Unboxing Logistics

Creating an AI Strategy That Works With Dana Moffat From Acumatica - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 88

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0600

Supply chain experts agree: businesses shouldn’t just throw AI at every problem that comes their way. But as Dana Moffat, product manager at Acumatica, points out in this week’s Unboxing Logistics episode, you can’t afford to ignore AI either.

She explains that the success of AI strategies comes down to how well you identify problems, select technology, define KPIs, and measure results.

How to create an AI strategy that works

According to Dana, the foundation for a successful AI implementation is understanding what you want to achieve and how you’ll measure the results. She says, “You have to have clear objectives and goals. … You need to know … what you want to accomplish and why.”

She shares a few questions to guide you through this initial planning stage:

Why do we think AI is the answer to this particular problem or challenge?
How will we know that AI has helped us transform or achieve our objectives?
How do we measure success or failure?

Setting your AI up for success

Before introducing AI tools, it’s important to ensure your operating procedures are clearly defined. That’s because AI learns from patterns. And “if your procedures or workflows [are] constantly changing, or your processes vary by team or customer … it's hard for AI to learn … because you don't have patterns.”

In addition to unpredictable processes, Dana shares another common pitfall when implementing an AI solution: inaccurate data.

“AI can inherit bias from historical data, and [that] can reinforce bad patterns. … As much as possible, clean up your data before you start leveraging that AI.”

Does AI replace human workers?

Many people fear that AI will replace human workers, taking jobs and ruining livelihoods. But Lori and Dana have a far more optimistic perspective—they strongly believe that real people are still necessary in the logistics space.

In Dana’s words, “There's still a very strong need for domain expertise, especially in shipping and enterprise resource planning. We have domain experts in these different functional areas, and they're very important, so AI cannot replace them.”

Preparing for Freight Volatility With Chris Caplice From MIT and DAT Freight & Analytics - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 87

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0600

In this Unboxing Logistics episode, Lori sits down with Chris Caplice, executive director at MIT Center for Transportation Logistics and chief scientist at DAT Freight and Analytics, to discuss the state of freight in 2026.

The state of freight shipping in 2026

Chris begins by laying out the two big forces shaping the freight market—supply and demand—and noting, “Because supply and demand are constantly shifting in this very volatile market, you're going to see prices going up and prices going down on a regular-ish basis.”

He explains that while demand is holding fairly steady, the same can’t be said for supply. “A lot of the regulations that have come recently … [are ] increasing the cost of being a carrier. … It's increasing the barrier of entry, so it's constricting the supply of carriers.”

The result? “We are going to see a tightening of the market throughout 2026.”

Spot vs. contract pricing

According to Chris, one of the biggest mistakes shippers make is using contract rates for every lane. Simply put, “It just doesn't make sense for certain lanes that are sporadic, low volume, things like that.”

He warns that often, financial leaders prefer the perceived security of contracts, but contracting for everything actually “creates more problems than it fixes.”

Fortunately, there’s a simple rule of thumb to know whether you’re balancing spot and contract pricing correctly. Chris says, “Thirty percent of your lanes will [probably] handle [about] 80% of your volume. But … 70% [of your lanes] will handle [about] 20%. So those ones, you don't want to put contract rates on.”

In other words, “The vast majority of your volume will go under contract. The vast majority of your lanes will probably be spot.”

Balancing cost and reliability in a tight market

Chris acknowledges that saving money is a huge consideration when it comes to shipping. But he cautions logistics leaders to consider other factors, such as carrier availability and reliability.

“There's so much excess capacity out there. It's tighter now. So little things can have big ripple effects. So I think the big concern now is not saving every dime. It's more about, okay, will my carriers be there when the market gets tighter, or if my demand shifts, or if the fuel price increases?”

Unboxing the Trends: USPS Fuel Surcharges, FedEx 2-Hour Delivery, and the Rise of Amazon Shipping With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 86

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0600

Carrier changes are picking up speed—and starting to impact both costs and service expectations across the industry.

In this episode, Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer from EasyPost break down recent updates from USPS, FedEx, and Amazon. Their conversation focuses on rising surcharges, faster delivery options, and the growing role of Amazon Shipping.

USPS introduces fuel surcharges

USPS is introducing its first-ever fuel surcharge, signaling a shift in how the carrier handles cost volatility.

Lori explains that while the change is framed as temporary, it reflects broader pressure across the industry as fuel prices and geopolitical factors continue to fluctuate.

She says, “I wouldn't be surprised to see a few more surcharges. … We're at the point where [carriers are] really struggling with costs. So we are seeing more of those costs being carried over to shippers in general.”

FedEx offers two-hour delivery

FedEx’s new same-day service with two-hour delivery windows shows how major carriers are pushing toward faster fulfillment.

These options are exciting, but they’re also expensive, and Lori reassures smaller businesses that they don’t necessarily need to offer customers same-day services. While buyers care a lot about reliability, she notes, they’re “not necessarily pushing speed as much as we sometimes think.”

Amazon Shipping gains ground as a carrier

Amazon is continuing to invest heavily in its logistics network, including a $4 billion push to expand rural delivery and reach more underserved areas.

At the same time, Amazon Shipping is gaining traction as a carrier option within multi-carrier strategies.

Lori explains that many businesses are testing it and seeing strong results, adding that “the data shows that Amazon Shipping is becoming a really big player in the carrier industry.” With tools like Luma AI that compare carrier performance across cost, speed, and reliability, more shippers are shifting volume based on what actually performs best.

EasyPost Insider: Luma AI Advisor, the Shipping LLM You Can Rely on With Tyler Diestel From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 85

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Tyler Diestel, senior product manager at EasyPost, joins Lori to discuss EasyPost’s latest shipping AI tool: Luma AI Advisor. Tyler explains what Luma AI Advisor is, how it works, and the impact it can make for SMB and enterprise shippers alike.

What is Luma AI Advisor?

Luma AI Advisor is an LLM, or large language model. Like tools such as ChatGPT or Claude, Luma AI can process natural-language questions and generate human-like responses. But unlike generic chatbots, Luma AI was built for one purpose: to streamline parcel shipping.

Tyler says, “We have this amazing product suite called Luma AI. It … gives our shippers insights into a treasure trove of data. The problem is that a lot of times we provide too much data, and it overwhelms our shippers. … So with Luma AI Advisor, instead of having to sift through the various dashboards, [users] can just chat with this nice little chatbot to find their answers directly.”

He also explains why it’s much more effective than ChatGPT or Claude: “Those are answering high-level questions. This LLM has all your shipping data, so it knows exactly what you have done and what you can do to reach your goals.”

What data is Luma AI Advisor trained on?

According to Tyler, Luma AI is trained on data from two sources: your own shipping operations and EasyPost’s billions of historic shipments. This makes it incredibly accurate when it comes to finding cost- and time-saving opportunities.

“This LLM is trained on your data, but it also takes advantage of our AI models that produce our time-in-transit predictions. … By using our AI-generated predictions, you are leveraging the billions of shipments that we've seen.”

What can Luma AI Advisor help with?

Tyler shares a few examples of questions that Luma AI can answer:

How much do I actually save by adding Amazon to my carrier mix?
What carrier has the highest on-time percentage?
What carrier do I spend the most on?

He’s also excited for future updates, which will allow Luma to help with even more shipping tasks, such as explaining how to enable a new carrier or recommending the best carrier for shipping HAZMAT.

The Middle East Shipping Crisis With Sal Mercogliano From What’s Going On With Shipping? - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 84

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0600

Just a few weeks ago, the tense situation in the Middle East reached a boiling point when the U.S. and Israel launched an attack on Iran.

Now, as the effects of the conflict ripple across the world, everyone has the same question: How will this affect global trade?

Sal Mercogliano, maritime shipping expert and host of the YouTube channel What’s Going On With Shipping?, joins Lori to help answer that question. Sal shares a nuanced analysis of how the crisis has already affected shipping and what will happen going forward.

How has the conflict in the Middle East affected shipping?

To understand why the war in Iran will have such a major impact on shipping, you first need to understand choke points. Sal describes them as “narrow little areas where [ocean] traffic funnels together.” And one of the biggest choke points in the world is the Strait of Hormuz, where the Persian Gulf meets the Indian Ocean.

Sal explains, “Since the United States and Israel struck Iran … shipping has stopped going through.” And unfortunately, “There's no shortcut here. There's no … ‘Let's go around the Persian Gulf.’ You can't. You've got to go through the strait.”

This bottleneck will result in higher costs to businesses and consumers across the world.

What will happen if the conflict continues?

While much of our oil comes from the Middle East, there are other sources. According to Sal, we’ll probably begin relying more heavily on places like the United States, Nigeria, and Venezuela for oil.

But that solution comes with its own challenges.

Sal explains, “You have to take natural gas and liquefy it, which means you put it into a ship by cooling it. … There's only a finite number of those ships. You have to go further distances, and there's a set amount you can ship because there's finite [resources] available.”

What will happen when the conflict ends?

Even when the conflict ends, Sal expects that shipping will be disrupted.

He compares it to driving down the highway: “All of a sudden, traffic comes to a stop for some reason … because there was an accident there an hour ago and it just hasn't cleared up yet. For almost every day of an incident, it takes three to four to clear it out.”

While we’re waiting for things to stabilize, Sal recommends that businesses stay informed about global events and look for ways to incorporate more flexibility into their shipping operations.

The Parcel Carrier Landscape in 2026 With Nate Skiver From LPF Spend Management - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 83

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 09:00:00 -0600

From surcharge increases to carriers unexpectedly closing their doors, the world of parcel shipping is constantly changing. And according to Nate Skiver, founder of LPF Spend Management, that trend will continue through 2026.

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, he shares tips for adapting to disruptions, managing risk, choosing the right carriers, and keeping costs low.

The state of parcel shipping in 2026

When it comes to carriers, Nate says, “There are more options [than ever], which is a good thing, but it introduces complexity.”

Fortunately, technology can help simplify things. Nate continues, “There is technology available to manage that complexity, allow[ing] shippers to introduce new carriers, optimize for cost, delivery, reliability, and speed.”

Bottom line? “There's never been a better time, I think, for shippers to create value through delivery.”

Are alternative carriers worth it?

Alternative carriers offer low costs and fast delivery times. But shippers sometimes hesitate to use them, citing concerns with reliability. So, how can you know whether an alternative carrier will fulfill its promises?

According to Nate, it all comes down to research and risk management.

“There are alternative carriers that will exit the market this year. … So it's a legitimate concern.”

He recommends, “Do your due diligence. Learn as much as you can about the company, their customers, all that you can. But don't take on too much risk.”

Staying on top of carrier pricing changes

When carriers increase prices, they don’t broadcast it to the world. For example, Nate shares that two major carriers recently raised surcharges for additional handling and oversized packages—and the increases slipped under many people’s radars.

He says, “It gets announced. It's very subtly posted on [their] websites. Often … the sales contacts for those carriers don't proactively come out and tell customers. So you have to go find it.”

To make sure pricing changes don’t catch you off guard, Nate recommends either having an in-house employee dedicated to staying on top of the parcel market or partnering with a third-party consultant.

Lessons From a Warehouse Modernization Project With John Naylor From Trew and Scott Davis From JD Finish Line - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 82

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0600

John Naylor from Trew and Scott Davis from JD Finish Line teamed up to transform a distribution center from mostly manual to automated and efficient—while the center was still operational!

In a recent session at RILA, they shared the details of the project with Lori Boyer, discussing everything from the initial planning stages to the final results and ROI.

If you weren’t able to make it to the session, no worries. We’ve turned the recording into a special episode of Unboxing Logistics. Listen to learn how John and Scott got leadership buy-in, helped employees adopt the new technology, and dealt with unexpected roadblocks.

Choosing technology with the future in mind

Throughout the session, a common thread was the need for careful planning. When choosing technology, John and Scott considered two things: whether it would be worth the investment, and how it would hold up to future business growth.

John says, “It really becomes a fairly simple black-and-white math exercise. It's an ROI. Do we invest the money? What is the payback on that?”

He continues, “Are we future proof? Have we painted ourselves into a corner? If our business needs change, or … acquisitions happen, will this be able to accommodate that change?”

Planning for the unexpected

An important part of planning is the assumption that things will go wrong at some point. Scott stresses that budgets need to leave room for these unexpected setbacks: “Contingencies are huge. Do you want to go back in a year and ask for more, or would you rather fight the battle upfront so that you can stay within your budgets?”

John chimes in, “Anybody who tells you these projects go flawlessly and on plan is lying to you. … No battle plan survives the first volley.”

Taking a people-focused approach

Automation projects often come under fire for eliminating human jobs. But for John and Scott, laying off employees was never the goal.

John explains that they forecasted employment needs and made sure not to overhire. The result? “We didn't [need] to lay off people later when [a] job function was eliminated. …

So it was a very … people-focused approach.”

As Scott puts it, the automation project was all about “[doing] more with the same people, not reduc[ing] the people.”

Unboxing the Trends: Designing for Disruption and Proving AI’s ROI With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 81

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0600

In February’s episode of Unboxing Logistics, Tim Ranagan sits down with Lori Boyer to discuss what she’s hearing from industry leaders at events like RILA and Manifest. Their conversation focuses on how ecommerce teams are building with disruption in mind.

Disruption is the baseline in 2026

This year, supply chain leaders are learning to expect the unexpected.

Lori explains that disruption no longer feels temporary. Instead, “It’s the baseline.” So rather than waiting for conditions to stabilize, organizations are designing operations around uncertainty.

She points to data from the 2026 Thomson Reuters Global Trade Report showing that supply chain management has become the number one business concern for enterprise organizations, nearly doubling since last year’s report.

From AI hype to measurable ROI

AI was a hot topic at RILA and Manifest last year, and that pattern continued in 2026. But the tone has shifted; earlier excitement around flashy demos has given way to a more practical mindset.

As Lori puts it, “AI is only of interest to people when it can show tangible, real-life returns.”

As she spoke with logistics professionals at the events, she noticed that teams that are considering AI solutions are asking tougher questions about cost savings, decision support, and measurable outcomes.

Resilience starts with the basics

Another recurring theme in Lori’s conversations was frustration with overloaded tech stacks—solutions that don’t work together, don’t solve the right problems, and ultimately create “tech stack fatigue.”

Her advice is straightforward: “Get your basics down.”

She continues, “You have to start with the problem… then find a tool. Don’t get a tool of any sort and just try to fit it into your company.”

EasyPost Insider: Tackling Enterprise-Grade Complexity With AI With Joe Dieter From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 80

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode, Joe Dieter joins Lori Boyer to explore the complexities of enterprise-level shipping and show how EasyPost Enterprise can help.

What’s an enterprise-level shipper?

Joe explains a common misconception: “When people think of enterprise shipping, they assume [it refers to] someone doing lots of volume. … But the reality is, volume is just one component. [What matters more] is enterprise-grade complexity.”

Enterprise-grade complexity can look different for every business, but Joe shares some common examples of the challenges EasyPost’s enterprise shippers face:

Time to label is too slow
Adding new carriers is difficult and time-consuming
Support costs are piling up
Shipping software can’t keep up with growth
Various systems don’t integrate smoothly
You’re seeing too many exceptions

How EasyPost Enterprise helps

EasyPost Enterprise is a “high-performance shipping engine” designed to address the complexities described above.

Its features include business rules, low-code functionality, multi-carrier automation, label and forms automation, branded tracking notifications, and insights from the industry’s most reliable shipping AI.

But one of the most important benefits is the 24/7 support. Because as Joe puts it, “Support matters when you're an SMB online seller. But if you become an enterprise-grade shipper, support becomes everything.”

Luma AI is now available in EasyPost Enterprise

Luma AI is like a shipping professional in your pocket—it provides insights and advice based on EasyPost’s vast store of shipment data and your own shipping history. And now, Luma AI can be accessed through EasyPost Enterprise.

Joe shares one example of Luma AI’s precision: “[Luma might] recommend [that] for two-day shipping down to the southwest part of the U.S., you switch from this carrier and service level over to this carrier and service level.”

“And Luma AI tells you [that] you will literally save 25% in costs and over 30% time in transit if you make this exact carrier and service level switch.”

Real Relationships, Real Results With Marty Johnson and Fahim Mojawalla From AYM High Consultants - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 79

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0600

Numbers are critical in the logistics industry, but focusing too much on deadlines, quotas, and revenue can cause leaders to overlook what really matters: relationships.

In this episode, Marty Johnson and Fahim Mojawalla from AYM High Consultants share how they prioritize long-lasting relationships with both clients and team members. Listen to learn why they believe relationships beat transactions—every time.

Transactions vs. relationships

Transactions are a normal (and important) part of business; without them, no company could ever stay afloat. But Fahim warns that having an overly transactional mindset isn’t the best path to growth.

He shares a phrase he coined: “Relationships reap real results regardless of recessions.”

Marty adds, “Customer is a very transactional word,” explaining that he and Fahim prefer to use the words guest or client. “A guest is someone you welcome into your space. … And a client is someone with whom you have a relationship that you do business [with] over and over again.”

Creating a standout customer experience

Marty and Fahim have a simple goal: “We want to go from satisfied guest to loyal advocate.”

They point out that shipping is often seen as mundane, especially from a consumer’s point of view. But when a business takes the time to understand its client’s needs, the shipping experience becomes enjoyable and memorable.

The result? “They're going to go out and tell all their friends and family, wow, I just had a great time shipping a package. … People are then talking about it and … coming in to experience what you have to offer.”

How to hire (and retain) outstanding team members

When hiring, personality comes first for Marty and Fahim. As Marty explains, “[We] hire the smile, train the skills. … Personality has to be number one; heart, authenticity, care have to be number one.”

Fahim gets even more specific, listing six must-have traits for anyone he hires. “So there are six qualities … being hungry, humble, coachable … intelligence, integrity, and enthusiasm. And if you have all six, everything else can be taught in any industry.”

Unboxing the Trends: Season 5 Highlights With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0600

It’s a wrap! As season five of Unboxing Logistics concludes, Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer look back at the issues that mattered most to ecommerce and operations teams this year.

