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Customer Experience, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Freight Technology, Key Performing Indicators, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Third Party Logistics, Truck Driving

Welcome to Taylor Logistics’ Q4 2023 Freight Market Insights!

While rates have been holding steady near the lower end of the market, there’s exciting news on the horizon. Our experts anticipate a potential turnaround in the latter half of Q2 2024. This means it’s the perfect time to sit down with your 3PL partner and prepare your supply chain for upcoming rate and capacity changes. 

Some Economic Factors to Take Into Consideration: 

Inflation: During Q3, we saw inflation rates dip, but they’ve rebounded and are currently at 3.7%.

Fuel Prices: In the U.S., average fuel prices have stopped their gradual decline that began at the end of 2022. Diesel prices increased from $3.80 per gallon in July to $4.58 per gallon. These increases in fuel costs are contributing to the overall rise in inflation.

These insights are based on market data from public sources, providing essential information to keep you informed, make strategic decisions to manage risks and ensure the continuity of your supply chain.

Dedicated Fleet Trends 

In recent years, many leading fleet carriers have shared exciting insights. They’ve consistently reported that their fleet’s growth, particularly in active tractors, is increasingly centered around the dedicated segment of their business. What’s so great about this is that it’s not just benefiting them but also you! These carriers focus more on dedicated services, leading to better service predictability and happier drivers. Need a dedicated fleet solution? Talk with our sibling company, Taylor Distributing Co. 

Notable Growth Among Smaller Carriers

Our research shows that smaller carriers have been on the rise. These companies operate fewer than 51 tractors and are making a significant impact on the for-hire capacity in the USA. So, when you choose to work with smaller carriers, you’re contributing to the growth of these vibrant businesses.

Challenges Stemming from Driver Shortages 

We understand that the trucking industry faces unique challenges, like a shortage of drivers and changing employment preferences. The average age of truck drivers is around 55, and with the Baby Boomer generation’s retirement, keeping fleets fully staffed is challenging. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you navigate these challenges as the market evolves to meet your freight volume needs.

Resilience in the Owner-Operator Model

We have good news! The trucking industry in the USA has a robust owner-operator model to serve you. Becoming an owner-operator is easier than ever, and if times get tough, exiting the business is a breeze. Plus, seeing so many people enthusiastic about driving trucks is terrific. More importantly, many drivers want to own and operate their businesses. This trend has gained momentum in recent years, and it’s all about offering you a variety of ways to get your goods moving. Whether you prefer independent operators with their trailers, independent contractors with fleets, or power-only services for your trailers, we’ve got you covered.

Talk with Taylor

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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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Seasonal Surges Supply Chain

We know that running a business can feel like a rollercoaster ride, especially when it comes to seasonality changes. Whether you’re gearing up for a booming holiday season or bracing for the summer slowdown, the key to success lies in demand planning and the right supply chain strategy. That’s where Taylor, your 3PL hero, steps in to make your supply chain journey smooth and profitable.

Understanding the Seasonal Shuffle

First things first, let’s talk about seasonality. It’s that regular ebb and flow in demand that can leave you spinning if you’re not prepared. Every industry faces these ups and downs, from the holiday shopping frenzy to back-to-school rushes and even summer slumps. How you handle them makes all the difference.

The Power of Demand Planning

Demand planning is like your secret weapon against the unpredictability of seasons. Here’s what it brings to the table:

Data Delights: It all starts with data. Analyzing historical sales figures, market trends, and outside factors is our way of peering into the future.

Forecasting Finesse: Armed with data, we forecast demand like pros. This isn’t just a guess; it’s about spotting patterns and trends to ensure you’ve got what your customers want when they want it.

Inventory Intelligence: Demand planning helps us keep your inventory levels just right—no more shelves crammed with excess stock or frantic last-minute restocking.

Teamwork: We believe in partnership. Collaboration between and continuous communication between our teams– ensures we all sing the same tune.

Scaling Your Supply Chain

Now, let’s talk about scaling operations. It’s the secret to mastering seasonal changes. Why Taylor 3PL, you ask? Here’s why:

Warehouse Wonders: Our flexible warehousing solutions are a godsend. Need to scale up for peak season? Easy peasy. And when demand subsides, you’re not tied to extra space.

Fulfillment Flourish: We’re fulfillment aficionados, ensuring orders are picked, packed, and shipped like clockwork, even during the busiest times. 

Transportation Tricks: From route optimization to efficient shipping, our transportation expertise keeps your goods moving seamlessly.

Value-Added Services: Taylor continues beyond warehousing and transportation. We offer a range of value-added services like kitting, labeling, and quality checks to add extra shine to your products.

Growth Mode: As your business soars, Taylor scales with you. Need more space, a dedicated fulfillment center, or expanded value-added services? We’ve got you covered.

In the epic saga of supply chain management, Taylor is your ally. We’re here to help you conquer the unpredictable seas of seasonality, transform challenges into opportunities, and make your supply chain a source of strength.

Ready to embark on this adventure with Taylor by your side? Let’s chat and discover how we can elevate your supply chain to new heights.

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In the fiercely competitive world of modern business, brands need to leverage advanced technologies to streamline their operations and gain a competitive edge. One such technology that is transforming inventory management for brands is real-time inventory tracking through a Warehouse Management System (WMS) customer portal. In this blog post, we’ll explore how partnering with a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) provider like Taylor, who offers a cutting-edge WMS customer portal with real-time tracking capabilities at no extra cost, can revolutionize inventory management and drive unprecedented benefits for your business.

1. Real-Time Inventory Visibility

When it comes to inventory management, knowledge is power. Real-time visibility into your inventory levels across multiple locations is essential for optimizing operations and promptly meeting customer demands. With Taylor’s WMS customer portal, you gain instant access to accurate, up-to-the-minute information about your inventory. This includes stock levels, order status, inbound and outbound shipments, and more, empowering you to make well-informed decisions at every step of the supply chain.

2. Seamless Order Fulfillment

Efficient order fulfillment is the lifeblood of any brand striving to deliver exceptional customer experiences. Taylor’s WMS customer portal facilitates seamless order processing by providing real-time insights into available inventory. With this comprehensive view, you can efficiently allocate stock to fulfill orders from the nearest distribution center or warehouse, ensuring faster delivery times and reduced shipping costs. The result? Satisfied customers and increased loyalty to your brand.

