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Here at WARP we work our shipping magic in a number of ways, but one of our favorites is making sure our client’s perishable products get to their customers as quickly and efficiently as possible. If you’ve found this page, we’re guessing that you’re interested in moving your temperature sensitive products from A to B. We’re here to walk you through the process from start to finish, and of course tell you why we think we can do it better than who you’re currently working with.

So, what is temperature controlled shipping?

In the simplest terms, the definition of temperature controlled shipping is the transportation of goods that must be kept at a certain temperature from the moment it leaves your facility until it arrives at your customer’s door. When it comes to fresh freight the first type of products that come to mind are food such as fresh produce, meat and seafood and frozen CPG products. But, there are a plethora of other goods that require the proper temperature transport such as live plants, pharmaceuticals and even some dry goods like dried fruits, nuts, breads, and more.

Why is it so hard to ship temperature controlled products?

Perishable goods are highly susceptible to damage due to their fragile nature and how quickly their quality deteriorates with the passing of time. A missed delivery window can lead to an entire shipment of spoiled products and thousands of dollars in losses for a customer. Because perishable shipments are so sensitive, it’s integral that shippers have visibility and transparency from manufacturer to store.

What are the different kinds of temperature control WARP offers?

• Refrigerated – 34-65 degree produce. 28 degree fresh meat and seafood
• Frozen – -20 – 0 meat and seafood. Frozen CPG products. Frozen, raw, pet food
• Freeze Protect – 65 degree + live plants

What types of transport does WARP offer for temperature controlled products?

• Direct Store Delivery – Delivery directly to stores with multiple vehicle types including sprinters, straight trucks and full trailers, with liftgate and “dark store” delivery services available
• Last Mile Injection – Carrier injection via shared truckload to a single last mile carrier sortation center
• Manufacturer to Warehouse Transfer – Transfer of finished products from manufacturer to cold storage

How does WARP help?

The shipping duration of temperature controlled products needs to be minimized as much as possible. The longer it takes to ship, the greater the risk of temperature fluctuations and damage to the product. Therefore, it is always recommended to use express or direct shipping methods that can guarantee narrow delivery windows to minimize the time in transit and damages.

WARP’s technology weaves together the middle-mile and last-mile using their network of temp-controlled cross docks and carriers to provide perishable shippers with a one-stop-shop for their logistics needs. DirectFresh, WARP’s guaranteed same or next day delivery of temperature controlled items, eliminates the need to switch trucks or have products stored in warehouses for an extended period of time. This allows for optimal freshness and quality.

Why use WARP over going directly to a carrier?

WARP’s careful carrier selection and tech integrations allow us to optimize routes and right-size capacity for the most cost-effective and timely transfer of goods. In addition, working with a company like WARP reduces risk for the shipper when it comes to troubleshooting issues along the way and if products arrive damaged. WARP also handles all the communication between the shipper, carrier, and recipient to coordinate shipping arrangements and ensure that the product is delivered in good condition.

In addition, our tech integration with ShipRec provides real-time temperature monitoring of fresh freight in transit directly in the WARP platform. The partnership between WARP and ShipRec improves food safety and works to meet the strict requirements of FSMA regulations to prevent foodborne illness. Users can receive notifications if a refrigerated or frozen product’s temperature is outside of the optimal temperature zone, allowing drivers to investigate issues as needed and alert customers of any issues in advance.

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Customer expectations have never been higher. 

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With endless options at their fingertips, consumers demand immediate product availability and seamless shopping experiences.

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And here’s the truth: 

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Efficient Store Replenishment is more than avoiding stockouts—it’s the foundation for exceptional customer experiences.

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Imagine this: 

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A customer walks into your store, finds exactly what they need, and leaves with a smile. 

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Simple? Yes. 

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But it builds trust, drives sales, and fosters loyalty.

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WARP understands that every out-of-stock situation is a potential lost customer.

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Here’s how our solutions focus on keeping your shelves stocked and your customers coming back for more:

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1. Creating Memorable In-Store Experiences

- Picture this: A shopper walks in, grabs what they need without hassle, and leaves delighted. That moment builds brand loyalty. WARP ensures high-demand products are always available, even during peak periods, ensuring happy customers and more sales.

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2. Turning Customer Loyalty into Competitive Advantage

- In a world with endless buying options, product availability can be the difference between a loyal customer and a lost sale. WARP’s real-time tracking and predictive algorithms keep you ahead of trends, ensuring your customers find what they need—every time. Consistent availability turns one-time shoppers into loyal customers.

