Predictive Analytics Fuels Peak Season Supply Chains

Micro-Fulfillment and Last Mile delivery have revolutionized retail logistics. Coupled with predictive analytics, this agile strategy can position your company for a profitable peak season despite the resurfacing of a global pandemic.?

If you’ve been following my blogs on prepping for peak season, then you’re ahead of the game. You probably already have a plan to bring inventory closer to your customers and have enlisted a 3PL partner like GEODIS City Delivery to put your plan into action.?

Predictive analytics is the last piece of the puzzle and will transform your inventory and logistics management systems to create a robust supply chain. The number of supply chain leaders using this technology to forecast the future is expected to grow from 31% to 79% within three to five years.?

But exactly how can it benefit your logistics strategy? Here are competitive advantages to consider.

Forecast Demand for Accurate Inventory Management

One of the biggest supply chain enemies is the unknown. If you can’t see what’s coming, you can’t prepare. And if you’re not prepared, you can’t satisfy demand or fulfill expectations, which kills your reputation in the industry.?

While predictive analytics can’t flawlessly predict the future with absolute certainty, its projections are close enough to impact supply chain success significantly. This technology combines historical data and market intelligence to generate precise forecasts in demand, which lets you rebalance assets across your logistics network at little cost.?

When applied to your supply chain, it can determine the optimal inventory level to meet local demand. This translates to a leaner inventory in your Micro-Fulfillment centers (MFCs), but it’s inventory that’s in-demand at that location. Translation: you’re more likely to have what your customers want, when and where they want it—with less waste.

This means more efficient inventory management at MFCs and store locations.

Predictive Logistics for Efficient Transport

Supply chain optimization isn’t complete without enhanced transport. When predictive analytics is leveraged to this end, you get “predictive logistics”. It ensures your supply chain and logistics work in tandem, making the looming peak season far less intimidating.?

With predictive logistics, you know the frequency and quantity of transported goods required to meet demand, and you can incorporate predictive route planning. Armed with this information, it’s possible to choose the fastest routes based on traffic, weather, distance, and delivery point.?

This forecasting technology and efficiency improve sales volume and customer satisfaction while decreasing transport costs.

GEODIS City Delivery’s eLogistics Services Leverage Predictive Analytics to

to Boost Peak Season Performance

You can easily connect your ecommerce store with our eCommerce fulfillment services to expedite shipping, stage inventory, and protect against product shortages. Once we receive your inventory, we take the lead, keeping you informed through every step of the processing and shipping journey using our Visibility Portal.?

You can fulfill orders from any of our U.S. fulfillment locations, but we’re here to help you decide on the best locations based on order history and future projections. Keeping products close to your customers is a key factor in Last Mile successes, especially during peak season. With predictive analytics, you can prepare in advance according to accurate trends.

You’ll also benefit from our vast transportation network to keep your product moving from staged inventory to its final destination. When you have access to our larger carriers, you reap the benefits of discounted shipping rates.

Since predictive analytics can’t discern when customers will return products, you’ll need a plan in place to manage reverse logistics, especially during the peak season rush. Our eLogistics services offer efficient returns management that includes options that work best for your company. But we’ll keep you in the loop with continued visibility of trends, quality checks, and the returns management process.?

Plan for the Peak Season with GEODIS City Delivery

You might wonder if it’s too late to prepare for the tidal wave that is peak season. But don’t despair. While more advanced planning is always ideal, some strategic forecasting, technology integration, and operational adjustments now will reap the rewards in the months ahead.?

Contact GEODIS City Delivery to learn more about how predictive analytics and eLogistics services can level up your supply chain and streamline overall logistics. But don’t stop there. Ask us about supply chain optimization through Micro-Fulfillment and last-mile delivery services.?