What is cross-docking

Cross-docking removes the “storage” connection between the supply chain and the outbound freight. Goods are unloaded, sorted, and directly reloaded onto outgoing trucks or railway cars. Products that are destined to the same place can be consolidated into fewer freight vehicles. Alternatively, large shipments can be broken down into smaller packages for easier delivery. The result is a leaner, more efficient supply chain in both cases.

Pre-Distribution vs. Post-Distribution Cross-Docking

Before and after cross-docking, goods are split into two categories: pre-distribution and post-distribution cross-docking. With pre-distribution cross-docking, goods are unpacked, sorted, and repacked according to pre-determined distribution instructions. The customer is identified before the goods even leave the supplier. In other words, goods are pre-distributed. Post-distribution cross-docking, on the other hand, involves sorting after the goods have already left the supplier. Because the goods are sorted after they have already left the supplier, post-distribution cross-docking enables retailers and suppliers to make smarter, more informed decisions about where to ship their stuff based on in-store inventory, sales forecasts, and point of sale trends.

Cross-Docking Benefits

Cross-docking is a cost-reducing strategy that improves the efficiency of your retail supply chain. Here are some of the primary advantages it offers. As a result of merchandise spending less time in the warehouse, inventory handling, and storage expenses are considerably diminished. In addition, goods reach their final destination (i.e. the customer) faster, which gives the retailer an edge.

Minimal Handling Equals Less Damage

Handling products minimally equals less harm. When a damage receipt occurs as a result of handling, it frequently occurs as a result of how much handling the product undergoes during shipment. In order to reduce the possibility of customer damage complaints, less-than-load shipments are generally utilised. This means that your product goes through multiple shipping facilities before it reaches its ultimate destination. Cross-docking arrangements make it possible for your goods to journey a minimal number of miles before arriving at their final destination. Thus, there is less of a probability that damage will occur.

ProConnect Integrated Logistics for your Business

You’re not the only one thinking of outsourcing part of your operations to a 3PL, many companies and shippers agree and rely on us to efficiently support them. Optimizing supply chain is not easy, it requires tying lots of activities and ends together, opting for an experienced 3PL like ProConnect Integrated Logistics can offer many benefits – thanks to their expertise, experience, resources and of course, their network, which can reduce your supply chain risks marginally. You may or may not have a supply chain department of your own, but you still need a trusted team to identify and avoid potential risks and problems that can affect your supply chain operations. Therefore, a 3PL is often turned to and appointed by large companies as well as SMBs.

For any questions or evaluation, get in touch with us.

For any questions or evaluation, get in touch with us.