They revisit the standout conversations on peak season, AI, cross-border shipping, and rising costs before sharing what listeners can expect in season six.

Season five’s big ideas

Much of season five centered on two ideas that kept surfacing across conversations: cost awareness and the human element.

Lori noted that several experts described teams “not always sure and [not having] visibility into where they might be losing their money.”

At the same time, even the most technical discussions pointed back to people and how real teams work, reinforcing that logistics decisions only succeed when the human side stays front and center.

A major theme—dealing with uncertainty

Almost every guest emphasized how much uncertainty logistics teams are managing right now. And while that can be scary, it’s also exciting.

Lori describes the moment as “a stage that’s primed for opportunity and creativity,” especially for companies looking to close cost gaps or adopt new technology.

What’s coming in season six

Big things are in store for next season! Lori shares that season six will feature a new carrier series designed to help businesses understand “where different carriers might fit well for your particular business model.”

Additionally, listeners can expect even more human-centered conversations and timely discussions tied to industry events.

Tips for Finding the Best Suppliers With Mattia Miglio From Alibaba.com

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Have a great idea for a new product? To turn the vision into a reality, you need to partner with reliable suppliers. But finding suppliers you can count on is easier said than done. If sourcing has been giving you grief, this is the Unboxing Logistics episode for you!

Mattia Miglio from Alibaba.com joins Lori to share tips for finding suppliers, making sure they’re a good fit for your business, and building partnerships that last.

How to find the right suppliers

When you’re on the hunt for a new partner, Mattia recommends using a platform like Alibaba.com to find vetted suppliers from across the globe. For the most accurate picture of their performance, make sure to read customer reviews and check how long they’ve been active on the platform.

Once you’re ready to move forward, Mattia says, “Always ask for samples. … If you are a beauty brand, for example, you can ask for [un]customized samples. Then you can go to customized samples, and then you place the first order with minimal quantities. Then if you're happy, you can scale up.”

Why supplier diversification matters

According to Mattia, the safest course for a small business is to always have at least three suppliers.

If one partner runs into manufacturing or shipping delays, you’ll be able to rely on your others.

He also notes, “Logistics costs are a big component. So if you find another supplier [that] can reduce your logistics costs, that will have an impact.”

Building long-term partnerships

Sourcing is a careful balance; while you want to build trusting, long-term partnerships, you also have to be open to change.

“I always recommend [finding] the right partner, not [just] a supplier. … These relationships should go for the long term. But always compare prices. Always have a backup plan.”

EasyPost Insider: Automate USPS Claims Filing With Tyler Diestel From EasyPost

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Are you taking advantage of the $100 of shipping insurance included for select USPS labels? Most businesses aren’t. They don’t file claims, leaving thousands of dollars on the table.

Fortunately, there’s a way to recoup lost funds without the filing hassle. In this EasyPost Insider episode, Tyler Diestel joins Lori to share everything you need to know about EasyPost’s USPS Claims service.

What is USPS Claims?

Tyler explains, “USPS Claims is an amazing product that makes it easy for shippers to get money back … from [USPS]. Because we have a treasure trove of data, we can tell when a package is lost or damaged. … We're able to file claims … to help our shippers recoup [their money].”

Why automate claims filing with EasyPost?

Many merchants don’t file insurance claims because they don’t realize that shipping insurance is included in the label price. But for others, it’s simply a matter of time.

“They don't have time to figure out which of their shipments are actually eligible. They don't have time to go in and file a claim for each of those shipments. They don't have time to follow up on the progress of those claims.”

For these busy logistics teams, USPS Claims is a huge time saver.

How the process works

Getting started with USPS Claims is easy—you can enroll in the program right from the EasyPost dashboard.

While the process is almost entirely automatic, Tyler does note that if you don’t provide product values at label purchase, you’ll need to add that information after the fact. “As we go through our claims process and identify shipments that can be filed, we will send you an email saying, there are 20 shipments that need additional info … please log into the portal [and] fill it out.”

When claims are approved, the funds go back into your EasyPost Wallet for future label purchases.

From First to Last Mile: A New One-Stop Shipping Partner With Keith Somers From FAST Group

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0600

In August 2025, three innovative carriers announced a merger that will allow them to better serve their customers. ACI Logistix, First Mile, and Sendle are now FAST Group, an integrated logistics ecosystem.

What does the merger mean for their customers? In this episode, Lori sits down with Keith Somers, the new CEO of FAST Group, to answer that question and get a behind-the-scenes look at FAST Group’s operations, culture, and values.

What is FAST Group?

The beauty of FAST Group is that it brings together three companies with different strengths, giving their customers access to more specialized shipping services.

Keith explains, “Legacy ACI focused on the enterprise segment. [They] had high-volume sortation systems [and a] really efficient middle and last mile. … First Mile, their segment was SMB clients, so they had a really amazing first-mile pickup infrastructure. … Sendle had … built this amazing consumer experience platform.”

Now that the three brands have joined forces, they’re a “one-stop shop for customers and clients of any size … [to] get customized pickup [and] delivery [from] anywhere to anywhere.”

A shipping partner that grows with your business

FAST Group’s services are perfect for small businesses, major enterprises, and anything in between.

Keith puts it like this: “Clients of any size can enjoy this now. And we [can] grow with a client. They could start in their garage, and maybe they're selling yoga pants and they're going to be the next lululemon. They could stay with us the entire journey.”

Behind the scenes of the merger

With the merger happening so close to peak season, it’s reasonable that shippers using ACI Logistix, First Mile, or Sendle might worry about service disruptions. But Keith shares several strategies FAST Group is implementing to keep things running smoothly.

One key to their success? Staying focused.

“Integration can take 18 months or more. So you might think you're done, and you're not. … [You need to] ignore all the shiny objects, because there's a lot of opportunities, and you really stay focused and true to what that core mission is until that box is checked.”

The Power of Neurodiversity With Dylan Telford and Jarlath Phelan From Summit Advisory Team

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Neurodiverse people have amazing talents that help them shine in logistics roles, but they also face unique challenges that can make it difficult to thrive in the workplace.

In this Unboxing Logistics episode, Dylan Telford and Jarlath Phelan from Summit Advisory Team share their personal experiences with neurodivergence. They and Lori discuss what neurodivergent people bring to the table, how they can be themselves, and what coworkers and leaders can do to foster inclusivity.

Neurodivergence in the logistics industry

Lori starts the episode with a surprising statistic. According to a recent study, 58% of people in the logistics and supply chain industry identify as neurodivergent—more than double what you’d see in other industries!

Jarlath’s reaction to the stat? “It makes a lot of sense. There's a lot of pattern recognition [in logistics]. There's a lot of creative thinking required … it makes total sense that that's what neurodivergent people are drawn to.”

The importance of being open

According to Dylan, the best way for neurodivergent people to work well with neurotypical coworkers—and avoid misunderstandings or conflicts—is to communicate openly.

He says, “When I got my diagnosis, I learned that the more open I was, the easier it was … to be part of a community of people that's all trying to make work … as easy as it can be for everybody.”

For example, after hearing feedback about talking too much, Dylan began asking coworkers to interrupt him if he was getting off track, telling them, “You need to stop me when you have enough [information].”

Leadership tips for creating an inclusive workplace

Jarlath and Dylan both weigh in on what logistics leaders can do to help neurodivergent employees have great experiences at work.

Jarlath’s request is simple: “Just treat me as an individual.”

Dylan adds that while leaders should definitely make an effort to be inclusive of neurodivergent individuals, they also need to recognize that inclusive workplaces benefit everyone.

“You're not creating quiet places to work in the office for people who are neurodivergent. You're creating quiet places in the office for people who may need time that is quieter … for what they do. And that could be anybody.”

Time To Rethink Returns? With Tim Robinson From Blue Yonder

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Blue Yonder recently released their 2025 Global Consumer Retail Returns Survey, and it’s jam-packed with insights.

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori sits down with Tim Robinson, senior vice president and general manager at Blue Yonder, to talk through the survey’s findings and offer practical suggestions for handling returns effectively.

What to do with returned items

As Tim points out, most businesses automatically equate returned items with lost profits, assuming they’ll never be able to resell the products that customers send back. But with the right tools and strategies, this doesn’t have to be the reality.

Tim explains, “The philosophical shift is [that] you have to consider these items assets. This is real-life inventory, which can be resold for full value on Wednesday.”

He continues, “If you use technology to treat returning items in exactly the same way you would a brand new outbound item—i.e. you use technology to know where it is, what it is, when it's coming, to forecast [how] to sell it, to fulfill it, to ship it—then actually, [there’s] a very high likelihood that you'll be able to resell that item … for the vast majority of its [original] sale price.”

The downside of “keep-it” returns

One of the survey’s findings is that 2025 had fewer “keep-it” returns than 2024. Tim shares a possible reason why brands are avoiding this type of return.

When a business lets someone keep an item, they’re sending a subtle message that the item is low-value. “It basically means it costs them more money to deal with it than its value. If you are the consumer, how does that make you feel about that item?”

Should you tighten your returns policy before peak?

With some shoppers taking advantage of generous return policies, many businesses have added stricter rules. Should you do the same?

According to Tim, the months leading up to peak season aren’t the time to make changes. Instead, it’s best to focus on creating a great customer experience.

“I definitely feel like this is not a time to tighten your policy. … This is not a time to … make it harder for people to shop, because ultimately we all survive and grow and thrive if consumers still feel compelled to shop at this time of year.”

The AI Conversation at Parcel Forum With Tom Butt From EasyPost

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Last week, Lori Boyer and Tom Butt attended Parcel Forum, where EasyPost was the official AI in logistics sponsor. In addition to presenting on AI tools, Lori and Tom got a chance to talk with shippers about the problems they’re facing—and how artificial intelligence can help.

They share their takeaways in this episode of Unboxing Logistics.

The AI conversation

Tom noticed a pattern at Parcel Forum: businesses were curious about adopting AI logistics technology, but they weren’t sure whether to make the leap.

He says, “Everyone … was talking and comparing notes and saying, ‘This AI thing, is it a buzzword? How are you guys using it? When is the starting gun going to go off?’”

How AI helps with shipping

AI is a powerful tool for collecting and analyzing data, but its capabilities go way beyond data analysis. For example, AI tools like Luma by EasyPost can identify weak areas in your shipping operations and suggest improvements.

Tom gives an example. “[You can] see if there are … delays within your carrier network. Where are those occurring? Is it pre-transit exceptions, [where] you're printing a label, but it's not scanning into the carrier network?”

“AI is going to help you identify where those exceptions are and potentially make some recommendations on how to address those things.”

When to get started with AI

One of the biggest mistakes Tom sees shippers make is not getting started with AI now. By waiting for other businesses to lead the way, these hesitant players risk getting left behind.

On the other hand, being an early adopter gives you a competitive edge.

He says, “I can tell you right now, there's not going to be a starting gun. And those that adopt AI and start to build it into some methodologies, build it into frameworks, are going to have a head start and a leg up.”

Transforming Your Supply Chain With AI With Benjamin Gordon From Cambridge Capital

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0600

AI has taken the world by storm, with top companies using it to optimize every part of their operations—including shipping and logistics. But it can be tricky finding an AI solution that actually solves your business problems.

In this episode, Benjamin (Ben) Gordon, managing partner and CEO at Cambridge Capital, sits down with Lori to break down what AI can do, where it might fall short, and how to choose tools that work.

The transformative power of AI

Ben believes that AI has the “capacity to totally transform not just logistics, but everything.” But when it comes to logistics, AI is particularly valuable. He explains, “AI is outstanding in areas that are process-intensive and … document-intensive.”

Ben continues, “In the end, [AI will] be a tremendous source of productivity gain for companies that use it well.”

Improving the brand experience with AI

Often, Ben explains, “The supply chain is the weak link in the consumer brand experience.” AI can help change that.

First, it’s a powerful tool for customer communication. “There's no excuse in the world of AI today to not have an instant answer to a customer question. ‘Where's my stuff?’ should never be [answered] with, ‘You know, we'll get back to you in two business days.’”

Additionally, AI is one of the best ways to optimize shipping for reliability and timeliness.

“What [businesses are] increasingly doing is using AI to look for patterns. For example, wouldn't it be good to know … that whatever ships out on Tuesdays tends to be faster than what ships out on Fridays? Maybe … you want to push more promotions on a Tuesday than a Friday, because that way the customer gets [their order] faster, then they're happier.”

What to consider when choosing an AI solution

Some AI technology claims to do it all, while other solutions offer more specific capabilities. In Ben’s opinion, all-in-one tools aren’t necessarily the best bet right now.

“In the early stages of innovation, the point solutions are almost always better. … But there will come a time in the next three to five years where [AI] evolves, and then you'll be able to find integrated platforms that can do it all.”

EasyPost Insider: Every Penny Matters in Peak! With Joe Dieter From EasyPost

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Last week, Joe Dieter and Lori Boyer from EasyPost sat down to explore EasyPost tools that help businesses navigate the complexities of peak season. In this episode, they continue their discussion.

Shipping can drive growth

Most businesses view shipping as a “dreaded, unpredictable cost center”—but it doesn’t have to be.

Joe explains, “[Shipping can be] a strategic growth lever. Do you want to make more money this holiday season? It can actually happen through how you ship. … You can increase profits if you have the latest and greatest tools and systems. And here at EasyPost, we've worked hard to … build [them].”

Innovative carriers to try this peak

The EasyPost Shipping API makes it easy to use the shipping carriers you already know and love. But Joe points out that it also provides access to innovative carriers you may not have used yet, including Amazon Shipping and Maersk Parcel.

“Amazon … came in and said, we're going to do seven-day-a-week pickup and delivery. We're going to decrease the amount of surcharges. … We're going to have hassle-free claims. We're going to have lower prices across the board.”

“Maersk is going to become … one of the most cost-effective ways, especially for smaller shippers or SMB shippers, to move packages within the U.S.”

Expecting the unexpected with EasyPost Guard

Joe perfectly sums up one of the biggest challenges of peak season: “Nothing will ever go a hundred percent perfect. It's unpredictable.”

To have peace of mind, he explains, you need a solution that protects revenue when packages get lost, damaged, or stolen. That’s why EasyPost created the Guard suite of tools.

“Our Shipping Insurance API [provides] the most hassle-free way to file a claim, to hold onto your money, to get a claim approved, and to have instant coverage on a parcel. Our USPS Claims program is … the safest way to ship USPS this peak season.”

EasyPost Insider: Solutions for an Unprecedented Peak Season With Joe Dieter From EasyPost

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Joe Dieter has talked with countless EasyPost customers. And lately, he’s heard the same concern from many of them: peak season 2025 is a whole new ballgame. Rising costs and unpredictable demand have many shippers scrambling to prepare.

Joe’s advice for confronting the uncertainty? “Ship fast. Don't ship reckless. Be protected.”

And EasyPost offers solutions to accomplish all three goals.

In this EasyPost Insider episode, Joe and Lori discuss several tools (including a few brand new offerings) to help businesses ship successfully this peak.

EasyPost Wallet makes it easy to use your favorite carriers

The EasyPost Shipping API has always helped businesses purchase shipping labels at great rates from their favorite carriers. Now, EasyPost Wallet is taking the convenience to the next level.

Joe explains, “Wallet [allows] you to quickly get up and running with the carriers and service levels that [help you ship fast] without breaking the bank [or] juggling a lot of carrier relationships.”

He continues, “You have one simple billing experience. You have one invoice experience. You're not having to submit all these customer care or support issues directly to carriers.”

Advanced Tracking turns tracking into a brand-building opportunity

Sending customers tracking notifications is “table stakes,” reducing support tickets and ensuring that “you don’t have an angry consumer on your hands.”

But the best brands are going beyond the basics, turning tracking notifications into strategic marketing messages.

As Joe puts it, “It's not just, here's the latest update on all your packages. It's also, here's a story we want to tell you that's going to further build that relationship with you, the consumer.”

The easiest way to level up your tracking? Use Advanced Tracking by EasyPost. “[It] not only gives you real-time updates, it gives you comprehensive, branded, AI-powered predictive tracking.”

Forge allows marketplaces to offer a state-of-the-art shipping experience

Marketplaces want to offer easy, affordable shipping to their sellers (and their sellers’ customers). But they usually don’t have deep experience building the shipping technology that would allow them to do that.

Enter: EasyPost Forge.

“These big marketplaces do an incredible job of being a marketplace,” Joe explains. “But at their core, they weren't about a shipping operation. So we created something called Forge. Forge allows a marketplace to instantly set up the most reliable shipping software [they] could possibly offer.”

Cross-Border Crunch Time With Jonathan Witt From Sendle

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Peak season shipping can get complicated. International shipping can be a major headache. Combine the two, and it might seem like stress is inevitable.

But if you follow the best practices recommended by Jonathan Witt, senior partnerships manager at Sendle, your peak season cross-border shipping can be successful and stress-free.

The best way to get started

If your business hasn’t yet expanded to international markets, Jonathan highly recommends getting started. His advice? Start small.

“You don't have to ship everywhere. You don't have to sell globally. It's probably better that you are intentional and selective with countries that you want to sell to, because you want to understand the customer base, as well as all the requirements for shipping internationally.”

Avoiding customs delays

Delays lead to frustrated customers—something you don’t want to deal with during the busiest time of the year. By understanding and complying with cross-border shipping regulations, you’ll ensure your goods clear customs and arrive on time.

Jonathan shares a few things to watch out for. “Why do shipments get stuck? Usually because of missing or wrong documents, [like] your commercial invoice, which has all the product information.”

He continues, “Make sure that on the commercial invoice, you're associating your products with the right HS code. Make sure that you're listing the country of origin correctly in case that package does get inspected.”

DDP vs. DDU—what’s best?

If you’re shipping internationally, delivered duty paid (DDP), “where the buyer or the receiver has to pay all the shipping costs and duties and taxes upfront at checkout,” is generally the best way to handle things.

While delivered duty unpaid (DDU) can work in some situations, it’s best to avoid surprise fees upon package delivery.

As Jonathan puts it, “Being a little bit more transparent … just makes a better customer experience.”

