Milk Run Tips and Tricks in Logistics

Shippers are always looking for ways to optimize their supply chain and save on costs. One way to do this is by using a milk run. A milk run is a type of route planning where shippers consolidate shipments from multiple locations into one trip. Fortunately, combining the use of supply chain technology across every milk run can be a great way to reduce transportation costs and improve efficiency. And milk runs can yield significant benefits, reports All Things Supply Chain, “Milk-run logistics can help companies reduce their inventory levels by making just-in-time (JIT) deliveries. With a milk run, suppliers deliver materials to a central location regularly. From there, the materials are redistributed to individual customers as needed.” But the milk run meaning can be a bit confusing, and finding ways to improve milk runs is even more challenging. There are some things to keep in mind when using this strategy. This blog post will share some tips and tricks for milk run success in logistics and how shippers seeking warehouse transfers to maximize storage space can do so successfully.

Define Your Goals for Each Milk Run

A milk-run process is a form of distribution that involves frequent visits to multiple locations to carry out various activities. To be successful with milk runs, it is crucial to define clear goals and create a plan which includes the resources required, the effectiveness of the operating system, and well-defined measures of success. The goals must be specific and achievable on time. They should include setting targets for cost savings, service improvements, inventory management, and delivery times. Supply chain managers and freight forwarding agents should also use good measurement tools to assess progress accurately and ensure that employees understand their key performance indicators. With well-defined goals and suitable measures of success, milk-run operations can optimize results while improving customer satisfaction.

Develop a Milk Run Route Map

When developing a route map for your deliveries, s into consideration. Whether outsourcing warehouse services or running operations from your facility, being aware of transfer timings will help maximize efficiency overall. Keeping in mind traffic patterns and ensuring Timely delivery is essential to provide good service, so it’s important to plan and allocate enough time for each local area.

Other factors, such as the availability of parking spots and alternative routes, should also be considered when mapping out a delivery route. By considering all these elements, you will have established the most efficient route plan possible, leading to greater customer satisfaction.

Train Your Team

Milk-run operations need to provide comprehensive training for their personnel to run efficiently and safely. Adequate trainingf prevents unexpected issues from happening during milk runs and allows the team to stay on schedule. Milk runs demand a variety of tasks such as driving, loading, and unloading cargo, and manual labor–all of which require specific skill sets that the team must possess to be successful. Employees should clearly understand regulations, safety procedures, policies, and protocols.

To ensure that all members are thoroughly trained, employers can utilize different types of training, such as one-on-one coaching, classroom instruction, computer-based programs, or hands-on seminars. Exercise helps build trust between employees and management while motivating them to accomplish all milk run obligations with quality results. With comprehensive training at the helm, milk runs will surely be able to reach their destinations without issues or delays.

Stay Organized

In warehouse logistics, staying organized and keeping track of orders and deliveries is essential. Not only will this allow warehouse managers to quickly identify and address any issues that may arise during a milk run, but it also helps create an efficient warehouse system by ensuring that inventory levels remain accurate. This makes it easier to maintain the warehouse’s operations which can lead to greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Simply put, taking the time to stay organized and manage your warehouse processes will work wonders for warehouse efficiency and customer satisfaction while also reducing your reliance on third-party vendors or transactions for empty container transportation.

Be Flexible

Staying flexible on warehouse transfers is key to maintaining an efficient operation and meeting tight delivery deadlines. No matter how comprehensive the strategy and detailed the planning are, things can still go wrong, or unexpected obstacles can arise. Adjusting and adapting to the situation is an invaluable tool for warehouse managers; staying nimble can mean the difference between successful deliveries and missed opportunities. In many warehouse operations, being flexible is paramount when reaching clients on time and maintaining their trust.

Leverage Tech by Supra to Improve Your Milk Run Efficiency

By staying organized and flexible, you can keep things running smoothly even when you inevitably hit road bumps. If you’re looking for ways to boost your use of street turn container while managing milk runs, check out Supra’s 121 Bermuda today. And be sure to stay tuned to learn more as new technologies and capabilities are released to make it easier to handle milk runs and overall logistics as well.

Get your quote now by trying Supra’s new Online Rate Tool and get your quote within a minute:

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com.

7 Reasons to Strategically Source Warehousing and Yard Space

One of the most important considerations for importers and exporters is logistics warehousing and yard storage space,. Properly sourced yard management and warehousing storage provide a secure location to store goods, allowing buyers and sellers to manage their operations better, while also using supply chain technology to boost throughput. Strategic sourcing of logistics warehousing near the San Pedro Bay Complex is crucial to reducing overhead and streamlining transportation. You cannot afford to make rash decisions with so much riding on your yard and warehouse in logistics partnerships. Let’s take a closer look at the top seven reasons to choose your logistics warehousing and yard management software partners more easily and carefully.

