Warehouse & Fulfillment Insights
Expert insights on warehousing, order fulfillment, assembly, and logistics from Midwest AWD.
Freight vs. Shipping: Understanding the Key Differences
Many businesses will talk about shipping when they mean freight, or vice versa. This isn’t because they’re confused or ignorant — it’s a function of just how closely related these two terms are when talking about logistics. Understanding the difference not only cuts down on misunderstandings, but it also can have subtle but important effects ... Freight vs. Shipping: Understanding the Key Differences
3PL vs. Freight Forwarding
Given how complex the modern supply chain is, it’s no wonder businesses often get confused when trying to manage theirs. For example, take the differences between freight forwarding and third-party logistics (3PL). Although many businesses often need both services, they serve different functions within the overall logistical ecosystem. Understanding the distinctions between each model and ... 3PL vs. Freight Forwarding
Overstock Inventory in Warehousing
In an ideal world, every item produced would find a buyer. But the unfortunate truth is that warehouses all over the world are filled with overstock, which is inventory that was produced in excess of demand levels. Overstock is a common concern for businesses in the retail, manufacturing, and ecommerce sectors, and it can be ... Overstock Inventory in Warehousing
How Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) Help Maintain Food Safety
Food storage is more complex than regular warehousing and requires a system that can handle all of the intricacies that go along with it. This is where a Warehouse Management System (WMS) plays a critical role. A WMS provides structure and oversight. It helps reduce risks and supports consistent food safety practices across all warehouse ... How Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) Help Maintain Food Safety
Inbound vs. Outbound Logistics
Logistics is the overall process of planning and executing the movement and storage of products from one place to another. Inbound logistics deals with the procurement of raw materials and goods from suppliers and vendors outside of a business and focuses on receiving and storage. Outbound logistics handles the movement of finished products out from ... Inbound vs. Outbound Logistics
Self-Fulfillment vs. 3PL Guide
Key Takeaways: Self-fulfillment means total control in the operator’s hands, but this can be a two-edged sword. A 3PL can absorb growth surges and reduce per-unit shipping costs yet introduces a layer of dependency that some businesses aren’t ready to accept. Picking the right model comes down to an honest look at current capacity, order ... Self-Fulfillment vs. 3PL Guide
What Is Drayage in Logistics?
Every container that crosses an ocean or rides a rail line still needs a truck to carry it the last few miles. That short-distance leg – known as “drayage” – connects ports, rail yards, warehouses, and distribution centers. Drayage serves as the first and last mile of intermodal shipping, bridging long-haul cargo movement and ... What Is Drayage in Logistics?
What Is the Picking Process in Logistics?
Picking drives every order that leaves a warehouse. It connects storage to the packing line and ultimately to the customer’s door: When picking runs well, orders ship faster, costs stay lower, and accuracy improves. When it breaks down, the entire fulfillment chain feels it – from returns and reshipments to missed delivery windows. ... What Is the Picking Process in Logistics?
B2B Fulfillment Guide for Manufacturers and Distributors
Business to business (B2B) fulfillment is the process of storing, managing, picking, packing, and shipping goods from one business to another. It includes manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, and retailers – but not end consumers. This is more than basic warehousing. B2B order fulfillment covers documentation, compliance, and freight coordination alongside the physical movement of goods. ... B2B Fulfillment Guide for Manufacturers and Distributors
What Is Dunnage?
Dunnage refers to materials that protect, stabilize, and support goods during storage or transit. Wood, foam, inflatable bags, and corrugated paper cushion products against damage and keep them from shifting. The term traces back to 15th-century maritime shipping. Sailors used loose materials to secure cargo in ship holds. The basic dunnage meaning remains the same ... What Is Dunnage?
Midwest Assembly, Warehouse & Distribution Announces Retirement of General Manager/COO George Bichanich
West Bend, WI — Midwest Assembly, Warehouse & Distribution, LLC (MAWD) announces the retirement of George Bichanich, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer, who will step down shortly after the new year. Since founding the company in 1988, George has been instrumental in establishing MAWD’s operational framework, its reputation for reliability, and its long-standing partnership ... Midwest Assembly, Warehouse & Distribution Announces Retirement of General Manager/COO George Bichanich
What Is Retail Supply Chain Management?
What is retail supply chain management, and how does it impact the operations of your business? The goal of retail supply chain management is not just to have a product to sell, but to coordinate all of the working parts involved, including sourcing, inventory, and distribution, with the specific objective of cutting costs and improving ... What Is Retail Supply Chain Management?