3. Proactive Inventory Management

Proactive inventory management is crucial for avoiding costly stockouts or overstocking situations. Taylor’s WMS customer portal allows you to set up automated alerts for low inventory levels, enabling you to replenish stock in a timely manner. By staying one step ahead of demand fluctuations, you can optimize inventory turnover, reduce holding costs, and free up working capital for other strategic investments.

4. Data-Driven Decision Making

In the age of big data, businesses that leverage actionable insights gain a significant advantage over their competitors. Taylor’s WMS customer portal collects and analyzes real-time inventory data, presenting you with easy-to-understand dashboards and reports. This data-driven approach empowers you to identify trends, spot inefficiencies, and make informed adjustments to your supply chain strategy, further enhancing operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

5. Enhanced Collaboration

Effective collaboration between brands and their 3PL partners is essential for mutual success. Taylor’s WMS customer portal fosters seamless communication by providing a shared platform for real-time inventory updates and order tracking. This transparency ensures that both parties are on the same page, leading to better coordination, fewer errors, and improved overall performance.

In conclusion, real-time inventory tracking through Taylor’s WMS customer portal is a game-changer for brands seeking to optimize their supply chain and deliver exceptional customer experiences. By partnering with a 3PL that offers this technology at no extra cost, you gain access to invaluable tools for inventory management, order fulfillment, and data-driven decision-making. Embrace the power of real-time inventory tracking and elevate your brand to new heights of efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Talk With Taylor, Today!

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Customer Experience, Fulfillment, Key Performing Indicators, Leadership, Operations, People, Processes, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Third Party Logistics

Taylor Logistics Inc., a leading provider of comprehensive logistics solutions, is thrilled to announce its recognition as a Top 100 Logistics Provider by Inbound Logistics magazine for the year 2023. This prestigious accolade highlights Taylor Logistics’ commitment to excellence in the industry and its unwavering dedication to providing exceptional logistics services to its customers, business partners, and vendors.

Inbound Logistics, a renowned industry publication, annually recognizes the top logistics providers who demonstrate innovation, excellence, and superior customer service. The selection process involves an extensive evaluation of companies based on criteria such as operational efficiency, technological advancements, customer satisfaction, and overall industry leadership.

Taylor Logistics has continually demonstrated its ability to deliver comprehensive logistics solutions that meet and exceed the evolving needs of its diverse clientele. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, robust supply chain strategies, and a highly skilled workforce, Taylor Logistics has consistently set the benchmark for excellence in the logistics industry.

“We are delighted and honored to be named a Top 100 Logistics Provider by Inbound Logistics for 2023,” said Drew Taylor, CEO & Chairman of Taylor Logistics Inc. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our team members who consistently strive to provide our customers, business partners, and vendors with superior logistics solutions. We remain committed to delivering exceptional value, innovation, and caring for our customer’s inventory.”

Taylor Logistics offers various logistics services, including transportation management, warehousing and distribution, supply chain optimization, and food-grade warehousing. The company’s integrated approach and customized solutions empower customers to streamline operations, reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance their overall supply chain performance.

As a trusted logistics partner, Taylor Logistics has built enduring relationships with its customers, business partners, and vendors across various industries, including retail, manufacturing, food, beverage, and consumer goods. The company’s ability to adapt to dynamic market conditions and rapidly changing industry trends has been instrumental in ensuring the success of Taylor and its business partners.

About Taylor Logistics Inc.


Taylor Logistics Inc. is a leading provider of comprehensive solutions committed to delivering excellence and innovation in the logistics industry. With a customer-centric approach, cutting-edge technology, and a highly skilled workforce, Taylor Logistics offers a wide range of services, including transportation management, warehousing and distribution, supply chain optimization, and e-commerce fulfillment. The company serves customers, business partners, and vendors across various industries and is dedicated to helping businesses achieve their logistics goals efficiently and effectively.

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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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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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It takes a lot of bandwidth to operate a retail business. Whether you are an online retailer or run a brick-and-mortar business, you depend on the efficient movement of freight to maintain your operations. Logistics is the main component of any retail operation, from receiving inventory to shipping orders directly to customers. The amount of resources a retailer spends on operating its supply chain is unknown to most casual shoppers. This is an area where working with an experienced 3PL can be incredibly beneficial for any retailer.

What’s the Role of a 3PL?

There are multiple roles that today’s third-party logistics providers take on for their clients. For retailers specifically, they are essentially outsourced agent that takes care of numerous supply chain functions. Partnering with a 3PL allows a retailer to focus on driving sales, improving customer service, and other daily operations that help them increase sales and, thus, make more profits. Specifically, a 3PL can handle several specific logistics functions, including:

Scalable Services

A 3PL allows you to analyze your labor, transportation, and spacing needs depending on your business parameters. Businesses that focus more heavily on seasonal sales can benefit from this practice. You can always ramp up deliveries, warehouse space, and any other logistics a 3PL can provide when consumer demand dictates.

Cost-efficiency

Many companies assume that outsourcing to a third party by default means spending more on service fees. However, all the efforts of a 3PL will eventually save you money. Ultimately, the overall cost will be less than an in-house supply chain management. A 3PL is a one-stop shop for most of your supply chain needs. You do not have to invest in warehousing, technology, or a logistics team.

Bulk Shipping Rates

Shipping rates, especially spot rates, can fluctuate weekly depending on several outside sources, even daily in some cases. As a result, retail companies need stability in the market to ship their products. Bulk shipping rates help that happen. This is where 3PLs can help, especially since many retail companies need the negotiating power of a 3PL.

Distribution Network

3PLs have contacts throughout the country. If your business grows, a 3PL can offer additional resources from those within its network to assist that growth. At Taylor, we have a carrier network of 60,000+. With a carrier size that large, we can find you lanes and capacity to move your freight.

Ready to partner with a 3PL? Talk with Taylor

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There are people we meet during our lifetime that will transform us forever coaches to professors, family members, authors, coworkers, the list goes on. They encourage us to become a better version of ourselves.

Wildly enough, I recently met one of those people while watching Ted Lasso on AppleTV+. If you haven’t seen this remarkable show, you are probably very confused about how a television show could contribute to one of those impactful people but hear me out. Disclaimer: I do my absolute best to resist watching any sports-related show and, moreover, a sports comedy. BUT If you’ve seen it, then you know its brilliance.