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3. Enhanced Flexibility for Promotions and Seasonal Trends

- Promotions, product launches, and seasonal surges require dynamic replenishment. WARP aligns stock levels with your marketing calendar to prevent empty shelves during high-demand moments, converting occasional buyers into repeat customers.

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4. Minimizing Lost Opportunities with Data-Driven Replenishment

- Every stockout is a missed opportunity. Studies show that 39% of consumers will choose another store or brand if an item is unavailable. WARP’s automated replenishment tools help you avoid those lost sales by anticipating demand and adjusting inventory accordingly.

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5. Omnichannel Success Starts with Better Replenishment

- Shoppers expect seamless experiences—whether in-store, online, or with in-store pickup. WARP ensures inventory moves efficiently between fulfillment centers, stores, and warehouses, eliminating silos and delivering smooth omnichannel experiences.

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Eager to boost customer satisfaction through smarter Store Replenishment? Let's make it happen.

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Contact Us: https://www.wearewarp.com/contact-us

Tired of LTL headaches?

Can’t stand when LTL carriers make up excuses for why they missed pickups?

Annoyed by damaged & delayed LTL shipments?

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We might have a solution with WARP’s LTL.

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What makes WARP’s LTL better:

1. Reliable & Timely Delivery - We enhance efficiency through dynamic line haul optimization, minimizing delays for consistent arrival times.

2. Secure Shipments - We minimize cross-docking at congested facilities and avoid stacking freight, reducing the risk of damage during transit.

3. High Visibility - We offer live tracking with real-time updates and ETAs, minimizing the chances of lost freight.

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How we do it:

1. Route - A dynamic routing algorithm to match the price and speed preferences of your freight.

2. Pick-up - Multiple vehicle types facilitate tasks traditionally done by LTL pick-ups. Pick-up from various vendors and stores using various vehicles: SUVs, Pickup Trucks, Vans, Sedans, and Box Trucks.

3. Consolidate and reroute to see new optimization options within the network - We enable 3rd party cross docks to consolidate powered by our WMS and scanning tech. Rerouting takes into consideration our FTL line haul schedules and local delivery options.

4. Deliver - WARP is able to right-size capacity with multiple vehicle sizes for optimal local deliveries.

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We’d love to help to see if we can help solve your LTL headaches, chat more with us here: https://www.wearewarp.com/contact-us

In the fast-paced world of supply chains, adaptability is key. Our CEO & Co-founder, Daniel Sokolovsky, dives into the dynamic interplay of vertical and horizontal integration strategies, showing why they're essential for businesses aiming to thrive amidst market shifts.

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Vertical integration gives companies control, reduces costs, and boosts margins, while horizontal integration leverages assets and volume for streamlined operations and cost savings.

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Misfits Market's strategic move with Imperfect Foods and American Eagle's savvy acquisition of Quiet Logistics not only optimized supply chains but also fueled market share growth.

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As economic uncertainties loom, Daniel highlights the vital role of partnerships, integrated tech, and M&A. He unpacks three critical advantages: leveraging assets and volume, gaining greater control over the supply chain, and boosting operational efficiency.

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Learn more about the insights into why embracing vertical and horizontal integration matters for supply chains: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/vertical-horizontal-integration-acquisitions-warp/713241/#:~:text=By%20combining%20these%20two%20strategies,an%20ever%2Devolving%20business%20environment

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Chat more with us here to hop on the logistics trend ride 🚀: https://www.wearewarp.com/contact-us

For innovative omnichannel transportation leaders, every missed pickup is more than just a delay. 

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Missed pickups create costly ripple effects, from delayed deliveries and increased expenses to wasted resources spent on damage control. 

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Unfortunately, traditional LTL carriers often struggle with outdated systems and rigid processes, making dependable pickups a constant challenge in complex logistics operations.

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Here are the common issues with traditional LTL carriers:

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⏰ Inflexible Schedules

Traditional LTL carriers operate on rigid schedules, leaving little room for flexibility when unexpected changes arise. This often leads to missed pickups that create backlogs in your operations.

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📉 Limited Capacity

During peak times or urgent situations, limited carrier capacity results in service delays or missed pickups, leaving you with gaps in your supply chain just when you need reliability most.

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🔍 Lack of Real-Time Visibility

Without dynamic routing or real-time tracking, traditional carriers can’t make on-the-fly adjustments. This leaves shippers in the dark about pickup timing and creates uncertainty in planning.

