Three Retail Shipping Methods Built for Speed
What is transloading? How can you take advantage of DC bypass? Who can I trust with pool distribution logistics? Find answers with AIT’s experts
As the retail industry continues to innovate and consumer expectations rise, so too does the market’s demand for faster, more efficient retail logistics services. A reliable retail logistics provider can ensure that you not only keep up with but also surpass consumers’ in-store expectations.
Whether you need to move merchandise, product displays, store technology – or anything else that keeps your business growing – a logistics transportation expert like AIT can help you build flexible, customized solutions that streamline your processes to fulfill your unique needs.
Depending on your organization’s business goals, products and other factors, three time-tested – and efficient – retail shipping options are pool distribution logistics, DC bypass and transloading services.
Cut less than truckload costs with efficient pool distribution logistics
Instead of sending large volumes of less than truckload (LTL) shipments destined for the same region via multiple vehicles, pool distribution combines orders destined for one geographic area. For example, shipments from a manufacturing facility in Chicago headed to the Southwest may be consolidated on a single lane to a hub in Phoenix. Once the truck arrives in Phoenix, the cargo is offloaded, sorted and delivered locally.
This method not only cuts down on both costs and transit time, it also reduces claim risk, thanks to less handling compared to a traditional LTL option.
Get to market quicker with distribution center bypass
DC bypass, sometimes called bypass freight, gets product to market faster by removing a traditional step—the distribution center (DC)—from the supply chain.
With the DC out of the picture, product ships directly from the manufacturer to its final destination, typically a retail outlet or the consumer.
A great fit for fast-moving merchandise (think seasonal or top-selling items), this method saves time, as well as labor and transportation costs. Plus, it speeds up inventory updates, reduces product loss or damage, and can enhance the customer experience.
What is transloading?
Mode switch to get farther, faster with transloading
Transloading allows shippers to switch between the most convenient, efficient and/or cost-effective transportation modes and containers (truck to plane and back to truck, for example). Intermodal shipping is similar but involves keeping freight in the same container for the entire journey.
This shipping method can not only help you save on transit costs, it also allows you to extend your reach (switching from rail or truck to a seaplane, for instance, is a requirement to access many remote locations in Alaska).
What to expect from AIT’s retail logistics experts
Backed by more than four decades of experience and a global resource network, our retail logistics professionals have helped hundreds of retailers meet and exceed their goals.
With AIT, you’ll enjoy dedicated, around-the clock customer support, access to cutting-edge logistics technology, and more, including:
- Real-time shipment visibility
- Competitive pricing
- Industry-leading cargo security