A Little Background


The comedy catalogs the journey of a warm-hearted American football coach, Ted Lasso (played by Jason Sudeikis), who is hired to coach a soccer team in the English Premier League. He knows nothing about the sport, league, or culture, but he knows about coaching players, who he sees as people first. “To me, success is not about the wins and losses,” Coach Lasso says. “It’s about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.” Ted Lasso is a brilliant demonstration of the subtle and straightforward storytelling that offers space to explore the deeper emotions driving much of our decision-making in our personal and professional lives. Here’s the Lasso way:

Lasso Lessons


Treat people with respect – No matter their position within the company/ team, from water boy to chairmen; everyone deserves same respect; every person brings value.

Be a goldfish – According to Ted, a goldfish has a 15-second memory. He wants his players to make mistakes and move on. Obviously, we should all learn from our mistakes, but there is no purpose in lying awake at night replaying how something you did could have been different. Be a goshdarn goldfish.

Be understanding – Communicating with his players allows Ted to understand them and what they are experiencing. Whether it is a player’s first time away from home or a veteran dealing with losing a step or two, having that perspective allows us to empathize.

Good ideas can come from anywhere – Whether asking for advice on roster moves or dealing with his personal relationship issues, Ted has the ability and willingness to engage others on topics and issues where they have no agency over. Having no ego allows Ted to solicit and accept support from all levels of the organization. He always does what is best for the team and not necessarily himself.

Allow the members of the team to shine – Ted allows members of his staff to shine. He gives them credit and highlights their achievements which provides motivation and incentive to everyone in the organization and allows them to achieve the impossible.

Be a mentor – Ted had an excellent quote for his captain, “You know how they say youth is wasted on the young, I say don’t let the wisdom of age be wasted on you.” He was encouraging him to be a mentor for one of the junior players and share his experiences. We can all learn from each other.

Obstacles can be opportunities – Take difficult situations and make them learning experiences so it is not so bad the next time around.

Teammates don’t need to be best friends to be great – Ted uses examples such as Shaq & Kobe, Lennon & McCartney, Woody & Buzz. Players need to have mutual respect to be great at what they do.

Be curious –”Those who think they’ve got it all figured out judge others.” The ability to check your ego and be inquisitive at the risk of exposing your weaknesses is not only a sign of vulnerability, but it’s also a superpower that is underutilized in the leadership ranks. Ted is continually on the prowl for new ideas from everyone within the organization and those in the community.

Believe! – From the beginning of Ted’s time in Richmond, it was clear that this was his motto. Ted mounted a “Believe” sign in the locker room. It is at the core of who Ted is.

So, there you have it. Ted Lasso is by all means not a perfect coach, not by a long shot. He’s in over his head coaching in a league and sport that he doesn’t understand in a different country. His “constant positivity” and adherence to his philosophies allow him to impact his new team and club, from the players and staff to the owner and larger Richmond community. Take a page from the Coach Ted Lasso playbook and implement these principles into your style and within your organization and life outside of work.

I’m not sure what my plans are this weekend, but I may just re-watch a few “Ted Lasso” episodes to get ready for the week ahead.

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Our VP of Warehousing, Grant Taylor, has been invited by our WMS provider Zethcon, A Made4net Company, to be included as a 3PL expert to speak at #Promat2023 in Chicago! The seminar is focused on excelling at distribution in the e-commerce era. If you are attending #Promat and are interested to learn about the experience of #3PL providers who have successfully switched to accommodate e-commerce and direct-to-consumer fulfillment into their operations, head to Theatre E on 3/22 at 3:45.

What You Will Learn

Do you have what it takes to excel in the e-commerce era? Accommodating e-commerce in your operation will depend on many factors, including your available space, automation, labor pool, technology, material handling equipment and the number and types of items you will be storing, picking and shipping.

In this session, you will learn from the experience of third party logistics providers who have successfully made the switch to accommodate e-commerce and direct-to-consumer fulfillment into their operations. You will learn how to manage higher order volumes, new types of order fulfillment, numerous picking methods, new equipment, warehouse mapping, diversified inventory tracking, cartonization and shipping processes that often accompany a shift in operations.

Learn how key technology solutions will make the transition smoother and will provide the framework for new processes and to incorporate robotics and automation, as well as the end-to-end visibility to provide a clear view of data from the dock door to the customers door, including the ability to track real-time inventory and keep customers updated on order status.

Key Takeaways

• Key technology and equipment considerations, including warehouse management systems (WMS), autonomous mobile robots, automation, conveyors and material handling equipment.
• Seamless integration across systems, including WMS, e-commerce platforms and carriers to ensure accurate inventory visibility and order status.
• Infrastructure changes to your warehouse to accommodate new methods of handling goods within the warehouse.
• Exercises to walk through “current state” and “to be” process flows to determine the best picking, packing and shipping adaptations for your operations.


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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 29, 2022 — Third-party logistics company Taylor Logistics Inc. held its third annual Carrier of the Year Awards program, recognizing its most outstanding North American carrier. This unique awards program recognizes carriers that go above and beyond by displaying the highest level of service and operational excellence and establishing quality relationships with Taylor. We proudly announce that NGL Transportation is this year’s Carrier of the Year. 

“One of NGL’s core differentiators is customer obsession – a practice that can be simple in concept but challenging in execution; we have a dedicated CSR and support from both the drayage and warehousing to ensure customer success,” said Nicholas Ratliff, Logistics Coordinator Taylor Logistics Inc. “We especially want to celebrate those who keep our country moving in these uncertain times and go above and beyond what’s asked of them. Our 2022 Carrier of the Year is the best example of reliable, high-quality carriers that make up our network.”

The carrier presented with this award was chosen from the company’s unmatched network of 80,000 carriers and was determined based on an evaluation of each company’s carrier scorecard performance – a rating system that evaluates carrier performance in quality, extraordinary partnership, operational excellence, on-time performance, and customer service – and input from Taylor senior leadership.

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Seasonal Demand Warehouse

What is seasonal demand? 

Seasonal inventory refers to products that sell at a higher velocity during particular times of the year. For example, most companies experience an influx in seasonal demand during the holiday season, and many may stock holiday-specific SKUs that they don’t sell year-round. Other brands may experience seasonal spikes according to changes in weather, sports seasons, or secondary holidays such as Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day.