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📲 Poor Communication

Legacy carriers often provide minimal updates, forcing shippers to guess when pickups are missed. This lack of communication complicates response efforts and limits proactive adjustments.

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And here’s how WARP ensures dependable pickups that keep your operations running smoothly:

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🚚 Adaptive Scheduling to Meet Your Timeline

WARP’s scheduling system isn’t static—it adapts in real-time. By monitoring logistics flows and adjusting pickup times based on your specific needs, WARP ensures that your critical pickups are met, whether daily or during high-demand periods.

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🌐 End-to-End Visibility Across Your Network

With WARP’s technology, you gain full visibility of every pickup, including real-time tracking and instant pickup notifications. This end-to-end visibility lets you monitor progress and adjust operations as needed, enhancing reliability and control.

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📲 Proactive Communication with Instant Updates

WARP’s platform provides proactive notifications at every stage of pickup, so your team knows exactly when to expect service and can prepare accordingly. This transparent communication eliminates uncertainty, enabling you to make quick adjustments if needed.

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📍 Real-Time Routing Adjustments

Unlike traditional carriers, WARP’s tech-powered routing adjusts instantly, keeping your pickups on time, even when routes need to be altered for traffic, weather, or volume. This flexibility ensures WARP can adapt to the unexpected and keep your supply chain on schedule.

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🔄 Scalable Network Capacity for Peak Demand

WARP’s extensive third-party network allows us to increase capacity on demand. Whether it’s peak season or an urgent request, we can add vehicles or adjust schedules immediately, ensuring that every pickup, big or small, gets completed as planned.

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📈 Predictive Analytics for Reliable Planning

Our platform uses predictive analytics to forecast high-demand periods and optimize resources accordingly. This ensures you’re always equipped with the capacity and scheduling flexibility needed to prevent missed pickups, even during your busiest times.

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Ready to eliminate missed pickups from your vocabulary with WARP?

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Contact Us: https://www.wearewarp.com/contact-us

Tired of LTL headaches?

Can’t stand when LTL carriers make up excuses for why they missed pickups?

Annoyed by damaged & delayed LTL shipments?

Are you facing problems with LTL?Fed up with LTL issues?

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We might have a solution with WARP’s LTL.

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What makes WARP’s LTL better:

1. Reliable & Timely Delivery - We enhance efficiency through dynamic line haul optimization, minimizing delays for consistent arrival times.

2. Secure Shipments - We minimize cross-docking at congested facilities and avoid stacking freight, reducing the risk of damage during transit.

3. High Visibility - We offer live tracking with real-time updates and ETAs, minimizing the chances of lost freight.

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How we do it:

1. Route - A dynamic routing algorithm to match the price and speed preferences of your freight.

2. Pick-up - Multiple vehicle types facilitate tasks traditionally done by LTL pick-ups. Pick-up from various vendors and stores using various vehicles: SUVs, Pickup Trucks, Vans, Sedans, and Box Trucks.

3. Consolidate and reroute to see new optimization options within the network - We enable 3rd party cross docks to consolidate powered by our WMS and scanning tech. Rerouting takes into consideration our FTL line haul schedules and local delivery options.

4. Deliver - WARP is able to right-size capacity with multiple vehicle sizes for optimal local deliveries.

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We’d love to help to see if we can help solve your LTL headaches, chat more with us here: https://www.wearewarp.com/contact-us

At WARP we’ve got tech, experience, and freight smarts, but where exactly is our sweet spot? 

When e-commerce sales exploded in 2020, parcel delivery direct to consumer’s homes’ replaced store commerce almost entirely at first and shipments became more fragmented. As a result, LTL began to grow in tandem with the need for middle mile optimization. But as speed expectations went up, so did the need for accuracy. Timing became critical at every point in the supply chain. Where LTL solutions were once successful, now meeting critical injection/delivery times at something like a last mile carrier’s sortation centers by 1-2 hours could determine if a customer would get their package a full day later. 

It became painstakingly obvious that there was a dire need to connect the supply chain from start to finish. AT WARP, we believe that all freight can and should be optimized and more goods should be transported with a wider array of vehicle types. If you look up synonyms for optimize you’ll find words like advance, enhance, revamp, and reform. We do all that and more. 

Our sweet spot is when we can route and consolidate freight together digitally via shared truckloads and/or physically via our Warp Station cross docks.

Optimization takes our personal feelings out of the supply chain and creates shipping answers based on algorithms. This might mean reallocating inventory between two nearby retail stores, moving freight from a cross-dock to a store, or using a last-mile delivery network instead of LTL. If other answers produce better results, that should be part of the equation, depending completely on the shipper’s specific situation. What might seem unconventional doesn’t matter if it works to deliver most optimally in terms of money, time, and performance metrics. 