Unboxing the Trends: Warehouse Jobs Drop, Parcel Costs Rise With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0600

July 2025 didn’t bring any earth-shattering developments—but that doesn’t mean nothing happened. When you look closely, you can see subtle but significant shifts in the realm of shipping and logistics.

In this episode, Lori Boyer and Tim Ranagan discuss the latest trends and share some strategies for adapting. Here’s a rundown:

Warehouse jobs have dropped

This time of year usually sees an increase in warehouse jobs as businesses start preparing for the holiday shipping season. But 2025 isn’t staying on script.

Lori explains, “Typically, as we hit about July, from July through November … we see about 10,000 to 15,000 additional warehouse jobs open up. [But this] July, we actually lost almost 6,500 warehouse jobs. … We have our lowest number of total warehouse roles … since COVID.”

Carriers compensate for low shipping volume

Warehouse labor isn’t the only thing on the decline. In July, domestic package volume dropped by 7.3% year-over-year. The result? Carriers—especially national ones—have been adjusting their operations and raising prices to protect their margins.

“In the last month or so, FedEx [has] consolidated its network. It's been cutting staff. … [And] USPS just raised its rates again.”

To keep shipping costs low, Lori and Tim recommend diversifying your carrier mix. As Lori puts it, “You shouldn't ever have a single carrier.”

A tip to prepare for peak season

We’re coming up on a “peak season of uncertainty and a little challenge.” Amidst economic uncertainty and decreasing consumer demand, shippers should focus on flexibility.

“You need to communicate, you need to diversify, [you need to] keep an eye on what's going on, and … be ready to pivot and make changes on the fly."

Freight Lessons From the Front Lines of Produce Shipping With Colby Varley From ATS

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0600

When you’re shipping perishables like produce, the stakes are high; even a one-day delay can ruin an entire truckload of food.

Colby Varley, vice president and principal at Advanced Transportation Services (ATS), explains what’s going on in the perishable freight world and how logistics companies and shippers can work together to make sure every load arrives in perfect condition.

The state of perishable freight

The COVID-19 pandemic shook up the freight shipping industry, and now that things have settled, loading efficiency is the name of the game. Colby explains, “[During] COVID … they were shipping whatever they could, whether it was half a truck or a quarter of a truck. They were just shipping it. Since then, that trend has reversed. Now everybody is maximizing their cube space.”

But he’s seen a troubling pattern lately: certain types of produce haven’t been doing well, with some freight companies struggling to fill trucks.

“[For] the Mexican grape crop, they're estimating about a 2 million box loss out there. … [If] you take 2 million boxes out of the equation, that's a lot of trucks that aren’t going to get loads. … We've had trucks every week deadheading back to California to come pick up a load because there's just nothing there."

Finding your niche

Colby’s advice for freight companies? Choose a specialty and stick with it. “Stay in your niche, stay in your lane, and become the expert in that field, whether you're doing dry freight, doing bulk tanker, [or] doing flatbed.”

He uses ATS as an example: “The markets fluctuate all the time. But we just stay true to highly perishable food and produce.”

Why top-tier service is worth the cost

Growers looking for the best deal on freight shipping might be tempted to spring for a good deal. But low costs can come with risks, especially with cargo as volatile as fresh fruits and vegetables. According to Colby, great service is worth paying for.

“Service is the number one thing. And we do have to charge a little bit more for that. … On any produce shipment, the difference between being one day late is the difference of that produce making it through quality control [or] not.”

Returns Don’t Have To Be a Cost Center With Virgil Ghic From WeSupply

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Most retailers view returns as a necessary evil. You have to offer returns to stay competitive, but accepting unwanted or damaged products—and shipping replacements—drains resources and wastes time.

What if it didn’t have to be that way?

In this episode, Virgil Ghic, co-founder of WeSupply, makes a bold claim: returns don’t have to be a cost center. In fact, with the right strategy, they can even drive revenue!

The importance of designing your returns policy

If you want returns to be profitable, you can’t just implement a cookie-cutter policy.

Virgil explains, “If [you] are just offering a 30-day return policy, no questions asked, the chances of making it profitable are none. Most likely you're just going to lose a lot of money. But if you are designing the experience, designing the outcomes, designing the logistics behind the scenes … then you're going to have a profitable [policy]. Even if it's not profitable, you are going to decrease the cost significantly.”

How to make returns a revenue driver

Virgil shares two ideas for making returns profitable: encouraging customers to choose store credit and allowing in-store returns.

Store credit. To encourage buyers to shop from your store after making a return, Virgil recommends incentivizing store credit rather than cash back. “[Let’s say] you have a $100 item that you are exchanging for an $80 item. You can offer [the remaining $20] as a refund, [or] you can offer $25 as store credit.”
In-store returns. People who walk into the store to return a product usually end up purchasing something else. So if you have brick-and-mortar locations, make sure the in-person returns experience is smooth and convenient.

Data is everything

Of course, the best way to handle returns is to prevent them in the first place. For that, you’ll need data—lots of it. “If you have the data, you can look into it and … analyze it. You can take action on it.”

For example, consider a dress that lots of people return because of sizing issues.

“[Saying] it doesn't fit doesn't tell you anything. … If we are just asking the customer [is it] too big or too small, that's not actionable. Nobody knows what to do with that data.”

The solution? Get specific. Ask the customer exactly why the fit is wrong, then adjust the dress or refine the sizing description on your website. “[Once] you understand [the issue] … you give [the product] back to the merchandising team or the manufacturing team, and they can do adjustments. And they can maybe say on the website, this model runs big or runs wide.”

Unboxing the Trends: Will Drone Deliveries Take Off? With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0600

So far, 2025 has kept us on our toes, especially with all the uncertainty surrounding tariffs. But in this episode of Unboxing the Trends, Lori and Tim take a break from the tariff talk to discuss three major trends from June: warehouse automation, carrier shifts, and drone deliveries.

Listen to this 15-minute episode to get up to date with the latest shipping and logistics happenings!

Amazon reaches a million warehouse robots

As of last month, Amazon has deployed over a million robots in their warehouses. As Lori points out, robots now outnumber human workers! It might sound a little dystopian, but automation is incredibly helpful for businesses—as long as they don’t neglect their human employees.

Lori recommends, “Don’t just drop some tech in without training. Make sure that your people are part of the process.”

Carrier relationships are shifting

UPS and FedEx have each made changes to their relationships with Amazon. “UPS has pulled back a whole bunch from its Amazon business,” Lori explains, “while FedEx has picked up a bunch of the Amazon volume.”

What does that mean for your shipping?

“If you're super UPS dependent, you might see maybe a little bit of disruption … maybe some reliability concerns. On the flip side, if you are heavily dependent on FedEx, you'll have steady operation that's expanded, but you might face tighter capacity.”

Walmart expands drone delivery

Walmart has partnered with Wing to offer drone delivery to over 100 new stores across major metropolitan areas like Houston and Atlanta.

This signals that drone delivery may be moving past the “novelty stage [and] expanding into something that people are starting to use and expect.”

But don’t get too excited yet. It remains to be seen whether drone delivery will take off or fall flat. The two determining factors: regulations and cost-effectiveness.

Are You Ready for the 2025 Retail Peak Season? With Sucharita Kodali From Forrester

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Now that we’re past the halfway point of the year (can you believe it?), it’s time to get serious about peak season. When handled right, peak is an opportunity to drive more sales than ever, reach new markets, and continue to delight loyal customers.

But will tariffs, inflation, and other issues stand in the way?

Sucharita Kodali, retail industry analyst at Forrester, explains exactly what’s going on in the retail industry, what we can expect from the 2025 peak season, and how to get ready.

What’s the current state of retail?

It’s no secret that the past few months have been full of economic uncertainty for both consumers and businesses. Sucharita says that while essential goods are still in high demand, retailers that sell non-essentials may be struggling.

“There is a particularly uncertain vibe [due to] … not knowing where the tariff situation may land, as well as consumer confidence not being terribly high, which means that a lot of discretionary items are more vulnerable.”

What can retailers expect from peak season 2025?

Sucharita points out an interesting contradiction: while consumer confidence has been “quite low,” spending levels in 2025 are still relatively high—even when adjusted for inflation. That’s good news for businesses moving into the holiday season.

Even so, she predicts that peak season will see heavy discounting as usual (consumers, rejoice!) unless brands face major supply chain issues.

She notes, “There's no reason to hold onto inventory and hoard it. So unless there's a supply shock, I can't envision a scenario where it's not going to be another heavy discounting season.”

Should businesses frontload inventory?

The decision to frontload inventory depends on many factors, including storage and transportation costs, margins, categories, and anticipated demand. According to Sucharita, “Perhaps the biggest issue is [whether] you have cash. If you don't have any money and you don't have any savings, does it make sense to put yourself in credit card debt? No.”

So if you’re thinking about stocking up ahead of peak season, make sure your cash flow can support the extra costs you’ll incur.

Gamifying the Warehouse, With Katie Brown From Foot Locker and Dylan Telford From Summit Advisory Team | Unboxing Logistics Ep. 62

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, host Lori Boyer kicks off Season 5 with a fun and insightful discussion about gamification in the supply chain. Joined by Katie Brown, Senior Director of Product Management at Foot Locker, and Dylan Telford, Omnichannel Practice Lead at Summit Advisory Team, they explore how introducing game-like elements into warehouse operations can drive motivation, improve productivity, and even make picking and packing a bit more fun.

Gamification is more than a leaderboard, it’s about meaningful motivation

Gamification isn’t just displaying performance stats. Real impact comes when the experience feels rewarding, includes clear goals, and provides a reason to play, whether that’s pay-for-performance, team recognition, or personal growth.

“Everybody who's attempting to get to that win in the end is successful in playing the game.” —Dylan Telford

Measurement is the foundation of any effective gamification strategy

Before introducing competition or incentives, teams need to define what success looks like and track it consistently. Without goals and metrics, gamification falls flat.

“You need to be able to measure. Otherwise you're playing a game with no goals.” —Dylan Telford

Simplicity, coaching, and iteration are key to long-term success

Gamification shouldn’t be complicated. Start small, involve the team, and keep improving based on real feedback. And don’t forget: it’s just as important to lift up lower performers as it is to celebrate top ones.

“Sometimes bringing up the bottom is almost more impactful than raising the top of the bar.” —Katie Brown

Links

Connect with Katie Brown on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katie-brown-41807347
Visit Foot Locker’s website: https://www.footlocker.com/
Connect with Dylan Telford on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dylan-telford-b7404769
Visit Summit Advisory Team’s website: https://summitadvisoryteam.com/

EasyPost Insider: Introducing Forge, a White-Label Shipping Solution, With Brittany Williams From EasyPost - Ep. 61

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0600

In this EasyPost Insider episode of Unboxing Logistics, host Lori Boyer sits down with Senior Product Manager Brittany Williams to unveil Forge, EasyPost’s newest product. Built for 3PLs, marketplaces, tech companies, and carriers, Forge offers a white-label shipping solution that makes it easy to onboard customers, manage subaccounts, and access detailed analytics—all without burdening your dev team. Whether you want to enable new carriers with a click or centralize billing, Forge simplifies complex operations with powerful admin tools and best-in-class APIs.

Forge simplifies shipping infrastructure for businesses with complex customer networks

"Forge is EasyPost’s solution for businesses that want to white label our shipping technology into their own products and services . . . it’s about bringing more value to your customers and your team without time waste."

Admin tools and analytics are the standout features

"I have two top contenders in terms of features. First is Forge's administrative tools around customer management . . . The second feature to call out is the analytics. I think EasyPost does a lot of things really well, but analytics is one of those things that we do truly better than anybody else."

You can get started in minutes, with no added integration if you’re already an EasyPost customer

"[Y]ou could begin creating customer records in hour one, minute one . . . if you're an existing customer, and you want to upgrade your dashboard to the Forge dashboard, there is no lift . . ."

Unboxing the Trends April: Carriers in the Spotlight With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost - Ep. 60

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0600

In this month’s episode of Unboxing the Trends, Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer dive into the latest shifts in the shipping landscape—no tariff talk this time. From the rise of regional carriers to DHL’s B2C restrictions and changes at the USPS, it’s a carrier-heavy episode packed with actionable insights. Lori also previews her upcoming appearance at the National Postal Forum and speculates on the future of USPS leadership.

Carriers are losing ground—literally

Alternative carriers have stepped up in a major way, delivering 44% more packages in 2024 than the previous year. Much of that volume shifted away from FedEx and UPS, with major retailers like Amazon and Walmart expanding their own delivery networks.

Lori emphasizes the importance of carrier diversification, saying, “We’re no longer in that era of just sticking with the big dogs.”

If you’ve been relying on a favorite carrier, it may be time to rethink your strategy—and even renegotiate your contracts.

DHL limits B2C shipments

DHL has temporarily paused cross-border B2C shipments over $800, citing customs-related complications. This change doesn’t impact B2B shipments, but small businesses shipping high-value items to customers directly could be caught off guard.

Lori urges businesses to stay proactive by diversifying cross-border options and staying connected with customs advisors and logistics consultants to avoid surprises.

USPS leadership change & service shift

With Postmaster General Louis DeJoy stepping down, the logistics world is waiting to see who will lead USPS next. Lori floats the idea of a possible announcement at the upcoming National Postal Forum.

Meanwhile, USPS has adjusted service standards: Rural Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail may now see an extra day in transit. If you serve rural customers, it’s worth reviewing your delivery timelines to ensure you’re still hitting SLAs.

How Small Retailers Can Win Big With Industry Support With Brandon Gale - Ep. 59

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori Boyer sits down with Brandan Gale, CEO of Retail Shipping Associates (RSA) and Package Hub Business Centers. With decades of experience and 38 stores under his belt, Brandon shares how RSA helps small businesses succeed through training, resources, and a powerful sense of community. His big takeaway? Small retailers don’t have to go it alone!

The Power of Listening to Your Customers

Brandon’s success story started with a single store and grew into a network of nearly 40 locations—all because he listened closely to his customers and responded to their evolving needs. He shares how this same mindset is essential for retail store owners today.

“The most successful people love their customers and want to know everything they can know about them to fill their needs,” he says. Knowing their needs helps because, as he says, “[O]ne new idea, one new product, one new service, a different way to approach marketing, can change the entire trajectory of how you're making money.”

Being attuned to their community helps businesses stay both relevant and profitable.

Industry Support Makes All the Difference

RSA provides members with tools most independent operators wouldn’t be able to access on their own: certification training, in-person bootcamps, regulatory updates, business insurance programs, website templates, webinars, and exclusive discounts through vetted supplier partnerships.

“I’m a giant fan of overwhelming my customers with value,” Gale says. And the resources RSA provides are designed to take pressure off of owners wearing too many hats and help them shift from working in their business to working on it.

Networking Can Change the Game

While RSA offers plenty of formal training, Gale emphasizes that peer-to-peer learning is just as powerful. Events like the RS Expo and regional bootcamps give store owners the chance to connect, share strategies, and learn from one another.

He loves talking to conference attendees about their experience at the conference. “They walk away with a renewed enthusiasm for this business because they talk to people that have figured it out,” Gale reports. Many longtime operators leave their first RSA event wondering how much more successful they could have been if they’d joined sooner.

Faster, More Affordable Delivery Through Maersk Parcel With John Kruzan From Maersk

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0600

You probably know Maersk as a container shipping company, but the end-to-end logistics provider now has a new offering for parcel shipping: Maersk Parcel.

According to John Kruzan, this regional service is made up of a “pickup and delivery network that can move packages … at a very competitive rate, at a very competitive time in transit.”

Listen to learn what makes Maersk Parcel great for small businesses and how to get started.

The motivation behind Maersk Parcel

John starts by describing the current state of the parcel shipping industry, particularly when it comes to large carriers. Simply put, “ We've got fees going up, but we've also got services going down.”

Recognizing that rising costs and declining service quality aren’t a good combination, Maersk had an idea: “ We could take a look at the market and … change it and elevate it a little bit with a new product that does new things.”

Who should use Maersk Parcel?

Maersk Parcel is “specifically built for the small and mid-size business market,” John explains, adding that the service addresses the pain points of mom-and-pop shops, brick-and-mortar retail locations, and smaller ecommerce brands.

He mentions a few things these small businesses should keep in mind:

Maersk Parcel focuses on shipping to zones 1-5
It covers the top 30 metropolitan statistical areas (urban areas) in the U.S.

Benefits of shipping parcels with Maersk

The main reason to add Maersk Parcel to your carrier mix? Maersk is focused on providing a top-notch delivery experience. John notes that “relationships are the lifeblood of a small merchant,” and shipping plays a big role in developing good relationships.

John also points out some specific benefits of Maersk Parcel: competitive rates (including a sub-pound rate), fast delivery times (three days in transit), and a super simple claims process backed by Maersk customer service.

How to get started with Maersk Parcel

Interested in shipping with Maersk Parcel? Their partnership with EasyPost makes it easy! As John puts it, “It's basically turning on a switch. There is no integration, there is no waiting for contracts to be signed.”

If you’re not already an EasyPost customer, sign up at https://app.easypost.com/signup—it’s free for small shippers. Once you’ve created an account, you’ll be able to access a library of over 100 carriers, including Maersk Parcel.

What’s Going On With De Minimis? With Kate Muth From International Mailers Advisory Group

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Along with recent changes to U.S. tariffs, there’s been talk about changes to the de minimis exemption that allows tax-free imports of goods worth up to $800.

How does de minimis work, and what will it mean for businesses if the rule is changed? Kate Muth, executive director of the International Mailers Advisory Group (IMAG), weighs in.

De minimis defined

Kate explains, “De minimis is the value under which goods can come into the U.S. free of duties and without having to [go] through the formal entry process.”

The de minimis threshold for U.S. imports is higher than many other countries: $800.

While people often talk about the “de minimis loophole,” Kate clarifies that de minimis isn’t a loophole. “It's actually a core U.S. trade policy. … It's based on sound economic underpinnings that goods can be shipped quickly and affordably. You know, they can have a streamlined process for entry. And that benefits U.S. businesses.”