Take advantage of peaks in demand

Forecasting for seasonal variances will ensure you have sufficient levels of stock available to take advantage of increases in product demand at peak times of the year. If you rely on your busy seasons to make the most of your money, you must be on top of your game and ensure optimum product availability.

Prevent excess stock levels

Equally, it’s important that you don’t want to over-forecast for seasonal demand fluctuations. Investing too much money in inventory can lead to cash flow problems and an unhealthy balance sheet. If you have excess stock at the end of a season, you face the dilemma of selling it off at a discounted rate or taking on the burden of inflated carrying costs until demand picks up again.

Seasonal methods for managing inventory 

There are five primary methods for managing inventory, and any of them could be appropriate for managing seasonal inventory, depending on SKU profile, sales velocity, and current business operations.

First in First Out (FIFO): The FIFO inventory method works by using the oldest inventory (first in) to fulfill orders first (first out). The FIFO method is appropriate for perishable and highly seasonal products and can increase margins on items that experience price hikes during times of high seasonal demand.

Last in First Out (LIFO): The LIFO inventory method uses the newest inventory (last in) to fulfill orders first (first out). The LIFO method can be used to quickly recoup expenses on products acquired at a premium seasonal price, either at the raw materials level or as finished goods.

Just in Time (JIT): The JIT inventory method is the method most commonly used by SMB’s because it requires the least intensive demand forecasting. JIT supply chains are replenished on an as needed basis. They are a high-risk supply chain management strategy and can reward merchants with increased capital on hand. Still, as we’ve seen with recent supply chain disruptions, they can also leave merchants with empty shelves when seasonal demand hits.

Economic Order Quantity (EOQ): The EOQ method determines ideal inventory levels using three metrics: customer demand, acquisition cost, and holding cost. The EOQ method can drastically cut inventory carry costs but requires advanced demand forecasting models supported by a lengthy sales history.

ABC Analysis:  An ABC analysis prioritizes SKUs by lumping them into three categories: A — high-value products with a low contribution margin, B — mid-value products selling at a mid-range velocity, C — high-velocity products with a low margin. An ABC analysis helps merchants prioritize the SKUs that ultimately drive their business’s profitability and may prompt them to reconsider their product profile entirely.

How are You Managing Seasonal Demand Forecasting?

Are you looking for a strategy that can help you improve your seasonal demand forecasting? #TeamTaylor can help. Contact us today to learn more about our data-driven warehousing and fulfillment services.

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Shopify, the leading provider of essential internet infrastructure for commerce, offering trusted tools to start, grow, market, and manage a retail business of any size, has featured Taylor in its blog on warehouse management. This blog showcases how to make warehouse operations run smoothly for scaling brands. Since Taylor has tremendous experience helping brands from various industries scale, we spoke about the integral part a 3PL can play in helping your business. 

From the Blog:

Read the full Shopify article here

Research shows that 32% of brands will fulfill orders in a new country in 2022. Lean on a 3PL’s existing horde of international warehouses to reach global shoppers in less time, rather than opening up your own in popular warehousing locations with expensive leases. 

Take it from Noelle Taylor, senior marketing manager at Taylor Logistics, who says, “Partnering with a 3PL to handle warehouse management allows brands to focus more on what’s important—growing their business and delivering the best possible customer experience. 

“Committed 3PLs see their relationship with brands as a long-term partnership. As a result, they may be willing to invest in space, technology, and equipment to take your business to the next level.” 

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B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Cincinnati, Cold Supply Chain, Customer Experience, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Food Safety, Freight, Freight Brokerage, Fulfillment, Key Performing Indicators, Leadership, Ominchannel, Operations, Packaging, Processes, Retail, Safety, SQF, Supply Chain, Supply Chain Management, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Third Party Logistics, Warehousing

CINCINNATI, OH—Aug. 15, 2022 — Food Logistics, the only publication exclusively dedicated to covering the movement of product through the global cold food supply chain, named Taylor Logistics Inc. as one of the winners of the 2022 Top 3PL & Cold Storage Providers award, which recognizes leading third-party logistics and cold storage providers in the cold food and beverage industry.

“These past 18 months have been so challenging for U.S. supply chains. It’s the continuous bottlenecks that require fleets to re-tool and pivot accordingly. But, it’s the drivers, the fleet, the warehouses and software/technologies that really keep today’s supply chains in line,” says Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive. “These 3PLs and cold storage providers have collaborated on all facets of their operations to achieve full visibility, complete forecasting, end-to-end leverage and the ultimate in sustainability. Now is the time to honor and celebrate those companies making magic happen behind the frontlines.”

Recipients of this year’s award will be profiled in Food Logistics’ July/Aug 2022 print issue as well as online at www.FoodLogistics.com. Go to https://www.foodlogistics.com/awards to learn more about other Food Logistics’ awards.

About Food Logistics

Food Logistics reaches more than 26,000 supply chain executives in the global food and beverage industries, including executives in the food sector (growers, producers, manufacturers, wholesalers and grocers) and the logistics section (transportation, warehousing, distribution, software and technology) who share a mutual interest in the operations and business aspects of the global cold food supply chain. Food Logistics and sister publication Supply & Demand Chain Executive are also home to L.I.N.K. and L.I.N.K. Educate podcast channels, L.I.N.K. Live, SCN Summit, SupplyChainLearningCenter.com and more. Go to www.FoodLogistics.com to learn more.

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There are 1 Million forklifts in operation in the United States
Nearly 1 in 10 will be in an accident
85 of the accidents will be fatal
Over 34,000 serious injuries

This is why forklift safety is so important.

Forklift Safety Day is a day to emphasize the need for safe forklift operations and to uphold the highest safety standards in the workplace. At Taylor, we significantly reduce forklift accidents by prioritizing safety policies and placing importance on safety training and practices.

Questions? Talk With Taylor

Fill out the form below and a member of #TeamTaylor will reach out to you asap.

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Join #TeamTaylor! While we might be a logistics company, we’re in the solutions business. Founded in 1850, we’re backed by a rich history that’s to this day is family-owned and operated and is the logistics backbone for many of today’s most innovative and growing companies. To double down on that success, we’re looking for highly driven and detail-oriented individuals looking to add value, solve problems and join our team. If that’s you, help us reshape logistics. Learn more here!

