What are the most recent trends in shipping and receiving management?

1 Smart technology

One of the major trends in shipping and receiving management is the adoption of smart technology that can automate, optimize, and integrate various processes and functions. For example, smart sensors, RFID tags, GPS trackers, and IoT devices can provide real-time data and visibility on the location, condition, and status of shipments, as well as alert managers of any delays, damages, or deviations. Smart software, such as transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, can analyze data, generate insights, and recommend actions to improve routing, scheduling, inventory, and demand forecasting. Smart technology can also enable seamless communication and collaboration between different stakeholders, such as shippers, carriers, warehouses, customers, and regulators.

3 Omnichannel distribution

A third trend in shipping and receiving management is the shift to omnichannel distribution, which means offering multiple and flexible options for customers to order, receive, and return products across different channels, such as online, offline, mobile, and social media. For example, omnichannel distribution can include services such as buy online pick up in store (BOPIS), curbside delivery, same-day delivery, drop shipping, and reverse logistics. Omnichannel distribution can help shipping and receiving managers to increase customer loyalty, satisfaction, and retention, as well as to optimize inventory, capacity, and demand management.

4 Blockchain technology

A fourth trend in shipping and receiving management is the emergence of blockchain technology, which is a distributed ledger system that can record and verify transactions and data in a secure, transparent, and immutable way. For example, blockchain technology can facilitate the exchange of information and documents, such as bills of lading, invoices, and certificates, between different parties in the supply chain, without the need for intermediaries or central authorities. Blockchain technology can also enhance the traceability, accountability, and compliance of shipments, as well as reduce fraud, errors, and costs.

5 3D printing

A fifth trend in shipping and receiving management is the development of 3D printing, which is a process that can create physical objects from digital models by layering materials, such as plastic, metal, or ceramic. For example, 3D printing can enable the production of customized, complex, and low-volume products on demand, near the point of consumption, reducing the need for transportation, storage, and inventory. 3D printing can also improve the quality, performance, and sustainability of products, as well as the innovation and differentiation of offerings.

6 Resilience and agility

A sixth trend in shipping and receiving management is the need for resilience and agility, which means the ability to adapt and respond to changes and uncertainties in the market, such as disruptions, fluctuations, and risks. For example, resilience and agility can involve diversifying suppliers, carriers, and routes, implementing contingency plans, increasing visibility and collaboration, leveraging data and analytics , and adopting flexible and scalable solutions. Resilience and agility can help shipping and receiving managers to maintain continuity, efficiency, and profitability, as well as to seize opportunities and overcome challenges.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?