Transloading offers a cost-effective way to bring ocean containers inland to distribution centers. By transferring cargo without sorting the contents for shipment to a single destination, transloading services can reduce total landed costs, and - when combined with value-added services such as palletizing and shrink-wrapping - reduce handling at the destination.

Developing rates for cargo in-transit insurance coverage is as much an art as a science. Underwriters consider the products shipped; susceptibility to loss and damage; number of shipments; trade lanes travelled; and transportation methods and modes. But insurance premiums are also driven by a firm's loss history. While some of these variables may be out of your control, you can take steps to help lower your insurance premiums.

With fuel costs continually rising, and consumers demanding faster delivery - preferably for free - it is more important than ever for companies to control their shipping costs.

Whether your third-party logistics (3PL) service provider is a niche player or a global behemoth, you can take steps to draw more value from the partnership.

Most companies know supply chain vulnerability poses a threat to their operations, yet few perform analysis or plan strategies to minimize risk to the bottom line. Businesses can protect against disruptions by adding supply chain redundancy.

When it comes to supply chain efficiency, information is king. The more you know, the better you can manage the process and engineer improvements.

With trading partners spread across various regions, unique security risks associated with different countries, and an array of legal and regulatory regimes, global shippers must be well-prepared to ensure cargo safety.

The last mile plays a crucial role in the supply chain. As consumers expect increasingly shorter delivery windows, last-mile proximity isn't just nice to have, it's a must-have.

Are you ready for the holidays? Today's retailers and their logistics partners need to ask and answer that question well in advance of the holiday season.