Questions? Talk With Taylor


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Taylor Logistics, a third-party logistics solutions provider, announced that it has launched its next-generation warehouse management portal for business partners in conjunction with warehouse management provider Zethcon.

A recent survey conducted by Gartner found that 64% of fulfillment and warehouse providers do not offer customers a portal to check inventory, gain access to reporting and scheduling. That leaves a wide margin of warehouses and fulfillment centers that have yet to uncover the advancements that can be achieved with a cloud-based portal for their customer base.

Critical Features


SynapseAnywhere portal is mobile, desktop, and tablet compatible


Customers can export reports and desktop data fields in these formats (Excel, PDF., web browser)


Apply custom filters to search inventory quickly


Build your own inbound or outbound orders if you are not EDI compatible


Utilize EDI dictionary passthrough characters for header and line item details from integrated EDI data for your systems data


Delivering real-time data visibility


Enjoy all the benefits of a cloud-based platform with its anytime, anywhere capabilities


“The move towards a cloud-based customer portal meets two of Taylor’s key strategic goals, which include innovation and customizability. Our ability to evolve and adapt to the changing demands of our customers and meet our responsibilities as corporate citizens as the network of our facilities grows is integral to the value we provide. The new WMS portal is a continuous flow of accurate and real-time data, entirely customizable.” Said Scott Dowers, Senior WMS Superuser – BI Admin

Questions? Talk With Taylor!

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CINCINNATI, O.H. —Feb. 14, 2022 — Food Logistics, the only publication exclusively dedicated to covering the movement of product through the global cold food supply chain, named Vince Bonhaus, VP of Sales from Taylor Logistics Inc, as one of the winners of the 2022 Rock Stars of the Supply Chain award, which recognizes influential individuals in the industry whose achievements, hard work and vision have shaped the global cold food supply chain.

“Behind every great company is an even greater leader. And, the supply chain leaders receiving this award are no exception,” says Marina Mayer, Editor-in-Chief of Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive. “Within the last 18 months or so, the cold food chain has seen a lot of rock stars rise to the occasion. These rock stars developed platforms, integrated automation, and led teams through disruption after disruption. They’ve helped their companies pivot, adapt, and continue to do so with grace, agility, flexibility, and resilience. These rock stars are strong in so many ways. Congratulations to the true rock stars of the supply chain, who continue to keep the cold food chain moving.”

Recipients of this year’s award will be profiled in Food Logistics’ Jan/Feb 2022 print issue as well as online at www.FoodLogistics.com. Go to https://www.foodlogistics.com/awards to learn more about other Food Logistics’ awards.

About Food Logistics

Food Logistics reaches more than 26,000 supply chain executives in the global food and beverage industries, including executives in the food sector (growers, producers, manufacturers, wholesalers and grocers) and the logistics section (transportation, warehousing, distribution, software and technology) who share a mutual interest in the operations and business aspects of the global cold food supply chain. Food Logistics and sister publication Supply & Demand Chain Executive are also home to L.I.N.K. and L.I.N.K. Educate podcast channels, L.I.N.K. Live, SCN Summit, SupplyChainLearningCenter.com and more. Go to www.FoodLogistics.com to learn more.

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Team-Taylor-Safety-Warehouse-Awards

Congrats to our September 2021 monthly warehouse award winners from our team in Bellevue, NE. These awards are given based on productivity and QA points. One Team – One Mission!

Most improved– Hosea Byrd



Receiving award– None Given



Shipping award– Anthony Watts Jr.



Putaway award– Hosea Byrd



Picking award– David Williams & Carolina Gallegos



Replenish award– Hosea Byrd



Safety award– Hosea Byrd

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There are several marketplaces for eCommerce sellers, but one of the largest in the game is Shopify. Why has Shopify snowballed? Its bulletproof no-code design allows sellers to set up a store, sell, accept payment, manage inventory, showcase product pages, and connect with partners.

Are you using Shopify and looking to transition your fulfillment to a third-party logistics provider? Yes, it might sound a bit intimidating, but we promise it’s easier than you think! Your Shopify inventory dashboard will match your logistics partner WMS inventory, returns will be seamless, and you can focus on your core business by leaving the logistics to a 3PL (cough, cough, Taylor).

Shopify x 3PL Partner


Just like Shopify, your 3PL is here to help your business grow. A logistics partner can help with fulfillment management, inventory control/ planning, transportation, and excellent parcel shipping rates. Utilizing outsourced logistics, you’ll have more time to launch new products, make some TikToks, expand your brand, and focus on your business goals.

Find a 3PL Who Loves a Shopify Integration


A solid 3PL will have a Shopify integration widget that enables sellers to manage their Shopify storefront, design, new products, sales, etc. but connect it to a 3PL to handle fulfillment and shipping. In addition, the integration will allow sellers to see real-time inventory info within the Shopify dashboard. So selling out products will never be an issue; it will also help you forecast future demand.

Here’s how it works, when orders are placed through Shopify, it will go straight into the 3PLs warehouse management system. Making order management simple because it’s automated, there’s no need to upload a spreadsheet, download, or even click the mouse. Once you set up the Shopify store and connect via EDI, orders will flow directly to the fulfillment center and will be processed. The advantage of partnering with a logistics company is that you have real people handling your inventory and business. You can call on your personal assigned rep, tech superuser team, operations managers, and even the COO. There’s no call center, no putting in a ticket, no waiting for support.

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First things first, let’s define what it means to be nimble. 

nim·ble | /?nimb?l/ | adjective

Quick and light in movement or action; agile.

It might not be a term you use in everyday jargon, but hey, it’s a great word, and it translates exceptionally to the eCommerce supply chain world. How? Well, nimbleness relates to how quickly an eCommerce business can adjust to ever-changing expectations in speed and delivery. To maintain customer expectations, stay competitive, and grow, a nimble supply chain must also react promptly to delays, changes, and unexpected consumer patterns.

In this riveting blog post, you will learn how critical it is for your supply chain to be nimble, what it means for your business, plus some strategies and best practices to improve your eCommerce supply chain. 

What does it mean to have a nimble supply chain?

