Logistics Software Removes the Need For 3rd Party Logistics Providers

The more products a company ships, the more shipping costs become subject to cost saving strategies. For most companies, realizing the most economical shipping solutions depends on the implementation of the most popular form of supply chain software (SCS): logistics planning software. On the most basic level, the solutions offered by logistics software improve a company's phased planning measures, product sales forecasts and scientific safety stock. Some companies hire 3rd party logistics providers, but more and more companies are turning to logistics software in place of 3rd party logistics providers for two reasons: logistics software offers the same level of quality as 3rd party logistics providers and it offers it a much lower price. When companies use logistics planning software, they can centralize and integrate their product delivery system by allowing drivers at different sites to connect using the most efficient travel routes, which increases product delivery time and decreases fuel costs by reducing empty running. Regardless of which style of logistical planning a company needs to implement-inbound transportation management system software , contract logistics, LCL/FCL, LTL/FTL, etc.-logistics planning software allows companies to arrive at advanced planning and scheduling solutions that can significantly increase their bottom line. By implementing this software, companies can improve the cost effectiveness of the following product distribution arrangements, among others: container planning and empty container repositioning, intermodal transport, multi-hub and multi-leg transport, cross docking, multi-compartment trailer planning and inventory management. One example of how logistics software helps companies reduce their shipping costs can be seen in less than truckload (LTL) shipping arrangements. Especially beneficial for companies that don't ship a high volume of goods, LTL shipping allows companies to pay a fraction of full truckload (FTL) shipping costs. LTL shipping combines multiple partial truckloads into a full truckload and splits the full load price between the shippers. For trucking companies, LTL is beneficial because it draws in customers who would traditionally ship their good by parcel carrier. Another example of how logistics software can save companies money is by examining the characteristics of shipping routes. For example, while the shortest route might seem to be the fastest route, this software can reveal that a longer route would be faster due the traffic characteristics of the shorter route.