Improving Efficiency with Wholesale Software</h1> <article> <h1>Improving Efficiency with Wholesale Software</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:30 GMT</p> <p>In the supply chain that drives the retail industry wholesalers are an important intermediary between the retail store and the manufacturer. It is true that most manufacturers will take orders, and deliver the product right to the retail store but wholesale distributors greatly reduce the logistics of contacting the manufacturers of all the products in the store and maintaining inventory. </p> <p>Wholesale manufacturers rely on sophisticated software that manages all of the logistics of inventory and sales. The right wholesale software can be difficult to find and should be chosen with care. When shopping around don't be afraid to download a trial version and actually try the software out to see if it meets your needs. Getting stuck with software that wasn't designed to do what you want is not fun or profitable. Be careful when buying discount software as it might either be an old version or it might not do everything that it claims to do. </p> <p><b>What can wholesale software do?</b> </p> <p>Take orders - retail software can automate the process of taking orders either by giving you staff an easy way to take and process order or provide a web interface so that customers can fill out their own orders. </p> <p>Quotes - Wholesale software can provide an easy way of giving quotes. They can be printed or emailed and they can even transfer to orders. </p> <p>Place Orders - Depending on the distributor wholesale software can even place orders to the manufacturer. This reduces the man power needed to maintain inventory. </p> <p>Remote Order Entry - Some software can be set up so that sales people can access it from anywhere in the world via the internet. This can be effective when managing a large sales force or when customers want to place orders themselves. </p> <p>Wireless Capability - Wholesale software often has the capability of interfacing with handheld wireless devices used to track inventory in the warehouse allowing the wholesaler to go completely paperless. </p> <p>Inventory Management - Inventory is difficult to track by hand. Computers can tell you much more accurately what you have in the warehouse at any time, what orders have been placed and what merchandise has arrived. It allows accurate and efficient tracking of inventory. </p> <p>Reporting - Wholesale software can spit out reports on just about anything imaginable in concise easy to read formats. </p> <p>Increase Profits - With improved efficiency computers can cut costs and increase profits </p> <p>Be Upgraded - Most software is modular meaning that features can be added in according the needs of the business. Print, Email, </p> <p>Fax - It can print, fax, and email invoices, order and quotes. Usually this can be set to be done automatically. </p> <p>RFID - RFID allows companies to track inventory through every step of the supply chain using tiny radio transmitters on packages Slotting </p> <p>Optimization - Complex computer algorithms make warehouse slotting efficient and easy. </p> <p>Customization - Most wholesale software packages allow customization to meet the specific and individual needs of the company. </p> <p>Wholesale software is an effective way to reduce costs for distributors. As a company looks for software they should consider the features that they need for their line of business and their management style. Companies should investigate several possibilities to see which one will fill their needs as a company. </p> <p>Justin Grover is a Client account specialist for 10x Marketing. To get a free quote for wholesale software go to Comcash. Article Source: <a href="http://www.businesshighlight.org">www.businesshighlight.org</a> Link: <a href="http://www.comcash.com/">http://www.comcash.com/</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>The Significance Of Productivity Analysis</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:19 GMT</p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal">Productivity is very important in any existing company or organization today. This is precisely why the concept of productivity analysis is something that all companies and organizations have to be very familiar with. In its very basic form, productivity analysis is just a comparison between the estimated and the actual when it comes to manpower expenses. <br /> <br /> To determine this comparison, there are actually two items that the company would need. A detailed estimate and accurate time sheets. To get this detailed estimate, research is inevitably needed to avoid any semblance of subjectivity in the matter. Each and every aspect pertaining to manpower expenditures should be considered to get this detailed estimate. As for the time sheets, they should contain all aspects related to work, whether they be coded or indexed. These should then be placed against the correct work order. <br /> <br /> A popular misconception regarding productivity analysis is that spot checking is effective. Spot checking is indeed effective to some extent. But the results of spot checking can be misleading at times. This is why trends have to be determined so that the levels of productivity can then be measured more accurately. One way of determining such trends is to develop a chart, so that the results and figures can be seen clearly. <br /> <br /> The chart should then contain the scheduled tasks an ordinary work day would entail. These figures should then be placed against the actual manpower that is needed to finish off the daily workload. This way, the comparison would be fitting enough to show you the trends that exist in the performance of the employees and their rate of productivity. <br /> <br /> In productivity analysis, it is actually important to notice ongoing trends early on. This is to give way to implement corrective measures, should they be needed. The usual corrective measures companies undertake include adding work schedules and increasing or decreasing the workforce for a particular work schedule. <br /> <br /> It is also important to recognize the fact that the productivity of your workforce is not something that you can observe in the visual sense. Visual observation would just give way for subjectivity to arise, and this is something companies have to avoid for the purpose of productivity analysis here would just be defeated. There would be inevitable times when employees would appear idle at the job. Now, some employees are indeed being idle here. However, there are some who are actually working, although they seem to be not. An employee could just be waiting on an order to be signed, for instance. The employee cannot do anything but just stand around while the order is being signed, thus, appearing idle for a few minutes. This is why visual observation is not really reliable when it comes to productivity analysis. <br /> <br /> But why the need for productivity analysis? This is primarily because once the figures are determined, there would then be an avenue for needed changes to be implemented right away. With these changes implemented, then the company’s rate of productivity would then improve significantly. And this is indeed the ultimate goal any existing company has on top of their list of priorities.<br /> <br /> About The Author:<br /> If you are interested in productivity analysis, check this web-site to learn more about productivity scorecard. <a title="http://www.strategy2act.com/solutions/productivity_excel.htm" href="http://www.strategy2act.com/solutions/productivity_excel.htm" target="_blank">http://www.strategy2act.com/solutions/productivity_excel.htm</a></p> </article> <article> <h1>Trade Show Exhibit Shipping Tips</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:11 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Your trade show costs can dramatically escalate if you just happen to hire an inexperienced shipping company to transport your trade show booth to the conference site. You may suddenly be faced with broken or missing parts, late delivery and a budget that could put your company's trade show display in total disarray and your job in jeopardy. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Although unforeseen events such as a major winter blizzard can cause havoc with your trade show delivery schedule and budgeting, it is always best to minimize your chances for error by picking the right professional transportation company. If you want your trade show booth to arrive in good condition, on time and within your budgeted allowance, you need to be informed on how to pick the right freight handler and transportation company.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">You can take control of your trade show booth's destiny by becoming fully informed.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Bad weather, causing flight delays at certain times of the year, is a concern beyond your control. But just like you can reclaim lost luggage from an airliner if you have your name tag on it, you have a better chance of finding a lost or misplaced trade show booth element if, for example, you labeled every part of your trade show display in advance. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Although GPS technology has been a boon to tracking trade show booths, it can't find what is not labeled. And, since there are so many different people handing the shipment of a trade show booth, there is no guarantee that your trade show exhibit will arrive safely on the other end. You can, however, improve your odds of success by taking steps to insure your trade show display‘s safe journey. Thus, the first step is to find an experienced trade show specific carrier.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">George Poppe of National Transportation in El Segundo, California, offers the following tips on what to look for in a trade show freight carrier. They are:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">1. Make sure your transportation company records all of your trade show exhibit information, such as destination, schedule, weight, number of pieces, and exact dimensions of your pieces. This detailed information not only determines the cost of transporting your trade show booth to the exhibit site but also drayage costs (what the unions charge to deliver your booth from the loading dock onto and off the trade show floor)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">2. Look for a freight carrier that has a good rapport with the unions so</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">your trade show exhibit will be in reliable hands. You are better able to avoid unnecessary charges if your transportation carrier deals regularly with the trade show conference hall unions. Your carrier benefits from knowing the industry venues well--whether they be the McCormick Convention Center in Chicago, the Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, the Moscone Center in San Francisco, the Santa Clara Convention Center or the San Jose McEnery Convention Center.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">3. Look for a transportation company that handles a large volume of trade show business. You can get price breaks if your cargo company has multiple or less than truck load shipments to a convention site. An example of what can happen is the recent Semicon West 2006 Convention at Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco July 11 -13th.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Poppe reported that, due to the popularity of this show, his National Transportation Company had to wait in the marshalling yard for 11 hours before delivery at the unloading dock. Because he had 3 trucks and multiple shipments, he was able to waive the waiting charge fees which would normally be charged. A less experienced trucker most likely would pass along these charges to the trade show exhibitor. Marshal yard fees range anywhere from $45 - $85 hour.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">4. Select a trade show freight company that has first class communication capability. Check to see if they offer 24/7 contact with a live person, since trade shows are not a 9 to 5 business. Also make sure you give them contact names and cell phone numbers of your exhibitor reps on the trade show floor. Check to see if the freight company has the capability of sending Internet air bills and bill of ladings in case an air bill is lost and you need a duplicate copy immediately.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Poppe suggests that once you select your freight company, you should ship 7 - 10 days ahead of your targeted move in date in order to avoid late penalties. And be sure to also communicate your trade show exhibit details with the company you select to do your trade show installation and dismantling. It's really all about communicating.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Remember, do your homework in advance and know what you can do to avoid major mishaps of shipping your trade show booth. By picking an experienced freight company, you can minimize your exposure to mislaid or damaged trade show booth components and budget cost overruns.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Dick Wheeler is President of Professional Exhibits & Graphics, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California with a showroom in Sacramento. Firm is full-service premiere trade show exhibit, graphics and management services company. http://www.proexhibits.com</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Article Source: www.businesshighlight.org</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: http://www.proexhibits.com</span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Reverse auction for transportation and logistics</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:10 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"></span></p> <span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Traditionally, logistics and transportation are extremely important for successful operating of any company as well as the whole market at large. It is necessary to point out that, as a rule, the main goal of producers and sellers, as well as buyers, on the other hand, is to minimize costs for transportation and logistics and deliver goods to customers in possibly shorter terms. In the current situation, a variety of tools is used to achieve this goal. In this respect, it should be said that innovative technologies, especially IT, computing, Internet, etc., are playing increasingly more important role and are commonly used to facilitate transportation and logistics. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">As a result, auctions, using an electronic reverse auction platform, are growing to be popular and widely spread. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">First of all, it is necessary to point out that electronic reverse auctions have a lot of advantages compared to conventional auctions. Nonetheless, in order to better realize their efficiency, it is necessary to dwell upon the most significant ones. Primarily, it should be said that electronic reverse auctions may lead to a successful cooperation between producers of different goods to transport to various destinations and carriers. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Naturally, it is logical to wonder what both producers and carriers benefit from such cooperation. It is worthy to note that this may lead to increasing of speed of transactions since producers receive not only the possibility to sell their goods but, at the same time, they have got a possibility to find a carrier that can deliver the goods to the destination. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">In such a way, two operations could be run simultaneously that seems to be extremely beneficial for sellers, i.e. producers. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Furthermore, it is necessary to underline that the reverse auction provides producers with the possibility to choose from a large amount of carriers. In such a situation, the essential conditions for open and fair competition are created since producers can choose carriers on the basis of objective principles identical for all participants of the auction. On the other hand, carriers can supply their services to a large number of sellers and, consequently, can also easily find their potential customer. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Moreover, the open competition stimulates carriers to the improvement of their services and it may also result in certain decrease of costs of transportation for producers. Also, it should be said that the implementation of new technologies, notably electronic reverse auctions leads to the implementation of high technologies in transportation and logistics at large. Moreover, it also opens new perspectives for reverse auctions since, being based on electronic platform, they can involve unprecedented amount of participants. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Consequently, the probability that producers will find their clients and carrier, which will transport the goods to the destination at possibly lower costs, increases. Thus, taking into account all above mentioned, it is possible to conclude that the implementation of electronic reverse auctions leading to better cooperation between producers and carriers perfectly demonstrates the possibilities of new technologies applied to business at large and transportation and logistics in particular.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">About the Author: </span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">The future of conventional logistics. Electronic Logistics LLC - e-logistics services - electroniclogistics.com </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_84032_15.html </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: small; font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Link</span></strong><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">: <a href="http://www.freightage.com/">http://www.freightage.com/</a>, http:// electroniclogistics.com</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Packaging Requirements for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:10 GMT</p> <p style="margin:0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal" style=">Introduction: Packaging fresh fruits and vegetables is one of the more important steps in the long and complicated journey from grower to consumer. Bags, crates, hampers, baskets, cartons, bulk bins, and palletized containers are convenient containers for handling, transporting, and marketing fresh produce. More than 1,500 different types of packages are used for produce in the U.S. and the number continues to increase as the industry introduces new packaging materials and concepts. Although the industry generally agrees that container standardization is one way to reduce cost, the trend in recent years has moved toward a wider range of package sizes to accommodate the diverse needs of wholesalers, consumers, food service buyers, and processing operations. </p> <p>Packing and packaging materials contribute a significant cost to the produce industry; therefore it is important that packers, shippers, buyers, and consumers have a clear understanding of the wide range of packaging options available. This fact sheet describes some of the many types of packaging, including their functions, uses, and limitations. Also included is a listing, by commodity, of the common produce containers standard to the industry. The Function of Packaging or Why package Produce? A significant percentage of produce buyer and consumer complaints may be traced to container failure because of poor design or inappropriate selection and use. A properly designed produce container should contain, protect, and identify the produce, satisfying everyone from grower to consumer. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><b>PACKAGING POINTS </b></span></p> <p>Recyclability/Biodegradability. </p> <p>A growing number of U.S. markets and many export markets have waste disposal restrictions for packaging materials. In the near future, almost all produce packaging will be recyclable or biodegradable, or both. Many of the largest buyers of fresh produce are also those most concerned about environmental issues. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Variety.</span> </p> <p>The trend is toward greater use of bulk packages for processors and wholesale buyers and smaller packages for consumers. There are now more than 1,500 different sizes and styles of produce packages. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Sales Appeal.</span> High quality graphics are increasingly being used to boost sales appeal. Multi-color printing, distinctive lettering, and logos are now common. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Shelf Life.</span> Modern produce packaging can be custom engineered for each commodity to extend shelf life and reduce waste. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Containment.</span> The container must enclose the produce in convenient units for handling and distribution. The produce should fit well inside the container, with little wasted space. Small produce items that are spherical or oblong (such as potatoes, onions, and apples) may be packaged efficiently utilizing a variety of different package shapes and sizes. </p> <p>However, many produce items such as asparagus, berries, or soft fruit may require containers specially designed for that item. packages of produce commonly handled by hand are usually limited to 50 pounds. Bulk packages moved by fork lifts may weigh as much as 1,200 pounds. Protection </p> <p>The package must protect the produce from mechanical damage and poor environmental conditions during handling and distribution. To produce buyers, torn, dented, or collapsed produce packages usually indicate lack of care in handling the contents. Produce containers must be sturdy enough to resist damage during packaging, storage, and transportation to market. </p> <p>Because almost all produce packages are palletized, produce containers should have sufficient stacking strength to resist crushing in a low temperature, high humidity environment. Although the cost of packaging materials has escalated sharply in recent years, poor quality, lightweight containers that are easily damaged by handling or moisture are no longer tolerated by packers or buyers. </p> <p>Produce destined for export markets requires that containers to be extra sturdy. Air-freighted produce may require special packing, package sizes, and insulation. </p> <p>Marketers who export fresh produce should consult with freight companies about any special packaging requirements. Additionally, the USDA and various state export agencies may be able to provide specific packaging information. </p> <p>Damage resulting from poor environmental control during handling and transit is one of the leading causes of rejected produce and low buyer and consumer satisfaction. </p> <p>Each fresh fruit and vegetable commodity has its own requirements for temperature, humidity, and environmental gas composition. Produce containers should be produce friendly - helping to maintain an optimum environment for the longest shelf life. This may include special materials to slow the loss of water from the produce, insulation materials to keep out the heat, or engineered plastic liners that maintain a favorable mix of oxygen and carbon dioxide. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Identification</span> </p> <p>The package must identify and provide useful information about the produce. It is customary (and may be required in some cases) to provide information such as the produce name, brand, size, grade, variety, net weight, count, grower, shipper, and country of origin. It is also becoming more common to find included on the package, nutritional information, recipes, and other useful information directed specifically at the consumer. In consumer marketing, pack- age appearance has also become an important part of point of sale displays. </p> <p>Universal Product Codes (UPC or bar codes) may be included as part of the labeling. The UPCs used in the food industry consist of a ten-digit machine readable code. The first five digits are a number assigned to the specific producer (packer or shipper) and the second five digits represent specific product information such as type of produce and size of package. Although no price information is included, UPCs are used more and more by packers, shippers, buyers, and Example of a UPC retailers as a fast and convenient method of inventory control and cost accounting. Efficient use of UPCs requires coordination with everyone who handles the package. </p> <p><b>Types of Packaging Materials </b></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wood</span> </p> <p>Pallets literally form the base on which most fresh produce is delivered to the consumer. Pallets were first used during World War II as an efficient way to move goods. The produce industry uses approximately 190 of the 700 million pallets produced per year in the U.S.. About 40 percent of these are single-use pallets. Because many are of a non-standard size, the pallets are built as inexpensively as possible and discarded after a single use. Although standardization efforts have been slowly under way for many years, the efforts have been accelerated by pressure from environmental groups, in addition to the rising cost of pallets and landfill tipping fees. </p> <p>Over the years, the 40-inch wide, by 48-inch long pallet has evolved as the unofficial standard size. </p> <p>Standardization encourages re-use, which has many benefits. Besides reducing cost because they may be used many times, most pallet racks and automated pallet handling equipment are designed for standard-size pallets. </p> <p>Standard size pallets make efficient use of truck and van space and can accommodate heavier loads and more stress than lighter single-use pallets. Additionally, the use of a single pallet size could substantially reduce pallet inventory and warehousing costs along with pallet repair and disposal costs. The adoption of a pallet standard throughout the produce industry would also aid efforts toward standardization of produce containers. </p> <p>In the early 1950s, an alternative to the pallet was introduced. It is a pallet-size sheet (slipsheet) of corrugated fiberboard or plastic (or a combination of these materials) with a narrow lip along one or more sides. packages of produce are stacked directly on this sheet as if it were a pallet. Once the packages are in place, they are moved by a specially equipped fork lift equipped with a thin metal sheet instead of forks. Slipsheets are considerably less expensive than pallets to buy, store, and maintain; they may be re-used many times; and they reduce the tare weight of the load. However, they require the use of a special fork-lift attachment at each handling point from packer to retailer. Depending on the size of produce package, a single pallet may carry from 20 to over 100 individual packages. Because these packages are often loosely stacked to allow for air circulation, or are bulging and difficult to stack evenly, they must be secured (unitized) to prevent shifting during handling and transit. Although widely used, plastic straps and tapes may not have completely satisfactory results. Plastic or paper corner tabs should always be used to prevent the straps from crushing the corners of packages. Plastic stretch film is also widely used to secure produce packages. A good film must stretch, retain its elasticity, and cling to the packages. Plastic film may conform easily to various size loads. It helps protect the packages from loss of moisture, makes the pallet more secure against pilferage, and can be applied using partial automation. </p> <p>However, plastic film severely restricts proper ventilation. A common alternative to stretch film is plastic netting, which is much better for stabilizing some pallet loads, such as those that require forced-air cooling. Used stretch film and plastic netting may be difficult to properly handle and recycle. </p> <p>A very low-cost and almost fully automated method of pallet stabilization is the application of a small amount of special glue to the top of each package. As the packages are stacked, the glue secures all cartons together. This glue has a low tensile strength so cartons may be easily separated or repositioned, but a high shear strength so they will not slide. The glue does not present disposal or recycling problems. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Pallet Bins.</span> Substantial wooden pallet bins of milled lumber or.plywood are primarily used to move produce from the field or orchard to the packing house. Depending on the application, capacities may range from 12 to more than 50 bushels. Although the height may vary, the length and width is generally the same as a standard pallet (48 inches by 40 inches). More efficient double-wide pallet bins (48 inches by 80 inches) are becoming more common in some produce operations. </p> <p>Most pallet bins are locally made; therefore it is very important that they be consistent from lot to lot in materials, construction, and especially size. For example, small differences in overall dimensions Pallet bin can add up to big problems when several hundred are stacked together for cooling, ventilation, or storage. It is also important that stress points be adequately reinforced. The average life of a hardwood pallet bin that is stored outside is approximately five years. When properly protected from the weather, pallets bins may have a useful life of 10 years or more. </p> <p>Uniform voluntary standards for wood pallets and other wood containers are administered by the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association, Washington, DC. Additionally, the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan, publishes standards for agricultural pallet bins (ASAE S337.1). </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wire-Bound Crates.</span> Although alternatives are available, wooden wire-bound crates are used extensively for snap beans, sweet corn and several other commodities that require hydrocooling. Wire-bound crates are sturdy, rigid and have very high stacking strength that is essentially unaffected by water. Wire-bound crates come in many different sizes from half- bushel to pallet-bin size and have a great deal of open space to facilitate cooling and ventilation. Although few are re-used, wire-bound crates may be dissembled after use and shipped back to the packer (flat). In some areas, used containers may pose a significant disposal problem. Wirebound crates are not generally acceptable for consumer packaging because of the difficulty in affixing suitable labels. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wooden Crates and Lugs.</span> Wooden crates, once extensively used for apples, stone fruit, and potatoes have been almost totally replaced by other types of containers. The relative expense of the container, a greater concern for tare weight, and advances in material handling have reduced their use to a few specialty items, such as expensive tropical fruit. The 15-, 20-, and 25-pound wooden lugs still used for bunch grapes and some specialty crops are being gradually replaced with less costly alternatives. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Wooden Baskets and Hampers.</span> Wire-reinforced wood veneer baskets and hampers of different sizes were once used for a wide variety of crops from strawberries to sweetpotatoes. They are durable and may be nested for efficient transport when empty. However, cost, disposal problems, and difficulty in efficient palletization have severely limited their use to mostly local grower markets where they may be re-used many times. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Corrugated Fiberboard</span> </p> <p>Corrugated fiberboard (often mistakenly called cardboard or pasteboard) is manufactured in many different styles and weights. Because of its relativity low cost and versatility, it is the dominant produce container material and will probably remain so in the near future. The strength and serviceability of corrugated fiberboard have been improving in recent years. </p> <p>Most corrugated fiberboard is made from three or more layers of paperboard manufactured by the kraft process. To be considered paperboard, the paper must be thicker than 0.008 inches. The grades of paperboard are differentiated by their weight (in pounds per 1,000 square feet) and their thickness. Kraft paper made from unbleached pulp has a characteristic brown color and is exceptionally strong. </p> <p>In addition to virgin wood fibers, Kraft paper may have some portion of synthetic fibers for additional strength, sizing (starch), and other materials to give it wet strength and printability. Most fiberboard contains some recycled fibers. Minimum amounts of recycled materials may be specified by law and the percentage is expected to increase in the future. Tests have shown that cartons of fully recycled pulp have about 75 percent of the stacking strength of virgin fiber containers. The use of recycled fibers will inevitably lead to the use of thicker walled containers. </p> <p>Double-faced corrugated fiberboard is the predominant form used for produce containers. It is produced by sandwiching a layer of corrugated paperboard between an inner and outer liner (facing) of paper-board. The inner and outer liner may be identical, or the outer layer may be preprinted or coated to better accept printing. The inner layer may be given a special coating to resist moisture. </p> <p>Heavy-duty shipping containers, such as corrugated bulk bins that are required to have high stacking strength, may have double- or even triple-wall construction. Corrugated fiberboard manufacturers print box certificates on the bottom of containers to certify certain strength characteristics and limitations. There are two types of certification. The first certifies the minimum combined weight of both the inner and outer facings and that the corrugated fiberboard material is of a minimum bursting strength. The second certifies minimum edge crush test (ETC) strength. Edge crush strength is a much better predictor of stacking strength than is bursting strength. </p> <p>For this reason, users of corrugated fiberboard containers should insist on ECT certification to compare the stackability of various containers. Both certificates give a maximum size limit for the container (sum of length, width, and height) and the maximum gross weight of the contents. </p> <p>Both cold temperatures and high humidities reduce the strength of fiberboard containers. Unless the container is specially treated, moisture absorbed from the surrounding air and the contents can reduce the strength of the container by as much as 75 percent. New anti-moisture coatings (both wax and plastic) are now available to substantially reduce the effects of moisture. </p> <p>Waxed fiberboard cartons (the wax is about 20 percent of fiber weight) are used for many produce items that must be either hydrocooled or iced. The main objection to wax cartons is disposal after use— wax cartons cannot be recycled and are increasingly being refused at landfills. </p> <p>Several states and municipalities have recently taxed wax cartons or have instituted rigid back haul regulations. Industry sources suggest that wax cartons will eventually be replaced by plastic or, more likely, the use of ice and hydrocooling will be replaced by highly controlled forced-air cooling and rigid temperature and humidity maintenance on many commodities. </p> <p>In many applications for corrugated fiberboard containers, the stacking strength of the container is a minor consideration. For example, canned goods carry the majority of their own weight when stacked. Fresh produce usually cannot carry much of the vertical load without some damage. Therefore, one of the primarily desired characteristics of corrugated fiberboard containers is stacking strength to protect the produce from crushing. </p> <p>Because of their geometry, most of the stacking strength of corrugated containers is carried by the corners. For this reason, hand holes and ventilation slots should never be positioned near the corners of produce containers and be limited to no more than 5 to 7 percent of the side area. </p> <p>Interlocking the packages (cross stacking) is universally practiced to stabilize pallets. Cross stacking places the corner of one produce package at the middle of the one below it, thus reducing its stacking strength. To reduce the possibility of collapse, the first several layers of each pallet should be column stacked (one package directly above the other). The upper layers of packages may be cross stacked as usual with very little loss of pallet stability. </p> <p>There are numerous styles of corrugated fiberboard containers. The two most used in the produce industry are the one piece, regular slotted container (RSC) and the two piece, full telescoping container (FTC). The RSC is the most popular because it is simple and economical. However, the RSC has relatively low stacking strength and therefore must be used with produce, such as potatoes, that can carry some of the stacking load. The FTC, actually one container inside another, is used when greater stack- ing strength and resistance to bulging is required. A third type of container is the Bliss box, which is — constructed from three separate pieces of corrugated fiberboard. The Bliss box was developed to be used when maximum stacking strength is required. The bottoms and tops of all three types of containers may be closed by glue, staples, or interlocking slots. </p> <p>Almost all corrugated fiberboard containers are shipped to the packer flat and assembled at the packing house. To conserve space, assembly is usually performed just before use. Assembly may be by hand, machine, or a combination of both. Ease of assembly should be carefully investigated when considering a particular style of package. </p> <p>In recent years, large double-wall or even triple- wall corrugated fiberboard containers have increasingly been used as one-way pallet bins to ship bulk produce to processors and retailers. Cabbage, melons, potatoes, pumpkins, and citrus have all been shipped successfully in these containers. The container cost per pound of produce is as little as one fourth of traditional size containers. Some bulk containers may be collapsed and re-used. </p> <p>For many years, labels were printed on heavy paper and glued or stapled to the produce package. The high cost of materials and labor has all but eliminated this practice. </p> <p>The ability to print the brand, size, and grade information directly on the container is one of the greatest benefits of corrugated fiberboard containers. </p> <p><b>There are basically two methods used to print corrugated fiberboard containers: </b></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Post Printed.</span> When the liner is printed after the corrugated fiberboard has been formed, the process is known as post printing. Post printing is the most widely used printing method for corrugated fiberboard containers because it is economical and may be used for small press runs. However, postprinting produces graphics with less detail and is usually limited to one or two colors. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Preprinted.</span> High quality, full-color graphics may be obtained by preprinting the linerboard before it is attached to the corrugated paperboard. Whereas the cost is about 15 percent more than standard two color containers, the eye catching quality of the graphics makes it very useful for many situations. The visual quality of the package influences the perception of the product because the buyer's first impression is of the outside of the package. Produce managers especially like high quality graphics that they can use in super market floor displays. </p> <p>Preprinted cartons are usually reserved for the introduction of new products or new brands. Market research has shown that exporters may benefit from sophisticated graphics. The increased cost usually does not justify use for mature products in a stable market, but this may change as the cost of these containers becomes more competitive. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Pulp Containers.</span> Containers made from recycled paper pulp and a starch binder are mainly used for small consumer packages of fresh produce. Pulp containers are available in a large variety of shapes and sizes and are relatively inexpensive in standard sizes. Pulp containers can absorb surface moisture from the product, which is a benefit for small fruit and berries that are easily harmed by water. </p> <p>Pulp containers are also biodegradable, made from recycled materials, and recyclable. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Paper and Mesh Bags.