Having a nimble supply chain means how quickly and efficiently an eCommerce company can react to consumer trends and market changes. It also relates to the ability to forecast, maintain, and bounce back from unforeseen events. Here are some ways to create a nimble supply chain:

Optimize and improve logistics operations efficiently


Working with an amazing 3PL (cough, cough, Taylor)


Gain visibility into operations and real-time access data


Quickly implement the latest technology and automation

How to meet and exceed market demands 

We’ve said market and consumer trends six times by now. But, for a good reason, one of the most significant benefits of having a nimble supply chain is that it enables you to consistently meet customer demand around fast, affordable shipping, despite fluctuations in order volume. To develop supply chain “nimbleness,” a company needs to consider different ways to guarantee customer satisfaction despite possible disruptions or sudden changes in the market. Here are some examples of staying on the cusp of consumer trends by having a nimble supply chain: 

Integrating logistics automation and technology


Working with an amazing 3PL (cough, cough, Taylor)


Having a mix of parcel carriers 

Cut costs

One essential part of running a successful eCommerce operation is finding ways to optimize logistics costs, including:

Warehousing and storage fees 


Labor


Order fulfillment


Shipping + parcel costs 

There are several ways you can optimize costs and keep your business nimble from sourcing products closer to home to reduce transportation costs to using an excellent 3PL partner like Taylor. 

Get a 3PL partner

Cough, cough Taylor. But in all seriousness operating your own warehouse network, investing in technology, and improving operations is highly time-consuming and costly, and it doesn’t always directly tie to driving revenue. Taylor is a solutions-based third-party logistics provider that offers a full suite of supply chain services like fulfillment, packaging, kitting, FBA/FBM, transportation, drayage, and shipping. Partnering with #TeamTaylor can help you worry less about making your supply chain nimble, so you can focus more time on other initiatives, such as generating sales, product development, and marketing.

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Amazon Fulfillment, B2B Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, Food Safety, Key Performing Indicators, Safety, Taylor Information, Team Taylor, Teamwork, Warehouse Awards, Warehousing
Team-Taylor-Safety-Warehouse-Awards

Congrats to our July 2021 monthly warehouse award winners from our team in Bellevue, NE. These awards are given based on productivity and QA points. One Team – One Mission!

Most Improved- Hosea Byrd


Shipping award- Anthony Watts Jr.



Putaway award- Mike Berry



Picking award- David Williams & Brandon Smith



Replenish award- Hosea Byrd



Safety Award- David Williams

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Amazon, Amazon Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Fulfillment, Key Performing Indicators, Warehousing, WMS
Amazon Fulfillment Cincinnati Ohio

Raise your hand if you have an Amazon Prime account? Oh wow, 150 million+ hands raised? In the 25 years since Amazon was launched, it has become a household name, and is the biggest eCommerce site in the world. Having your products sold on Amazon immensely increases your audience. Amazon allows sellers to fulfill orders themselves or let Amazon handle fulfillment. Let’s dive into your options as an Amazon seller.

Lot’s of Acronyms to Digest When Talking Amazon Shipping; Let’s Break it Down:

Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)


Self-fulfilled order processing route, like Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM)


Seller Fulfilled Prime (SFP)

What is Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)?

FBA means Fulfilled by Amazon, you sell it and Amazon ships it.


The seller sends bulk products in Amazon’s fulfillment centers for Amazon to pick, pack, and ship products once sold.

What is Amazon Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM)?

Amazon Fulfilled by Merchant is a fulfillment method in which an Amazon seller is responsible for fulfilling its products purchased on Amazon.


FBM can be managed through a seller directly or by partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider.


FBM can be more cost-effective if you can ship orders for a more sensible price compared to what FBA will charge by using your delivery partners and network, or your 3PL’s network.


FBM is a great Amazon seller shipping option it allows you the freedom to run your business as you like in terms of scalability, fulfillment methods, and inventory level control.

What is Seller Fulfilled Prime (SFP)?

Similar to FBM, you store, pick, pack, and ship your products to the customers yourself and handle all communications with the customer.


However, this shipping option also allows you access to prime customers, competing with businesses that pay the enormous fees for FBA.


SFP is ideal for sellers who have warehouse space and staff that can handle the order fulfillment or companies with a 3PL that can offer scalability and flexibility. To be successful as an SFP seller, you need to make sure that it would be more profitable for you than FBA or FBM.


Becoming an SFP seller streamlines your fulfillment process as you only need to manage inventory in your warehouses, instead of managing that inventory as well as additional inventory in Amazon’s warehouses.

Taylor Logistics Amazon Fulfillment

Partnering With A 3PL | Amazon Fulfillment

Have experience with the program. Dealing with SFP requirements can be difficult.


Your 3PL should have advanced software that integrates directly with Amazon and gives you real-time visibility into order status and metrics.


You need a 3PL who is focused on customer service. Putting your SFP reputation into someone else’s hands is a leap of faith. Make sure you pick a partner who’s on your side, 100%.

Amazon Solutions Experts

Our team knows that all of the Amazon seller shipping options can be complicated and overwhelming. It can be challenging to decide which option is best for your business, especially when one option doesn’t fit all. It depends on the product you are selling, fulfillment capabilities, profit margins, and more. Our team knows how to meet Amazon’s stringent requirements for whichever option you choose. We have the solutions to help you scale your business, and we have the technology to execute the specifications for any Amazon shipment.

Talk With Taylor

Remember, the holiday season is around the corner. If you don’t have your fulfillment partner in place soon, you could be left out in the cold. Contact us today, and leave Black Friday and Cyber Monday to us. Fill out the form below and we will be in touch ASAP!


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Join #TeamTaylor! While we might be a logistics company, we’re in the solutions business. Founded in 1850, we’re backed by a rich history that’s to this day is family-owned and operated and is the logistics backbone for many of today’s most innovative and growing companies. To double down on that success, we’re looking for highly driven and detail-oriented individuals looking to add value, solve problems and join our team. If that’s you, help us reshape logistics.

Questions? 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.

Watch Video!


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Customer Experience, Key Performing Indicators, Leadership, People, Processes, Team Taylor, Teamwork

There are people we meet during our lifetime that will transform us forever coaches to professors, family members, authors, coworkers, the list goes on. They encourage us to become a better version of ourselves. 

Wildly enough, I recently met one of those people while watching Ted Lasso on AppleTV+. If you haven’t seen this remarkable show, you are probably very confused about how a television show could contribute to one of those impactful people but hear me out. Disclaimer: I do my absolute best to resist watching any sports-related show and, moreover, a sports comedy. BUT If you’ve seen it, then you know its brilliance. 

