/ By zipxpress / Custom Carrier Solutions/ 0 Comments

Securing Your Supply Chain

Supply chains are constantly on the move and always evolving. Every day brings new challenges, and with them, new solutions. There is so much to think about on a daily basis – replenishing inventory, fulfilling orders, delivering goods, and billing clients. In this whirlwind of actions and responsibilities, many organizations often neglect one of the most important aspects of the supply chain – security. This is a major mistake as unsecured supply chains can lead to theft, fraud, cyberattacks, and data leaks. There are many ways to cultivate a secure supply chain, but it all starts with the people in the organization.

Investing in high-tech security systems and encrypted software is vital for any company, but those flashy assets don’t mean anything if a culture of trust, transparency, and understanding is not put into place. Employees will work harder if they feel valued – that is well known. In addition to their hard work, however, they will feel loyal to the company and will be more willing to look out for suspicious activity or report potential scams. A disgruntled worker may recognize a phishing email, but might not be motivated enough to raise a red flag to management. Hackers and data miners are always finding new ways to bypass cybersecurity systems, so it is up to the workers to be the last line of defense.

By implementing continual training programs and staying on top of the most recent security threats, managers can keep their employees aware of the things to look out for. It should be emphasized that everyone is on the same team and that employees are trusted to do what’s best for the company. Attacks on an organization – whether physical or digital – threaten the livelihood of everyone who works there. Taking an all-in approach and providing the necessary tools for security is a vital step in keeping the supply chain running smoothly and safely.

At Zip Xpress, we understand the importance of keeping your supply chain secure. Our talented and experienced staff are always on the lookout for suspicious activity. We won’t hesitate to contact your organization if we believe your supply chain is at risk because security is only going to become more important in the years ahead. To see how we can help keep your supply chain secure, start today with Zip Xpress!

/ By zipxpress / Trucker Homage/ 0 Comments

Staying Healthy on the Frontlines

With some states easing shelter-in-place restrictions and more freight shipping in recent weeks, there seems to be some optimism that the economy is starting to gain steam. Still, many essential workers are at risk of being exposed to COVID-19. Those working in warehouses come in contact with people and freight on a daily basis, and those delivering the goods are on the road constantly, entering truck stops, gas stations, and delivery docks. It is vital for these frontline workers to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves healthy and prevent the spread of this dangerous virus.

It should go without saying that we should all be practicing thorough and constant handwashing. Anytime a worker leaves his post or touches a potentially contaminated item, he should wash his hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer. Those who have to enter their workplace should be sure to wear face masks throughout the day. N95 masks are the most effective, but are difficult to come by. Cloth masks are easy to make and can help prevent the spread of the coronavirus (but they aren’t a replacement for social distancing). Most importantly, anybody who feels even mildly ill should tell their manager immediately and see a doctor. Now is not the time to ignore symptoms. Doing so puts the worker and all those around him or her at risk.

Forgotten through all of this is the toll the pandemic can have on one’s mental health. Social isolation can be devastating, but there are ways to stay connected. Those working in warehouses or driving trucks should take some time to get out for a walk, read a book, or interact with family and friends through telephone and video calls. Even a five minute conversation can add a positive outlook to the day once we know our family and friends are safe.

At Zip Xpress, we understand that frontline workers are facing trying times. Drivers and freight handlers have stayed working since the start of the crisis, many of them putting their health on the line to keep our supply chain running. These hard working individuals deserve our gratitude and respect. To see how our hardworking employees can service your freight, start today with Zip Xpress!

/ By zipxpress / Custom Carrier Solutions/ 0 Comments

Bracing For Demand Challenges

During the first few weeks of shelter-in-place orders from many states across the country, demand for particular items spiked drastically. Products such as paper towels, canned foods, and face masks were flying off the shelves anywhere they could be found. This created a bullwhip effect for many suppliers which put quite a bit of pressure on their logistics teams. Manufacturers and carriers, however, were happy to see an increase in business, if only temporary. Unfortunately, demand in other industries has dropped and everyone is paying attention to the bottom line in anticipation for what is coming next.

The key through all of this lies in collaboration. Companies that work together and foster creative thinking, problem solving and strategic collaboration will go a long way in ensuring that companies will endure. Strong partnerships throughout the supply chain is key in getting through these times, as every vendor, supplier, and carrier either has been or will be affected. By opening the lines of communication and working together on every project, we can minimize the negative results of the pandemic. Unique opportunities will present themselves for the companies willing to partner together and many businesses are being saved by getting creative in how they serve their customers.

At Zip Xpress, we understand that there will be demand challenges ahead, but as long as everyone remains vigilant, honest and keeps communication open, we will get through this together. Our team is ready to assist with the unique challenges associated with your freight. We will develop strategies tailored to the needs of your business and provide you with a custom carrier solution that works for you. As long as we work together, no challenge is too great. To see how we can help with your shipping needs, start today with Zip Xpress!

/ By zipxpress / Miscellaneous/ 0 Comments

Supply Chain and Logistics in Education

With the looming uncertainty for students and professionals, many are unsure of where the jobs will be or what will be deemed “essential.” One thing we know for certain is that logistics is one of the American sectors with the most promise. It is a sector that will never be fully automated or outsourced because goods still need to be developed, manufactured, and delivered. People will always be the most vital part of the supply chain, making this field a lucrative option that offers a great amount of stability and certainty.

Many younger people are realizing these benefits and incorporating logistics courses into their education programs. Supply chain management programs are seeing a steady increase in higher education and there’s no better time than now to take advantage since a record number of universities are offering hundreds of specialized courses. Topics range from the all-encompassing Supply Chain Management to more specialized courses such as Information Technologies in Logistics. For students with an interest in the backbone of the economy, options abound.

At Zip Xpress, we understand the importance of ongoing education. Supply chain management will only become more crucial in the coming years. A new generation of logistics experts are entering the workforce with a hunger to serve and solve the complex problems involved in running a supply chain. We’re grateful to see how specialized the field is becoming, but we’d like to offer some advice to these prospective experts: don’t forget great customer service. Shippers deserve to have their freight handled with care. It’s a sign of respect to everyone in the supply chain – from the shippers to the end user because nobody likes receiving damaged freight. Any candidate who is willing to show great customer service in this field will go far, and fortunately we have an entire staff dedicated to great service. To see for yourself, start today with Zip Xpress!