1. Cost Savings of Outsourced Logistics Warehousing

Strategically sourcing logistics warehousing on the West Coast can lead to hard shipping and transport cost reductions. This is especially true for goods travelling to or from Asia. The ports in the San Pedro Bay Complex are less than a day’s drive from six major logistics hubs in Southern California, allowing companies to save money by utilizing existing infrastructure. Additionally, warehouse space in this region may be more affordable due to its close proximity to these logistics hubs and access to a wider drayage service network.

2. Accessibility to Major Network Nodes via Tech Warehouse Connections

In addition to cost savings through logistics warehousing and yard storage space, strategic sourcing on the West Coast allows businesses to reduce transit times. With quick access to major logistics centers, products coming from Asia can easily cross the Pacific Ocean and reach their customers sooner with fewer delays. This shorter transit time becomes even more important when dealing with perishables or other fast-moving goods since delays can lead to costly losses due to spoilage or obsolescence of products. For this reason, importers and exporters should look into logistics warehousing options near the San Pedro Bay Complex when looking for ways to manage their supply chain efficiently and cost-effectively.

3. Improved Delivery Times Via Outsourced Logistics Warehousing

Sourcing logistics warehousing closer to where goods are produced or delivered has many advantages, the most notable being improved delivery times. By strategically sourcing logistics warehousing near major logistics hubs such as those in the San Pedro Bay Complex, buyers and sellers can reduce transit times due to quicker access to freight services, hitting major highways and rail ramps faster and with fewer delays. Why?

The answer is simple. Customers expect to have their orders arrive within three business days, says RetailDive, and as a result, importers and exporters need to ensure their goods are moving through their networks as quickly and as cost-effectively as possible. This is especially beneficial when dealing with perishables or other fast-moving goods since delays can lead to costly losses due to spoilage or obsolescence of products. Further, these partnerships can open the door to more street turn container, such as 121 Bermuda, which can reduce costs and transit time even further.

4. Quality Control

When you source logistics warehousing strategically, you can ensure that your goods are properly cared for from start to finish – from production all the way through delivery – reducing potential issues with quality control.

Quality control is an essential part of logistics warehousing and yard management. When goods are sourced strategically, companies can ensure that their products are stored properly, handled correctly and monitored for safety and quality standards. Quality control in logistics warehousing and yard management is necessary to guarantee that goods are stored securely and kept up to date with current regulations. This

5. Flexibility & Scalability

Strategic sourcing allows for greater flexibility when it comes to storage needs; warehouses near ports can scale up quickly should individual businesses experience sudden spikes in demand or need additional capacity throughout the full year.

Flexibility and scalability are key benefits of strategically sourcing logistics warehousing near ports. Companies can quickly increase their storage capacity when needed to meet unexpected spikes in demand, or during peak seasons. This is especially helpful for businesses dealing with rapidly changing logistics needs such as those in retail and e-commerce sectors. Additionally, logistics warehousing and yard storage spaces near ports may offer more flexible contracts that better suit companies’ changing needs.

6 Enhanced Security & Insurance Options

Being located close proximity to major ports means there is increased security available which could be taken advantage of by companies looking for extra protection against theft or damage while storing goods.

Without the right security measures in place, goods stored in warehouses or yards are vulnerable to theft, as well as physical and environmental damage. In an increasingly globalized market, where goods must move quickly from one location to another.

One of the greatest benefits to strategic logistics warehousing is access to expertise and support from logistics experts close by, providing businesses with much-needed peace of mind when it comes to storing their goods securely.

Insurance is critical for logistics warehousing, especially near the San Pedro Bay Complex, where goods must move quickly from one location to another. Logistics warehousing near ports allows businesses to take advantage of the best insurance options and rates available, providing an extra layer of security for stored goods and protecting company reputations.

7. Expertise & Support

Technology can be used to improve the efficiency and accuracy of warehouse pickups and deliveries. For example, warehouse management systems (WMS) can track and record the movement of inventory within a warehouse, providing real-time visibility into stock levels and enabling efficient picking and packing of orders. Transportation management systems (TMS) can be used to optimize routes and schedule deliveries, reducing fuel costs and improving delivery times.

In addition, technologies such as RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags and scanners can be used to track the movement of goods within the warehouse and facilitate more accurate and efficient picking and packing. Barcode scanners and other automated systems can also be used to improve accuracy and speed up the process of checking in and checking out deliveries.

The use of these technologies have a natural implication for better managing truck appointments can help warehouse managers better understand and optimize their operations, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings. It can also improve customer satisfaction by enabling faster and more accurate delivery of goods, and a crucial component of all these systems is sharing that information across systems to ensure everything moves smoothly. Supra’s use of NavTrack is another example of how quickly a third-party technology can boost efficiency as well.