A Little Background 


The comedy catalogs the journey of a warm-hearted American football coach, Ted Lasso (played by Jason Sudeikis), who is hired to coach a soccer team in the English Premier League. He knows nothing about the sport, league, or culture, but he knows about coaching players, who he sees as people first. “To me, success is not about the wins and losses,” Coach Lasso says. “It’s about helping these young fellas be the best versions of themselves, on and off the field.” Ted Lasso is a brilliant demonstration of the subtle and straightforward storytelling that offers space to explore the deeper emotions driving much of our decision-making in our personal and professional lives. Here’s the Lasso way:

Lasso Lessons


Treat people with respect – No matter their position within the company/ team, from water boy to chairmen; everyone deserves same respect; every person brings value. 

Be a goldfish – According to Ted, a goldfish has a 15-second memory. He wants his players to make mistakes and move on. Obviously, we should all learn from our mistakes, but there is no purpose in lying awake at night replaying how something you did could have been different. Be a goshdarn goldfish.

Be understanding – Communicating with his players allows Ted to understand them and what they are experiencing. Whether it is a player’s first time away from home or a veteran dealing with losing a step or two, having that perspective allows us to empathize.

Good ideas can come from anywhere – Whether asking for advice on roster moves or dealing with his personal relationship issues, Ted has the ability and willingness to engage others on topics and issues where they have no agency over. Having no ego allows Ted to solicit and accept support from all levels of the organization. He always does what is best for the team and not necessarily himself.

Allow the members of the team to shine – Ted allows members of his staff to shine. He gives them credit and highlights their achievements which provides motivation and incentive to everyone in the organization and allows them to achieve the impossible.

Be a mentor – Ted had an excellent quote for his captain, “You know how they say youth is wasted on the young, I say don’t let the wisdom of age be wasted on you.” He was encouraging him to be a mentor for one of the junior players and share his experiences. We can all learn from each other. 

Obstacles can be opportunities – Take difficult situations and make them learning experiences so it is not so bad the next time around.

Teammates don’t need to be best friends to be great – Ted uses examples such as Shaq & Kobe, Lennon & McCartney, Woody & Buzz. Players need to have mutual respect to be great at what they do.

Be curious –”Those who think they’ve got it all figured out judge others.” The ability to check your ego and be inquisitive at the risk of exposing your weaknesses is not only a sign of vulnerability, but it’s also a superpower that is underutilized in the leadership ranks. Ted is continually on the prowl for new ideas from everyone within the organization and those in the community. 

Believe! – From the beginning of Ted’s time in Richmond, it was clear that this was his motto. Ted mounted a “Believe” sign in the locker room. It is at the core of who Ted is.

So, there you have it. Ted Lasso is by all means not a perfect coach, not by a long shot. He’s in over his head coaching in a league and sport that he doesn’t understand in a different country. His “constant positivity” and adherence to his philosophies allow him to impact his new team and club, from the players and staff to the owner and larger Richmond community. Take a page from the Coach Ted Lasso playbook and implement these principles into your style and within your organization and life outside of work.

I’m not sure what my plans are this weekend, but I may just re-watch a few “Ted Lasso” episodes to get ready for the week ahead.

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Amazon, Amazon Fulfillment, B2C Fulfillment, eCommerce, eCommerce Fulfillment, Food & Beverage, Food Grade, Fulfillment, Key Performing Indicators, Warehousing, WMS
Amazon Fulfillment Cincinnati Ohio

Raise your hand if you have an Amazon Prime account? Oh wow, 150 million hands raised? In the 25 years since Amazon was launched, it has become a household name, and is the biggest eCommerce site in the world. Having your products sold on Amazon immensely increases your audience. Amazon allows sellers to fulfill orders themselves or let Amazon handle fulfillment. Let’s dive into your options as an Amazon seller.

Lot’s of Acronyms to Digest When Talking Amazon Shipping; Let’s Break it Down:

Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)


Self-fulfilled order processing route, like Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM)


Seller Fulfilled Prime (SFP)

What is Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)?

FBA means Fulfilled by Amazon, you sell it and Amazon ships it.


The seller sends bulk products in Amazon’s fulfillment centers for Amazon to pick, pack, and ship products once sold.

What is Amazon Fulfilled by Merchant (FBM)?

Amazon Fulfilled by Merchant is a fulfillment method in which an Amazon seller is responsible for fulfilling its products purchased on Amazon.


FBM can be managed through a seller directly or by partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider.


FBM can be more cost-effective if you can ship orders for a more sensible price compared to what FBA will charge by using your delivery partners and network, or your 3PL’s network.


FBM is a great Amazon seller shipping option it allows you the freedom to run your business as you like in terms of scalability, fulfillment methods, and inventory level control.

What is Seller Fulfilled Prime (SFP)?

Similar to FBM, you store, pick, pack, and ship your products to the customers yourself and handle all communications with the customer.


However, this shipping option also allows you access to prime customers, competing with businesses that pay the enormous fees for FBA.


SFP is ideal for sellers who have warehouse space and staff that can handle the order fulfillment or companies with a 3PL that can offer scalability and flexibility. To be successful as an SFP seller, you need to make sure that it would be more profitable for you than FBA or FBM.


Becoming an SFP seller streamlines your fulfillment process as you only need to manage inventory in your warehouses, instead of managing that inventory as well as additional inventory in Amazon’s warehouses.

Taylor Logistics Amazon Fulfillment

Partnering With A 3PL | Amazon Fulfillment

Have experience with the program. Dealing with SFP requirements can be difficult.


Your 3PL should have advanced software that integrates directly with Amazon and gives you real-time visibility into order status and metrics.


You need a 3PL who is focused on customer service. Putting your SFP reputation into someone else’s hands is a leap of faith. Make sure you pick a partner who’s on your side, 100%.

Amazon Solutions Experts

Our team knows that all of the Amazon seller shipping options can be complicated and overwhelming. It can be challenging to decide which option is best for your business, especially when one option doesn’t fit all. It depends on the product you are selling, fulfillment capabilities, profit margins, and more. Our team knows how to meet Amazon’s stringent requirements for whichever option you choose. We have the solutions to help you scale your business, and we have the technology to execute the specifications for any Amazon shipment.

