Many businesses see logistics as something of a dynamic system, but a systemic one nonetheless. When you think of it personally, what images come to mind? You may think of large shipping containers at a dock, boxes being moved on conveyor belts, and large trucks driving on the road. All of this counts, of course, and you’d be correct.
But it’s curious that the images of the logistics network and progression we imagine rarely include humans. After all, that shipping container had to be moved and stacked by someone. That conveyor belt had to be operated by someone watching over the system. We’re not quite at the point where driverless trucks dominate the roads. So our prior concepts only held half the picture.
As a business looking to improve your logistics, then, instead of trying to optimize routes or lobbying for reduced import fees, you may consider how to invest in staff to make them more effective at delivering your schedule. Here’s how:
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Regular Workplace Competency & Safety Training
Every logistics operation is built on the work of people who know what they’re doing, and regular training is how you keep that foundation strong, expansive, and refresher courses at the same time and scheduled throughout the year. Logistics often involves moving massive amounts of freight, and this means taking your time to really nail down essential courses for every staff and ensuring safety, such as through an ADR Training Course
On top of that, refresher courses for operating heavy machinery or handling hazardous materials can prevent accidents that could slow everything down orr worse. It’s also a way to stay compliant with changing regulations, which can sneak up on businesses if they aren’t paying attention., especially in this field where new procurement rules and standards can change. Over and above those necessary practical benefits that remain clear to see, training shows your team you’re investing in their safety and success.
Correct Staff Levels
It’s the easiest thing in the world to truly underestimate how much staffing impacts logistics. Too few people, and all of a sudden you’ll find that everyone’s overworked, there are way too many mistakes being made, and morale takes a hi,t to put it mildly. Too many, and you’re paying for idle hands. Neither is good for business.
Demand is important to keep in mind, because logistics and staffing is a highly seasonal trade. If you run a seasonal business, that might mean bringing in temporary help during peak times. For a steady operation, it might mean reviewing shift patterns or cross-training employees so they can step into different roles when needed. Proper staffing isn’t just about filling roles; it’s about creating a rhythm that keeps the whole operation moving smoothly.
Retain Reliable Drivers
Companies very much underemphasize how a reliable driver can make all the difference between a satisfied customer and a logistical nightmare. That’s why it’s worth putting effort into keeping them on board if they do a good job for you because drivers are often known to move from company to company and even go freelance where they can.
However, they’ll be likely to stick around if you start with fair pay and a schedule that respects their time. Long hours and unpredictable routes wear people down, especially with families, so plan their workloads carefully.
From there, you can think about what makes their job more enjoyable, such as providing a well-maintained vehicle, clear communication about expectations so they always know where they stand, or even small gestures like recognizing milestones or achievements. When drivers feel valued, they stick around, and their loyalty becomes one less thing for you to worry about, as does trying to recruit in a field that is harder to address than usual.
Utilize Multiple Suppliers
Relying on one supplier might seem like a way to simplify things, but it’s a risk that can leave you scrambling if something goes wrong. A delay, a stock shortage, or even a sudden price hike can throw your entire system into chaos.
By diversifying your supplier base, you create a safety net. It doesn’t mean working with dozens of vendors, but having a few reliable options ensures you’re never left empty-handed. It also gives you flexibility to negotiate better deals or find alternatives if something isn’t working out. Building strong relationships with suppliers takes time, but it’s worth it for the stability and peace of mind it brings.
Consider Warehouse Fulfilment
How you organize your warehouse will often be decided by and maintained via your staff priorities. It’s important to consult them if you’re planning to make a significant change to their duties. You can start with layout, asking questions such as are high-demand items easy to access? When thinking about how intra-warehouse logistics are managed, ask if pathways clear and logical in addition to that? Those simple changes, such as these, can speed up fulfillment times but they also allow you to take on the feedback that you’ve had beforehand.
However, sometimes the operational effort of your staff, who may be assigned to other roles, isn’t enough for fulfillment. If your operation is growing, outsourcing to a third-party warehouse might make sense, because they can handle storage, picking, packing, and shipping, leaving you free to focus on other parts of your business. It’s not a solution for everyone and you may need to customize this to the requirements of your own company, but for the right business, it can be a genuine redesign that helps you reformat how you think of your company..
Allow For Collections
Offering customers the option to collect their orders might not seem like a big deal, but it can be a great addition to your logistics strategy and help to reduce the strain on your team. Not everyone wants to wait for a delivery, especially if they live nearby or need something urgently.
Through that logic, a collection point gives them flexibility and saves you the hassle of organizing a delivery. It’s also an opportunity to connect with your customers directly, which can only be a plus. Your staff can be ambassadors too, even if they’re usually in logistics.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily leverage your logistical team for the best outcome.