The fashion industry comes with a wide range of logistical challenges. From estimating the proper inventory to transporting the product, there are many areas of the logistics process that require expertise from a shipping logistics company in order to save money and provide a smooth and efficient route from manufacturer to customer.
But setting up an infrastructure that can account for all of the fashion industry’s unique challenges and quickly fluctuating volumes can feel nearly impossible.
This is why successful fashion companies often outsource their supply chain management to a third-party logistics provider. By tapping into an existing and scalable infrastructure, many of the challenges are automatically addressed. Choosing a partner with an expertise in fashion ensures your products are protected throughout the logistics process.
Below, we’ll discuss the ways an integrated third-party logistics provider can save you money and optimize your supply chain to ensure a smooth process from source to customer.
Fragile and Sensitive Apparel Items Require Expertise
Product handling is crucial when transporting apparel. In its very nature, apparel is fragile. Apparel can tear, get soiled and be prone to mold and mildew from moisture during transport.
Shipping shoes and apparel means picking the right packaging and it requires in-depth knowledge of the different options available. For example, when looking for a logistics provider, you need to know if their service includes garment on hanger capability. If your brand specializes in haute couture or other luxury items, even more care is needed. Packaging, security and insurance is often needed. Expert knowledge in customs regulations is also critical.
Flexibility and Scalability are Core to the Apparel Industry
Few industries demand flexibility and scalability to the degree the apparel industry does. The industry’s business model is driven by change, which means you need to be adaptable and change with the demands of your customers.
Another key characteristic of the apparel industry is its seasonality. Many customers switch their entire wardrobe based on a new season which means you need to be both a few steps ahead and be able to respond quickly.
As a result of these two characteristics, you need to work with a logistics provider that offers scalability and flexibility. A logistics provider with integrated services can offer the infrastructure needed to quickly scale up and down your logistics needs so your product gets to market in time with accuracy and manageable costs. With a lot of services under one roof, you increase the efficiency of the process which can lead to a savings in time and money.
Using Logistics Experts in Fashion and Apparel is Best for Your Products, Your Customers and Your Bottom Line
Working with an integrated logistics service provider like Worldwide Logistics Group gives you the ability to work with just one provider for a multitude of logistics solutions. With 38 offices in 20 countries, Worldwide Logistics Group provides the necessary services needed to get your goods from point A to point B. We offer air, sea and land/road freight services, warehousing and distribution services including shipping, pick and pack, kitting, reworking, reverse logistics, inventory track and trace and customs brokerage.
Contact Worldwide Logistics Group to learn more about logistics for the fashion and apparel industry.