customers, railroads, and other facilities—driver’s play an essential role in the fabric of port operations, the economy, and air quality. Navigating terminals can be difficult on the best day and can become extremely difficult as rules can change from terminal-to-terminal or even hour-to-hour. To navigate the ports effectively – and avoid wasting time, shippers need to ensure their drayage carriers employ highly experienced drivers.

Each terminal has its own rules on container pickup, driver processes, appointment booking, hours of operation, chassis usage, etc. Your drayage partner needs to understand the rules of each port to ensure efficient pick up or drop off.

Cincinnati Port Drayage

Experience, Experience, Experience!


Drayage is more than showing up and retrieving a container. Drivers must have intimate knowledge of the terminals, while also having the ability to adapt to daily rule changes. It can be difficult enough to locate the container, saying nothing of the challenges associated with getting in the right gate in the correct line on time. Without this knowledge, drivers will log unproductive hours just navigating port complexity – costing you both time and money. An experienced driver is more than getting in and out of the terminals quickly. Experienced drayage drivers act as an extension of your business and find ways to save you money.

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Drayage, Fleet, Freight, Operations
Taylor Logistics Inc. Blog

Along with being a problem solver and a delegator being a fleet manager entails much more than ensuring your fleet is up to par. It requires you to be an excellent communicator, a multitasker, a mechanical expert, an administrator, and a negotiator. If an obstacle arises, it is the fleet manager that finds the solution. If a driver has an issue, the fleet manager delegates the task. For some, embodying all of these characteristics is challenging. For others, combining all of these skills into one job title is nearly unattainable. But, there is always room for improvement in the world of management; our team compiled a list of tips for successful fleet management. 

Taylor Logistics Team Taylor Member

Safety, Safety, Safety! 


Truck driving requires a lot of focus, good health, and defensive driving practices, when you’re on the road for long hours at a time, the risk for an accident rises. When factoring in weather conditions and traffic, and it’s clear that drivers need to stay alert no matter the circumstances. It’s up to the fleet manager to stress the importance of safe driving. By rewarding safe driving practices, scheduling regular safety briefings, and creating/updating protocols, it will help drivers stay mindful.

Embrace New Technology 


Having the latest and greatest technology had become all the more critical than ever. ELD mandates, driver safety, and changing laws are just a few reasons why it’s crucial for fleet managers to welcome new technology. Efficient fleet managers not only accept the change, but they also embrace technologies and welcome whatever new challenges come with it.

Cutting  Costs with Taylor logistics

Keep an Eye on Cost 


Staying on track of all fleet management costs helps to control budgets. Fleet management operates with costs such as fuel, drivers’ salaries, vehicle maintenance, wages, and various other business costs. For an effective fleet manager, it is crucial to look for possible savings and avoid unnecessary losses across the business. Fleet managers should look for alternative ways of saving money, for example, optimizing driver routes to increase sustainability and cut fuel costs. 

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Cincinnati, Drayage, Intermodal Transportation
Taylor Logistics Inc. Blog

Definition –  Drayage is typically used to describe the trucking service from a port to a rail ramp, warehouse, or other destination.


History – The word drayage originally stems from the term dray, a low cart without fixed sides that is used for carrying heavy loads a short distance. Although a dray is defined as a cart historically, a dray may be any vehicle used to transport heavy loads a short distance, such as a truck or sled.

Intermodal Rail Ramp Drayage


Taylor established interchange agreements with major rail ramps and steamship lines for pickup and delivery of Cincinnati drayage. The Ports of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have been ranked the busiest inland port in the nation, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Navigation Data Center. 

TLI-Cincinnati-Rail-Drayage
TLI-Ohio-Drayage
TLI-Ports
Cincinnati ports Taylor Logistics Inc.
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Drayage, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Intermodal Transportation, Port Services, Third Party Logistics, Value-Added Services

What is Drayage? 

Drayage is a term used to describe the moving of container freight over short distances, mainly in the same city between rials facilities, ports or other shipping hubs. 

Drayage moves can include:

1. Moving cargo from port to port or rail to rail

2. Port to the rail yard

3. Port to warehouse/shipping hub

4. Facility to the port, rail yard, or another facility

The history of Drayage 

In history, the term drayage originally stems from the term dray, a low cart without fixed sides that could be used for carrying heavy loads a short distance. Although dray is defined as a cart historically, dray may be any vehicle used to transport heavy loads a short distance, including a sled, wagon, or carriage. 

Drayage Today

In the early years, drayage services were considered a risky move for shippers and IMC’s. Today, a majority of that risk is gone, and rail intermodal is an essential part of most supply chains’ transportation portfolio. Drayage services have proven its value, experienced growth, and earned the respect of the Class I railroads as well as world-class shippers. It stands on the threshold of a new ear of growth as challenges mount for long-haul truckloads. While a lot of long-haul conversions have taken place, regional opportunities in the east are proving drayage services are not just a mode for cross-country freight moves.

Ultimately, any successful logistics operation starts with proper planning; let our team be your drayage advisor. Being in Cincinnati Taylor is located next to two major inland ports that service the entire midwest region. In addition to our local ports, our fleet also services Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and Chicago. From picking up freight and moving it to the next hub, Taylor drayage services are an efficient solution for your intermodal strategy. 

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