What’s going on with de minimis in the U.S.?

When the Trump administration announced tariffs against Mexico, China, and Canada, they also announced that the de minimis exemption was going away. But as Kate explains, the abrupt change caused a lot of issues.

“[It happened] way too suddenly. It overwhelmed CBP. … The Postal Service briefly said [they weren’t] going to take anything from China or Hong Kong, because [they don’t] have a mechanism to collect duties and taxes.”

The result?

“The president came out with an updated executive order and said, we will reinstate de minimis exemption until an effective mechanism for collecting the duties and taxes can be in place. … So we're still in that period [where] de minimis is allowed.”

De minimis, tariffs, and SMBs

While larger organizations will be able to adjust to de minimis changes and new tariffs, small businesses are likely to struggle.

As Kate notes, “If you're a big retailer like Walmart, you have the leverage to lean on your suppliers to demand that they eat some of that cost of the tariff. But that just means that the supplier is going to seek [to recover] that cost … somewhere else. And that's usually the small and mid-sized business.”

Unboxing the Trends February: Tariffs and a New Postmaster General With Lori Boyer and Tim Ranagan From EasyPost

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Last month, Lori and Tim kicked off the Unboxing the Trends series, which features short monthly episodes covering the latest shipping and logistics happenings. In this episode, they discuss two major developments in February: new tariffs against key U.S. trading partners and the resignation of USPS’s postmaster general.

Tariffs have gone into effect

After a month-long pause, new tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and China went into effect this week. But the question remains: Will the tariffs stick?

Based on her research, Lori doesn’t think so. She believes there’s a 60% to 70% chance that the tariffs will eventually be paused again or adjusted.

“Most experts believe that these are mostly bargaining techniques. … I think that across the board, most of them are eventually going to ease up. That being said … maybe they won't. So flexibility, agility, that's the name of the game.”

USPS Postmaster General DeJoy is stepping down

This is big news if you ship with USPS—Postmaster General DeJoy recently announced that he’s stepping down. Unfortunately, we don’t yet know who will replace him or how the change will affect the Postal Service.

Lori shares a few things she’s wondering about: “[The] Ten-Year [Plan]—is that still going to be going? What's going to happen with consolidation? … [DeJoy] came from a logistics background; will we have another commerce, logistics background person? Will we go more of a traditional route? … Are we going to get more adjustments to the service levels and plans that are out there?”

We’re officially in wait-and-see mode

Hopefully, all of our questions about tariffs and the new postmaster general are answered soon; for now, as Tim puts it, the only thing we can do is wait and see.

“I think the theme of this episode is let's wait and see. That's true of the tariffs. That's true of the postmaster general news. Let's just wait and see how the dust settles, so to speak.”

EasyPost Insider: Introducing Luma, the Ultimate AI Advisor With Joe Dieter From EasyPost

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Just a few weeks ago, EasyPost launched a new product: Luma, an AI tool that helps businesses understand their current shipping performance and make smarter (and more cost-effective) decisions.

Joe Dieter, head of product marketing at EasyPost, explains how Luma works and what sets it apart from other AI shipping technologies.

Luma in a nutshell

What exactly is Luma? Joe starts with a simple description: “It's the ultimate AI advisor at your fingertips that has been trained on billions of historical shipments.”

He goes on to explain, “Your AI is as good as the data that fed it. When you have the data of billions of past historical shipments, that means you have a good AI. A lot of the [other] AI shipping tools out there haven't processed billions of shipments.”

What can Luma do?

Luma offers three main benefits for shippers:

Insights into today. “Luma will give you actionable insights on how you're shipping,” says Joe. It answers questions like “What is the cost per package?” “What is the average time in transit?” and “Why are shipments delayed?”
Recommendations for tomorrow. “The second thing Luma does is give you a better version of shipping tomorrow by making really specific recommendations.”
Automatic shipping optimization. Finally, “The third thing Luma does is it takes those recommendations … and automatically purchases shipping labels.”

Who can use Luma?

Anybody using the EasyPost API suite can use Luma, but Joe notes that other EasyPost solutions might be compatible with Luma in the future.

“EasyPost offers more than … our APIs. We offer enterprise-grade products … we have SMB products. … And Luma will be accessible through some of those other products over time.”

Costs, Carriers, and China: Parcel Shipping in 2025 With Nate Skiver From LPF Spend Management

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 09:00:00 -0600

With the world of shipping and logistics constantly changing, it can be hard to keep track of every trend. In this episode, Nate Skiver, founder of LPF Spend Management, catches listeners up on the world of parcel shipping in 2025—what’s changing, what will likely stay the same, and what you can do to optimize your parcel management strategy.

Carrier changes lead to more complex pricing

Right off the bat, Nate points out a major trend that businesses should be aware of: changes to carrier pricing structures. He explains, “FedEx and UPS continue to make pricing more complex. … That continues to be something that shippers have to really stay on top of.”

It’s a similar story with USPS. According to Nate, the Postal Service’s network changes have “created some uncertainty with pricing, particularly [for] lightweight packages.”

How to make the most of carrier partnerships

When choosing carriers, Nate recommends determining your requirements for cost, transit time, and delivery reliability. After analyzing how well your current carriers are meeting those targets, “See where the gaps are. … Look for opportunities to find the right partner or partners to help close those gaps.”

He also notes, “To get the best pricing that your volume commands, [negotiations] need to happen early in the year.”

The bottom line: prioritize parcel

Nate’s final advice is simple: “Prioritize parcel.”

“Parcel gets the short end of the stick within supply chain. Even though it ends up being … a very, very large expense budget line item, it just doesn't get the priority, perhaps—and it should. … Invest in people and partners.”

Unboxing the Trends January 2025 With Lori Boyer and Tim Ranagan From EasyPost

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Exciting news! In our new Unboxing Logistics segment, Unboxing the Trends, the EasyPost team will be doing a monthly recap of the most impactful shipping and logistics trends in 2025.

During this episode, Lori Boyer and Tim Ranagan discuss January’s port strike resolution, the devastating California wildfires, and President Trump’s brand-new tariffs.

What do these events mean for your business? Listen to find out!

Port strikes shed light on automation concerns

While port strikes were resolved in January, they brought up an important question for businesses and employees alike: how far should we take automation?

As Lori points out, this was a primary concern for port workers. “One of the aspects that the laborers were looking for was reassurance that their jobs were not going to be replaced by automation.”

While this concern is valid, it’s clear that technological progress isn’t going to halt anytime soon, and Tim recommends that business owners find a balance. “Adopt the technology with your people in mind. … That keeps things moving forward from a relationship standpoint.”

California wildfires emphasize the importance of contingency planning

Despite a few logistics hiccups, the California wildfires didn’t affect shipping as much as some people feared. Still, as Lori and Tim point out, there’s an important lesson to be learned about responding to natural disasters.

Lori puts it simply: “Natural disasters are here and accelerating.” Tim adds, “This is a good opportunity for business owners out there to look at their preparedness. Do they have any contingency plans for their supply chain in the event of a natural disaster?”

If tariffs stick around, costs could rise

When it comes to the new tariffs, we’re still in wait-and-see mode. But while you’re waiting, you can prepare for different possible outcomes. Lori recommends that business owners ask themselves “If these tariffs stick around for a while, what will that mean for me?”

One potential impact to be ready for? Higher costs. And if costs do rise, you’ll need a plan of action. “As we have to pass price increases on to our consumers, we're going to have to figure out how to balance that. How much of the burden do you take on? How much of the burden do you pass on?”

The Secret to Seamless Returns With Amena Ali From Optoro

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Many businesses have perfected their outbound logistics. Products are picked, packed, and shipped with near-perfect accuracy, and customers are delighted. But some merchants haven’t put enough thought into the question posed by Amena Ali, CEO of Optoro: “What happens when all this stuff comes back?”

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Amena and Lori discuss the challenges of returns—for both customers and sellers—as well as strategies for improving the process.

How to improve the returns process for customers

As ecommerce has exploded, consumers have been “trained by the Amazons of the world” to expect box-free, label-free returns. Rather than asking customers to print labels and repackage products, Amena recommends providing convenient drop-off locations where shoppers can return unwanted items without going out of their way.

Regaining value from returned items

If it takes too long to restock and resell returned items, your business could be losing money.

Amena estimates that “for a 100-dollar item, it can cost nearly 30 dollars to do the processing. She continues, “Speed to stock is absolutely critical. The longer it takes a retailer to manage their returns, guess what? You are missing that peak season window for that item, which means you're going to need to mark that down.”

Embracing recommerce

Returns are closely intertwined with sustainability concerns—we’ve all heard the horror stories of brand-new products ending up in landfills. To reduce waste, Amena recommends embracing recommerce.

“A lot of brands and retailers are engaging in those strategies to refurbish [products], and [they] actually have trade-in programs so you can return an item and it goes on to its next home.”

2025 Supply Chain Sustainability Trends With Tom Raftery, Sustainability and Technology Evangelist

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Going into the new year, your customers, investors, and partners all have one thing in common: sustainability is a big concern. As natural disasters rage across the world, people are increasingly committed to preventing climate change—and they expect your business to do its part by reducing carbon emissions.

Tom Raftery, host of the Climate Confident and Sustainable Supply Chain podcasts, joins Lori on this episode of Unboxing Logistics to share some sustainability trends and predictions going into 2025.

Trend #1: Electric vehicles (EVs) will become more popular

Living in Spain, Tom has a close-up view of Europe’s environmental regulations. He explains that a variety of factors will combine to make electric vehicles the popular choice in 2025:

“All of the EV manufacturers who are selling into Europe are … going to be pushing EVs even more next year to make sure they're not hit with fines. When you look at that, and you look at the fact that the costs of EVs keep dropping year on year, you see that for fleet managers, they're far cheaper to own and operate than traditional diesel vehicles.”

Tom concludes, “I think at least here in Europe, but probably even more broadly, the penetration of EVs will ramp up significantly in 2025.”

Trend #2: Artificial intelligence (AI) will take center stage

When it comes to tracking scope 3 emissions, which aren’t directly produced by your business, Tom emphasizes the importance of partnerships, data sharing, and AI tools to organize all the information you collect.

“You need to be able to report the emissions coming from your suppliers. And that gets rather tricky because it's third-party information. You've got to talk with them ... [and that involves] taking in enormous amounts of data. What we'll start to see is AI helping organizations to work with that data that's coming in … [to] get the insights … [and] make recommendations.”

Trend #3: Sustainable organizations will win over stakeholders

According to Tom, making sustainable choices helps businesses attract and retain both customers and employees. “Your customers will … find you and they'll stay with you more easily if you have a good sustainability story to tell. … It's easier to find good employees … because people want to work for an organization that's doing good things.”

But the benefits of going green don’t end there. Tom explains that other stakeholders, including banks, insurance companies, and investors, also look more favorably at organizations that incorporate sustainability.

The bottom line? “Sustainability has gone from being a nice-to-have to now being a business imperative.”

Supply Chain Trends in 2025 With Chris Caplice From MIT and DAT Freight & Analytics

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0600

Last January, Chris Caplice joined us to discuss the top supply chain trends of 2024. This year, he’s back to talk about what the world of shipping and logistics will look like in 2025.

As executive director at MIT Center for Transportation Logistics and chief scientist at DAT Freight and Analytics, Chris is deeply immersed in the supply chain industry, and he shares some great insights about trucking, tariffs, and more.

Listen to learn what you should expect from the new year—and most importantly, how your business can prepare.

Trend #1: The truckload market will enter an inflationary period

Chris explains that since the late 1990s, “the truckload market has been on a series of cycles. … Capacity is tight and prices go up. Demand exceeds supply. And then it crashes back down and the opposite happens.”

Going into 2025, Chris anticipates that the market will again enter an inflationary period—one where shippers have less leverage. He advises businesses to “fix your roof before it starts raining.”

Trend #2: Global conflicts will continue—but supply chains will remain resilient

Despite ongoing crises, Chris is optimistic about the global supply chain’s ability to adapt and continue to function. “Global supply chains are so dynamic and flexible. … It's similar when there's a natural disaster, like a hurricane. There's always a sharp shock, but it's usually bounded geographically and temporally because the system recovers. We're very good at self-healing.”

Trend #3: Businesses will try to stay ahead of tariffs

What about tariffs? Here’s what Chris has to say: “Tariffs will probably have a big impact. We'll see how that plays out because you don't know what Trump says and what Trump will do, what'll actually get through the Senate. But if tariffs really do increase dramatically I don't think it'll change demand that much—maybe slightly. It might change how things enter the country … but I don't know how dramatically it'll shift the overall shipping patterns.”

In the meantime, many businesses have already begun importing more inventory than usual in an attempt to stay ahead of tariffs. “You hear the stories of especially small shippers bringing in a lot now just to stock up for the year. So we're going to see a lot of heavy inventory costs.”

From Bricks to Clicks: Getting Started With Ecommerce With Filipa Almeida From Onport

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0600

If you’re thinking about diving into ecommerce for the first time, you have a lot to consider. To succeed in the digital world, you may need to rethink inventory management, the customer experience, and more. But as Filipa Almeida, chief customer officer at Onport, points out, you’ll also expand your businesses’ reach exponentially.

Why move to ecommerce?

Plenty of business owners are content running their brick-and-mortar stores—why should they add digital sales channels (and make their operations a whole lot more complicated)? Filipa’s answer is simple: today’s customers expect an online option.

“[Customers’] needs and requirements are evolving, and they expect retailers to evolve with them. They expect their favorite stores to provide the experience of purchasing online. … They expect to have the option of going into the store if they feel like going to the store or just having that same product at the click of a button.”

Challenges of going online

Getting started with ecommerce comes with lots of challenges, including logistical concerns. Businesses need to answer several fulfillment questions: do I want to go omnichannel? Will I ship internationally? And the list goes on.

Filipa points out that the customer experience also gets tricky when brick-and-mortar stores go digital. When small business owners see their customers in person every day, they get a good sense of what keeps shoppers happy. In the online realm, it’s harder to tell what’s working and what’s not.

“So understanding how they can have that visibility … is something that really weighs on [merchants].”

How to choose the right ecommerce platform

If you’re considering getting started with ecommerce, you’ll need to choose the right platform. Filipa’s advice? Don’t be afraid to get in the weeds researching features.

She says, “When a retailer is looking at which platform to choose, they need to [ask], what am I looking for? What is critical for my business and for my operations? And then isolate that, try to narrow down those critical requirements … and look at the options available in the market.”

Ecommerce Inventory and Labor Challenges With Steve Syverson From NFI eCom

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Having worked in the logistics industry for 22 years, with 10 of those focused on ecommerce, Steve Syverson has had countless opportunities to hear from small business owners about the challenges and uncertainties they face. In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, he answers some of their most common (and pressing) questions.

Should you use staffing agencies during busy times? How can you choose the right warehouse technology? When does using a 3PL make sense? Listen to learn the answers!

How to boost staff morale during peak season

Peak season can be incredibly stressful for business owners and employees alike. The key to smooth sailing, Steve says, is finding ways to ease the load on staff. That could involve anything from pizza parties to flexible work schedules to bringing in temporary workers.

“Don't layer more stress on your teammates—they're already stressed. Your job as an owner of a brand or a business is to … figure out ways to mitigate some of that stress. Because at the end of the day, you want them to perform at their highest level.”

Common SMB inventory management challenges

Steve describes one pitfall ecommerce businesses often fall into: “What I see with SMBs typically is they tend to overbuy or overestimate demand. [This] puts them in a really tough position from an inventory perspective.”

While overstocking leads to inefficiencies in the warehouse, Steve points out the bright side: it doesn’t necessarily affect customers. Stockouts, on the other hand, can destroy the purchase experience and cause you to lose customers.

The solution? Use technology to forecast demand accurately and gain visibility into stock levels. “Without those insights, without the technology platform … you're setting yourself up for failure because you're just not going to know what you have.”

Pros and cons of working with a 3PL

In Steve’s experience, the biggest hurdle brands face when deciding whether or not to work with a 3PL is the “perceived loss of control.” However, once they make the leap, “they never look back, because now it's given them the ability to scale their business. They're focused on going to shows, to conferences, building strategic partnerships, working with new vendors, finding new manufacturers … and marketing their brand.”

Porch Piracy Myths Busted With Eric Thorson From Norton Shopping Guarantee

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Porch piracy isn’t fun for anybody. But that doesn’t stop Lori and Eric from having a little fun discussing it! In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, they react to videos of porch pirates getting caught in the act. At the same time, they bust some of the most common porch piracy and package protection myths, including these three:

Myth #1: Once a package is marked as delivered, your job is done

It’s a myth that every online merchant wants to believe: once a package reaches its destination, it’s not their problem anymore. Sadly, customers don’t see it that way. As Eric points out, when a package is stolen, shoppers “[don’t] blame the thief or the carrier. They hold the merchant responsible.”

But look on the bright side! If you do things right, your response to stolen packages can help build long-term customer loyalty.

“Once … the consumer starts to use your product, they have a relationship with you. And that relationship will last as long as you're around if you continue to do a good job.”

Myth #2: Doorbell cameras are effective deterrents against porch piracy

Eric says that while doorbell cameras are useful for providing evidence of porch piracy, they’re not a very effective deterrent. The thousands of porch piracy videos online are proof that thieves have thought up plenty of clever (and not-so-clever) ways to conceal their identities when snatching packages.

Myth #3: Package protection is only needed during the holidays

Some businesses believe they only need to offer package protection during high-volume periods like the holidays, when porch piracy is most common.

Eric’s response? “Peak season, holiday season, fourth quarter—that's when the most volume is being shipped. … But [porch piracy] is a year-round opportunistic crime that is way out of control and isn't letting up at all.”

The Power of AI in the Warehouse With Henrik Bergsager and Kushal Pillay From Powerhouse AI

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0600

What comes to mind when you hear the term AI? For some, artificial intelligence is an exciting step forward, bringing possibilities of error reduction and cost savings. For others, it’s little more than a marketing buzzword.