Streamline Your West Coast Logistics Warehousing and Yard Management Needs

If your business deals with importing or exporting, you know that careful planning is essential to success. The factors we’ve outlined should be taken into consideration when selecting warehousing and yard space for your business’s needs. By partnering with Supra National Express, you can ensure that your imported and exported goods are stored and shipped according to all the necessary regulations, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. Contact Supra National Express to get started on streamlining your import/export business.

Get your quote now by trying Supra’s new Online Rate Tool and get your quote within a minute:

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com.

How Supply Chain Tech Solves Logistics Scalability Challenges

Supply chain and logistics technology, i.e., logistics tech systems and services, continue to advance and help companies, whether freight forwarders, BCOs or other entities, have an absolute need to do more with less. Fortunately, high tech supply chain software developers are on the track and heading to help companies do more with less. The proper use of supply chain tech reduces confusion and improves operational excellence, but for many, the budgets to build technology in-house are missing. Meanwhile, third-party players, including Supra, are tackling the problem head-on by developing next-generation supply chain technologies, supply chain tech, that will support true optimization and digital transformation, such as DrayMaster and 121 Bermuda.

The answer rests in understanding the inherent challenges of transportation and logistics scalability within an aging tech stack and how innovation can streamline operations.

Limited In-House Resources to Build a High-Tech Supply Chain Industry

Supply chain companies often have limited in-house resources and budgets, making it challenging to build and maintain a next-generation technology stack. To stay competitive in an increasingly digital market, these companies are turning to third-party solutions to help them build and maintain their tech stack. For example, building the technology to reduce waste in drayage might be expensive, but Supra has created 121 Bermuda to support more street-turned containers, reducing delays and streamlining operations.

These solutions can provide access to advanced technology and expertise that may not be available in-house. This can be particularly useful for companies looking to adopt new technologies, such as artificial intelligence or the Internet of Things (IOT), but lack the resources or expertise to do so independently.

Third-party solutions can help supply chain companies save money and reduce risk. Building and maintaining a tech stack can be costly, especially for companies with limited budgets and resources. By turning to third-party solutions, companies can access advanced technology and expertise at a lower cost, as they do not have to invest in developing and maintaining these resources in-house.

Outsourcing some or all of their tech stack reduces the risk of technical failures or delays. Instead, logistics leaders can rely on the expertise and resources of the third-party provider. And in fact, more companies are turning to third-party resources to improve operational excellence. Specifically, a 2021 Gartner survey found that 74% of logistics leaders expect increased spending on outsourced logistics technology. Still, there are other issues that supply chain tech can solve that will enhance scalability throughout any economy.

Logistics Tech Unifies Disparate Data Sources

One major problem that supply chain companies often face is the issue of disparate data sources. Many companies have multiple systems and databases that store different types of information, such as customer, inventory, and container shipping data. These systems may not be connected, making it difficult to get a complete picture of the supply chain and make informed decisions.

Third-party companies can help supply chain companies connect disparate data sources from manufacturing companies through distribution centers and beyond, creating more efficient operations. These companies often offer integration and data management solutions that can bring all a company’s data into a single platform, enabling them to get a holistic view of their supply chain. This can help companies identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies and make informed decisions about optimizing their operations.

By connecting data sources, companies can also gain real-time visibility into their supply chain, which can help them respond quickly to changing customer demand and market conditions. This can enable proper supply chain optimization, as companies can make more informed and strategic decisions about allocating resources and supply chain management.

Poor Communication and Collaboration

Fulfillment centers have also suffered from challenges in communication and collaboration. Poor communication and limited collaboration can also lead to problems managing inbound deliveries and outbound pickups in the yard of a warehouse, particularly for drayage service near major ports of entry. When different parts of the supply chain do not have access to the same information, it can be challenging to coordinate the flow of goods and vehicles in the yard. This can result in missed deliveries, unexpected shortages, and other problems that disrupt the flow of goods and services.

For example, suppose a warehouse manager needs help seeing the status of inbound deliveries. In that case, they need to know when to expect a delivery and when more resources are necessary to unload and process the goods. This can lead to delays and inefficiencies in the warehouse and disruptions to the rest of the supply chain.

Similarly, suppose a warehouse manager needs visibility into the status of outbound pickups. In that case, they may not know when to expect a pickup and may need more resources to load and prepare the goods for shipping. By addressing communication and collaboration issues, companies can improve the management of inbound deliveries and outbound pickups in the yard of a warehouse. That’s also a precursory step toward leveraging cross-docking as well.