We’ve built a network of carriers and cross-docks with a heterogeneous fleet of 53-footers, box trucks, and cargo vans so we can offer our customers an end-to-end supply chain solution that shifts dynamically with their volume and price/speed preferences. Optimization doesn’t stipulate that certain strategies must be part of the solution but makes the best decision mathematically based on rates and service. 

At WARP we’re optimizing freight both physically and digitally. We’re helping our customers connect their supply chain by consolidating purchase orders, routing freight together, running consolidated trucks and with our WARP Stations cross-docks. With our DirecTrack technology customers have real-time access to where their freight is at all times without having to make any phone calls or send any emails. 

So if you ask us to dive deeper on our sweet spot, it's the medium to large-sized shippers that have complex freight networks. Shippers of this size like our capability to determine if their freight can be routed to shared truckloads or cross docks for consolidation based on their time in transit and price preferences. It’s what makes sharing data with us worth the effort. For some of our other customers, they love us for the ability to track not just the location, but the current temperature of any refrigerated or frozen freight. It’s ultimately providing peace of mind for your freight – that WARP will not only provide great service but also we’ll get you the most optimal path for your freight based on your time in transit and price needs, for every single load. 

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Warehouse logistics can get complicated, particularly as the shipping industry responds to unpredictable challenges. Port congestion, truck capacity, economic inflation, and volatility in market forces are to blame. Shipping companies must streamline their services to meet the growing standards and customer expectations for efficiency and on-time delivery. Now, shippers and retailers gain control and visibility over their supply chains.

The rising popularity of e-commerce has forced shipping companies to evolve towards a standardized expectation for efficiency with their on-time delivery of goods. That’s why shippers and retailers want true visibility over middle mile logistics. However, companies that partner with third-party transportation providers to handle their middle or last mile solutions sometimes feel they are sacrificing visibility and control over how their parcels are sorted and delivered. In addition, any delays in middle mile sortation can affect last mile delivery, which could affect B2B partnerships.

Retailers may want to consider alternative strategies to establish one or more designated sortation centers and cross-docking facilities that are separate entities positioned away from their warehouses. Dedicating space explicitly used to maximize throughput speeds helps companies optimize handling and delivery performance. In addition, these sortation centers can be customized and arranged to specific dimensions of your product orders. More importantly, you can ramp up or shut down these facilities as needed. Finally, unlike a traditional warehouse, deploying a cross-docking facility allows the shipper to create a critical touchpoint of the delivery without excessive handling, which may lead to product damage or delays.

Controlling source and destination facilities are vital because it leads to a more efficient supply chain. Adding sortation capacity in the middle mile ensures that customer orders are routed to the last mile carrier more efficiently, improving on-time delivery for your customers. This article will discuss the importance of sortation centers in the middle mile as a viable strategy for shippers looking to optimize their throughput and meet customer demands.

Why are Companies Using Middle Mile Sortation in Warehouse Logistics?

In the past decade, as global consumers have embraced online shopping as a standard delivery method to obtain their goods, retailers and manufacturers everywhere have responded in kind by incorporating online shopping into their business models. As a result, businesses are now under pressure to ship faster, more frequently, and directly to the customer’s doorsteps.  Whether you run a small store or are a significant retailer, customers expect that businesses should provide an online shopping method. As a result, E-commerce has forced companies to transform their traditional supply chain network in favor of “fragmented” networks strategically located near the final delivery.

Depending on your budget and overall business model, sortation centers can provide companies with a strategic solution to keep up with the growing demands of e-commerce. The initial investment can be costly, though, as throughput sorters range in size and efficiency.  Larger throughput sorters can cost millions of dollars. Additional labor expenses are also required to run and operate sorting centers. However, the advantage comes from the savings in middle-mile and last-mile logistics and improved on-time delivery. Typically, sortation facilities cost less than investing in large warehouses and distribution centers, often located farther away from the final delivery destination.

Optimizing Middle Mile Delivery with Cross Docking & Sortation Centers

There are plenty of good reasons for shipping managers to find cost-effective options to help optimize their middle-mile delivery. For example, many are considering the advantages of using cross-docking services. Cross-docks help retailers quickly replenish popular store items while eliminating the need to spend costs on traditional warehouse space. Cross-docking also reduces overall linehaul and detention costs while simultaneously reducing “stem distance,” or the distance traveled to deliver goods. The last mile remains one of the most expensive costs in total freight budgets, so it’s not difficult to see why shippers use cross-docking as a practical method to optimize their supply chains.

