Businesses today face unprecedented challenges in logistics management – rising transportation costs, increasingly complex supply chain disruptions, and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence. Steve Huntley, President and Owner of Resource Logistics Group (RLG), recently shared strategic insights during an interview with Logistics Management magazine to help companies maintain competitive advantage.
Peak Season 2023: Balancing Risks and Opportunities
Huntley's analysis of the 2023 peak season reveals a complex landscape. While consumer demand persists across specific sectors, persistent challenges including supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and transportation capacity constraints require strategic planning. His recommendations emphasize proactive measures:
- Advanced demand forecasting to anticipate market needs
- Strengthened partnerships with logistics providers
- Flexible supply chain configurations to address volatility
- Data-driven inventory optimization using historical consumption patterns
The Rise of Nearshoring: Strategic Supply Chain Realignment
Global trade realignments are accelerating nearshoring adoption, with Huntley identifying Mexico, Central America, and Caribbean nations as emerging hubs due to geographic proximity and cost advantages. However, he cautions businesses to conduct thorough due diligence when selecting nearshoring partners, evaluating:
- Infrastructure capabilities and technological readiness
- Workforce skill levels and productivity standards
- Cultural compatibility and communication protocols
Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Logistics Operations
Huntley positions AI as a transformative force across logistics functions, with applications including:
- Dynamic route optimization reducing transportation costs
- Predictive analytics enhancing demand forecasting accuracy
- Automated warehouse systems improving operational efficiency
- Intelligent customer service platforms personalizing experiences
The RLG executive emphasizes that successful AI implementation requires phased deployment strategies coupled with robust data governance frameworks to address security and regulatory compliance.
Resource Logistics Group: Delivering Operational Excellence
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, RLG provides specialized logistics consulting services to shippers and third-party logistics providers. The firm's expertise spans transportation management, warehouse optimization, supply chain design, and technology integration, having delivered over $185 million in verified transportation savings for clients.
Executive Profile: Steve Huntley's Industry Leadership
With 25+ years of logistics experience, Huntley previously served as VP of Global Transportation/Logistics at Tyco International, managing $1.2 billion in transportation budgets. His career includes leadership roles at Roadway Express, Leykam-Muerztaler Paper Company, and Baystate Shippers. Huntley holds an MBA from New York Institute of Technology and dual bachelor's degrees in International Business and Transportation/Logistics Management from Northeastern University, where he frequently lectures on supply chain management.
Strategic Imperatives for Competitive Advantage
Huntley's analysis identifies three critical focus areas for logistics professionals:
Peak Season Preparedness
Developing multimodal transportation strategies and cultivating collaborative carrier relationships to mitigate seasonal capacity constraints.
Nearshoring Implementation
Balancing cost reduction objectives with supply chain resilience requirements when relocating operations.
AI Adoption Roadmaps
Prioritizing use cases that deliver measurable ROI while establishing ethical AI governance frameworks.
Industry Outlook: Embracing Disruption
As logistics undergoes rapid transformation, Huntley advises organizations to adopt agile operating models that leverage emerging technologies while maintaining focus on core operational fundamentals. Industry observers note parallel developments in sustainable logistics initiatives and accelerated digital transformation efforts as additional strategic priorities.
The convergence of geopolitical, technological, and operational factors continues to reshape global supply chains, requiring continuous adaptation from logistics professionals. Firms that successfully integrate Huntley's recommendations regarding peak season planning, nearshoring strategies, and AI implementation will be positioned to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in evolving market conditions.