Trouble Managing Yard Access With Antiquated Supply Chain Tech

Gate and yard access are additional problems with scalability in the logistics industry. Consider the complexity and demands of the following and how technology could streamline each process for both warehouse operators and trucking companies alike:

Coordinating the flow of vehicles. Ensuring that trucks and other vehicles can enter and exit the warehouse in a timely and efficient manner can be challenging, especially when multiple deliveries and pickups are happening simultaneously. Identifying and tracking each vehicle will go a long way to reducing the confusion of arrivals/departures and avoiding bottlenecks at the dock.
Tracking truck appointment schedules. Keeping track of all the deliveries and pickups coming in and going out of the warehouse can be a complex and time-consuming task. Automated notifications and integrated updating systems can keep everyone informed of yard activities.
Managing security. Ensuring the security of the warehouse is an important responsibility, including managing the gate and the flow of vehicles in and out of the warehouse. Rather than manually sorting through documents, digital systems can identify, verify and authorize entry to a gate automatically, saving tens of thousands of dollars on admin costs alone.
Dealing with unexpected events. There are often unforeseen events that can disrupt the flow of vehicles at the gate, such as weather-related delays or equipment failures. Managing these events and finding ways to minimize their impact on the supply chain can be challenging. Again, freight technology can reorder the schedule and reroute drivers to reduce congestion.

Get on the Fast-Track to the High Tech Supply Chain With Supra

There will always be another disruption around the corner and tightening budgets. However, companies partnering up, developing, and leveraging new supply chain tech will be poised to succeed in 2023 and beyond. It’s time to face and overcome the challenges of logistics scalability by partnering with Supra and our growing suite of logistics technology services.

Get your quote now by trying Supra’s new Online Rate Tool and get your quote within a minute.

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com

The Benefits of Digital Truck Appointment Scheduling

For several years, cost control has been a top priority for companies operating in the San Pedro Bay Complex. As port authorities sought to improve efficiency, new fees and charges arose. For the truck drivers and smaller OTR carriers, these fees put both FTL and LTL pickup at the mercy of other factors, including how quickly a destination warehouse could accept a container. Still, the appointments set need to be maintained, and the shipping schedule can evolve based on outside influences. Of course, the true trick is maximizing efficiency without sacrificing quality.

Fortunately, AB 2406, which will take effect on January 1, 2023, aims to prevent excess container storage and detention fees, reports Bill Mongelluzzo of The Journal of Commerce. Still, imports and exporters aren’t out of the woods yet, and carriers are vested in reducing the time equipment is away from port or waiting for pickup with an appointment set through a digital platform. That’s especially true as the shipping schedule evolves in response to disruption.

Digital capabilities are natural as more truckers are looking for proactive ways to handle their appointments and manage their schedules. That’s why Supra Distribution has prioritized digital truck appointment scheduling and works to reduce the hassle of delays at the warehouse or yard. However, a digital way of managing the warehouse will have natural benefits that align with the shipping schedule and will effectively reduce the risk of demurrage for long beach vessel schedule delays too. And drivers and network carriers need to understand the benefits of a digital system for managing gate entry/exit and loading/unloading shipping schedules.

Prevents Truck Congestion.

Reduced truck congestion in your yard and at the gate is among the leading benefits of a digital truck appointment system. Rather than waiting on paperwork to verify authorization and share details with the rest of the team, a digital system identifies the truck, notifies other team members, and ensures everything is ready for pickup or dropoff. This has a natural implication for improved shipping schedule adherence and better warehouse and yard management. Of course, it also depends on the integrity and quality of data shared between your existing systems, including the warehouse management system (WMS), yard management system (YMS), and transportation management system (TMS).

A Safer Pickup and Dropoff

Take a moment to think about a recent incident on the highway involving congested roadways and gridlock. Even in these slow-moving scenarios, accidents still happen, and even more importantly, the risk of an accident increases. Why?

The answer rests with the stop-and-go nature of congestion. People get distracted or do not carefully watch their surroundings. The same applies to a congested yard or warehouse dock. Congestion means hazardous conditions for the truck, driver, and dock workers. However, a streamlined process creates a safer environment for pickup and dropoff, improving adherence with the ship schedule and avoiding delays in overall operations. Further, a clear schedule means that warehouse and gate personnel won’t feel rushed, so they’re less likely to make a mistake that results in a safety issue.

Get Back on the Road Faster

Improved throughput at the yard and warehouse will also help to benefit the overall shipment schedule. Instead of trying to run extra hours once back on the road, trucks arriving and leaving on time will be able to spend more time driving. In turn, that reduces the total accessorial costs for cargo owners, and it benefits drivers at the same time. After all, drive time is the most important factor for so many trucking companies looking to survive.

Around-the-Clock Appointment Set Features

Digital appointment and scheduling tools do not sleep. In other words, they’re available around the clock for drivers and cargo owners to find slots and keep the warehouse operating at maximum levels. In turn, complex loads or hazardous materials can be safely allocated to times when the schedule is less chaotic, further improving safety along the way. This around-the-clock capability also helps drivers stay on time too.

