At a cross-dock warehouse, one can expect to see multiple in-bound and out-bound transportation options, like trucks or trains. From there, goods are moved in three major ways: The most simple, straight-forward option is called continuous cross-docking where goods are moved directly from in-bound to out-bound transit. This method is just as it sounds, and can greatly reduce the need for any warehouse storage.
Secondly, there are consolidation agreements where a bunch of small products are received from various shipments and combined into a few larger shipments to send them out. These agreements can drastically reduce transportation costs by being more time and space efficient.
Lastly, there are deconsolidation agreements, which are basically the opposite of consolidation agreements. In deconsolidation, larger shipments are divided into smaller groups that make delivery to consumers easier and more efficient. All these methods of cross-docking are designed to save you time and money while raising customer satisfaction.
Cross-docking, however, can be difficult to practice without the right resources. On the list of must-haves for cross-docking includes a streamlined, automated, and computerized logistics system to handle the rapid exchange of goods. From there, space and man-power to move the loads is a must, and an adequate transport fleet to move the goods in and out is extremely important.
We at Dura Trucking have unmatched cross-dock systems because we have heavily prioritized creating a stable foundation of resources that allows us to quickly and efficiently cross-dock your products, getting them into the hands of consumers quicker than ever before.
