The logistics checklist you need to stay prepared for the busiest time of the year
The Black Friday weekend is one of the busiest times of the year for manufacturers and retailers. In 2023 alone, Black Friday sales in the UK reached an impressive £13.3 billion.
Black Friday supply chains are fragile regardless of the extensive and contingency planning; the worst thing that can happen to retailers is running out of stock – even worse when the stock you run out of is your best seller!
Well before orders flood in, take stock of your facilities and equipment.
If you’re expecting a delivery into your warehouse, then ensure that you’re ready by having extra forklifts, barcode scanners and any other equipment to make sure there are no delays.
By auditing your existing stock and inventory, you can work out if you have sufficient storage in the warehouse. Move the slow moving stock into temporary storage to free room for the big sellers.
Know where your stock is
To be on the same page with your suppliers and logistics providers, and have a clear grasp on supply and demand, it’s best practice to share a demand forecast and projections with them well in advance.
Stock being where it needs to be is a huge challenge for every business regardless of the size. Gathering updates on stock and its movements is important at this time of year so if you need to expedite a shipment, you can. Optimise shipping times and extend order cut off points by having stock in prime locations. If you want to ship into Europe, consider utilising a warehouse in Europe itself.
Relationships with partners really do start to pay dividends around Black Friday. The logistics provider you choose will need to have built strong relationships over time with suppliers so that they can leverage them as and when you need changes to schedules or expedited shipments.
Last minute fulfilment requests need to be factored in
Finding a logistics partner who can sort transportation alternatives at the drop of a hat is a saviour when the goalposts move and you need last minute stock delivered. This will help you to avoid losing customers and sales opportunities on the day when people are taking advantage of Black Friday deals.
Locating and sourcing additional warehouse space is a smart idea, especially if the space is located close to major customers. Additional warehouse space can also be utilised if sales forecasts and projections miss the mark.
Keeping your logistics provider updated on sales volumes can really help them to be prepared to rescue you when sales go better than expected!
Be sure your warehouses are surge ready
If you are expecting the biggest sales day of the year, which most are, then your warehouses need to be ready to accommodate a high influx of orders.
Grouping inventory and rating them from fast moving to slow moving, so that they can be picked and packed in the minimum possible time, helps boost efficiency.
Dedicating packing lines to sort packaging and gift wrapping will save time when the fast moving orders roll in.
Are your logistics partners ready?
You own the entirety of your customer’s experience, if you outsource all of your logistics or even just a little part of the journey. If a package is late, it’s on you in the customer’s eyes. This is why you need to choose a logistics partner that has a trusted and extensive network of suppliers so that whatever your needs or demands, they’re covered.
Whether you need an express van or a Moffet urgently, we have you covered. We’re your reliable partner with a trusted network that ensures your products reach your customers exactly when and where they need them.
If you’re looking to handle a single delivery, manage a few pallets, coordinate multiple loads, or require comprehensive project planning, we have the tailored solution for you.
Our commitment to excellence ensures that your logistics needs are not just met, but exceeded.
Ask anyone working within a supply chain and they will be able to tell you a Black Friday nightmare or near-miss story.
The best way to avoid these near misses and help your business thrive is simple – plan ahead and choose a logistics partner that can support you.
🔮 Check out our additional Black Friday advice to help you Master Black Friday Logistics & Supply Chains.
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