For example, a digital scheduling system for LTL freight shipping, FT, or even containerized goods keps everyone in the know with automated notifications. As a result, truckers know when they need to leave to arrive based on the latest traffic conditions and can also alert downstream facilities when they arrive late. Ergo, it all creates a more efficient truck appointment process that helps to build success throughout the full transportation network, whether for a single LTL shipment pickup for a FTL or moving goods to a nearby rail ramp.

Reap the Benefits of a Digital Truck Appointment Schedule With Supra

There will always be a sense of urgency in the freight market. Today’s truckers deserve to have the latest and greatest technology to help them do more with less. Those facts are alive and well as Supra is working to streamline operations and make it easier than ever for drivers to work with our warehouses and yards. Plus, its benefits will have resounding effects on the downstream supply chain. Learn more about how you can reduce delays while loading and unloading freight by checking out Warehousing and Distribution by Supra, and if you’re ready to tap the power of Supra technology in your next dray, find your next load on the Supra DrayMaster app, and get your quote within a minute:

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com

What Is Freight Forwarding and How It Benefits From Street Turns

Numerous freight market forecasts call for a continued downturn in 2023. However, the global freight forwarding market is expected to increase and return to pre-pandemic levels, reports SupplyChainBrain. The rebalancing will precipitate new mergers and acquisitions (M&As) throughout the industry, which will further to restore demand for freight forwarding services and asset-based drayage. Still, many underestimate the value of freight forwarding. What is freight forwarding, and what does it have to do with a street turn interchange? Let’s take a closer look at what freight forwarding is and how working with a street turn interchange can help forwarders thrive amid market instability.

What Is Freight Forwarding?

Freight forwarding is an intermediary process between the cargo owner or the company that moves the shipment and the final destination. Forwarders rely on networking contacts and contracts to keep transportation cost-effective and perform both buy and sell functions. Further, forwarders tend to have significant investments in technologies, platforms, and partnerships that help them reduce overhead and streamline operations. The need for cost control is absolute, and for today’s freight forwarders, finding the low-hanging fruit is crucial to surviving this increased era of M&As. Part of that is working with asset-based service providers that develop and leverage next-generation technologies.

For example, Supra is continuing to build new technologies to support asset management and enable carriers of all sizes to participate and stay competitive. As a leader in drayage in San Pedro Bay Complex area, Supra would be an ideal candidate for freight forwarders that want more technology and efficiency.

Now, let’s take the conversation a step further. If freight forwarders can tap the potential to technology, including a street turn interchange, how does that translate into better options for the forwarder?

Increased Fuel Efficiency

Whether handling a Maersk street turn or a CMA street turn, trucking companies and shippers need to utilize every mile on the road fully. The street turn definition is relatively simple. Running trucks without a container and only relying on a fixed network results in lost opportunities for efficiency.

Rather than making endless trips between two points to leave containers at importers or exporters, a street turn interchange means that each trip can continue to pick up another container from an exporter and take it to the next destination or back to the port. This street turn definition is the ultimate value and maximum use of assets possible with the Supra street turn interchange, 121 Bermuda.

Increased Import/Export Throughput

All importers and exporters operate on time-sensitive schedules, and if delays occur, it contributes to increased delays further down the supply chain. Combining imports and exports into a single truck move that involves three parties, instead of relying on two separate trucks to move between the three, eliminates waste and maximizes asset utilization. This is a vital resource for avoiding the buildup of empty containers in third-party yards and docks.

Since the containers are actively moving throughout the street turn interchange, there’s an inherent opportunity to manage costs better. Further, higher container velocity makes it easier to manage operations by reducing the administrative work that goes into paying carriers while also cutting the number of drivers needed in half.

Regulatory Compliance

Freight forwarders love technology, but technology can be confusing. That combined with the growing list of regulations and requirements for operating drayage services and cross-docking capabilities. Forwarders may serve as the importer or exporter of record and handle all customs management needs. These are regulation-intense processes, and each step is almost universally scrutinized. However, using technology to speed up the process and track movements while reducing waste, will go a long way to enabling regulatory compliance. That’s also an important fact as sustainability grows more critical to the cross-global trade network.

Meanwhile, customers want continuous contract flexibility and absolute visibility into every activity. As a result, the technology behind a forwarder’s use of a street turn interchange must be easy-to-navigate and simple to deploy. Such flexibility allows forwarders to scale operations, when necessary, rebalance their networks, and keep freight moving smoothly.

Streamline Freight Forwarding With Supra’s Street Turn Interchange

Freight forwarding will face plenty of challenges in 2023, and rather than trying to manage increasingly complex logistics networks, it’s better to turn to a street turn interchange. The interchange yields significant benefits and will help forwarders simply move goods from port to importers and exporters.

Check out available street turns to get started, and don’t forget to get your quote now by trying Supra’s new Online Rate Tool, DrayMaster, and get your quote within a minute:

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com

Customers Reviews

Here’s what our Customers are saying about us!