Talk With Taylor

Remember, the holiday season is around the corner. If you don’t have your fulfillment partner in place soon, you could be left out in the cold. Contact us today, and leave Black Friday and Cyber Monday to us. Fill out the form below and we will be in touch ASAP!


0

Data, Freight, Key Performing Indicators, Operations, Technology, Warehousing
Taylor Logistics Inc. Data Center for your Supply Chain

A supply chain is a sequence of tasks that must be undertaken to distribute a commodity. When a company needs to gauge its supply chain performance, it uses a range of different supply chain metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs). Each KPI provides a slightly different vision of one slice of the supply chain. You might be asking, “What Key Performance Indicators should I measure to improve my supply chain? Here are the main KPIs in both the transportation and warehousing realms that are the most commonly reported for our customers. 

Transportation


On-Time Delivery: Shows the carriers ability to deliver successfully on time to their scheduled required arrival date or to the appointment time. Having an accurate on-time delivery is critical for your client to avoid fees, as they may be subject to fees from big-box retailers.

Cost Management: Optimizing a transportation budget through KPI use is more than just tracking costs and expenses. KPIs are essential factors to discuss during freight contract negotiations and help determine if service levels are being met. This metric puts focus on these charges and helps to pinpoint the recurrence of key incidences. Problems or issues may be monitored and resolved swiftly to avoid any unnecessary fees and ultimately lower your transportation costs. A robust audit process can help save many dollars. The more error-free your freight bills and payments, the more you save, and the more net profit gravitates to your bottom line.

Cost Per Pound: Measures gross net with total weight moved each month or quarter to show customers’ buying and usage habits. This KPI will help improve your customer to continue to buy optimal amounts. These trends can help them save money but not over or under buying products.  

Warehousing


Inventory Accuracy: Every warehouse manager knows the inventory in their warehouse costs them. Quantifying these specific carrying costs — including capital costs, inventory risk, inventory service costs, and obsolescence — help a warehouse manager make smarter buying and forecasting decisions, leading to higher inventory turnover.

On-Time Shipping: This KPI shows the percentage of shipments that left the warehouse on-time. A lot of products have tight deliveries with small windows. If a shipment is missed, your client can be hit with delays and even late fees.

Order Picking Accuracy: An incorrect order can result in an increasing shipping time per average order, inventory being put back on shelves, rate of return, etc. Lean fulfillment and warehousing practices reduce waste and streamline picking processes – and help maintain a high order accuracy rate.

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Data, eCommerce Fulfillment, Fulfillment, Key Performing Indicators, Warehousing
Taylor Logistics Fulfillment Services

Gathering the right data and calculating the right key performance indicators (KPI) is a no-brainer when it comes to improving fulfillment operations. KPIs help to identify bottlenecks, plan out warehouse operations, and measure overall customer satisfaction. If you partner with a third-party logistics provider (3PL) to outsource order fulfillment, they should be instrumental in helping establish relevant key performance indicators and provide you with detailed reports. Whether the goal is to improve efficiency, reduce delivery time, or increase levels of customer satisfaction, there is an appropriate metric to measure progress and performance. The next question is what specific fulfillment metrics you should put in place to enable further discussion, which is what we’ll look at next.

Customer Metrics


On-Time Shipping Percentage: This refers to the percentage of orders which are shipped on time. Because as many as 70% of customers are less likely to shop with a retailer who does not meet the promised delivery window, this is a significant number to track. 

Total Order Cycle Time: This refers to the average processing time from the moment a customer places an order to the moment that it is shipped. It includes all processes that fall within that window. As customers become more and more accustomed to same- and next-day delivery options, understanding how your operation performs and how you can improve your performance matters. 

Internal Order Cycle Time: This specifically refers to the amount of time that it takes for your operation to process an order internally. Measuring the moment an order is released into the warehouse for processing to the moment that it is shipped. 

Perfect Order Percentage: Perfect order percentage looks at several different metrics to determine what percentage of orders damage-free, ship on-time, complete, and with correct documentation. By understanding your perfect order percentage, you can take action to improve your order accuracy and other pain-points within your operation.

Inbound Metrics


Take note of what’s coming into your warehouse—if you don’t account for what’s coming in, it’s impossible to be accurate about what’s leaving. Specific KPI’s for inbound metrics include:

Dock-to-stock cycle

Inbound orders received

Lines received

Outbound Metrics


It’s all about ensuring a quick turnaround from receiving your products to shipping them off to where their destination. This is where contract packaging services come in to play for your warehouse. Specific KPI’s for outbound metrics include:

Order fill-rate

Orders picked per hour

Lines picked per hour

Line fill-rate

Outbound order fulfillment

Financial Metrics


Taking stock of pertinent financial metrics can make all the difference when it comes to determining your long-term strategy. Make sure that you’re cutting lesser-valued services and streamlining your operations where you can. Specific KPI’s for financial metrics include:

Distribution costs (as a sales percentage and per unit shipped)

Inventory days of supply

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Key Performing Indicators, Leadership, Lean, Processes, Team Taylor, Warehousing

When storing another companies’ products in your warehouse it is crucial that your operations team has a system for sanitation and workplace organization. At Taylor we utilize the practice of 5S which stems from concept of lean management.

Here are the steps of 5S:

  1. Sort
  2. Set in Order
  3. Shine
  4. Standardize
  5. Sustain

5S: Sort

This requires all equipment and tools have appropriate areas within the warehouse. It’s important to sift through materials, keeping only the necessary items needed to daily complete tasks.

5S: Set in Order

It’s important to make sure all items have a designated location. Organize all workplace items in a logical way so they make tasks easier for employees. It’s also important to make sure each item has a specific spot to ensure that the team doesn’t put an item in the wrong place it also allows for managers to tell if something is missing.

5S: Shine

After items are sorted and set in order it is time to clean.  A clean and orderly warehouse ensures purpose-driven work place all team members. Look for potential safety hazards and hard to read labeling. Storage bins can be used for smaller items to prevent any loss.

5S: Standardize

Create a set of standards for processes and organization. For every item create rules for how and when they will be used. These standards can involve schedules, charts, lists, etc.

5S: Sustain

This step focuses on taking all of the previous steps of 5S and transforming them into ongoing habits to ensure continuous improvement. Sustaining a lean warehouse involves constant evaluation and discipline. The goal, after all, is to be as efficient as possible.

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