Henrik Bergsager and Kushal Pillay of Powerhouse AI are in the first camp. In this episode, they discuss how AI tools can significantly improve warehouse operations for small and medium-sized businesses.

Uses of AI in the warehouse

AI can be used to improve virtually any warehouse task, including inventory management, demand forecasting, and storage optimization. Henrik notes that businesses should approach problems one at a time, not all at once. “By focusing on these smaller cogs in the warehouse, you don't need massive amounts of investments to get up and running.”

Getting started with AI

Getting started with a new tool is always daunting. For a smooth transition, Henrik says, “You have to get the rest of your employees on board. … You need to get all the warehouse workers understanding why we're doing this, [what are] the benefits of introducing new technology.”

Kushal adds that organizations should focus on the KPIs they’re trying to improve with the technology. He adds that it’s important to keep expectations realistic—don’t expect the tool to eliminate human labor. “[At the] end of the day, you're not buying a robot. You're buying a certain software, which does a job for you.”

How much technical expertise do you need?

Fortunately, you don’t have to be a technology genius to take advantage of AI warehouse solutions.

As Kushal puts it, “Most of the tools out there [don’t] need you to know the deep details of how they work. … The only thing we need is what is the input, and what do you expect as the output? The rest of the work is done with[in] the system.”

How SMBs Can Crush Peak Season With Maxwell Bonnie From Saltbox

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0600

The holiday season is often the most profitable time of year for small businesses, but it comes with many challenges. How can small ecommerce businesses create a great purchase experience for customers? What logistical hurdles will they face?

In this episode, Maxwell Bonnie, co-founder of Saltbox, answers these questions and shares tips to help SMBs successfully navigate the upcoming peak season.

What’s different about peak season 2024?

Peak season is always a busy time, but this year’s peak has the potential to be even more hectic than usual. That’s because there are only 17 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas instead of the usual 20 or 21, leaving businesses scrambling to ship more packages than ever in a short amount of time.

Maxwell also predicts that carrier capacity will be a concern. Due to changes related to USPS’s 10-year plan, “Brands are going to be shifting a little bit away from the Post Office and trying to go directly to FedEx and UPS to mitigate risk. … That means FedEx and UPS are going to be busier than they've ever been.”

Advice for small businesses during peak

What can your business do to keep things running smoothly during peak season? First, Maxwell suggests diversifying your carrier mix by using a combination of large, emerging, and regional partners to transport packages.

He also advises businesses to “[Ship] earlier. Having earlier cutoff times than normal with your holiday orders … build[s] in some buffer so that your customer gets the package on time.”

The importance of having a plan

The bottom line? “You need some sort of plan, but know that it's not going to go to plan—and that is completely okay. But take the time to put something on paper so that you are prepared for this [peak] season.”

Everything To Know About Shipping Pharmaceuticals With John Golden From ParcelShield

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In the words of John Golden, vice president of sales at ParcelShield, “Shipping medication is a risky business, but it's also critical to hundreds of millions of those that are depending on pharmacy services.”

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, John and Lori discuss the risks pharmaceutical shipments face and how the right technology can protect healthcare businesses and patients alike.

Challenges and risks when shipping pharmaceuticals

ParcelShield’s motto? It’s not just a package, it’s a patient. Because medical supplies and prescription drugs make such a huge difference in people’s lives, pharmacies must carefully consider logistical risks when shipping them.

John says, “Many pharmaceuticals are time-sensitive. They're temperature-sensitive. They're highly regulated. … They're expensive. They're also life-sustaining. … There's risks out there like flight delays, extreme weather, traffic, or carrier dependability.”

The importance of proof of delivery

Proof of delivery is always useful for giving customers peace of mind, but when shipping expensive pharmaceuticals, it’s non-negotiable. John explains that if the government or a pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) pays for a medication, they want to make sure the package arrives.

Without proof of delivery, “governments and PBMs [could] claw back the money that they paid you for those medications.”

Using technology to decrease risk

Technology helps ensure the safe, timely delivery of pharmaceutical shipments by predicting when and where packages could get delayed. According to John, these systems “leverage things like predictive analytics and machine learning … [to look] for advanced warnings.”

He goes on, “[The risk] could be wildfires. It could be hurricanes. It could be Mardi Gras. It could be the Super Bowl. But technology exists to be able to provide what we would call an early warning system to help to avoid shipping medications into a high-risk situation.”

Unleashing Data Power in Logistics With Jonathan Salama From Transfix Ep. 43

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In today's episode, host Lori Boyer is joined by Jonathan Salama, CEO and co-founder of Transfix. With a unique background in tech and data science, Jonathan sheds light on how data is revolutionizing the logistics industry. Join us as we explore the intersection of technology and logistics, unraveling the complexities and uncovering the opportunities.

Leveraging data for efficiency

Jonathan emphasizes the importance of leveraging data to drive decisions and automate repetitive actions within the logistics space. Using data science, companies can optimize their operations, enhance their efficiency, and ultimately, improve the customer experience.

Understanding the role of brokerages

Jonathan explains the critical role brokerages play in matching shippers with carriers, describing them as a marketplace driven by demand. He states, “In my opinion, every company should be using brokers.” This highlights the value that brokers provide by navigating the complexities of logistics, ultimately ensuring that shipments are executed efficiently and at competitive rates.

Navigating the future with emerging technologies

The discussion shifts towards the future of logistics, focusing on emerging technologies like automated trucks and AI. Jonathan expresses his excitement, saying, “I am a lot more excited about automated trucks... I think that is going to revolutionize our space.” He highlights how these advancements will reshape the industry, making it more efficient and responsive to the ever-changing market demands.

As the logistics industry continues to evolve, embracing data-driven solutions and innovative technologies will be key to staying competitive. Jonathan’s insights remind us that while the journey may be complex, leveraging the right tools and partnerships can lead to significant improvements in efficiency and effectiveness. For more insights, connect with Jonathan and explore what Transfix has to offer. Join us next time for more engaging discussions in the world of logistics!

Connect with John on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jonathansalama

Visit the Transfix website: https://transfix.io/

Unpacking Customer-Centric Analytics in Logistics With Josh Fredman & Mike Koleno From Better Trucks and Tom Butt From EasyPost

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In the latest episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori Boyer engages with the insightful team from Better Trucks, including Josh Fredman, Mike Koleno, and Tom Butt from EasyPost. Recorded live at Parcel Forum 2024, this discussion dives deep into the transformative power of analytics in enhancing customer experiences within the logistics sector. The experts share actionable insights on how data can streamline operations, meet evolving customer expectations, and foster effective partnerships:

Holistic data centralization

To truly understand and improve customer experience, businesses must centralize their data. This approach allows shippers to analyze their operations from a comprehensive perspective, identifying opportunities for enhancement across the entire package journey.

Transparent communication

Keeping customers informed throughout the shipping process is vital. By providing timely updates on package status, shippers can alleviate anxiety and foster trust, ultimately leading to greater customer satisfaction.

Collaboration for growth

Strong partnerships between shippers and carriers are crucial for leveraging shared data and insights. Engaging with logistics partners can unveil new opportunities for efficiency and improved service delivery, benefiting all parties involved.

In summary, this episode highlights the importance of using analytics not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a means to elevate customer experiences and drive growth in the logistics industry. Tune in to gain valuable insights that can help you optimize your operations and enhance your service offerings.

Scaling Logistics to Deliver an Unforgettable Customer Experience With Julian Van Erlach From FabFitFun

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori Boyer from EasyPost welcomes Julian Van Erlach, Senior Vice President at FabFitFun. They dive into the complexities of scaling logistics while maintaining a superior customer experience. With a unique model that generates four peak seasons annually, FabFitFun’s operations are a masterclass in efficiency, cost management, and customer satisfaction. Julian shares his insights on how FabFitFun has scaled its logistics, optimized processes, and maintained excellent customer satisfaction—even during rapid growth.

Align operations with company growth

"What is it that we're going to solve for or scale for?" Julian emphasizes the importance of staying closely aligned with merchandising and marketing to ensure that logistics can anticipate and meet the company's growth. FabFitFun's ability to proactively analyze purchase orders, anticipate challenges, and prepare operationally has allowed them to efficiently handle millions of customized orders.

Overcome choke points with smart solutions

Julian identifies the key areas that create choke points in logistics, from shipping costs to scaling labor. By using cartonization software like MagicLogic to optimize the size of every box, FabFitFun has saved "many, many millions of dollars per quarter" while minimizing wasted space. Additionally, FabFitFun’s ability to scale labor efficiently, hiring temps to meet seasonal demand, has been crucial to their success.

Prioritize customer experience and operational efficiency

One of Julian's standout insights is how FabFitFun has balanced cost-saving measures with enhancing the customer experience. "There is no trade-off," he explains, citing zone skipping as an example where they simultaneously save money and reduce shipping time. By prioritizing recycled materials, clear communication, and precise cartonization, they ensure that customers receive their orders on time and in great condition, all while reducing costs.

FabFitFun’s success lies in its ability to anticipate challenges, optimize operations, and prioritize customer satisfaction without compromising efficiency. Whether through advanced technology, proactive labor management, or innovative shipping strategies, the company has created a logistics model that supports rapid scaling while maintaining an exceptional customer experience. As Julian puts it, “Being attuned to company strategy and world events” is essential for any company looking to scale successfully.

Mastering Peak Season: Expert Insights With Glenn Gooding From iDrive Logistics

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0600

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori Boyer of EasyPost interviews Glenn Gooding, president of iDrive Logistics, about navigating the complexities of peak season. Glenn shares his 39 years of experience in the small parcel supply chain, providing practical tips for planning, communication, and technology. From demand forecasting to managing unexpected challenges, Glenn emphasizes that peak season success hinges on thorough preparation and proactive collaboration with partners. The conversation touches on the importance of aligning with carriers, maintaining clear communication across stakeholders, and preparing both technology and operations well in advance.

You can’t plan enough

Glenn stresses that planning for peak season must go beyond just operational logistics—it should involve in-depth communication with all stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and carriers. Starting the planning process early is essential, especially when it comes to technology. "Failure to plan is a plan to fail," Glenn says, recalling his early lessons from UPS. Companies should begin evaluating their technology in Q1 and develop a roadmap that aligns with both client expectations and operational capabilities.

Communication is critical

Communication, both internally and with external partners, is vital to ensuring a successful peak season. Glenn highlights the need for ongoing dialogue with carriers, suggesting that companies forecast demand accurately and proactively collaborate to reduce strain on carrier networks. He advises, "The easiest time to lose a customer is through a poor performance in Q4," emphasizing the importance of aligning expectations and ensuring seamless customer experiences, even when challenges arise.

Embrace flexibility and team morale

Peak season is unpredictable, and companies must prepare for various worst-case scenarios, such as higher-than-expected demand or adverse weather conditions. Glenn recommends having a "master operating plan" in place, with designated leaders to manage crises effectively. Additionally, maintaining a positive team environment during stressful times is crucial. As Glenn notes, leadership should "embrace the challenge" and motivate teams with goals, rewards, and a positive attitude to keep morale high throughout the season.

Going Global: Expanding Your Reach Into International Markets With Ford Deihl From DHL eCommerce

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, host Lori Boyer speaks with Ford Deihl, a product manager at DHL eCommerce, about the booming world of international shipping and the massive opportunities it offers for small and mid-sized businesses. Ford shares insights into the international market, how businesses can expand globally, and the strategies that can make international shipping easier than expected. The conversation touches on logistics, cultural differences, and how to optimize shipping costs while ensuring a seamless customer experience. The discussion ends with practical steps and solutions for entering new international markets.

International shipping: a major growth opportunity

International shipping represents a vast potential for ecommerce businesses, with global revenue expected to reach $6.3 trillion in 2024. Ford emphasized the importance of tapping into this market to reach new customers and grow revenue. "This is a way to grow your top line for your business and reach new customers," Ford notes. Businesses should identify markets where their products resonate and take advantage of the ease provided by modern shipping solutions.

With the right partners, it’s easier than you think

Expanding internationally may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Ford assures listeners that with the right carrier and shipping solutions, businesses can simplify the process. He recommends starting with familiar markets like Canada, the UK, and Australia, especially for small and mid-sized businesses. Using partners like DHL eCommerce, businesses can integrate shipping services seamlessly, without a heavy operational lift. "If it’s a big lift, it’s probably not the right solution for you," Ford explains, urging companies to leverage existing shipping and logistics partnerships.

Prepare for success

Ford stresses the importance of preparation before diving into international shipping. Having strong logistics, customer service, and a well-defined brand are crucial to success. Businesses must also ensure their storefront is optimized for international customers, including local payment options and realistic shipping time estimates. Ford emphasizes, "Ideally, what you're shooting for is a domestic-like experience for an international customer." Additionally, offering Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) can enhance the customer experience by eliminating surprises at checkout, further increasing customer satisfaction and conversion rates.

Unlocking the Power of Parcel Data With Megan Rudolph From Saddle Creek

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Delve into the critical role of parcel data in optimizing shipping operations, especially as businesses gear up for peak season. Megan Rudolph, senior director of parcel operations at Saddle Creek Logistics, shares her expertise on how to collect, analyze, and leverage parcel data to enhance customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and ensure carrier accountability.

The essentials of parcel data

Megan emphasized that parcel data boils down to two main metrics: transit time and cost. She explains, “Parcel analytics is all the data that allows you to measure those two things.”

Understanding these two metrics at a granular level enables businesses to manage consumer expectations, optimize costs, and hold carriers accountable. Megan also stresses the importance of real-time data, particularly for tracking shipments and managing delivery exceptions.

Leveraging data for cost optimization

Surcharges are a significant factor in shipping costs, and Megan advises businesses to closely monitor these charges to identify opportunities for cost savings. Businesses can use parcel data to negotiate better rates with carriers and make informed decisions about service selection. “Knowing how to leverage that data to negotiate is really important,” Megan notes, highlighting that businesses can shift volume to different carriers if necessary to optimize costs.

The role of AI in parcel analytics

Looking ahead, Megan is excited about the potential for AI to democratize data analytics. She explains that AI can help those who are less data-savvy to easily access and interpret parcel data, thus lowering the barrier to entry for effective data use. “AI becomes a facilitator,” she says, allowing businesses to ask simple questions and receive actionable insights without needing deep technical expertise.

The Ins and Outs of First-Mile Consolidation With Tyler Abderholden From Sendle

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0600

First-mile consolidation is a great way for growing SMBs to simplify their shipping logistics. Tyler Abderholden, vice president of Sendle’s global network, explains what first-mile consolidation is and why it’s beneficial.

How does first-mile consolidation work?

Generally, a multi-carrier shipping strategy involves coordinating multiple pickups at different times of the day. First-mile consolidation gives small businesses a way to reap the benefits of a multi-carrier approach without the headache of multiple pickups.

Tyler explains, “One driver will show up to your operation [and] pick up all of the packages, whether they're going to carrier A, carrier B, carrier C, carrier D, and so forth. … You have a single pickup. It comes at your preferred time of day.”

Benefits of first-mile consolidation

With first-mile consolidation, “you are managing a single touchpoint with a single provider.” By relying on a first-mile consolidator to get packages into the hands of the right carriers, merchants avoid shipping delays caused by missed pickups. And because consolidators access volume discounts, merchants save money too.

Giving customers a choice

First-mile consolidation provides access to a variety of shipping speeds, allowing customers to choose what works best for them. Tyler and Lori point out that the next-day shipping trend has begun to decline, with more consumers willing to wait longer for their packages.

Tyler says, “Everything was moving to, how do we get to next day? And now everything has been, some things need to be next day and some things are okay to take a longer time. And that's great. Customers have that choice.”

The Future of Returns With Eric Wimer From Sway

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Returns have come a long way since the early days of ecommerce, but they still have a long way to go. Eric Wimer, co-founder and CEO at Sway, envisions a future where returns are easy, fast, and cost-effective for both businesses and consumers. In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, he and Lori discuss what it will take to make that vision a reality.

A short history of returns

When ecommerce was just starting, Eric explains, “most sellers didn't accept returns.” Later, as ecommerce became more popular, sellers began accepting returns—but the process was cumbersome and slow. It involved filling out a form, then waiting weeks or months for the return to be processed.

According to Eric, Amazon helped pave the way for a smoother returns system. “Historically your only option would have been, I have to mail this thing. … I've got to package everything up, box it, label it, and go drop it off. … Well, Amazon really led the way [by] starting to offer multiple options for how you would send these items back.”

Three ways to handle returns

Today, consumers have three options for returning products (depending on what the merchant supports):

Shipping. Eric calls this the “traditional option.” The consumer prints a shipping label, packages the product themselves, and ships the package back to the seller.
Drop-off. This option involves dropping a product off at a local retail location like Staples, Whole Foods, or a carrier store. Because it only requires a QR code scan, this option allows for boxless and labelless returns.
Home pickup. Eric explains that with home pickup, “you can drop an item outside your door or choose to hand it to a driver directly, and that item gets picked up from your home. The driver scans the item in, and there's the ability for that refund to get released upon pickup.”

Tips for a great returns policy and process

A great returns policy starts with simplicity, clarity, and visibility. Eric notes that many customers appreciate “getting an email once the brand receives the item in their warehouse and is actually processing it and then getting another notification once the refund has been released.”

He also points out that fast returns benefit ecommerce merchants more than you might think. “The faster that you get someone their refund, the quicker they get back into the ecosystem to shop. So there's a business case for this.”

EasyPost Insider: Solving Complex Shipping Challenges With John Wharff From EasyPost

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In this EasyPost Insider episode, John Wharff introduces us to EasyPost Enterprise and explains how it helps businesses solve their most pressing shipping challenges.

What is EasyPost Enterprise?

John explains that EasyPost Enterprise is “software that is geared towards … really high performance, high complexity [shippers]. It opens the door to things like routing logic, business rules, [and] custom labels.”

Lori raises a question that might be on listeners’ minds: who should be using EasyPost Enterprise? John mentions that Enterprise is perfect for businesses in complex industries like pharmaceuticals or food. But any company that ships high volumes “can benefit from the type of processing speeds that EasyPost Enterprise can offer, as well as that business rule and logic layer.”