	“Supra National Express is the best and most reliable Drayage Partners you will find out there. Customer service is exceptional, communication is precise and nothing short of it. They are a one stop shop providing drayage, yard storage, transload and warehousing for all your needs. Their Team is very professional and always there to assist and provide solutions. We’ve grown our market share due to the great relationship with Supra. Together we win!” – Tony Baron Transportation Sales at CH Robinson Worldwide

	“I would like to thank Supra National Express for their superb customer service and commitment to details. I began using Supra for drayage support out of Southern California in September of this year. They have turned out to be one of the best carriers I have worked with during my 9 years as a Senior Logistics Specialist at Waste Management Recycle America. I look forward to a long, successful relationship and hope they continue to grow. Best of luck, Supra team!” – Bruce Renee Logistics Specialist Sr. at Western Region at Waste Management Recycle America

	“Supra does an excellent job staying on top of containers and terminals. They have the ability to pickup containers any time of the day and really enables us to get our product to customers in a timely manner.” – Mike Mendoza Logistics Manager at Rex Transportation

	“Supra is a great organization. Smooth operation from start to end. Staff is professional and highly skilled. They truly understand our business and always deliver!” – Dawn Vendt Import Manager at Samskip Logistics

	“Supra handled a large portion of our export shipments in California in the last few years. They have been an exceptional service provider for our company. Their team is professional, reliable, and a pleasant to work with. They go above and beyond to provide the flexibility we need. This is especially important during difficult times like last season when we were challenged by port congestion on the West Coast. In addition, they are excellent at communication, providing us timely updates on the status of our shipments and schedule changes. We are always notified immediately when issue arise.” – Veronica Zhu Traffic Manager at Jess Smith and Sons Cotton, INC

	“I have been working with Ana and SUPRA a ton over the past year and I have nothing but great things to say. Time and time again, Ana and her team have shown their professionalism and high service level, allowing me to obtain even more freight from my customers. They are always communicating and are committed to running every single load to the best of their ability. In an ever-changing industry, once thing that remains the same is Supra’s dedication to their customers. I would recommend them to anyone I know, as they have taken great care of me.” – Cole Eglowstein Senior Account Manager at Nolan Transportation Group

	“Supra Logistics level of service and attention to detail sets them apart from other drayage company that we had used before. Supra is very dependable, reliable and extremely valuable to our company. They move our difficult loads like they are nothing. Set a high bar and have been able to continually meet it. I also appreciate their reachability. Whenever you call, you get someone knowledgeable who can help right away. I thank Supra for going above and beyond and for their really clear communication. That’s exactly what we need in a logistics partner.” – Ariel De Los Angeles Operations Manager at JRY Express Inc

	“Supra National Express has excellent service! We’ve used their drayage services for year’s and are very satisfied with customer service! Supra has great service, efficient communication and are customer focused! “ – Lissette Barete, MBA Logistics Office Manager / HR Generalist at Foodlinx Inc

	“Supra is the best trucking company. The customer service is very good. They take our last minute orders and their update is very accurate. The drivers are always on time for appt and work in timely manner. Thank you, Supra!” – Rie Kimura Logistics Coordinator / HR Generalist at Foodlinx Inc

Bulk Loads: Why All Importers Need a Plan for Short-Term Bulk Storage

Importing any item is a complicated endeavor, but as the loads get bigger, so do the complications. Bulk freight shipping requires certain considerations that are outside of typical transport details.

To properly address these heavy complications, importers and logistics managers must proactively contract heavy-hitting transportation teams. Shipper members gain priceless margins amidst rapidly changing supply chain disruptions by contracting with companies that have bulk storage capacity. How? Let’s dive in.

What Are Bulk Loads?

Bulk loads can be a bit confusing. According to Abdul Gafoor on LinkedIn, “bulk cargo is any good shipped unpackaged, not inside pallets or boxes, and in large quantities. The commodities can either be in liquid, granular, or solid form.” These bulk loads are filled with common household commodities, transported within containers or as break bulk. But still, what are the different types of bulk loads?

Free-flowing liquid materials, such as oil, wine, and milk, are among the bulk products that the average American drives next to every day.

The distribution of agricultural commodities, such as rice, wheat, and fertilizer aggregate, are transported in granular dry bulk.

Solid bulk, most commonly described as break bulk, are typically oversized items that cannot be containerized.

Break bulk items can include extra large shipments of drums, crates, and precious metals, or can be large items such as vehicles and airplane wings.

How Does Bulk Freight Shipping Work?

The process of bulk loads starts and ends with the familiar steps of loading and unloading. After the double hulls ensure a safe bulk transport, the carrier members pull the items off for drayage transfer. Once loaded onto a truck approved for the dimensional weight and type of the items, imported bulk loads are taken to bulk storage.

