Logistics platforms: The key to optimize your company

Today, optimizing the supply chain is key to ensuring success, especially in e-commerce. Emerging logistics platforms offer a strategic solution that improves efficiency in the management of goods, significantly reduces operating costs and increases customer satisfaction. In this article, we will explore how these tools can revolutionize your company's operations, putting it at the forefront of the market and strengthening its competitive position.

The current business logistics landscape

The reality faced by companies in terms of logistics is increasingly complex. In Mexico, the logistics cost of products represents between 20% and 30% of the total cost of the merchandise, and can reach up to 50% due to inefficiencies in customs procedures and intermodal points. This situation directly affects the profitability of organizations.

In a market that undergoes constant disruptions, changes and is more competitive, every detail makes a difference. Even when the product delivered to the consumer is good, poor management can lead to the closure of the company, say industry experts.

The post-pandemic years have radically changed the logistics landscape, with significant fluctuations in demand and transportation capacity, leading to volatility in freight costs and forcing companies to seek more innovative and efficient solutions. (Blog - Solistica)

Strategic benefits of integrated logistics platforms

Logistics platforms offer end-to-end solutions that change every aspect of the supply chain. These platforms, when implemented correctly, enable your company to:

• Optimize resources and processes: By implementing systems that automate repetitive tasks and optimize route planning.
• Reduce operating costs: By optimizing the use of space, fuel and human resources.
• Improve real-time visibility: Enabling informed decisions based on up-to-date data.
• Increase customer satisfaction: With faster, more timely and accurate deliveries.

Consolidation and centralization of logistics operations facilitates more efficient management, which in turn allows your company to focus on its core business while a specialized operator manages the supply chain. (Blog - Solistica)

Digital transformation as a pillar of optimization

The implementation of advanced technologies has completely changed logistics management.

Business digitalization has generated a dual impact on operations: on the one hand, it has boosted the efficiency of internal processes and, on the other, it has provided the organization with the necessary flexibility to respond nimbly to market fluctuations, thus ensuring the provision of services with higher safety standards and optimal performance.

Among the technologies that are revolutionizing logistics platforms are:

1. Internet of Things (IoT): Sensors and connected devices that collect real-time data on temperature, precise vehicle location and shipment status.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Advanced algorithms that optimize delivery routes and predict product demand.
3. Blockchain: Ensures complete traceability of products, improving security and allowing customers to track their shipments in real time.

By implementing these technologies, companies like Solistica have seen a significant reduction in operating costs and an increase in security, reporting a 50% reduction in theft incidents.  (Article - Rúben Guerrero)

Key systems for modern logistics management

The impact of TMS on logistics efficiency

Transportation Management Systems (TMS) are fundamental tools for logistics optimization. A TMS is a platform that uses advanced technology to help companies plan, execute, and optimize the physical movement of goods.

The market for these systems is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.2% between 2019 and 2025, reflecting their growing importance.

The benefits of implementing a TMS include:

• Reduced costs by optimizing routes and comparing carrier rates.
• Real-time visibility into all aspects of the transportation process
• Improved customer satisfaction through faster and more accurate deliveries
• Optimization of the entire supply chain
• Facilitated regulatory compliance, especially useful for international companies (Blog - Solistica)

Practical strategies to optimize your logistics operation

Strategic cost reduction in transportation goes beyond cutting costs. It is a comprehensive transformation that nurtures all aspects of your logistics operation. Some effective strategies include:

1. Freight consolidation: Combining multiple smaller shipments into one larger shipment allows you to take advantage of economies of scale and negotiate better rates.
2. Intelligent route planning: Using advanced algorithms to analyze factors such as distance, traffic patterns and vehicle capacities.
3. Just-in-Time (JIT) system: Ensures that goods are delivered exactly when they are needed, reducing storage costs.
4. Periodic freight audits: Allows you to discover discrepancies in invoicing and claim unnecessary surcharges.

By optimizing the supply chain, up to 60% savings in transportation and distribution costs can be achieved in the first year. (Blog - Solistica)

The strategic role of a specialized logistics operator

Implementing effective logistics solutions can be complex, especially for companies that do not have the necessary resources or expertise. In this case, a specialized logistics operator such as Solistica can become a strategic ally.

A logistics operator can become the best financial ally and help increase ROI by providing business-aligned solutions and avoiding large investments in technological infrastructure.

Solistica offers comprehensive 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) solutions that include:

• Full Truck Load (FTL)
• Less-than-truckload (LTL)
• Multimodal solutions
• International logistics
• Warehousing and value-added services
• Vehicle maintenance

These solutions are backed by a highly trained team and state-of-the-art technology, which guarantees your customers safety and precision in every operation. (Blog - Solistica)

Building a culture of logistics optimization

True logistics transformation involves the implementation of technologies and processes, as well as the development of an organizational culture focused on efficiency. Some recommendations include:

• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs): To ensure proper resource management and improve productivity.
• Encourage strategic alliances: Being part of logistics clusters can generate significant savings by sharing resources.
• Build a culture focused on savings: Create awareness of productivity and waste reduction.
  
  Although this advice can produce savings, what will really optimize costs is to carry out a comprehensive plan that intelligently combines processes, analysis, technology, and culture. (Blog - Solistica)

The future of logistics platforms

The field of logistics platforms is continually evolving, driven by technological advances and market demands. Emerging trends include:

• Automation and robotization: From automated warehouses to autonomous vehicles.
• Sustainability: Implementation of electric vehicles and reusable packaging solutions.
• Advanced data analytics: Visualization tools and customized reporting.

Solistica is at the forefront of these trends, establishing strategic relationships with manufacturers and retailers, offering value-added services and diversifying delivery options to meet changing customer needs. (Blog - Solistica)

Integrated Logistics Platforms.

Logistics platforms represent an unprecedented opportunity to optimize your business, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction. Implementing advanced technologies, effective strategies and a culture focused on efficiency can make the difference between success and stagnation in today's competitive business world.

Discover how their customized solutions can help you transform your supply chain effectively and profitably. Visit  https://solistica.com/soluciones/ for more information.