According to the National Retail Federation, sales will increase 2.5 to 3.5 percent in 2024, from $5.23 trillion to $5.28 trillion. Retailers, BCOs, and other importers should be prepared to serve the growing needs of consumers as they head into 2025. A careful supply chain strategy, aided by AI and fueled by the desire for personalized shopping experiences, is paramount.
Reliable drayage execution is a large component of any 2025 logistics strategy. As you plan for your logistics requirements in 2025, here are ten key considerations to finding the right supply chain partners and succinctly addressing your needs.
Assess Demand and Inventory Forecasting
Using data-driven insights from your sector, analyze historical sales data to predict your demand for 2025. Make the most viable plan possible with the available intelligence, even though unpredictable consumer shifts, current events, and other economic factors may require adjustments later.
Enhance Supply Chain Resilience
Consider the weak links in your supply chain and, where applicable, diversify suppliers. Find logistics management firms that can help streamline operations and contain costs. Consider drayage professionals who can reduce lead time and shipping costs.
Optimize Transportation and Distribution for Sustainability
Consider the sustainability of your supply chain partners and lean towards those who offer sustainable transportation or exhibit a dedication to environmentally-friendly practices like electric vehicles (EVs), rail transport, or other energy-saving options.
Leverage Technology and Automation
Within warehouses, robotics and IoT inventory management can improve efficiency and accuracy in distribution centers. Look for drayage companies that employ technology and provide last-mile visibility for deliveries. Consider your supply chain visibility process, and if unsatisfactory, seek a logistics 3PL with a method that provides accurate, detailed, on-demand reporting and expert input on applying the analytics to your operations.
Control Costs
Some of the costs you incur in 2025 will be unavoidable due to unforeseen circumstances. Others can be reduced with the right logistics strategy in place. Analyze your accessorial charges and consider better demurrage or per diem management programs to reduce overall costs.
Retain Compliance
Review all regulatory changes in your industry and adapt your logistics strategy to ensure compliance, particularly concerning emissions and waste reduction. Explore green packaging options in your industry to reduce your firm’s environmental footprint.
Improve Delivery Times
Consider your expected demand and capacity and plan your fleet accordingly. Discuss best-in-class transportation options and consider chassis management options to keep shipping costs low while meeting expected delivery dates.
Develop Strong Partnerships
Review your goals and identify key supply chain partners who can help you achieve them. The right partner can help you with your organization’s shared delivery networks and sustainability initiatives.
Review Customer Experiences
Review customer feedback and experience data and analyze the need for faster delivery and increased transparency in 2025. Consider flexible delivery windows, pickup points, or subscription models for recurring deliveries.
Manage Risk
Nobody likes to think about the worst-case scenario, but developing contingency plans for global disruptions, labor issues, weather, etc., can bring you peace of mind and enable you to respond quickly in a crisis. Consider cybersecurity to ensure that your logistics systems are fortified against impending attacks.
As you create your 2025 logistics plan, we are now working with our customers to plan their logistics for the coming year. If you would like us to be part of your conversation, reach out today to discuss your needs at [email protected] or call 1-888-209-3837.