Bulk storage ensures that time and heat-sensitive essential items such as natural gas are not compromised during gaps in the shipment process. After its storage tenure, bulk loads are then picked up by (hopefully) exemplary trucking industry professionals for their long-haul journey. In ideal circumstances, one logistics company can support importers by completing each step of this process in-house.

The Risks of Bulk Cargo and Transportation/Storage

If bulk shipping works the way it is designed to, it is a seamless transfer of commodities from one location to another. However, the nature of items transported on bulk loads maintains a certain level of risk. Raw materials are easily damaged and agricultural products can be quickly compromised by unexpected weather elements. This indicates the need for a trustworthy storage location that can facilitate anything necessary to stabilize these important goods.

Due to the bottlenecked nature of California ports, West Coast importers need to have connections with local drayage companies and bulk storage facilities. Although load boards were created for a reason, they are unreliable for high-priority shipments such as bulk commodity imports. Delayed pickup can quickly accrue detention or demurrage costs since the size of bulk transport containers will always be more obvious than smaller containers that can get forgotten among backed-up ports.

How to Better Plan for Bulk Loads

Shippers and BCOs can’t sleep on their bulk transport plans, even though shipping vessels carry their loads while they sleep. With disruptions around every bend so shippers must consider the following to get the most out of bulk freight shipping.

Know your container or break bulk load’s size and weight.

Track vessel berth and expected release of containers from port.

Have drivers ready to pick up bulk container goods on time.

Shorten the distance between port and bulk cargo storage.

Know what’s happening and when to expect your delivery

Leverage street-turned containers to send empties back when a delivery is made.

Use technology by Supra to do more with less, find loads, and avoid waste.

See How Supra National Express Distribution Can Boost Your Bulk Cargo Storage and Transportation Now.

Because bulk freight shipping is outside of atypical transport sizes, it’s imperative to understand the process and maintain accurate data every step of the way. By partnering with 3PLs and carriers who offer accurate communication, down to a monthly fuel surcharge update, shippers gain what they need to get the job done.

West Coast shippers – Supra is right there! Let us be your West Coast bulk shipping solution, from drayage to short-term storage and more. Start a conversation with Supra National Express today!

Get your quote now by trying Supra’s new Online Rate Tool too!

Or get in touch with Supra’s Sales Team at (424) 267-1155 or by email: rfp@snecorp.com

FSC UPDATE – DEC/22

Dear Customer,

Beginning December 5th, 2022, our New Fuel Surcharge (FSC), at 42%, will apply to each load pulled by Supra.

Supra National Express, Inc. implemented a new fuel surcharge structure to all drayage shipments in July. The adjustment is made according to the table below. The fuel surcharge is based on the California price per gallon of diesel fuel as stated by the U.S. Department of Energy in their monthly Monday reports.

You can also check the index at the Federal Energy Department’s website.

BETWEEN		APPLICABLE FSC%	****	BETWEEN		APPLICABLE FSC%
$2.00	$2.95	20		$5.56	$5.70	41
$2.96	$3.10	21	*	*$5.71*	*$5.85*	⇒ 42 ⇐
$3.11	$3.25	22		$5.86	$6.05	43
$3.26	$3.35	23		$6.06	$6.20	44
$3.36	$3.50	24		$6.21	$6.40	45
$3.51	$3.65	25		$6.41	$6.55	46
$3.66	$3.80	26		$6.56	$6.75	47
$3.81	$3.95	27		$6.76	$6.90	48
$3.96	$4.10	28		$6.91	$7.00	49
$4.11	$4.20	29		$7.01	$7.10	50
$4.21	$4.35	30		$7.11	$7.25	51
$4.36	$4.45	31		$7.26	$7.35	52
$4.46	$4.55	32		$7.36	$7.50	53
$4.56	$4.70	33		$7.51	$7.60	54
$4.71	$4.80	34		$7.61	$7.75	55
$4.81	$4.95	35		$7.76	$7.85	56
$4.96	$5.05	36		$7.86	$8.00	57
$5.06	$5.20	37		$8.01	$8.10	58
$5.21	$5.30	38		$8.11	$8.25	59
$5.31	$5.40	39		$8.26	$8.40	60
$5.41	$5.55	40		–	–	–

Our FSC will be updated every first Monday of each month and posted on our website: https://www.snecorp.com/blog/

Best regards,

Humberto Linares
Director of Business Development
562.419.4668 | hl@snecorp.com

Posted: 12/5/2022

Benefits of Effective Cross-Docking

Cross-docking is a sure-fire way to leverage efficiency within the supply chain and transportation network, and that’s exceptionally vital as warehousing rates have risen 22% year over year, reports Marketplace. Cross-dock warehouse processes allow companies to distribute goods with much less idle dwell time, but what is cross-docking, and why are more companies looking to take advantage of cross-docking? Let’s start by digging into those specific facts.

