Just like a huge variety of industries across the world, third party logistics providers have had many obstacles to overcome in 2020 due to COVID-19. And though things are beginning to feel more normal and less dire, we still have a while to go before supply chains find equilibrium again. It’s even possible that the worst is yet to come should the winter wave impact the workforce.
Third party logistics has a long list of traits that can help serve our clients and consumers alike. Good 3PL is consistent, logical, transparent, efficient. But the attributes that are serving our communities now look a little different than they have in the past. Here are some qualities we are bolstering to provide the best experience for our clients and their customers:
Health and Safety
Of course, the number one concern at this time for JIT Services and its workforce is to remain healthy and safe throughout the pandemic. This is especially important for companies with labor intensive jobs like supply chain employees that can be impacted indefinitely by respiratory complications. JIT has shifted the schedules of its workers to increase physical distancing as a precautionary measure, and positive testing cases will be out on leave until the team member receives a negative test result in accordance with local guidelines. We are also supplying workers with masks, hand sanitizer and gloves to reduce the possibility of exposure should a team member come in contact with an asymptomatic carrier.
Dependable
With such a high level of uncertainty, a strong supply chain must be prepared for shocks both on the supply and demand of their products. When involuntary quarantine and industry shut downs were beginning, both supply and demand immediately evaporated for many verticals. But JIT Services was fortunate to be deemed an essential company and never halted its supply chains or warehouse oversight. Should a high wave of cases in the colder season cause another round of shut downs, JIT expects to continue operations, giving your business one less thing to worry about.
Focused
There have been many shifts in demand due to coronavirus that have changed best practices for supply chains and businesses alike. Shortages and rationing are found on retail shelves for products like disinfectant, paper products, soaps, and basic household goods. Many businesses have sent out safety stock, leaving inventory low. In response, some businesses have reduced the number of SKUs and placed some products on hiatus to make supply chains more manageable and target production on high-demand products. Should you choose to pursue it, this can lead to more profitability and consistency in a time of uncertainty.
Prepared for Change
Though some restaurants are seeing patronage at a reduced capacity, the supply needed is significantly reduced. Instead, it is being shifted to grocery. Items traditionally purchased in boutique shops are now seeing greater demand for ecommerce as consumers see less risk in direct delivery service. These changes have made significant shifts in the packaging and logistics plans for products. Creating supply chain contingencies can give you a leg up in reaching your customers more quickly should the needs for your business change.
The needs for a successful supply chain are in flux right now, but there are some things that never change. First and foremost, JIT Services is here to help you navigate the challenges of our evolving situation. Together, we will build the supply chain of tomorrow. But until then, we will strive to serve our communities and keep safe.