The importance of custom business logic

Custom business logic is one of EasyPost Enterprise’s most important features. “One of the core components of the EasyPost Enterprise software is this idea of working with you to build business logic,” John explains.

“[When] an order comes in from one of your customers, it's running through all of our logic gates. We are picking the best possible service that meets all of your different commitments and then getting you that label so that you can get the box out the door.”

He continues, “The idea is really understanding what's important to you as a shipper and then building the system custom for you so that we're accomplishing those goals.”

A system that grows with your business

Unlike software providers that nickel-and-dime their customers, EasyPost Enterprise works to understand your business needs so you pay for exactly what you need, with no surprise fees. John says, “We want you to have a full understanding of what you're getting. And through [the] discovery process … we can give you an all-in idea of exactly what we think you need to solve [your] problem[s] so that you can avoid fees in the future.”

The model is designed to scale with your business. As John puts it, “You always have to be planning for what comes next, because the idea and the goal is always growth. You want to be shipping more. You want to be moving more things. And it's really important to anticipate that so that you can think toward the future.”

EasyPost Insider: A New Insurance and Claims Experience With Olivia Qin and Brittany Williams From EasyPost

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In this special episode for EasyPost customers, Olivia Qin and Brittany Williams introduce the new and improved claims process for EasyPost Shipping Insurance.

What sets EasyPost Shipping Insurance apart?

For customers not currently using EasyPost’s insurance, Brittany and Olivia share some key features that set the offering apart from other insurance services on the market. Olivia says, “What's great … is that it's one pricing. It's from anywhere to anywhere, except for U.S.-sanctioned countries. And it's also carrier agnostic.”

“It is insurance that the business buys, but they can pass on that cost to their customers if they want to,” Brittany adds.

A better claims experience

Now, businesses purchasing insurance through EasyPost will have access to a smoother, more streamlined claims experience. Brittany explains what’s changing:

“What is rolling out here in the end of July is a fully rebuilt claims experience. So we're adding the ability to file claims via API. We're adding a new web form to file claims with just a few clicks. And we're also creating a dashboard in the EasyPost web application where you can go and view the claims that you submitted, view what status they're in, watch them live as they're being processed on our side.”

Why purchase shipping insurance?

Brittany, Olivia, and Lori discuss the importance of shipping insurance for ecommerce businesses. As Brittany points out, package loss, theft, and damage is inevitable. When shipping disasters strike, insurance “will guarantee that your customers are going to be happy with how you're handling their experiences.”

Olivia offers a quick tip for companies using shipping insurance for the first time: understand your policy’s requirements. “Make sure that you know what evidence is required when you file a claim. [And] make sure that you are telling your customers what's needed in case something happens.”

The (Flex) Factor: Mastering Flexibility To Get Ahead in Logistics With Jeremy Bodenhamer From ShipHawk

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Finding, hiring, and training warehouse workers has become more difficult through the years—and it won’t get any easier. At the same time, manual processes aren’t scalable or sustainable. The solution? Invest in technology that helps employees do their jobs more efficiently. Jeremy Bodenhamer, founder and CEO of ShipHawk, explains why this gives businesses an edge.

Why flexibility is essential

Jeremy explains that as ecommerce has gained popularity, some sellers have struggled to keep up with rapidly shifting consumer expectations. But that’s exactly what they need to do to stay afloat.

“Buyers are expecting smaller brands to be up to speed like they were giant brands. … Merchants have to get their operations to scale on day one, no matter what. There's no learning curve. There's no grace period. I've seen buyers completely abandon brands over slow or error-prone fulfillment or shipping or even communication.”

Solving labor problems with technology

It’s a big issue in the logistics space: labor is scarce, with few people willing to take physically demanding warehouse jobs. According to Jeremy, he hears “from customers every day how hard it is not just to find, but to hire and train workers.”

Technology can help. “These companies need to think about training and more importantly, repurposing the people they have. How do [they] make training easier? How do [they] make sure they can fill roles in multiple areas of the business? … If I'm using dated, very difficult to use, expensive to operate, expensive to train, laborious products, software, hardware … I'm compounding my labor problem.”

Measuring warehouse performance

Lori and Jeremy discuss a few things you should know about your logistics operations: What job needs to be done? Who is doing it? And how are you measuring the results? That final question is especially crucial. For organizations that haven’t been collecting and analyzing fulfillment data, Jeremy suggests starting small.

“Start with one metric … [and] make sure the new systems that are purchased or implemented can support that one. And if [they] can't, or you're not buying something new, look at what your current systems can support. What's the path of least resistance to start measuring something?”

Navigating ESG in Logistics and Retail With Alanna Fishman From FTI Consulting

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0600

What is ESG, how is it different from sustainability, and when should your company start an ESG program? Alanna Fishman, managing director at FTI Consulting, joins us on this episode of Unboxing Logistics to share why ESG is critical to a business’s long-term success.

ESG vs. sustainability

Alanna explains, “ESG literally stands for environmental, social, governance.” ESG programs focus on minimizing risks and bringing value to businesses.

To illustrate the difference between ESG and sustainability, Alanna shares an example. “Here's a sustainability statement: We believe in minimizing our footprint on the environment by reducing the amount of carbon we emit into the atmosphere. … An ESG statement would be, we are going to reduce our carbon footprint by X percent by 2025 because we can see that … this could result in millions of dollars of fines or fees or compliance costs.”

Why ESG?

Currently, the U.S. has fewer environmental regulations than many other countries. Because of this, many organizations wonder if investing in ESG is really worth it. Alanna assures us that it is.

“You have to identify the risks that could potentially impact you from a financial or brand perspective. That includes environmental and social indicators—they're huge. You wouldn't run a good business by turning a blind eye to things that have an impact on you.”

She adds, “[ESG is] what brings in the best talent. It's what makes you want to stay for the long term. It's what makes you a better citizen of the world. It's what makes your company a better business.”

Technology’s role in ESG

Alanna believes that “the future is regulation.” But a regulated future doesn’t have to be stressful or scary. The rise of technology like AI will make it far easier to measure your business’s impact. “Particularly in retail and logistics, keep your eye on technology changes. [Technology] is going to facilitate so much of the burden of reporting and tracking and trending your data. The future might be regulation, but it's … easier than you think.”

Automate to Dominate: Essential Steps To Level Up Your Warehouse Operations With Kevin Gaul From RF-SMART

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Every company approaches automation differently. Some fill their distribution centers with high-tech goods-to-person systems, autonomous vehicles, and robots that imitate human abilities, while others don’t even use simple barcode scanners.

If you haven’t dabbled much with automation yet, no worries; you can improve your processes gradually to create a delivery experience that outshines the competition. Kevin Gaul, product manager at RF-SMART, explains how to get started.

The ideal warehouse

What does the ideal warehouse look like? According to Kevin, the answer is different for every organization.

He says, “There is no ideal warehouse. The same solution that works really well for commoditized CPG is not the same solution that's going to work well for very fragile, one-off, niche items, which is not the same solution that's going to work for the healthcare vertical.”

Where to start with automation

Kevin recommends automating your shipping first and foremost. He gives two reasons:

Cost savings. “Shipping costs are going to eat almost all of your other costs bar none. So you're going to get a much bigger return on your time and technology investment [with shipping automation].”
Delivery experience. “Shipping … is your last opportunity to touch your customer before you let that package out into the universe … and put it in the hands of whoever your elected carrier is.”

Spending time on the warehouse floor

Leaders, take note: to truly understand how your facilities operate and what automation tools you need, you should spend time observing how things work in the warehouse.

Kevin points out, “All too often … shipping automation projects … are done from offices, from conference rooms, from on high. And yes, that's one of the cardinal sins of product management, but it's certainly one of the cardinal sins of warehouse management too. So the moral of the story here is get out, spend time on the floor.”

AI in Logistics: Beyond the Buzzword With Ibrahim Ashqar From Lumi AI

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Although generative AI first became popular several years ago, it’s still making waves as new tools are released and existing ones are improved. And people still have questions: what can AI be used for? How will it help my business? And what are the risks?

Ibrahim Ashqar, CEO and co-founder of Lumi AI, joins Lori on this episode of Unboxing Logistics to answer these questions and more, explaining how to get the most out of AI when it comes to your logistics.

Three types of AI

What counts as AI? As Ibrahim explains, different people have different definitions. He finds it helpful to break AI into three levels, which vary in sophistication and can be used to solve different types of problems.

Statistical models. “There's your statistical models, your advanced analytics that add a tremendous amount of value for things like sorting inventory in your warehouse according to strategic pick locations. It's not really AI. But it's advanced analytics … and it's very valuable.”
Narrow AI or machine learning. “[These] predictive models have been trained on a large corpus of data, and they do a very specific thing. Like, I'm going to predict how much demand we're going to see next week, and you can take this demand prediction to help inform labor planning decisions downstream.”
Generative AI. “It can create content, it can summarize content, it can create images, and it can code. There's a really cool use case there. Logistics companies aren’t software companies—we don't code or anything like that. But [generative AI coding can be used] to extract data insights from your database.”

Embracing innovation

Adopting new technology can be scary. Businesses face concerns about cost, change management, and more, but they also fear being left behind if they don’t move fast. Ibrahim recommends embracing AI gradually.

“The benefits are truly incredible. Don't be scared to embrace the change. … Be very strategic and deliberate with your implementation of AI. Pick easy use cases with high ROI. Start small, prove the value, and then use the excitement and momentum to scale across the organization.”

Freeing up data teams for high-value tasks

AI can help you access logistics data without overtaxing your data team. Ibrahim explains that data teams are often swamped with ad hoc data requests, spending up to 50% of their time on low-level tasks. With generative AI, non-data professionals can easily create code that gives them access to the information they need.

Ibrahim also addresses a common concern: “Aren't you replacing data analysts? No, we're empowering them to work on the things that are actually driving value.”

Celebrating Women in Logistics: 11 Guest Spotlights

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

March is Women’s History Month—a time to focus on the accomplishments and contributions of women who have helped shape the world. In honor of the occasion, we’ve decided to highlight some modern-day women who have used their knowledge, experience, and leadership skills to influence the world of logistics.

This special episode features our women guests from seasons one and two of Unboxing Logistics. Although they all specialize in different areas of logistics—from warehouse management to shipping to supply chain technology—they share something in common. Each of them is helping to pave the way for women in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

This episode contains key insights and advice from our women guests. To hear more, make sure to check out their individual episodes:

Jessica Lowrance’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/how-to-fight-porch-piracy
Kelli Martin’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/shipping-resources-for-small-businesses
Jill Barron’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/building-better-supplier-relationships
Nancy Seaboldt’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/navigating-the-erp-implementation-highway
Kylie Schafer’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/navigating-omnichannel-commerce
Gemma Shaw’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/leveraging-an-oms-for-growth
Veena Harbaugh’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/sustainable-shipping-tips-for-small-businesses
Kim Baudry’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/warehouse-automation-and-sustainability
Jicara Gorski’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/carbon-neutral-shipping-how-does-it-work
Ching Pei’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/leveling-up-product-management
Anna Podolskaya’s episode: https://www.easypost.com/podcast/empowering-women-in-logistics

Tips for Last Mile Success With Nicholas Daniel-Richards From Packiyo

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Last-mile delivery is one of the most important parts of the logistics process, playing a huge role in the customer experience. But it’s also one of the hardest things to get right—and carriers aren’t the only ones responsible.

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Nicholas Daniel-Richards, CEO at Packiyo, lays out some last-mile challenges and explains how warehouse optimization streamlines the delivery process.

Why the last mile matters

As CEO of Packiyo, a warehouse management system, Nicholas is very familiar with the ins and outs of logistics. But when it comes to the importance of last-mile delivery, he shifts to his consumer mindset.

“I'm still a consumer that's receiving packages … and I think the complications around last mile [involve] convenience. You know, do I have tracking information? Do I know when that package is going to arrive or when it has arrived? Is it the right thing (or things) inside the package?”

The answers to those questions can make or break the delivery experience—and mean the difference between loyal and lost customers.

The hidden side of last mile logistics

Who’s in charge of making sure last-mile delivery goes smoothly? Nicholas says, “A lot of people put an emphasis on … the carrier. But ultimately, there is that step of how packages get to the carrier in the first place.”

He explains that businesses are responsible for receiving customer orders, picking products, packing boxes, and coordinating shipping. If those tasks lead to inaccuracies or wasted time, the last-mile delivery experience suffers.

How to improve last mile speed and accuracy

When picking, packing, and shipping decisions are made in the moment by individual employees, there’s a lot of room for error. If it takes too long to pack boxes, last-mile shipping could be delayed. If the wrong product gets added to a package, you’ll face a frustrated customer. And the list of potential issues goes on.

The solution? Make decisions before it’s time to prep packages, so warehouse workers know exactly what to do.

Nicholas puts it like this: “You don't want to make decisions on how an order should be packaged and fulfilled and shipped at the time that you're trying to process the order. That’s a repetitive thing. [The] factors that affect that should be automated.”

Leveraging an OMS for Growth With Gemma Shaw From Order Desk

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

As businesses expand into new sales channels, order management gets complicated—and time-consuming. Gemma Shaw, head of partnerships at Order Desk, explains what order management systems do and shares tips for using yours effectively.

Benefits of an order management system (OMS)

What are order management systems, and how do they benefit businesses? Gemma explains, “An OMS enables businesses to centralize all of their orders. This is particularly beneficial if you've got multiple sales channels. [If] you're selling in various markets, maybe even globally, all of your orders are housed in one place for visibility.”

Challenges when setting up an OMS

One major challenge when setting up an OMS? Identifying your workflow. Before diving into the implementation process, Gemma recommends determining what the system needs to do and how it needs to work. “Knowing exactly what you want to achieve with your OMS is helpful.”

Gemma also notes that it takes time and patience to learn how OMSs work. She says, “There's a learning curve with any new piece of software. And with something robust and technical like this, there's a particularly steep learning curve at the start.”

Getting the most from your OMS

OMSs serve a very practical purpose: centralizing order information from various sales channels. But that isn’t all they’re useful for. As Gemma points out, these systems capture a lot of data: order volumes, inventory numbers, and much more. To get the most out of your OMS, “use that single source of truth to inform your strategic decision-making.”

Navigating the ERP Implementation Highway With Nancy Seaboldt From Summit Advisory Team

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Implementing a new ERP is a massive endeavor, and your business has a lot to consider. Which internal stakeholders should be part of the implementation project team? How will you get everyone else on board with the change?

In this episode, Nancy Seaboldt, ERP practice lead for Summit Advisory Team, shares advice for making the ERP implementation process smooth and effective.

The purpose of an ERP system

Nancy begins by describing the purpose of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system: “ERP systems come into play when companies outgrow running their business on spreadsheets. Spreadsheets can only take you so far. … In a nutshell, ERPs bring together the people, the core business processes, and the technology across the organization.”

Getting buy-in on an ERP implementation

While the technical side of software implementation is vital, change management plays an important role as well. Nancy says, “A change management plan … is defining the roadmap for going from A to B from a personal standpoint. It’s a communication plan.”

Change management isn’t just a nice-to-have; Nancy emphasizes that it’s “critical to the success of the project.”

Customization vs. transformation

For a new ERP to truly make a difference in your company, you have to be willing to embrace change. “[It’s a mistake] to make the new system meet the old way of doing things. … That's not transformation. That's customization. … Implementing the new ERP should be considered transformational. Avoid just replicating what's done today to keep the status quo.”

Logistics Robotics in 2024 and Beyond With Jonathan Briggs From Nimble

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0600

As vice president of sales and solutions at Nimble, a fully autonomous 3PL, Jonathan Briggs knows just how powerful warehouse robotics can be. In this episode, he and Lori discuss the history of robotics in logistics, what companies are doing today, and how things will evolve in years to come.

What are robots capable of?

Jonathan explains that in the past five years, the development of sophisticated artificial intelligence has led to “full-task robotics, where a robot can now do a full task of a person end to end.”

“It’s not just moving an item around a warehouse to make it a little bit more efficient. Now we can displace people because [robots have the same] functionality.”

What about human jobs?

Lori poses a tough question: If robots can replace humans in the warehouse, won’t that harm workers? Jonathan says no, explaining that robots aren’t necessarily leaving people jobless; they’re usually used when there isn’t enough human labor to meet logistics needs.

Even more importantly? Robots can perform tasks that are often taxing and dangerous for humans. As Jonathan points out, “Everywhere you look, there's a shortage of labor, there's injuries and accidents. What we do is get rid of jobs that people aren't showing up for, are getting hurt doing, or don't want to do.”

Save money on warehouse real estate

One often overlooked benefit of robots? They allow businesses to make their DCs smaller while maintaining efficiency. Jonathan says, “Most people look at automation through the lens of labor, labor, labor—cost of labor versus cost of machine. But you can add in another layer of dimension there: [you] can shrink the building, [you] can shrink [your] utilities.”

Leveling Up Product Management With Ching Pei From EasyPost

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0600

When businesses first start out, developing their product is usually a reactive process—and it’s hard to tell which new features make a difference. Ching Pei, VP of product at EasyPost, explains what product managers do to make the development process more proactive and effective.

The role of product teams

Product teams are involved with every part of the business: customer success, sales, marketing, and more. Ching explains how she views product’s role: “I think of product as a center spoke of a wheel, with each of your departments surrounding it. [Product managers are] hearing feedback [from] external customers and internal customers, and it’s their job to come in and prioritize.”

Meeting the logistics industry where it is

If you’re a logistics tech company, you know that the industry is traditionally slow to adopt new, innovative solutions. But product teams still have an opportunity to design technology that makes a difference.

As Ching puts it, “Logistics [technology] is a little bit more tangible [than other types of software] … so you don't always get to push the boundaries of innovation. You have to meet the industry where it is. You may not be the forerunner in innovating and technology, [but] you're bringing in forward-thinking tech to an industry that has traditionally been a laggard in change.”

How to get customer feedback

Customers should be involved with product development from day one, but you don’t want to overwhelm them with requests for feedback. Ching’s team finds a balance by “piggybacking off of already existing calls with customer success or support. If support faces an interesting topic, we may say, can I jump on the call with the customer when you explain this?”

