Essential logistics advice for small businesses
The areas that have embraced the transformation of supply chain processes from a sustainable and smart point of view are today increasingly numerous, from packaging to collaboration between the various stages of the supply chain. SMEs must face continuous challenges to remain competitive in the market and communicate the added value of sustainability, combining their production expertise with warehouse services that meet customer expectations and targeted investments in digitalization.It is therefore necessary to integrate action and strategies that make it possible to make each phase of the supply chain more effective and increase the competitiveness of your company. Here are some tips and logistical solutions that small and medium-sized businesses can put into practice to seize the new opportunities in the sector and respond to the needs of the digital age.
Streamline the stages of the supply chain. Rethinking technologies and processes by integrating innovative solutions is a valid strategy for making the logistics of small and medium-sized enterprises more efficient. Investing in management software allows you to monitor all flows in real time and optimize procedures, offering greater transparency to customers.
Focus on customized and sustainable packaging. In order to organize the different phases of the supply chain of an SME, the possibility of adding any customizations to the packaging must also be taken into consideration. Creating a memorable unboxing experience and investing in customized packaging will strengthen the corporate image and allow small businesses to offer added value to differentiate themselves from the competition. Experimenting with new materials for product packaging with a view to reducing the environmental impact of transport and warehouse activities allows small and medium-sized enterprises to enhance their activities in the name of sustainability, offering the public a more positive perception of the company.
Check and plan inventory. One of the most effective logistical solutions for small businesses is represented by the correct planning of activities and transport, from storage to inventory of goods, which is essential to respond promptly to customer needs. Especially in the commerce sector, where an ever-greater integration between online and offline is necessary, it becomes essential to develop a flexible and multi-channel approach to gain competitiveness. Relying on a single partner can be a strategic solution to offer customers a complete and personalized service, capable of going beyond simple shipping and providing support for the management of countless operational aspects, from collection to packaging to delivery of the goods.
Adopt a data driven approach. The increasingly rapid development of logistics requires small businesses to adopt a data-driven management approach, capable of offering a more analytical vision to improve productivity and increase the traceability and safety of shipments. For those who have an e-commerce business, data monitoring can help optimize the phases of the supply chain and warehouse maintenance in order to avoid waste, save resources and reduce the impact of returns. An effective strategy to make all stages of the supply chain more punctual, speed up warehouse operations and delivery times, and meet customer expectations.
Rely on third party companies. To respond flexibly and promptly to market demands, small and medium-sized enterprises can choose to outsource services, relying on third-party companies specialized in the logistics sector. A strategic solution to be able to accurately manage picking, packing and shipping activities at any time of the year, saving time and resources.
For small and medium-sized enterprises it is not easy to find logistics operators able to provide a service suited to their needs: Mail Boxes Etc. is a unique partner in the market, able to offer personalized logistics close to you. In addition to the management of picking processes, MBE experts take care of the packaging of product, to help companies find the ideal solution for the safe transport and shipment of goods and keep flows under control all year round, adding value to your business.