What Is Cross-Docking?

Cross-loading is when products are moved directly from the supplier or manufacturer to the customer, without any storage space in between.

Cross-docking takes place in a distribution docking terminal and has become much more common for road and rail distribution. So, what is it? The name implies the overall distribution process- products are received through an inbound dock and then moved across the dock to the outbound delivery dock.

How Cross-Docking Warehouse Processes Benefit the Supply Chain

One of the biggest questions logistics and distributions managers have about this process is how does cross-docking reduce storage and handling costs? There are several critical benefits of cross docking that are worth considering.

Reduced Risk of Damage

With proper cross docking and improved distribution at ports, warehouses, and other hubs, there is a much lower risk of cargo becoming damaged or lost. Fewer times moving on and off trucks and out of containers means less chance for something to go wrong. Also, fewer material handling needs mean less risk for drops! Safer cargo transportation and storage is a significant benefit of cross docking warehouse and distribution services.

Lower Labor Costs

Cross docking also provides a more affordable approach to transportation and distribution costs related to labor. Fewer hands are needed to move and relocate containers, pallets, and boxes means fewer workers and work hours. Paying a driver and one or two handlers is a much more cost-efficient option and is one of the many benefits of this capability.

Lower Storage Costs

When answering the question, what is cross-docking, it is essential to look at the overall costs of storing goods and products with traditional distribution approaches. Every pallet and container unloaded and reloaded must be held somewhere. That costs money and can quickly add up to significant expenses; something that enables efficiency on the dock helps alleviate such higher storage costs.

Ability to Better Use Driver’s Time

Driver shortages are still plaguing the industry, so one of the most significant benefits of this practice today is a better use of driver availability. Rather than spending time moving containers from one location to another and dealing with storage and other logistical issues, cross docking allows drivers to complete loads in one stop rather than two or more.

Faster Transportation

The final perk distribution managers can enjoy with this process is faster overall transportation. Cross-docking warehouses and distribution centers allow cargo to get to the destination quicker. Cross-docking makes a faster, more efficient, and more streamlined approach to distribution and transportation operations possible.

Cost Savings in Outbound Transport

Cross-docking distribution hubs, warehouses, and terminals save time and money right from the start. They are cheaper to build and manage, which means lower costs for importers and a simpler process for everyone involved. The many benefits of moving palletized loads or containers from the inbound dock directly to the outbound dock can have far-reaching impacts for reducing transportation costs and improving efficiency.

Contact Distribution by Supra to leverage Cross-Docking Services and Speed Delivery Times

Cross docking improves overall operations and makes it easier to distribute directly to a customer or retail chain with minimal idle, handling, or storage time. Contact Distribution by Supra today to tap the benefits of cross-docking and beyond. Also, be sure to check out Supra National Express’s New Online Rate Tool, DrayMaster.

Define Your Goals for Each Milk Run

Develop a Milk Run Route Map

Train Your Team

Stay Organized

Be Flexible

Leverage Tech by Supra to Improve Your Milk Run Efficiency

1. Cost Savings of Outsourced Logistics Warehousing

2. Accessibility to Major Network Nodes via Tech Warehouse Connections

3. Improved Delivery Times Via Outsourced Logistics Warehousing

4. Quality Control

5. Flexibility & Scalability

6 Enhanced Security & Insurance Options

7. Expertise & Support

Streamline Your West Coast Logistics Warehousing and Yard Management Needs

Limited In-House Resources to Build a High-Tech Supply Chain Industry

Logistics Tech Unifies Disparate Data Sources

Poor Communication and Collaboration

Trouble Managing Yard Access With Antiquated Supply Chain Tech

Get on the Fast-Track to the High Tech Supply Chain With Supra

Prevents Truck Congestion.

A Safer Pickup and Dropoff

Get Back on the Road Faster

Around-the-Clock Appointment Set Features

Reap the Benefits of a Digital Truck Appointment Schedule With Supra

What Is Freight Forwarding?

Increased Fuel Efficiency

Increased Import/Export Throughput

Regulatory Compliance

Streamline Freight Forwarding With Supra’s Street Turn Interchange

Here’s what our Customers are saying about us!

What Are Bulk Loads?

How Does Bulk Freight Shipping Work?

The Risks of Bulk Cargo and Transportation/Storage

How to Better Plan for Bulk Loads

See How Supra National Express Distribution Can Boost Your Bulk Cargo Storage and Transportation Now.

What Is Cross-Docking?

How Cross-Docking Warehouse Processes Benefit the Supply Chain

Reduced Risk of Damage

Lower Labor Costs

Lower Storage Costs

Ability to Better Use Driver’s Time

Faster Transportation

Cost Savings in Outbound Transport

Contact Distribution by Supra to leverage Cross-Docking Services and Speed Delivery Times

Contact Us Today