Can anyone refer a supply chain pro with one-off retail distribution/fulfillment expertise?
What's the most effective distribution strategy for small retail products shipped from the US to more than 100 countries daily?
My colleague manufactures product for the retail market. He is looking for supply chain and shipping expertise for a pick/pack/ship operation in the US sending hundreds of consumer products daily to over 100 countries. Products is sold direct to consumers and sent to their homes. The value is $25 to $100 and the weight is under 2 lbs.
If anyone has expertise or knows someone who does, please respond here or contact me directly.
Thanks in advance,
Ernest
Good Answers (1)
Bruce S
Entrepreneur
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You'll want to talk to North American Corp located near Chicago Illinois. They are experts in this area, and could probably even handle the distribution for you.
Alternatively, you could talk to UPS Supply Chain Solutions.
Links:
More Answers (6)
Ray M
International Logistics and Supply Chain Professional and Consultant
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Hi Earnest.
First, I want to say this type of business is certainly executable.
However, there really are quite a number of inputs (to mention just a few - IncoTerms or international terms of sale, tariff classifications, end-use, denied party screening, delivery promises (transit-times), returns policy, etc., etc., etc.) to this export scenario, and we must 1st define each and its particular constraints.
I suggest you call me to discuss in more detail, because as you know … proper planning prevents poor performance & profit!
Sending you a PM now.
Until then best regards,
Ray
Tony N
Consultant helping Companies produce Measureable Results Improvement in Procurement.
Another source for input on your decison would be either UPS or DHL. Both do thi stype work and are capable to act as Third Party distributors for you. They might not help, but it is somethin to check out.
Bryan C
Logistics and Supply Chain, Agricultural. packaging. and container, Retail Automotive Parts Professional
I agree with Tony. I have worked with UPS to ship items to Canada. The work was seamless since the customer can use their internet software to track the package. UPS shipments are automatically insured for up to $100. If your friend was looking for a company to do it all, I would recommend AMAZON.com Best wishes !
Ernest,
This type of thing is done all the time - UPS and FedEx sales reps would be able to run you through their product offerings, and you could source DHL as well - their US strength is certainly debatable at present but they are still very strong internationally.
Depending on the volumes, there are a few distribution models you could consider involving consolidated shipping to key areas, with local or regional distrubution from there. Given the weight of the product it would make sense that end delivery to the ultimate consignee be done through the courier stream, but volumes to key international points may allow you the advantage of shipping consolidations as a freight shipment. Benefits to this are reduced transportation costs (essentially a zone-skip process) as well as reduced brokerage fees through consolidated entries. You'll also want to consider VAT deferment for Europe, which would make the Benelux region a logical entry point for all EU consigments.
John ジョン S. R
APAC Business Development / Marketing Professional | Global Citizen | Photographer | Guest Lecturer
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Good day Ernest,
Going with an established firm (such as those recommended herein) is probably the best option as they'll ensure reliable deliveries and the ability to back your colleague up (should any logistical issues arise).
Regards,
John S. Rajeski
Links:
James C
Logistics/SCM Consultant, Thailand and ASEAN
Best Answers in: Supply Chain Management (2), Inventory Management (1)
Hi Earnest, If you are shipping to 100 countries daily, you do not have a small operation and your upfront freight payment is not a small figure unless you are using standard surface mail. However, you want to keep over heads down. As prior suggestions show the couriers, You have UPS and Fx. DHL would be a 3rd choice, but limited, if you are not happy with the others. You have a small package system. Both have good programs and can give company accounts based on shipment volume. You have rates and no flux charges. Also, some insurance in loss and theft. Cover your risks first and being a small company, cut your costs. However, if you are consumer oriented direct to consumer, your planning is based on customer assumption figures. UPS had conducted such a program a while back that also calculated in foreign duty so you could ship DD. (Catalog item buying.) Good Luck.