“You should never be afraid to let your customers talk to your product team.”

Green Is the New Black: Unpacking Sustainable Shipping With Peter Klevecz From DHL Express

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Peter Klevecz, regional and global customer manager at DHL Express, has witnessed the carrier’s sustainability innovations throughout the years (including purchasing 800 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel). Now, he joins Lori on this episode of Unboxing Logistics to discuss the what, why, and how of sustainable shipping.

What is a carbon footprint?

Lori and Peter kick off the conversation by discussing what the term carbon footprint really means. Peter says, “[a] company's carbon footprint includes all of their direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions.”

The importance of authenticity

Whatever you do, don’t make false claims about your sustainability efforts. As Peter explains, doing so destroys consumer trust. “Building an authentic sustainable strategy is really the key to enhancing your brand image and gaining that competitive advantage in an ethical way.”

Customers want sustainable options

How can you get customers on board with your sustainability efforts? The answer is simple: communicate! “You can actually share with the customer how their decision is impacting the globe. It's a small investment to make a big impact.”

When you share your sustainability goals and initiatives, customers will continue supporting your brand. “Data supports that customers are willing and even happy to pay for sustainable options. They're more loyal to companies that provide them.”

The Evolution of the Logistics Industry With John Campo From EasyPost

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0600

The logistics industry has come a long way in 40 years—and the future holds many exciting opportunities. John Campo, vice president of government and carrier relations for EasyPost, shares some key insights into the evolution of logistics.

2024 trends: carrier diversification and post-Covid market changes

John and Lori kick off the episode with a discussion about the shipping market, where John points out that “carriers nationally have gone through some labor discord.” Although the threatened strikes were avoided, more shippers began trading their “one-trick ponies” for multi-carrier shipping strategies.

Moving forward, John predicts that some logistics companies will go out of business now that the Covid-19 consumer shipping craze has died down. “During that time there was massive over-investment … I think there’s going to be a consolidation in the business. The strong ones, they’ll survive and thrive.”

Importance of accurate delivery times

As shipment tracking data improves, customers will be able to access automatic updates for every step of the delivery process. This proactive approach doesn’t just benefit consumers—it also saves carriers the cost of failed deliveries.

John says, “if the delivery can be made as exact and precise as possible using data, then the customer wins, the carrier wins, the merchant wins, and it keeps costs down.”

Understanding carrier performance

Consumers hold ecommerce businesses accountable for their shipping performance. That includes fulfillment activities like picking and packing orders, but it also includes carrier performance—something you often don’t have direct control over.

Because of that, John says, “understanding carriers' performance [by] utilizing time in transit data is really critical.”

Warehouse Automation and Sustainability With Kim Baudry From Dematic - Ep. 21

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0600

No initiative is an island—and that includes sustainability. By implementing efficiency-boosting changes like automation, your business will also limit its carbon footprint. Kim Baudry, market development director at Dematic, explains how automation helps people, profits, and the planet.

Sustainability, labor, and automation

Because labor is a resource, sustainability includes making people’s jobs physically and mentally easier.

Kim explains, “Automation brings everything to the level where you're not bending, you're not lifting. It can reduce the amount of time that you're walking back and forth. … We have to think about how we're treating [people] so we can retain and attract them.”

How software helps

Warehouse automation isn’t all robotics; software plays an essential role. As Kim puts it, “Good software creates efficiencies in operations. When you have inventory tied to where it needs to be and where it needs to go, you're spending less time, which means less energy. You should be able to take up less space, and you have higher accuracy on your order. All of those things are good for sustainability.”

Balancing the costs and benefits of eco-friendly practices

Is sustainability worth the cost? According to Kim, the answer is an unequivocal yes—when you look at the big picture. “It's a gut reaction to go, oh my gosh, this is going to cost me a lot of money. But you really have to look at the long term. If [automation] benefits your people, you're going to have a more stable workforce. You can avoid getting more space. If you can cube your trucks, you have fewer trucks on the road, fewer expenses.”

EasyPost Analytics: Simplifying Supply Chain Visibility With James Sutton

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, James Sutton announces a new EasyPost solution: EasyPost Analytics. As head of the EasyPost Analytics engineering team, James has seen firsthand how crucial it is for shippers to have full visibility into their supply chain. He shares what EasyPost Analytics can do, who it’s for, and how it sheds light on complex logistics operations.

Why use analytics software?

Businesses that ship products to customers often have an extensive collection of technology: shipping software, TMS, WMS, OMS, ERP … and the list goes on. James explains that the goal of EasyPost Analytics is “to integrate all those systems' data,” giving supply chain professionals a full view of what’s working well and what can be improved.

“Having the right visibility into performance metrics … can empower operations to be more efficient and save money, but also execute at a high level.”

EasyPost Analytics modules

EasyPost Analytics has several modules, each focusing on a different aspect of shipping and logistics. James and Lori dive into the details of omnichannel operations, warehouse management, and parcel visibility.

While each module can be purchased separately, James says it’s “pretty powerful if you have all of them, because then you have all the data in one place and can tell the whole story.”

What’s the ROI?

James explains that shippers see two major results when using EasyPost Analytics. “One is cost avoidance. … You don't have to pay for the data analyst to build and maintain the infrastructure to do [analytics] in-house. … Two, by having the right visibility, there are many operational improvements that can save you money."

With these factors combined, most shippers see a 5 to 15 times ROI on their annual subscription.

How To Fight Porch Piracy With Jessica Lowrance From UPS | Unboxing Logistics Ep. 19

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0600

In 2022 alone, porch pirates made off with 19.5 billion dollars worth of goods. As package thieves adopt new tactics, it’s up to merchants, carriers, and consumers to stay one step ahead of them. Jessica Lowrance, vice president of federal affairs at UPS, shares some of the most effective ways to fight back against porch piracy.

Porch piracy—our new reality

For Jessica, it’s clear that porch piracy will never go away entirely. She says, “I think it's part of the customer buying experience now. And it's not the fault of the carrier or even the company you're buying from; it's just the reality of the world we live in today.”

Federal and state porch piracy laws

While some porch pirates snag a package or two on a whim, others get organized. They’re known to follow delivery trucks, stealing an entire neighborhood’s packages in one fell swoop.

Unfortunately, many of these criminals don’t face severe consequences for their actions. Jessica explains that “under current federal law, only [packages delivered by] the Postal Service are treated as a felony for porch pirates. [Packages delivered by other carriers] are up to local jurisdiction.” Nine times out of 10, [porch piracy] would be considered a misdemeanor.”

She recommends getting involved at a state and even federal level to support new legislation that would make porch piracy a felony regardless of carrier.

What can businesses do?

Jessica offers practical tips to help merchants fight back against porch piracy:

Use plain packaging. If a package is branded, thieves are more likely to snatch it.
Offer signature proof of delivery. For high-value items, give customers the option to sign for delivery.
Have a ship-to-store option. Let customers pick up their online orders at the nearest store location instead of having packages shipped to their homes.

Logistics Trends and Tips for 2024 With Chris Caplice From MIT and DAT Freight & Analytics

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Chris Caplice has deep knowledge of supply chain management: he’s the executive director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics, chief scientist for DAT Freight and Analytics, and a Silver Family Research Fellow.

To kick off the second season of Unboxing Logistics, Chris uses his wealth of experience to predict what 2024 has in store for the supply chain industry.

An evolving relationship-building approach

In the old days, building business relationships involved taking someone to dinner or a sports game. Now, Chris says, the focus has shifted. The best way to establish great relationships with partners? Help them solve their business problems. “You need to have trust on both sides. And trust is only earned with repeated success.”

Geopolitical tensions on the rise

Geopolitical tensions have the potential to cause major supply chain disruptions, and they’re on the rise. As a result, Chris has seen organizations becoming more cautious when it comes to global trade.

“The US and other Western countries have woken up to the idea that they need to be a little more self-sufficient. I don't think global trade is going away … but I think we're being more strategic there.”

Preparing for the unknown

In the world of logistics, a million things can go wrong—how can you prepare? Chris suggests using a technique called scenario planning.

While he goes into more detail in the episode, here’s the in-a-nutshell version: “You envision three to four worlds, the way the future can be … and then say, if this was the future, what should I be doing now to prepare? By doing that, you're preparing the organization to be flexible.”

Navigating Omnichannel Commerce With Kylie Schafer From Summit Advisory Team

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Whether you’re a small, medium-sized, or enterprise business, your customers probably expect an omnichannel shopping experience. Kylie Schafer, practice lead at Summit Advisory Team, talks with Lori about the benefits of omnichannel commerce and gives some advice for getting started.

Omnichannel in a nutshell

Kylie explains that omnichannel is all about “cross pollination” between sales channels. For example, customers might be able to buy something online and return it to the store, or view their online purchase history and in-store purchase history side-by-side.

In a broader sense, though, omnichannel is “just good retail.” The best brands “meet the customer where they are [and] help them shop the way they want to shop.”

Why invest in omnichannel strategies?

Why use an omnichannel fulfillment approach? The answer is simple: “Your customers expect it. … They expect things to be fast. They expect things to be easy. They expect minimal friction.” Through every stage of the customer journey, from purchase to returns, buyers value a seamless shopping experience—and omnichannel is the best way to provide one.

Getting started with omnichannel

If you’ve never used an omnichannel strategy before, or want to level up your current processes, what should you do? Kylie offers the same advice for every business, regardless of size. She says, “The first thing I always encourage … is starting with a proper strategy. Why do you think you need to do this? What are your customers telling you? What are your main competitors doing? Where do you want to be?”

Empowering Women in Logistics With Anna Podolskaya From EasyPost

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0600

According to Gartner, women make up just 39% of the logistics industry. At the executive level, that number drops to 21%. In this episode, Lori talks with Anna Podolskaya, product manager at EasyPost, about the value women bring to logistics and technology roles, how they can advance their careers, and why diversity matters.

Challenges Anna has faced in the logistics industry

In the beginning of Anna’s career, people often assumed she was a secretary or executive assistant. While she recognizes the value in those roles, she also emphasizes the importance of recognizing women as subject matter experts: “They're like, can we ask someone technical? And I'm like, I am technical.”

Tips for advancing your career

Wondering how to jumpstart your career in a male-dominated field? Anna shares some of her most impactful activities:

Network. Connecting with others in the industry (both women and men) can help you envision and achieve your ideal career path.
Volunteer. Find local organizations where you can share your knowledge, and look for chances to mentor others.
Attend conferences. Attend free or paid conferences to network and learn.

How can men support women in the workplace?

Lori and Anna discuss several ways men can support women in the workplace, including sharing constructive feedback and asking for feedback themselves. Anna sees the power of praise combined with questions: “Hey, you did a really great job. What would you want to do differently?”

Sustainable Shipping Tips for Small Businesses With Veena Harbaugh From Sendle

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Many small businesses want to incorporate sustainability initiatives into their operations but aren’t sure how to get started. Veena Harbaugh, director of sustainability at Sendle, reveals that sustainable shipping doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive—even for the smallest organizations.

Finding innovative solutions

With limited time and resources, how are small businesses supposed to compete with larger ones? Veena believes they can use constraints to their advantage. “Where there is a barrier for small businesses, those are the exact entrepreneurs finding solutions. … They can embed that [sustainable solution] into the core of what they do.”

Cutting costs and saving the planet

Do you have to choose between sustainability and the financial health of your business? Surprisingly, no. While sustainable solutions are often seen as an “elite or more expensive option,” they actually go hand-in-hand with cost savings. By eliminating waste, businesses save money and minimize their carbon footprint at the same time.

Three shipping sustainability tips

The following sustainability measures are simple but can make a big difference.

Rightsize packaging. Save money by not paying to ship half-empty boxes, and save the environment by packing trucks more efficiently.
Cut down on returns. Keep products out of landfills and avoid paying for return shipping. Try improving product descriptions and sizing charts so people know what they’re getting.
Work with eco-conscious partners. Solutions like Sendle and EasyPost offer 100% carbon neutral shipping at no extra cost.

Is Consolidated Shipping Right for You? With Guy Gemmill From APC Postal Logistics

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

International shipping is complex, but it opens the door to billions of new customers. Guy Gemmill, president and co-founder of APC Postal Logistics, joins Lori on this episode of Unboxing Logistics to explain how consolidators simplify cross-border shipping.

Why use consolidated shipping?

Guy explains that shipping consolidators “receive shipments from various merchants in the U.S. on a daily basis, [then] consolidate those shipments into drop areas overseas and into Canada.”

The advantage of this system? “Because the economies of scale are better, the cost is going to be lower.” Merchants can save up to 60% on international shipping by taking advantage of a consolidator’s bulk discounts.

Consolidated shipping vs. expedited shipping

The consolidated vs. expedited choice comes down to individual preference. Guy says, “[Some] consumers want products within a certain timeframe, and others are going to be shopping based on the cost and shipping rate.” When cost is the main concern, consolidated shipping is the way to go. When time matters most, expedited is the better option.

When is it time to ship internationally?

Is international shipping worth it for your company? According to Guy, you should turn to data to answer that question. “Understand what your website traffic is. Are international consumers hitting your website? Are they looking at your products? How long are they spending on your website?” If you have enough international traffic, it may be time to start tapping into that new market.

EasyPost Enterprise: Navigating High-Volume Shipping Challenges With Jeff Skaistis & Jeff Goeters From EasyPost

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

On this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Jeff Goeters and Jeff Skaistis unveil a new EasyPost platform for high-volume shippers: EasyPost Enterprise. “When out-of-the-box won’t do, that’s what we do,” says Goeters. Skaistis adds, “EasyPost Enterprise is a shipping platform that grows with you over time.”

Challenges enterprise shippers face

Enterprise businesses have to run a tight ship when it comes to shipping—no pun intended. Jeff Skaistis explains why they don’t have room for error. After noting that enterprises ship hundreds of thousands of orders (or more) per day, he continues, “For these companies, shipping is a business-critical operation. You can't have your shipping system go down and expect to make your numbers.”

When to invest in an enterprise shipping solution

Small businesses usually start with an off-the-shelf shipping product, and it works great for a while. But as the organizations scale, things get more complicated. According to Jeff Goeters, many new factors come into play: additional retail locations, online returns, and more. That’s when “you need an enterprise product, which is designed to help you plug all those pieces together.”

An enterprise shipping platform for the future

EasyPost Enterprise is built using new technologies, and it was created with flexibility and adaptability in mind. While many legacy enterprise products are suffering from age, says Jeff Skaistis, EasyPost Enterprise “gives us a lot of opportunity not to just build what has been built before, but to build new things for the future.”

Shipping Resources for Small Businesses With Kelli Martin From FedEx

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

“You're never too small to ship or get great rates. You're not.”

Kelli Martin is the digital marketing advisor at FedEx, but she likes to refer to herself as a small business champion. This week, she joins us on Unboxing Logistics to share advice for small businesses and highlight some of the resources FedEx provides to help them succeed.

Small business challenges and trends

The current economic climate makes running a small business challenging. Kelli shares the struggles she’s heard about from clients she’s worked with: “[One thing] we're all hearing about and experiencing in some way is inflation and the rising cost of everything … and just finding good labor.”

Two things small businesses need to know

Shipping can be overwhelming for small business owners! Two things that people often don’t get right? DIM weight and packaging.

Kelli recommends, “Know your DIM weight … understand it. A lot of people think it's just the weight of the package that makes the difference. Like, no, no, no. It's the combination of the weight, the size, and the distance.”

She adds, “I cannot stress enough the importance of proper packaging. If [a product is] breakable—fragile in any way—proper packing is so important to avoid damage.”

Resources FedEx provides

FedEx isn’t just for big companies—they want to help businesses of every size thrive. Check out these helpful resources:

FedEx Small Business Grant. Ten FedEx customers will win a significant grant to grow their business. The application will open around March 2024.
Small Business Center. As Kelli puts it, you can find “loads of information on just about everything under the sun,” including articles on optimizing your shipping, packing, and fulfillment.
Making It Work podcast. The podcast doesn’t just focus on shipping—it covers all the complexities of small business operations, including hiring and firing, finding investors, and more.
Post-Peak and Trends Reports. Next Spring, read these reports for a deep dive into ecommerce trends and statistics.

Carbon Neutral Shipping: How Does It Work? With Jicara Gorski From EasyPost

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Jicara Gorski, principal product manager at EasyPost, explains how companies can achieve a net zero carbon footprint through carbon offsets.

EasyPost announces carbon neutral shipping

In this special episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori and Jicara discuss a major announcement from EasyPost: Starting on November 1, 2023, every shipment that comes through EasyPost will be carbon neutral, at no additional cost to shippers.

Jicara explains, “This is not a light investment. … This is an effort in our continuing partnership with our customers—listening to them, understanding what their end customers are expecting of them, and coming to the table with a viable solution.”

How do carbon offsets work?

If trucks and planes continue to transport packages as normal, how can a company achieve carbon neutral shipping? While carbon offsets don’t eliminate greenhouse gas emissions, they do help balance them.

Jicara explains how it all works: “[Packages are] going from point A to point B. So we take inputs based on the mode of transportation and the distance that they’re going, and we calculate the amount of carbon emissions that are associated with a particular parcel.”

“At the end of the quarter, we'll take the amount of emissions that we've calculated for that particular period, and we will purchase a decarbonization project to offset those emissions.”

The result? A 100% net neutral carbon footprint.

Why focus on sustainable shipping?

Sustainability is one of the most pressing issues for businesses today. Everybody’s talking about it, but many aren’t sure exactly what to do about it. As Lori points out, the numbers show it’s time to make a change:

11% of all global greenhouse gasses come from freight transportation.
64% of consumers say they're willing to pay more for a company that uses sustainable products.
81% of global consumers feel strongly that they should be helping the environment.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about how EasyPost carbon neutral shipping works—and why sustainable shipping is so vital.

Ecommerce Cybersecurity Strategies With Iskander Sanchez-Rola From Gen

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In case you haven’t heard, October is cybersecurity awareness month! This episode of Unboxing Logistics focuses on the importance of cybersecurity in the ecommerce space.

