Optimization is one of the most sought-after goals owners and executives have for their businesses. We see it used a lot in industry circles and discussions, but in practice, what does it mean?

Before we even dive into the definition of optimization, it’s important to identify common mistakes people make when looking to optimize their logistics services. Business owners and leaders often find themselves surprised by how very common errors have been preventing them from enjoying their desired growth.

Failing to Forecast and Plan Properly

Planning is acknowledged as a key piece of business operations. The problem is, that not everyone can practice this due to busy schedules and various things that need to be managed in today’s fast-paced business world.

Failure to create concrete plans affects a business’ overall operations; for the case of logistics services, forecasting demand is particularly important. Here’s an example of the effect of failed forecasting in logistics:

Let’s say a set budget was provided for a per-hour workforce team. No forecasting was done. A sudden influx of products that require to be delivered and packaged overwhelms the set workforce, which then reduces productivity and quality of output.

Sounds disastrous? It is.

What You Can Do: Businesses need to keep forecasting and planning in mind and to do this, they need to create an environment for themselves and their team that champions preparation.

Ignoring Employee Training and Development

It’s easy to treat logistics services as a mere operational tool that keeps the wheel turning for the business. Watch out; this is a trap! Logistics Services should be treated as a people-focused business. The optimization you desire is dependent on the capabilities of the people you manage.

Failing to value the human side of your workers causes business leaders to ignore the learning and development that employees deserve for their respective careers. A domino effect is then created, where performance drops, morale becomes low, and the risk of turnover increases.

It’s easy to fall into this trap, but you don’t have to.

What You Can Do: Creating dedicated training programs and building meaningful professional relationships with your people can help maintain a satisfied workforce.

Refusing to Embrace the Power of Collaboration

One of the biggest misconceptions about the Logistics Industry is how mechanical it can get. Yes, processes are strictly implemented, but it’s important to remember that people are still involved in the middle of all this. The processes we champion won’t be executed properly without a motivated and dedicated workforce. Collaboration and communication with one another is extremely important.

What happens to companies who refuse to practice collaboration internally and externally? Siloed operations and lack of synergy between team members are likely to occur. This then leads to inefficient work and lost opportunities for optimization.

What You Can Do: Champion a culture of collaboration, and encourage productive professional relationships and partnerships between teammates and clients.

Sounds overwhelming? The right Logistics Services partner can help you out

Avoiding all of these pitfalls can feel impossible, especially if you’re already juggling so many responsibilities as it is. No need to worry; partnering with the right Logistics Services partner is what you need to help optimize your business.

Express Lumpers helps drive the growth of your business through:

• Flat-rate pricing that is worry-free and cost-efficient, thus encouraging better planning for leaders
• An experienced and motivated workforce that treats its clients as partners
• Dedicated collaboration through constant communication with our partners

Ready to take the next step? Let’s talk!

To know more about Express Lumpers, make sure to check out the Explore Our Purpose page. You can also learn more about our Lumper Services, Forklift Operators, Packaging Workers, and Delivery Drivers by clicking the respective links.