In business, operating on the more conservative side is generally regarded as a smart strategy for entrepreneurs just starting out. However, for a business to grow and reach the next level of success, leaders eventually have to increase the scale of their goods distribution in order to reach and meet the needs of a bigger audience.
As experts, the members of Newsweek Expert Forum have experience ramping up shipping operations and volume in a sustainable way. Below, they offer advice on how companies can seamlessly shift from a relatively small volume of shipping to a much larger scale of distributing goods.
1. Refocus Business Priorities
Scaling up physical product distribution from small to large operations requires a shift in business priorities with a focus on strategic planning, efficient processes and measurable execution. To achieve the best outcomes, start by examining current inefficiencies and bottlenecks. Invest in infrastructure, technology, quality control and customer service to take the business forward. - Lillian Gregory, The 4D Unicorn LLC
2. Make a Concrete Plan
You need to plan and know well in advance what shipping strategy you will use depending on the size of the order that comes in. If it is just a small order, maybe FedEx, UPS or DHL would be an option but for huge orders, look at prepositioning strategies or slower sea freight as possible options for your customers. - Zain Jaffer, Zain Ventures
3. Ensure Compliance With Laws
A key factor when shifting from a small volume of product distribution to a large one is to make sure all federal and state laws will be met. Different products have different laws and mandates, and some of these laws are issued on a federal level while some vary from state to state. You must make sure your distribution method accounts for and complies with all of the varying regulations without requiring constant changes to obey. - Baruch Labunski, Rank Secure
4. Make Improvements to Increase Efficiency
When shifting from a small volume of shipping to a larger scale of distributing goods, optimizing warehouse operations, improving inventory management and implementing efficient transportation strategies are critical. Additionally, investing in technological solutions, such as inventory management software and tracking systems, can help ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries. - Alan Wozniak, Business Health Matters (BHM) Executive Consulting
5. Invest in Your Logistics System
It is crucial to invest in a robust and scalable logistics system. This involves selecting a distribution model that can handle increased volume without compromising efficiency or accuracy. Partner with reliable logistics providers, use technology for inventory and shipment tracking and continuously optimize supply chain processes. - Britton Bloch, Navy Federal
6. Manage Your Supply Chain
Scaling shipping for larger volumes requires meticulous supply chain management. Key steps will include detailed supply chain mapping, disruption anticipation and adaptations to operational processes. This ensures quality and efficiency as the company manages increased volumes. Strategic foresight in scaling is crucial for a seamless transition and sustained success. - Joseph Soares, IBPROM Corp.
7. Consider a Phased Approach
Build a phased approach. Incorporate what you learn phase by phase to preserve profitability and protect your customers' experience. - Karen Mangia, The Engineered Innovation Group
8. Find a Reliable Shipper
Be sure you have a reliable shipper with order tracking capabilities and interactive contact through text or email in case there is difficulty in completing the delivery. When shipments go astray, it requires extra support from customer service and generates negative reactions in clients. Keep everyone happy with efficient and effective shipping that will save time and money in the long run. - Margie Kiesel, Isidore Partners
9. Hire More Staff
We achieve this by hiring additional staff and ensuring their availability. We begin advertising job openings before the start of our busy spring shipping season, which is usually in the first quarter of the year. This way, when April arrives and everyone wants to purchase plants for their lawns, we have a large enough workforce to fulfill the orders. - Tammy Sons, Tn Nursery
10. Develop an Inventory System and Order Fulfillment Strategy
Invest in a good inventory management system and create a strategic order fulfillment strategy with your logistics partner. This ensures that the packaging, picking and delivery processes are streamlined and efficient, regardless of the volume of the orders. - Gergo Vari, Lensa
11. Adopt a Scalable Logistics Blueprint
To shift to shipping a larger volume of goods, companies can adopt a scalable logistics blueprint. This would mean collaborating with a logistics expert to create a flexible distribution model that can be scaled with demand. Thereafter, they can integrate a smart tracking system for automated inventory management and real-time insights. - Dr. Kira Graves, Kira Graves Consulting
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