What are the risks? What responsibilities do businesses have to protect consumer privacy? Iskander Sanchez-Rola, director of privacy innovation at Gen, joins Lori to answer these questions and more.

Web tracking—good or bad?

Web tracking involves monitoring and collecting data about users' online activities. Tracking can have visible results (like targeted ads), but it’s also used in the background for data analysis or data sharing between companies.

So, is web tracking bad? Not necessarily. As Iskander explains, everything comes down to choice and transparency. “I'm not explicitly saying that web tracking is bad, because it's not. What we are saying is that we should allow the users to decide what is happening.”

The consequences of neglecting cybersecurity

Though Iskander is quick to point out that he’s not a legal expert, he knows that neglecting cybersecurity is never a good idea. If an ecommerce store doesn’t protect their customers’ personally identifiable information (PII), they can face major legal repercussions—not to mention a damaged reputation.

Is your data secure?

Sometimes, business owners aren’t sure if their sites are secure—with cookie ghostwriting, it can be hard to tell if third parties are tracking user data. Iskandar recommends digging deep and looking for signs of unusual activity on the backend of your site.

If bad actors do get away with tracking user data via your site, you could be in trouble. “[The trackers are] not controlled by you, which means they can … attack the privacy of your customers.”

Taking Advantage of a Shipper’s Market With Tyler Diestel From EasyPost

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0600

For the first time in years, it’s a shipper’s market. Tyler Diestel, senior product manager at EasyPost, explains how ecommerce stores can take advantage of the lower rates.

Carrier’s Market vs. Shipper’s Market

What’s the difference between a carrier’s market and a shipper’s market?

Tyler explains that a carrier’s market is created when “there's a lot of shippers … and not enough carriers. The carriers can hike up their rates and just fulfill deliveries for the shippers that are willing to pay those high prices.”

As the Covid-19 pandemic has ended and shipping volume has slowed, carriers now have to compete for business. These days, “The shippers have the option to say, which carrier should I go with? Which [one] is offering me the best prices?”

Lock in Rates While They’re Low

Lori and Tyler agree that getting paralyzed by FOBO (fear of a better offer) isn’t a good idea. Rates are really low right now—and businesses should take advantage of it!

Tyler says, “If you can lock in a rate for a longer term, I think that would be very beneficial. … Right now, the rates are so good that it's hard to see them getting even better.”

Use Technology to Find the Best Carriers

Tyler gives a word of caution: don’t get complacent with your shipping strategy, even if you feel like you’re getting good rates. He recommends finding the best carriers and rates using technology. In the old days, it could take months to integrate with a single carrier. With technology, you can connect with many carriers almost instantly.

Building Better Supplier Relationships With Jill Barron From Summit Advisory Team

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0600

It sometimes seems like the right technology can solve every problem. But when it comes to relationship building, software can only go so far. In this episode, Jill Barron, practice lead for supply chain operations and strategy at Summit Advisory Team, shares her approach to building and maintaining great relationships with suppliers.

Why be intentional with supplier relationships?

Jill explains, “If you're a retailer, you set certain rules of engagement. … And when your suppliers don't follow those guidelines, it creates friction. It [takes time] to unravel problems, and time is money.”

She believes that when you clarify expectations, follow up often, and address issues—without going straight into chargeback mode—you can solve problems in a mutually beneficial way.

Communicate often

After analyzing how suppliers are performing, you should set up a regular cadence of meetings to discuss progress and pain points. Jill recommends meeting once a month at first, then transitioning to quarterly reviews. She adds, “I need to stress here, have [these meetings] with your good partners as well as your poor-performing partners.”

You don’t always have to win

The goal of building supplier relationships is to always get what you want—right? Actually, Jill believes it’s sometimes better to let the supplier win. “Even though you may feel at your heart that you are right … that concession sometimes really starts to build trust. It will come back and benefit you.”

How to Decrease Cost to Serve With Tom Butt From Summit Advisory Team / Elevate

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Tom Butt, chief customer success officer at Summit Advisory Team and Elevate, was first featured on the second episode of Unboxing Logistics, where he and Lori talked all things peak season. Now, Tom is back to explain how merchants can improve profit margins by decreasing their cost to serve.

Four costs businesses can control

Cost to serve (CTS) encompasses four main costs: cost of goods sold (COGS), shipping, labor, and supplies. When you drive these costs down, profit margins go up.

While all these costs influence a business’s supply chain, Tom points out that “it's that shipping piece that people are really struggling to figure out.”

How do customers buy your products?

Are your customers buying things in the store? Buying online and picking up at the store? Having the product shipped to them?

Tom explains that you should “be intentional with placing your merchandise in the place that your customer wants to buy it.” Before you can cut costs, you have to understand the customer buying journey through data analysis.

A key metric: operating margin

One of Tom’s go-to metrics is operating margin. To calculate, determine your revenue, then subtract all your costs.

Operating margin = revenue from sale – (cost of goods + shipping cost + labor cost + supplies cost)

“If you can look at that at a granular order level, you can see how much money you made on any particular order.”

Supply Chain and the Consumer Experience With Matt Boland From Körber and Jill Barron From Summit Advisory Team

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0600

When your behind-the-scenes supply chain processes run smoothly, the front-end customer experience improves. In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Matt Boland (senior director at Körber Supply Chain) and Jill Barron (practice lead at Summit Advisory team) explain how you can leverage the supply chain to give your customers a better buying journey.

Inventory management: a crucial piece of pre-purchase experience

What products are available, and where are they located in relation to customers? Inventory management is “probably one of the most important pre-purchase elements of a dynamic supply chain,” according to Matt.

When you don’t update inventory online, customer experience plummets. As Jill puts it, “there's no quicker way to lose loyalty and trust … than to not accurately communicate to your consumers that an item is back-ordered or out of stock.”

What customers want from the returns experience

Matt and Jill both agree: customers want a fast, frictionless return process. Jill suggests that most people prefer “either going quickly and dropping [a return] off at a local store or setting it out on [the] front porch for someone to come pick it up.”

Preventing returns is just as important as making them easy for consumers. Matt points out that “you greatly reduce your risk for returns if you dramatically increase your ability to deliver on time and in full.”

Moving away from free shipping

With the rise of Amazon, free shipping became a necessity for many consumers, and sellers offered it to stay competitive. But now, according to Jill, “There are retailers out there … putting thresholds on the purchase" so their customers have to spend a certain amount of money to get free shipping.

The Power of the Shopping Guarantee With Eric Thorson From BuySafe

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Ecommerce brands want customers to trust them—and they don’t hesitate to explain why their brand is credible. But when does a promise become more than just words on a screen? This week, Eric Thorson joins guest host Jason Eisenberg to talk about the power of third-party shopping guarantees. Here are a few highlights from the show:

Customer anxiety and experience

Online shopping can be risky, and consumers sometimes hesitate to purchase from a site they haven’t shopped at before. Jason and Eric discuss four major concerns:

Merchant reliability. Will my purchase come as described?
Price point. Am I getting the lowest price?
Package security. Will my order be lost, damaged, or stolen?
Identity. Will my personal information fall into the wrong hands?

Often, shoppers overcome their concerns and make a purchase, convinced by the promises sellers make. But if their experience falls short of expectations, your reputation might take a hit. As Eric points out, “A negative review is forever … and there's no controlling what people write.”

What is a shopping guarantee?

A shopping guarantee gives consumers a reason to trust brands. It works in two ways. First, it uses trust signaling (often in the form of a floating seal on the website) to increase conversion rates. Second, it gives customers peace of mind that their purchase will be what they expected. Eric explains that “the power of the shopping guarantee is that [it] holds merchants accountable to their terms of service.” If there’s an issue with an order, the shopping guarantee makes things right for the customer.

Brand recognition + shopping guarantee

Shopping guarantees address consumer anxieties with “visual trust signaling, [or] graphical elements that are … prominently displayed.” But of course, businesses never want to confuse users with too many elements on the page—especially if the trust signal includes a third party’s logo. Eric emphasizes the importance of making the brand front and center. “We don't want to take away from the brand, because [that’s] the top priority, right? It's about making that connection with your brand.”

Choosing the Right 3PL With Adam McCoy From eHub

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0600

On this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Adam McCoy and Lori Boyer sit down to talk 3PLs: what they are, when to start working with one (or more), and how to manage successful partnerships.

As it turns out, choosing the right 3PL is a little like dating. There are lots of options out there, and you don’t want to make the wrong choice. While Adam doesn’t give any dating advice during this episode, he does share plenty of tips for making sure your 3PL partnership doesn’t end in heartbreak.

Why work with a 3PL?

First things first—what exactly is a 3PL? Adam defines a 3PL as “a partner to the ecommerce business” that focuses on “getting the right product to the right customer on time.” 3PLs handle logistics activities like picking, packing, shipping, kitting, returns, and more.

So how do you know when to turn your order fulfillment over to a 3PL? According to Adam, there are two common signals that it’s time:

Growth. As fulfillment becomes more time-consuming, ecommerce businesses must decide whether to outsource it to a 3PL or expand their in-house operations.
Specialization. Many 3PLs specialize in certain types of shipments, including big and bulky products, hazardous materials, and cold storage for food.

Managing the 3PL relationship

Adam believes that the best time to start managing a 3PL relationship is before you sign a contract. “Ensure that you've set expectations. Your contracts are negotiated in a way where SLAs [service level agreements] are defined. And if you've done that properly, it makes other aspects of managing the relationship down the road easier.”

And while a breakup is never ideal, you shouldn’t stick with a 3PL that isn’t working out. “If you have a 3PL partner that's not meeting those needs and those SLAs … if you can't address that, that's probably a good indication that you should look for an alternative partner.”

Why technology is key

Technology helps bridge the gap between you and the 3PL. Adam explains how: “We're working with a customer [who is] using a technology where the merchant and the 3PL are effectively in the exact same instance of the technology. So they can [both] see who's ordering, who's fulfilling what, and it's almost like they're working side by side.”

The takeaway? You can maintain visibility and control even when the 3PL physically stores inventory and ships packages. “The ecommerce business isn't blind to what's happening with the 3PL … [the] technology that strengthens that partnership is key.”

Shipping Cargo Via Passenger Plane With Chris Grey & Ed Burek From SmartKargo

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0600

When it comes to choosing a carrier, many ecommerce businesses stick with one of the big names: USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL. But could there be a better way? In this episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori sits down with Chris Grey and Ed Burek from SmartKargo to talk about the benefits of exploring alternative shipping options.

The rising popularity of alternative carriers

Ed explains that between 2021 and 2022, the largest carriers were down 3 to 4% on average in terms of shipping. On the other hand, alternative carriers were up 25%. Why the rising popularity? Ed believes that using alternative carriers along with the “big four” provides a significant strategic advantage.

Sharing space on passenger planes

Chris and Ed recommend SmartKargo’s unique shipping solution, which utilizes empty space in the baggage area of passenger plans. By filling that extra space with packages, businesses can ship packages reliably and affordably.

With thousands of flights a day, shipments can travel anywhere in the continental United States. As an added bonus, air cargo shipping is sustainable. As Ed puts it, “The plane's going to fly no matter what, so now you're loading it up” and making use of the extra space without creating more carbon emissions.

Fear of alternative shipping methods

People who hesitate to try alternative shipping methods think it’s a big risk—and they don’t want to be the first ones to test the waters.

But Chris advises, “Don't be scared. People are already doing this and seeing advantages. If you're not doing it, you're missing the boat. And someone else is going to recommend it to the CEO or the COO, or your competitor's going to do it and steal your market share.”

Preparing for Peak Season With Tom Butt From Summit Advisory Team / Elevate

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0600

This week’s guest on Unboxing Logistics is Tom Butt, chief customer success officer at Summit Advisory Team and Elevate.

In addition to being an expert in the shipping and logistics industry, Tom is an avid home chef. He compares peak season preparations to the cooking term “mise en place,” the process of organizing and arranging ingredients before preparing a meal. If ecommerce businesses practice “mis en place” with their shipping operations leading up to peak season, things will run a lot more smoothly. Listen to this week’s episode to learn how you can prepare your people, processes, and systems for the busiest time of 2023.

The peak season sprint

If the rest of the year is a jog, peak season is a sprint. Tom describes it as “stress testing your fulfillment and supply chain systems.” People, processes, technology, inventory, sales teams—all of them get pushed to the limit.

Navigating carrier capacity challenges

Ecommerce businesses encounter lots of hurdles during the peak season. One of the most common? Carrier capacity. Whichever carrier(s) you work with, Tom recommends “communicating … to make sure that they’re aware of any volume spikes that you have.” If you don’t provide carriers with a reasonably accurate forecast, they might leave you high and dry when your shipping volume increases.

In addition to keeping lines of communication open, it’s a good idea to consider working with multiple carriers. Tom’s advice is simple: “Diversify where you can.”

Preparing your team for peak season

People, processes, and systems are the backbone of a solid shipping and logistics operation. While all are critical, people play an especially important role in keeping things running during the busiest time of year.

Tom and Lori discuss why it’s so critical to have the right people in the right roles and train them properly. You can level up your training process by starting at the top. “Make sure that you're training the trainers first, so you have champions, your supervisors, your managers. … They can evangelize how your operation works, the culture, and how you do things.”

Challenges and Opportunities of AI in Logistics With James Sutton From Elevate / Summit Advisory Team

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In the first-ever episode of Unboxing Logistics, Lori Boyer and James Sutton, chief analytics officer at Elevate / Summit Advisory Team, discuss the role AI plays in the shipping and logistics industry.

The recent popularity of AI

The rise of ChatGPT has catapulted artificial intelligence into the spotlight. But, as James points out, AI has been driving some of the most popular software and services (like Netflix’s recommendation engine and Uber’s driver selection) for years. “But I think ChatGPT is really the first time that AI is becoming more mainstream, and people are seeing real use cases.”

Three big opportunities for the logistics community

AI has enormous potential for shipping and logistics. James shares the three areas he believes it can have the biggest impact:

Carrier selection. The best shipping tools “leverage millions or billions of tracking events … to detect a confidence level that a package will get delivered on a required delivery date. [Then they] select the cheapest [carrier option].” This makes it easier to work with multiple carriers and get the most value from them.
Package tracking. “If you know better where your packages are and you have better data on that, then you can build more solutions to dynamically route-plan based on different capacity constraints.”
Forecasting. AI can help ensure that the right inventory goes to the right location(s).

A major challenge: developing a data infrastructure

James explains that AI won’t help organizations unless they have a solid data infrastructure built out first. “Most non-data professionals don't really tie these new AI models to what's required underneath in order to build insights. … You have to have your data strategy in a good place.”

Welcome to Unboxing Logistics!

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Stay in the loop with the latest trends in the world of shipping and logistics. Unboxing Logistics launches on July 31, 2023—make sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform!

Unboxing Logistics

Creating an AI Strategy That Works With Dana Moffat From Acumatica - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 88

How to create an AI strategy that works

Setting your AI up for success

Does AI replace human workers?

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Preparing for Freight Volatility With Chris Caplice From MIT and DAT Freight & Analytics - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 87

The state of freight shipping in 2026

Spot vs. contract pricing

Balancing cost and reliability in a tight market

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Unboxing the Trends: USPS Fuel Surcharges, FedEx 2-Hour Delivery, and the Rise of Amazon Shipping With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 86

USPS introduces fuel surcharges

FedEx offers two-hour delivery

Amazon Shipping gains ground as a carrier

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EasyPost Insider: Luma AI Advisor, the Shipping LLM You Can Rely on With Tyler Diestel From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 85

What is Luma AI Advisor?

What data is Luma AI Advisor trained on?

What can Luma AI Advisor help with?

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The Middle East Shipping Crisis With Sal Mercogliano From What’s Going On With Shipping? - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 84

How has the conflict in the Middle East affected shipping?

What will happen if the conflict continues?

What will happen when the conflict ends?

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The Parcel Carrier Landscape in 2026 With Nate Skiver From LPF Spend Management - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 83

The state of parcel shipping in 2026

Are alternative carriers worth it?

Staying on top of carrier pricing changes

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Lessons From a Warehouse Modernization Project With John Naylor From Trew and Scott Davis From JD Finish Line - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 82

Choosing technology with the future in mind

Planning for the unexpected

Taking a people-focused approach

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Unboxing the Trends: Designing for Disruption and Proving AI’s ROI With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 81

Disruption is the baseline in 2026

From AI hype to measurable ROI

Resilience starts with the basics

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EasyPost Insider: Tackling Enterprise-Grade Complexity With AI With Joe Dieter From EasyPost - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 80

What’s an enterprise-level shipper?

How EasyPost Enterprise helps

Luma AI is now available in EasyPost Enterprise

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Real Relationships, Real Results With Marty Johnson and Fahim Mojawalla From AYM High Consultants - Unboxing Logistics Ep. 79

Transactions vs. relationships

Creating a standout customer experience

How to hire (and retain) outstanding team members

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Unboxing the Trends: Season 5 Highlights With Tim Ranagan and Lori Boyer From EasyPost

Season five’s big ideas

A major theme—dealing with uncertainty

What’s coming in season six

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Tips for Finding the Best Suppliers With Mattia Miglio From Alibaba.com

How to find the right suppliers

Why supplier diversification matters

Building long-term partnerships

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EasyPost Insider: Automate USPS Claims Filing With Tyler Diestel From EasyPost

What is USPS Claims?

Why automate claims filing with EasyPost?

How the process works

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From First to Last Mile: A New One-Stop Shipping Partner With Keith Somers From FAST Group

What is FAST Group?

A shipping partner that grows with your business

Behind the scenes of the merger

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The Power of Neurodiversity With Dylan Telford and Jarlath Phelan From Summit Advisory Team

Neurodivergence in the logistics industry

The importance of being open

Leadership tips for creating an inclusive workplace

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Time To Rethink Returns? With Tim Robinson From Blue Yonder

What to do with returned items

The downside of “keep-it” returns

Should you tighten your returns policy before peak?