Bonded Logistics Releases Blueprint Behind Glass Warehouse Initiative
CHARLOTTE, NC (October 30, 2015) – Bonded Logistics, Inc., released on its web site today how it’s making visibility a top priority through its Glass Warehouse Initiative. The premier provider of third party logistics and supply chain management will outline in a four-part series how deploying advanced systems, state-of-the-art technology, and valuable data analytics gives its client valuable insight into their supply chain.
“We’re excited to be able to share the blueprint behind our Glass Warehouse Initiative,” states Scott Carr, President of Bonded Logistics, with headquarters in Charlotte, NC. “Visibility has become vital for3PL companies. Gone are the days when warehousing was seen as four walls with no one knowing what’s going on inside. It’s important for our clients to see inside our warehouse walls because that insight helps them with their business. Investing in systems, technology, and data analytics through this initiative has allowed us to make that happen.
The Glass Warehouse Initiative, introduced in 2012, breaks down into three key areas of focus for Bonded Logistics – systems, technology, and data analytics. Each plays an integral part in creating visibility throughout its facilities, from receiving and shipping to physical inventories and returns. Each of these four areas will be highlighted as part of a series of quarterly posts found at www.bondedlogistics.com/about/glasswarehouse.
Systems are the gateway for Bonded’s customers to gain access into what’s going on with their inventory inside the warehouse. A robust warehouse management system aggregates data from multiple sources such as ERP systems, secure cloud servers, and shipping software, and makes it available through a secure, intranet web site called Bonded Logistics Web Portal (BLI Web). Clients have 24-7 access to their inventory to build reports on what’s in the warehouse, what’s been shipped out, what’s been returned, inventory history, as well as order velocity. This insight helps clients plan and operate their supply chain more efficiently and proactively.
“Our clients have been very happy with the offerings of the BLI Web portal,” says Dave Jesse, Chief Operating Officer of the privately owned 3PL. “They have instant access to inventory and real time transactions that are being made right on the warehouse floor. To take it a step further, they can access reports based on their own needs within whatever timeframe they want. It gives them a great snapshot of not only what is going on now, but the ability to spot trends that can provide insight into the future.”
Key investments in technology have allowed Bonded the ability to provide its clients with real-time access to what’s going on inside the warehouse. Equipment like RF Scanners, iPads for physical inventory checks, and Bar Code printers all coupled with wireless warehouses has allowed for optimization of its warehouses and made them significantly more efficient. This technology enables real-time data transactions to be captured, allowing customers that instantaneous view of their inventory whenever they want it.
Data analytics is the newest form of visibility for Bonded, giving its customers not only a look at the past but more importantly a glimpse into the future. Using its WMS, Bonded is constantly analyzing customer data and turning it into actionable information. This is communicated through KPI reporting and quarterly business reviews with clients to help them spot trends, refine plans, and forecast inventory levels better. Data analytics have become so important that Bonded has brought on additional staff to assist in this effort as they feel this has huge potential to help their clients.
“Data analytics has become a very big part of our business,” adds Jesse. “It’s not enough anymore to just provide the data through our BLI Web portal. Customers are looking for us to tell them what it all means and how it can help their bottom line. It’s a great way to take our relationship to the next level.”
Bonded Logistics is thrilled to share with others how the Glass Warehouse Initiative is making a positive impact throughout its business. The first installment of the four-part series is scheduled to post in early January of 2016. It will detail how systems, technology, and data analytics play a key role in receiving inventory into the warehouses.