</span> Consumer packs of potatoes and onions are about the only produce items now packed in paper bags. The more sturdy mesh bag has much wider use. In addition to potatoes and onions, cabbage, turnips, citrus, and some specialty items are packed in mesh bags. Sweet corn may still be packaged in mesh bags in some markets. In addition to its low cost, mesh has the advantage of uninhibited air flow. Good ventilation is particularly beneficial to onions. Supermarket produce managers like small mesh bags because they make attractive displays that stimulate purchases. </p> <p>However, bags of any type have several serious disadvantages. Large bags do not palletize well and small bags do not efficiently fill the space inside corrugated fiberboard containers. Bags do not offer protection from rough handling. Mesh bags provide little protection from light or contaminants. In addition, produce packed in bags is correctly perceived by the consumer to be less than the best grade. Few consumers are willing to pay premium price for bagged produce. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Plastic Bags.</span> Plastic bags (polyethylene film) are the predominant material for fruit and vegetable consumer packaging. Besides the very low material costs, automated bagging machines further reduce packing costs. Film bags are clear, allowing for easy inspection of the contents, and readily accept high quality graphics. Plastic films are available in a wide range of thicknesses and grades and may be engineered to control the environmental gases inside the bag. The film material "breathes" at a rate necessary to maintain the correct mix of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor inside the bag. Since each produce item has its own unique requirement for environmental gases, modified atmosphere packaging material must be specially engineered for each item. Research has shown that the shelf life of fresh produce is extended considerably by this packaging. The explosive growth of precut produce is due in part to the availability of modified atmosphere packaging. </p> <p>In addition to engineered plastic films, various patches and valves have been developed that affix to low-cost ordinary plastic film bags. These devices respond to temperature and control the mix of environmental gases. Shrink Wrap. One of the newest trends in produce packaging is the shrink wrapping of individual produce items. Shrink wrapping has been used successfully to package potatoes, sweetpotatoes, apples, onions, sweet corn, cucumbers and a variety of tropical fruit. Shrink wrapping with an engineered plastic wrap can reduce shrinkage, protect the produce from disease, reduce mechanical damage and provide a good surface for stick-on labels. </p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Rigid Plastic Packages.</span> packages with a top and bottom that are heat formed from one or two pieces of plastic are known as clamshells. Clamshells are gaining in popularity because they are inexpensive, versatile, provide excellent protection to the produce, and present a very pleasing consumer package. Clamshells are most often used with consumer packs of high value produce items like small fruit, berries, mushrooms, etc., or items that are easily damaged by crushing. Clamshells are used extensively with precut produce and prepared salads. Molded polystyrene and corrugated polystyrene containers have been test marketed as a substitute for waxed corrugated fiberboard. At present they are not generally cost competitive, but as environmental pressures grow, they may be more common. Heavy-molded polystyrene pallet bins have been adopted by a number of growers as a substitute for wooden pallet bins. Although at present their cost is over double that of wooden bins, they have a longer service life, are easier to clean, are recyclable, do not decay when wet, do not harbor disease, and may be nested and made collapsible. </p> <p>As environmental pressures continue to grow, the disposal and recyclability of packaging material of all kinds will become a very important issue. Common polyethylene may take from 200 to 400 years to breakdown in a landfill. The addition of 6 percent starch will reduce the time to 20 years or less. packaging material companies are developing starch-based polyethylene substitutes that will break down in a landfill as fast as ordinary paper. </p> <p>The move to biodegradable or recyclable plastic packaging materials may be driven by cost in the long term, but by legislation in the near term. Some authorities have proposed a total ban on plastics. In this case, the supermarket of the early 21st century may resemble the grocery markets of the early 20th century. </p> <p><b>Standardization of Packaging</b> </p> <p>Produce package standardization is interpreted differently by different groups. The wide variety of package sizes and material combinations is a result of the market responding to demands from many different segments of the produce industry. For example, many of the large-volume buyers of fresh produce are those most concerned with the environment. They demand less packaging and the use of more recyclable and biodegradable materials, yet would also like to have many different sizes of packages for convenience. packers want to limit the variety of packages they must carry in stock, yet they have driven the trend toward preprinted, individualized containers. Shippers and trucking companies want to standardize sizes so the packages may be better palletized and handled. </p> <p>Produce buyers are not a homogeneous group. Buyers for grocery chains have different needs than buyers for food service. For grocery items normally sold in bulk, processors want largest size packages that they can handle efficiently - to minimize unpacking time and reduce the cost of handling or disposing of the used containers. Produce managers, on the other hand, want individualized, high quality graphics to entice retail buyers with in-store displays. </p> <p>Selecting the right container for fresh produce is seldom a matter of personal choice for the packer. For each commodity, the market has unofficial, but nevertheless rigid standards for packaging; therefore it is very risky to use a nonstandard package. packaging technology, market acceptability, and disposal regulations are constantly changing. When choosing a package for fresh fruits and vegetables, packers must consult the market, and in some markets, standard packages may be required by law.</p> <p>About the Author: Snowman Frozen Foods Ltd. is the first company in India to set up frozen and chilled food distribution system on pan India basis. India cold chain is in the best position to act as a single window logistics solution provider for our business partners offering the entire rang of integrated logistics cold chain etc.</p> <p>Link: http://amazines.com/article_detail.cfm/389294?articleid=389294</p> <p><span style="font-size:x-small;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </article> <article> <h1>How to Start Your Own Import Export Business</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The following article aims to assist would-be businessmen and beginners who intend to promote and sell their products or procure their stock in trade, capital assets, to or from the international market, respectively. </span></p> <p> <span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>IMPORTATION:</b> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">1. Register your business and ensure that all licenses and other legal requirements have been complied with. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">2. Obtain a list of suppliers dealing in the products you wish to import and select the most dependable. Do a comprehensive research on the industry. This can be done with the assistance of your bankers through their correspondents overseas. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">3. Obtain a pro-forma invoice or firm offer from your selected supplier. Make sure that their quotation includes, among others, the terms of shipment such as FOB, C&F, or CIF. Payment for imports can be done in the following manner: </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">a.) By Letter of Credit (L/C) - Once you have agreed with your supplier on the pricing and other terms and conditions of your purchase, open a letter of credit with your bank. Depending on the agreement with your supplier, the L/C can either be sight or usance, revocable or irrevocable, confirmed or unconfirmed. Under a sight L/C, payment for the goods are made upon presentation of the documents from the supplier through your bankers (which is commonly the L/C opening bank) regardless whether or not you have received the goods imported. Under usance L/C, payment is made at a later day, after 30, 60, 90 or 120 days. A revocable L/C is one which you can revoke even without the consent of your supplier. A confirmed L/C is one by which the L/C advising bank, by virtue of their confirmation of the L/C, is liable to pay your supplier the value of the imported goods should the L/C opening bank be unable to pay your supplier for some reason. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">b.) By Open Account (O/A) - Payment is made at a later date depending on your agreement with the supplier. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">c.) By Documents Against Payment (D/P) - Under this mode of payment, you have to effect the payment of the imported goods upon presentation of the import documents by the bank. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">d.) By Documents Against Acceptance (D/A) - Under this mode, the documents are forwarded to you through an appointed bank in your locality and upon your acceptance, (i.e. signing the relative document signifying your acceptance of the liability) the bank then surrenders the documents to you, and payment will be made later, after 15, 30, 45 or 60 days depending on your agreement with the supplier. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">e.) By Prepayment - Advance payment must be made before supplier ships the goods </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Note that the basic import documents consist mainly, but are not limited to, original Bills of Lading (B/L) or Airway Bill; original Commercial Invoice; original Packing List; or any such other original documents which you may require. These documents are necessary so the importer can secure the release of the imported goods from the shipping/airline companies and customs authorities. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>EXPORTATION:</b> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">1. Register your business ensuring that all requirements have been complied with. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">2. Choose the products that you are going to export and ascertain from the difference governmental agencies that these are not banned items. Where necessary, obtain a list of all the documents that are required especially for regulated products. If you produce or manufacture your own products for export, know your production capacity. If you subcontract the production of your goods, know the production capacity of all your subcontractors. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">3. Open an account with a bank with international connections or one with correspondents in the locality of your customers. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">4. Where necessary, obtain a background check of all your would-be customers through the aid of your bankers. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">5. From new buyers, always insist on prepayment before you ship your goods. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">6. If you agree on payment by Letter of Credit (L/C), ensure that the L/C is irrevocable and at sight. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">7. Try to understand the different modes of payment for international trade, as discussed above, under Importation. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">This is a simple step-by-step guide on import and export procedures. While requirements may vary from country to country, the general and basic procedures are essentially the same.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Author</span></b><b><span style="font-weight:normal;font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;">: </span></b>Ian Williamson<span style="font-size:9pt;color:#494949;font-family:Verdana;"></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes;"></span>Source: Free Articles <a href="http://www.articlecircle.com/">http://www.articlecircle.com/</a></span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Freight Forwarding</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:08 GMT</p> <p>In literal terms, freight forwarding means the smooth flow of international trade between countries, and freight forwarders are the people who ensure that internationally traded goods reach the destination safely from the place of their origin. The services of freight forwarder are vital in the export process. They are people who advise clients in the logistics of transporting goods around the world. </p> <p>One of the critical ingredients for trading in the global markets is that each transaction should be in accordance with the myriad statutory measures and their related procedures, especially with the ones associated with Customs. This becomes one of the areas where the knowledge and services of a freight forwarder is needed. Freight forwarders are also responsible for locating the best or most inexpensive vessel for transporting the goods without any damage. </p> <p>Every business runs on risk, and while operating in the international markets, the peril to run the business is always on a higher side. International traders always seek advice from their forwarders for assisting them in minimizing these risks that are associated with the movement of goods, such as loss, damage and destruction. </p> <p>Freight forwarders are most often entrusted with materials under the condition where buyer and seller are not known to each other. Given the circumstances, a forwarder has to ensure that all requirements are duly adhered to. They also have to ensure that proper documentation has been made, to not only satisfy the traders but also the receiver. </p> <p>The professional forwarders are also expected to know about the constantly changing regulations that affect cargo movements across the nations. Some of them include foreign documentation requirements, U.S. government regulations, hazardous materials rules, special packaging or handling restrictions, and any applicable licensing provisions. </p> <p>Industry analysts believe that the role of forwarder would be key, because companies have been increasingly outsourcing their non-core activities which they do not specialize in.</p> <p>About the Author: Freights provides detailed information on Freights, Freight and Shipping, Freight Forwarding, Freight Brokers and more. Freights is affiliated with Rough Terrain Forklifts.</p> <h3 class="byline">By <a title="View author's profile" href="http://www.businesshighlight.org/authors/seth-miller">Seth Miller</a></h3> <p>Article Source: www.businesshighlight.org</p> <p>Link: http://www.z-freight.com/</p> </article> <article> <h1>Electronic Logistics ? The Money Saving Solutions</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"></span></p> <p> <span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Future trends in e-logistics</b> </span></p> <p> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The latest trends in e-logistics have been the subject of several new studies presented at the leading international business fairs. A special emphasis was given to Radio Frequency Identification tagging (RFID) and the development of out-sourcing and customer centricity. Furthermore, the concept of LOG-IT club, aiming at better communication within the field if logistics in terms of new developments and requirements of both IT and logistics, is gaining popularity.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>RFID - Radio frequency identification tagging</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The system of Radio frequency identification tagging (RFID) has already proved its effectiveness in the field of transportation and logistics. Its further development has been hastened by the increasing demands of major buyers and retailers globally. However, the simultaneously existing technologies such as bar codes are still necessary, due to the lack of standardization for RFID and its currently high prices.