When it comes to running a successful manufacturing business, efficient logistics are key. Logistics for manufacturers goes further than simply getting an order to its destination, it’s about meeting customer demand, protecting your margins and supporting business growth.

But even the most experienced of manufacturers can fall into common logistics traps that cost them time, money and even their hard-earned reputation. 

The good news is that most supply chain mistakes are easy to avoid when you know what to look out for. In this blog, we cover the top shipping problems for manufacturers and how to skip past them by working smarter, not harder. 

Mistake #1: Treating Freight as an Afterthought

For many manufacturing businesses, production takes the spotlight. After all, you can’t sell anything if you haven’t made it! Unfortunately, however, this means that freight planning is often left to the last minute.

The result? Rushed, expensive shipments, limited transport options and an increased likelihood of missed deadlines. This can directly impact your bottom line, and it can also ruin customer relationships and hurt your reputation.

How To Avoid It

Shipping logistics for manufacturers need to be integrated into production schedules early on, not treated as an afterthought after production is complete. By forecasting shipping needs ahead of time, manufacturers can access better rates, more choice and stress-free shipping. 

Mistake #2: Relying on One Carrier or Forwarder

When you’ve formed a great working relationship with one carrier, it can be tempting to stick with them. Why fix what’s not broken, right? On the other hand, over-reliance on a single provider can mean you’re left high and dry if delays or issues occur.

Don’t think it’ll happen to you? Even the most robust of plans can hit unexpected roadblocks! Adverse weather conditions, strikes and capacity issues can all cause your shipment to become delayed if you don’t have a contingency plan.

How To Avoid It

To bolster logistics for manufacturers, partner with a flexible freight forwarder, just like Millennium, that can offer multiple carrier options and backup plans in case something goes wrong. A professional freight partner will keep an eye on your shipment as it progresses on its journey and proactively spot potential problems, meaning you can work together to keep your goods on track for prompt delivery.

Mistake #3: Poor Communication with Logistics Partners

There are so many plates spinning in the world of manufacturing, and communication can fall short. When it comes to logistics, vague instructions, incomplete paperwork and delayed notifications can cause big problems. Miscommunications between manufacturers and carriers or forwarders can lead to errors, customer issues and extra costs – all of which can negatively impact your operations AND your bottom line. 

How To Avoid It

Robust logistics for manufacturers revolves around clear, timely communication from start to finish. That means including complete shipping information via the correct documentation, such as weight, dimensions, descriptions and any special handling instructions. Effective communication, where logistics partners are also kept up to date with any schedule changes or delays in production, helps the people you’re working with to find the best shipping solutions for your business.

Mistake #4: Ignoring Changes in Freight Market Conditions

Freight rates and transit times are in a state of constant flux. Thanks to factors such as changing fuel prices, port congestion, labour shortages and geopolitical events, shipping rates can rise in an instant and major delays occur overnight. 

So, how can you remain resilient around logistics for manufacturers?

It’s all down to keeping in the know. Staying informed about market shifts will enable you to be proactive and seek out the best way of getting your cargo from A to B. Becoming complacent or downright ignoring changes in the freight and logistics landscape can land you in hot water, locked into expensive shipping rates or lost for answers when available capacity is at an all time low.

How To Avoid It

Partner with a freight forwarder who keeps you in the loop. Millennium monitors market conditions daily and shares timely updates with our clients. In the face of issues, we help our clients adapt to ensure their cargo ends up where it’s supposed to (and on time); from exploring alternative routes and carriers to securing space well ahead of time, we know how to stay flexible and maintain smooth logistics for manufacturers all over the world. 

Mistake #5: Not Insuring Shipments Properly

From rough handling at the port to adverse weather at sea, risk is always present in the world of logistics for manufacturers. Unfortunately, carrier cover is minimal and likely doesn’t cover the value of your goods.

Skipping insurance to cut down on costs might seem like a good idea at first, but this can cause major shipping problems for manufacturers down the line. Without proper insurance, cargo is not fully protected against things going wrong, meaning manufacturers may be left picking up the pieces (and paying out themselves) for entire shipments in the face of loss or damage.

How To Avoid It

Always discuss freight insurance options with your logistics partner. A reputable forwarder will understand the risks of logistics for manufacturers and can help you work out what level of insurance cover you need. 

How Millennium Cargo Helps Manufacturers Avoid These Pitfalls

Millennium Cargo helps our customers steer clear of common supply chain mistakes with proactive support from start to finish.

Strategic Freight Planning

We begin with strategic freight planning that aligns with your production schedules right from the word go. Considering shipping early on helps to control costs and reduce delays, ensuring your cargo gets where it needs to be on time.

Broad Network Of Trusted Carriers

Partnering with Millennium Cargo provides you with access to a hub of trusted carriers, meaning we can react quickly if your shipment hits a stumbling block.

Proactive Communication And Real-Time Updates

Efficient, clear communication is crucial in logistics for manufacturers. Millennium proactively stay in touch with our clients so they’re never left in the dark. 

Expert Insurance Advice

From explaining coverage options to walking you through the claims process, Millennium takes the stress out of cargo insurance and makes sure your cargo is fully protected.

Time To Rethink Your Logistics Strategy?

Smooth logistics management isn’t optional for manufacturers – it’s critical. Every delay and error in your supply chain has a butterfly effect that reaches your bottom line, your reputation and your growth. 

By avoiding common roadblocks, such as relying too heavily on one carrier, leaving shipping to the last minute and skipping insurance, you can firm up a process that better supports your business goals. 

Want to find out more? Millennium Cargo specialises in logistics for manufacturers. Get in touch today to find out how we can support your business.