Metal Manufacturers Guide to ERP System Selection

Metal Manufacturers Guide to ERP System Selection

This article provides an in-depth analysis of five ERP software systems suitable for metal manufacturing companies. It evaluates them from multiple dimensions, including functionalities, advantages, disadvantages, and application scenarios, aiming to provide selection guidance for enterprise decision-makers. The focus is on key factors such as production process management, MRP accuracy, inventory control, MES integration, and total cost of ownership. This helps companies optimize resource allocation and improve production efficiency by choosing the right ERP system for their specific needs in the metal manufacturing sector.

Global Firms Adapt Expansion Strategies Amid Market Shifts

Global Firms Adapt Expansion Strategies Amid Market Shifts

The global overseas environment is shifting towards "rules and costs," requiring companies to focus on structural trade opportunities, refined financial management, and energy transformation. This report analyzes trade shifts, interest rate paths, freight rates, and cost variables. It proposes differentiated strategies for regions like North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf, emphasizing compliance, supply chain optimization, and energy storage chain deployment. This aims to help businesses seize growth opportunities amidst global changes. Companies should focus on cost-effective solutions and adapt to evolving regulations to succeed.

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Retail Supply Chains

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 industry associations, is urging the White House to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential strike on October 1st. The analysis highlights the potential impact of a strike on various sectors including retail, manufacturing, agriculture, and the overall economy. Possible solutions discussed include government mediation, labor-management compromise, and extending the negotiation period to prevent significant supply chain disruptions and economic fallout.

Global Trade Relies Heavily on Merchandisers Report Finds

Global Trade Relies Heavily on Merchandisers Report Finds

Foreign trade order followers play a crucial role in international trade, responsible for order tracking, documentation, logistics coordination, and customer relationship management. Their work involves confirming order details, tracking production progress, controlling quality, preparing and reviewing documents, arranging transportation, customs clearance, and communicating with customers. This requires solid professional knowledge and excellent communication skills. They ensure smooth order fulfillment from placement to delivery, acting as a vital link between suppliers, manufacturers, and international buyers. Effective order follow-up is essential for successful international trade operations.

Logistics Firms Adapt to Trade Tariff Uncertainty

Logistics Firms Adapt to Trade Tariff Uncertainty

The Trump administration's tariff policies have introduced uncertainty into the logistics industry. Companies need to develop tariff management plans, strengthen data analysis, optimize supply chains, and communicate with stakeholders. It's also crucial to monitor customs developments, assess bond limits, and consider Foreign Trade Zones and nearshoring. Businesses should equip themselves with high-quality data and effective tools to navigate tariff challenges and identify opportunities amidst the uncertainty. Proactive adaptation and strategic planning are key to mitigating risks and maintaining competitiveness in the evolving trade landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Advanced TMS Features Cut Logistics Costs for Businesses

Advanced TMS Features Cut Logistics Costs for Businesses

A Transportation Management System (TMS) offers much more than just optimized load planning. This article delves into the value of a TMS as an ERP interface, freight payment/settlement application, complex route builder, backhaul planning tool, custom Bill of Lading generator, and performance tracking tool. It also provides ROI evaluation ideas, helping companies fully leverage the various functions of a TMS to achieve significant reductions in logistics costs. By understanding its multifaceted capabilities, businesses can unlock substantial savings and improve overall supply chain efficiency.

APICS Jdcom Partner to Boost Chinas Ecommerce Supply Chain Talent

APICS Jdcom Partner to Boost Chinas Ecommerce Supply Chain Talent

APICS and JD.com have formed a strategic partnership to establish China's omnichannel supply chain standards and improve e-commerce supply chain performance. APICS will establish a China Enterprise Advisory Committee and collaborate with JD.com to create a Supply Chain Academy. They will jointly design omnichannel benchmarks and provide SCOR-P training to help Chinese companies enhance their supply chain capabilities and seize opportunities in the e-commerce market. This collaboration aims to elevate supply chain management practices and foster talent development within the Chinese e-commerce landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Hanjin Shipping Collapse Highlights Global Supply Chain Risks

Hanjin Shipping Collapse Highlights Global Supply Chain Risks

The Hanjin Shipping bankruptcy case highlights significant hidden risks within supply chains, with creditors potentially recovering less than two cents on the dollar. This article reviews the bankruptcy event, analyzes the creditors' predicament, proposes early warning signs for corporate bankruptcy, and explores issues such as supply chain risk prevention, industry impact, digital transformation, and green shipping. The aim is to provide businesses with risk management advice and strategies for building more resilient supply chains in the face of future disruptions and financial instability in the shipping sector.

AI and Regionalization Boost Supply Chain Resilience

AI and Regionalization Boost Supply Chain Resilience

The Prologis report reveals a “Great Reconfiguration” era for supply chains, urging companies to build resilience by embracing AI, strengthening regional self-sufficiency, and enhancing energy resilience. Regionalization shortens lead times, reduces costs, and diversifies risks. AI empowers demand forecasting, inventory management, and route optimization. Energy resilience requires diversified supply and distributed energy systems. Companies should develop future-proof supply chain strategies to navigate uncertainty. This involves strategically leveraging technology and geographic diversification to mitigate disruptions and create more robust and adaptable supply chains.

Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

This paper explores how Sales Order Automation (SOA) can enhance sales team effectiveness. It emphasizes that SOA frees up sales representatives to focus on customer relationship management. The article also suggests that companies should restructure their sales teams based on customer buying behavior, building a customer-centric sales organization to stand out in the fierce market competition. By automating repetitive tasks and streamlining processes, sales teams can dedicate more time to building relationships and closing deals, ultimately improving overall performance and driving revenue growth.