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">And still, RFID is considered a key technology for supply chain management in all the important commercial sectors globally and actively required by big retailers. Labels or so called ?tags?, reading devices and servers are combined in a hardware that stores information about the product, its date and location of manufacture, components origin and their work lifespan.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">RFID tags can also be passive verification devices that can be used to trace goods and ensure safety in manufacturing, such as for preventative maintenance tasks in the industrial sector or for monitoring plants and machinery.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Customer centricity</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The thing that created the trend for customer-centric services and solutions is the customers' demand for higher quality. It became obvious that fitting the customers' needs into the standard transportation and warehousing model can be inefficient. That is why they collaborate with the customers to create solutions that improve the result of services based on transit times, product considerations and costs.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">For instance, several companies offer professional installation and assembly of PCs, office systems and devices, furniture, sporting goods, etc. in addition to high-tech information system that tracks and manages the items from their pick up to their delivery. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Nevertheless, the customer-related optimization of the services creates obstacles and it becomes difficult to manage the wide range of activities efficiently. As a result, emerges a need for flexible business processes of logistics services that can manage to face the varying requirements of the clients. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">It turns out that in order to make it possible for the logistics companies to create customized solutions and to handle the resulting complexities successfully, investment in IT, transportation and warehousing is required. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"><b>Outsourcing</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">There is no need to say that the expansion of the Internet has made it easier and cheaper to communicate between business partners. The environment has become very competitive which made companies specialize it their primary capabilities and outsource their secondary services. Basically, there is a trend towards outsourcing of logistics third party logistics service providers (3PLs). Total outsourcing is gaining popularity as well. There is a number of 3Pls (or group of 3PLs) that handle a dot-com company's entire backroom operations. The 3PLs receives the goods from vendors based on Internet orders and performs warehousing, order picking, assembly, packaging, and shipping, as well as the huge job of handling returns. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">All of the above serves to prove that logistics services represent an important sector of the U.S. and world economy. The steady growth of the logistics sector has already led to the increase of logistics' influence and significance in almost all business industries.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">About the Author: </span></b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">The future of conventional logistics. Electronic Logistics LLC - e-logistics services - electroniclogistics.com</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_84032_15.html </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="><span style="font-size:small;font-family:Times New Roman;"></span><b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">Link</span></b><span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Arial;">: <a href="http://www.freightage.com/">http://www.freightage.com/</a>, http:// electroniclogistics.com</span></p> </article> <article> <h1>Effective Transportation Management Solutions</h1> <p>MySolutionSpot Editor — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:39:07 GMT</p> <p>According to market research, the Transportation Management Systems (TMS) market had exceeded $1 billion in 2006. Through the years, the objective of a TMS implementation remains to be the achievement of customer service level requirements at the lowest possible cost. </p> <p>Transportation Management Systems (TMS) is a software application, often web-hosted, that is used as part of logistics management especially for activities like managing shipping units, shipments that are outbound and intra-company, inbound shipment scheduling, bills of lading generation, carrier or transportation mode selection, freight bill auditing and payment and processing of loss and damage claims. These systems often feature a "dashboard" or a graphic user interface portal. The dashboard displays data according to key success factors that are relevant to the user.</p> <p>Companies, especially those with complex supply chains, make use of TMS so as to manage and track shipments that may be carried by air, land or sea. Several shipment options are available for clients including truck, parcel, intermodal, private fleet, rail, or through domestic carriers. Some systems allow clients to track their shipments online. Other TMS incorporates Global Positioning System navigation technology to enable fleet managers to monitor and dispatch vehicles in accordance with shipment schedules. The advancement of technology has made it possible to transport goods in virtually any mode and integrating all these can be made simple with the right applications.</p> <p>Transportation management solutions that have been developed are designed to automate a business firm's transportation network, both inbound and outbound. This instrument paves the way towards a more efficient day-to-day operations including source to shipment assignments. Moreover, by ensuring a smooth flow of these operational activities, relationships with suppliers and carriers may be strengthened. The benefits of integrating TMS into a company's operation strategy are not limited to the increased efficiency of the supply chain. By eliminating logistical problems, companies can focus on providing quality services to customers. Consequently, with high customer satisfaction, overall profitability of a firm will increase.</p> <p>Management of transportation facilities is often associated with the concept of logistics and supply chain management. These two principles are primarily concerned with the smooth flow of certain goods from the supplier of a manufacturing firm to the end users which are the firm's customers. Aside from transportation, other important logistical concerns are inventory management, materials handling, warehousing, inventory management, and customer service. For various businesses in the United States, logistics make up 20 to 30 percent of total operating costs. By utilizing an ideal TMS program, it will be more convenient for business executives to plan and implement supply chain activities. In addition, performance efficiency of the entire supply chain will be guaranteed and the company will benefit from cost savings.</p> <p>Most Transportation Management System programs are sold with perpetual licenses that may need only annual maintenance. They may also be offered with the option to avail of client hosting or with options for vendor hosting. With TMS, it is possible for clients to benefit from lowered freights, consolidation of routes, and various productivity advantages. Demand for TMS is expected to increase as companies that are still managing their transportation operations with traditional spreadsheets and faxes are expected to make the switch.</p> <p> </p> <p>About the Author: If you are interested in transportation management, check this web-site to learn more about transportation metrics:</p> <p>http://www.strategy2act.com/solutions/transportation_excel.htm</p> <p> </p> <p>Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/management-articles/effective-transportation-management-solutions-290646.html</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </article> </main></body></html>