The globalization of the supply chain continues despite disruption and trade tensions. New services and technologies offer value to managing global logistics and supply chains.
Common misconceptions influence the state of global logistics. Shippers need to think holistically about the challenges of managing global logistics. A transportation management system (TMS) can help overcome them.
So can an organization that continues to expand its global logistics management.
Managing Global Logistics Means More Risks and Volatility
Technology advances and growing awareness about the benefits of supply chain management solutions is driving growth.
Global logistics market growth is forecast to continue at a 6.5% CAGR from 2021-2029, according to Research and Markets. Global supply chains are inherently longer. They present more exposure to risks and disruption. Natural disasters, health epidemics, changing tariffs, and aging infrastructure affect supply chain volatility. Uncertainty becomes self-propagating, resulting in additional risks throughout the industry.
For instance, rising ocean shipping rates and U.S. diesel fuel prices, as well as changing surcharges can can drive higher transport across the supply chain.
These risks contribute to the likelihood of less available capacity, undermining efficiency, and leading to volatility.
Global Logistics Leads to More Variability and Trouble in Demand Planning
The complexity of managing global logistics also leads to added variability. Variability describes the difference between expectations and actual events.
Longer supply chains are subject to more risks, so the final activities may not reflect the planned activities. This creates challenges in demand planning, such as ordering raw materials, working with business-to-business retailers, and available capacity.
Longer Supply Chains Often Lack Visibility
Longer supply chains typically translate to less visibility. Decreased visibility derives from the continuous transition between carriers, freight brokers, third-party services, and modes. Estimates of the lack of visibility remain near 40%. Without visibility, revenue losses become more severe and disruption risk increases. Improve visibility and improve job satisfaction for logistics managers, too.
Language and Cultural Barriers Remain
Barriers between countries, ports, trade regulators, freight forwarders, 3PLs, and business-to-business partners are another challenge in managing global logistics. Failure to consider the obstacles may result in inaccurate shipment processing and the inability to collect payment. Meanwhile, incompatible systems may lead to additional delays and headaches for shippers and logistics service providers.
Solving the Challenges with a Global Transportation Management Platform
Investing in a transportation management system (TMS), or a dedicated platform, overcomes the challenges of managing global logistics in several ways. Benefits include:
- Data-driven capabilities help manage volatility. Since the TMS gives you better control over all your transportation data, shippers and users can apply this data to handle fluctuations and changes in demand.
- Decreased variability. More information improves your ability to ensure actual activities reflect planned activities.
- Improved, centralized controls increase global logistics visibility. Breaking down data silos and sharing information through a centralized TMS increases visibility, improving responsiveness along the way.
- Cross-border use ensures compliance with applicable regulations and overcomes language and cultural barriers. Keeping all documents and compliance measures within the TMS improves compliance and eliminates concerns over language and cultural barriers.
- Advanced systems rely on EDI and APIs to connect to “incompatible” systems. Modern systems can communicate automatically and reduce the risk of lost information, while also optimizing scheduling and management.
- Cloud-based platforms transcend traditional, on-premise solutions. Relying on the cloud ensures global access and reduces the risk of disruption following an adverse effect, including weather-related disasters and trade conflicts.
Put the Power of an Advanced, Global TMS to Work Managing Logistics
An advanced TMS relies on software-as-a-service subscription models, artificial intelligence, and modern, RESTful connectivity to promote logistics management.
Globalization will continue as e-commerce expands, and supply chains will grow more reliant on one another. The evolution demands a cloud-based, scalable solution.
Find out how we help global customers manage their logistics in this case study of Caliber.global.
FAQ: additional Questions about managing global logistics
What Strategies Help Manage Global Logistics risks during natural disasters & health epidemics?
Natural disasters and health epidemics can significantly disrupt global logistics by affecting transportation routes, disrupting production facilities, and causing delays in shipments. To mitigate these risks, companies can implement contingency plans, diversify suppliers, maintain safety stock, and leverage technology for real-time monitoring and communication.
What Challenges arise from language and cultural barriers and How Can You Address These Challenges in global logistics management?
Language and cultural barriers in global logistics can lead to miscommunication, errors in documentation, and delays in customs clearance. Companies can address these challenges by hiring bilingual staff, providing cultural sensitivity training, using translation services, and establishing clear communication protocols with international partners.
what are practical steps or features within a TMS that address this Global Logistics?
To manage volatility in global logistics, companies can utilize advanced forecasting algorithms, adopt flexible transportation modes, maintain strategic inventory buffers, and establish collaborative relationships with suppliers and logistics providers. Additionally, investing in data analytics and visibility tools can help companies identify and respond to market fluctuations proactively.
What Are real-world examples illustratating implementation of global transportation management platforms?
Case studies highlighting successful implementation of global transportation management platforms often showcase companies that have streamlined their operations, improved visibility, reduced costs, and enhanced customer satisfaction. These case studies typically demonstrate how TMS solutions have enabled companies to overcome language barriers, comply with regulations, optimize routes, and improve supply chain resilience.
are there drawbacks associated with transitioning to cloud-Based platforms?
While cloud-based platforms offer numerous benefits for managing global logistics, including scalability, accessibility, and resilience, there are potential challenges associated with data security, connectivity issues, and regulatory compliance. Companies should carefully evaluate their IT infrastructure, assess the reliability of cloud service providers, and implement robust cybersecurity measures to address these concerns effectively.
One Response
I see you have highlighted all the major challenges in managing global logistics. The dynamics of the logistics industry is changing continuously due to the changing trend and constant innovation in technology. In today’s modern world it is possible to overcome any challenge using the latest technology, hence the logistics industry must stay ahead of the competition by constantly innovating and improving its technology. Thank you for sharing this informative article with us. I learnt a lot of new things from your article.