Guide to Streamlining B2B Sourcing in China

Guide to Streamlining B2B Sourcing in China

This article provides a guide to B2B procurement in China, covering stages like needs definition, platform selection, sample evaluation, terms negotiation, quality verification, and shipment acceptance. It emphasizes precise requirements, quality control, and risk management. The aim is to help businesses efficiently and safely procure goods from Chinese manufacturers, enhancing their supply chain competitiveness. This guide provides practical steps to ensure a successful procurement process, mitigating potential challenges and optimizing outcomes when sourcing from China.

02/05/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
Read More
Logistics Firms Adapt Strategies Amid Postpandemic Labor Shortages

Logistics Firms Adapt Strategies Amid Postpandemic Labor Shortages

In the post-pandemic era, logistics management faces the dual challenges of demand uncertainty and labor shortages. Companies should engage in scenario planning, balancing labor and automation, and developing flexible supply chain strategies. Experts advise cautious investment, starting with small-scale pilots, and focusing on the sustainability of e-commerce growth to address future uncertainties. A measured approach to automation and a resilient supply chain are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of logistics.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Locus Robotics Buys Waypoint to Boost AMR Market Position

Locus Robotics Buys Waypoint to Boost AMR Market Position

Locus Robotics' acquisition of Waypoint Robotics expands its AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) product line, accelerating warehouse automation and improving efficiency. This strategic move is viewed favorably by industry giants like DHL, highlighting the potential for enhanced operational capabilities and a stronger market position for Locus in the rapidly evolving warehouse automation landscape. The acquisition promises to streamline processes and offer more comprehensive solutions for businesses seeking to optimize their supply chain operations.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
Warehouse Optimization Strategies Tackle Supply Chain Challenges

Warehouse Optimization Strategies Tackle Supply Chain Challenges

This paper addresses the supply chain challenges faced by warehousing companies and proposes five strategies for optimizing warehouse operations. These include accurately assessing automation needs, optimizing layout to improve space utilization, re-engineering processes for human-machine collaboration, leveraging data-driven insights for lean management, and continuously improving to build an agile supply chain. The aim is to help companies leverage automation technologies to enhance operational efficiency and achieve cost reduction and efficiency gains.

01/22/2026 Warehousing
Read More
AI Robots and WMS Boost Logistics Efficiency

AI Robots and WMS Boost Logistics Efficiency

Warehousing and logistics operations are undergoing an automation transformation. Technologies like AI, robotics, and WMS are driving efficiency gains, cost reduction, and improved customer satisfaction. To successfully transition and embrace the future of smart logistics, companies need to develop a clear strategy, select appropriate solutions, and invest in employee training and continuous evaluation. This strategic approach is crucial for maximizing the benefits of automation and staying competitive in the evolving landscape of warehousing and logistics.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Uschina Phase One Trade Deal Faces Tariff Challenges

Uschina Phase One Trade Deal Faces Tariff Challenges

The US and China officially signed the "Phase One" trade agreement, involving tariff adjustments and procurement commitments. The agreement reduced some tariffs, but the effectiveness of its implementation remains to be seen. Businesses need to pay attention to shipping data and policy changes, diversify procurement sources, optimize supply chains, and strengthen risk management to seize opportunities in the new trade landscape. Monitoring key indicators and adapting strategies will be crucial for navigating the evolving US-China trade relationship.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Vodafone Advances Supply Chain with Digital Transformation

Vodafone Advances Supply Chain with Digital Transformation

Vodafone's digital transformation is not just theoretical; it's a practical upgrade to supply chain management through initiatives like digital supplier scorecards, data-driven decision-making, and 'Procurement with Purpose'. Starting with a data strategy, they rapidly iterate, embrace failure, and actively explore cutting-edge technologies like autonomous procurement and blockchain. This provides valuable experience for other enterprises embarking on their own digital journeys. Their focus on data and willingness to experiment are key takeaways for successful supply chain modernization.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Supply Chain Firms Boost Sourcing from Womenowned Businesses

Supply Chain Firms Boost Sourcing from Womenowned Businesses

Supply chain giants like Walmart are committing to increasing procurement from certified women-owned businesses over the next five years. This initiative aims to enhance brand image, foster innovation, mitigate risks, and fulfill social responsibility. Diverse sourcing not only builds consumer trust but also strengthens supply chain resilience, creating a win-win scenario for businesses in terms of both commercial and social value. Companies should establish clear objectives, optimize procurement processes, and collaboratively build an inclusive supply chain ecosystem.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Retail Container Volume Declines Amid COVID19 Disruptions

US Retail Container Volume Declines Amid COVID19 Disruptions

The Port Tracker report reveals the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the US retail supply chain, projecting a significant drop in container throughput in February. The report analyzes the pandemic's effects on production, logistics, and demand, exploring retailers' coping strategies. Long-term, the pandemic may accelerate procurement diversification, prompting businesses to prioritize supply chain resilience. The report also proposes policy recommendations, including strengthening international cooperation, improving infrastructure, and supporting diversified procurement for businesses.

02/03/2026 Logistics
Read More
Nearshoring Boosts Corporate Success As Supply Chains Shift

Nearshoring Boosts Corporate Success As Supply Chains Shift

An AlixPartners report indicates that labor costs, trade regulations, and economic pressures are driving a global supply chain shift towards nearshoring. Key factors include automation technologies, policy incentives, and a focus on total cost of ownership. The United States is leading this trend. Companies need to develop a clear strategy, select appropriate locations, and invest in automation to succeed in this evolving landscape. Nearshoring offers potential benefits in responsiveness and resilience compared to traditional offshoring models.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More