Blog

As warehouse capacity across the U.S. is shrinking rapidly, with under four percent vacancy nationwide, the lack of space left many 3PLs wondering how they can continue to grow. As a result, how a logistics provider utilizes the warehouse space they have is crucial.  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons, Supply Chain Strategy

Today, supply chain functions cover a wide range of objectives. These are typically centered on the growth of the business and most importantly, customer service. In warehouse storage and distribution, the core of customer service is forming a relationship that customers want to sustain over time. We all expect great customer service, so what are we doing to provide it?  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons, Rise of 3PL Services

Inventory management affects a 3PL’s business at all levels and can make or break an operation. There are a number of events that can cause errors in your inventory including a mistake in the warehouse management system (WMS), a poorly laid out warehouse, or an employee error. The 3PL industry standard is 97 percent accuracy, which would be the equivalent of scoring an A+ on every single test. This seems impossible, but can be done with a few simple practices. So why is it important to be this precise and live up to this high standard?  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons, Supply Chain Strategy

Losing a key client can be devastating for any business. This devastation is not limited to just financial loss or tarnished company brand. There is the declining employee morale associated with the loss as well. No business has a perfect record when it comes to retention. Even your best customers will eventually move on at some point, and not necessarily because of your lack of performance on your end. When you come to terms with this reality, you'll be prepared for when it happens. I've personally worked with entrepreneurs who have experienced loss at all levels. But the one thing that stings these solitary geniuses the most is losing one of their biggest clients. Take the necessary steps to recover from a major customer loss so you're positioned to recover quickly: Be flexible with your staffing. Creating the right types of efficiencies will ensure that your company isn't overstaffed, even on your biggest accounts. Even if employees are dedicated to certain accounts, make sure that you have a plan for migrating your people to other areas of the company should you lose that client. Laying people off and then hiring more resources again creates a highly volatile environment.  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons

Following one of Spartan Logistics' greatest disappointments, Steve Harmon, President of Spartan chose to dissect the experience rather than forget it. From one of Spartan's greatest accomplishments to one of the most disappointing, the journey of running a warehouse and distribution 3PL service is tumultuous. Let us take a look at both ends of the spectrum. Steve's white paper, Requiem of a Contract is below for download.  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons, Lessons

Customer Service is one of Spartan Logistics' four pillars. It is also the heart of our company story. When it comes to such dry topics as: leasing warehouse space, dry good storage, or inventory control systems; customer service may not be the first thought in mind. At Spartan Logistics we have learned customer service, regardless of topic, should always be the first thought. It is through fulfilling our customer's 3pl needs that we will continue to grow.  Read More

Topics: Customer Service Lessons, Teamwork