Amazon is the most prominent and most notable example of how to successfully optimize the middle mile using a network of sortation facilities. Of course, it’s also helpful to have unlimited cash to fund things like Amazon’s Middle Mile Research Science Optimization department. The Amazon approach to the middle mile goes something like this: a customer places an order online, and a local fulfillment center gets a PO notification. A worker locates the product, which gets sent to a sortation center. The package gets sent to a delivery station and placed on a route truck. The system is designed to ensure that customers obtain their orders within 24-48 hours and within an hour of the estimated delivery time.

What are the Benefits of Using Middle Mile Sortation?

Like the benefits of cross-docking services, sortation centers can provide shippers and retailers with a range of advantages to help improve efficiencies within their supply chains. The benefits include:

• Maximizing Throughput Speeds

A higher rate of packages can get processed and sorted quickly to their final mile destinations.

• Reduced Logistics Spending on Warehouse Space

Shippers can use sortation centers as a means to reduce the reliance on additional warehousing to stock overflow merchandise. Popular store items can get consolidated and processed in advance to anticipate consumer demands.

• Improved Delivery Time

E-commerce continues to transform the logistics industry into adopting methods that improve on-time deliveries for their customers. Adding middle mile sortation centers can help companies improve their handling and delivery performances.

Partner with the Middle Mile Experts to Solidify your Middle Mile

Shippers must continually evolve their businesses to stay competitive and profitable within the global consumer market. Logistics optimization starts with recognizing that certain aspects of your supply chain need improvement. Whether it’s to lower transportation costs or improve operational performance, it’s essential to find solutions that are right for your business. Finding the right cross-docking service or sortation facility for the future of your middle mile logistics can be difficult, especially since most companies are just trying to fulfill the orders they have today. As a result, more and more businesses are turning to WARP to solidify their middle mile. WARP is the only tech-enabled provider that offers a vast network of cross-docks and carriers specifically built around the unique middle-mile needs of their customers. Gain visibility and control over your middle mile and connect with an expert from WARP today.

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Keeping freight moving throughout its journey is critical to reducing a shipper’s freight cost per mile. Using the right LTL carrier for middle-mile shipping—that stage of the journey where goods travel between two facilities for temporary storage before final delivery—can reduce the amount of time shipments are en route.

In recent years, the middle mile has been lucrative for shippers and freight companies, which have been the beneficiaries of exponential e-commerce growth. According to the US Census Bureau, during Q2 2016, e-commerce was responsible for 7.5% of all retail sales, not seasonally adjusted, bringing in more than $91 billion. Fast forward to Q2 2021, that number is 12.5%, representing just over $211.7 billion. With numbers like this, shippers and transportation providers cannot afford to miss out on this lucrative opportunity.

This article looks closer at middle-mile shipping, the service options and challenges within this segment, and how visibility and innovative, optimized shipment tracking can help shippers and freight transportation service providers deliver excellent customer experiences.  

What Is Middle Mile Shipping and Why Shippers Can’t Overlook It?

Middle-mile shipping consists of transporting goods from a port, warehouse, or distribution center into a fulfillment center where they stay until purchased by a customer. Some shippers use middle-mile service delivery options as an avenue to eliminate extra miles and ship directly to the consumer, cutting time and costs in the process. Middle-mile shipping uses LTL to ship on-demand, with customizable loads for the shipper.

How Does Middle Mile Delivery Service Options Impact End-Delivery Success?

The middle mile directly affects the downstream shipping modes, like the last mile, as the shipment moves towards its final destination—the consumer in some cases, a retail store in others. For instance, if shipments between two facilities fall behind schedule, customer deliveries will likely be delayed.

Minor issues can lead to big problems within service delivery options for the middle mile, such as:

• Delays in unloading items at the warehouse slow down the next leg of the shipment. Delays add up when it comes to  on-time shipping   Delays can result in profit loss

• Issues with warehouse inventory or flow cause delays elsewhere. Delays in shipping at any supply chain point affect the end customer directly. Ineffective inventory practices and stock discrepancies will cause shipping problems if the product is not accurately tracked. If issues in the middle mile persist, it will impact end-delivery success.

• Problems with loading and unloading at docks and ports push back firm ETAs. Port dwell time for vessels, delays in loading and unloading, carrier capacity, and other economic factors can result in delivery delays, loss of profits, and a higher freight cost per mile.

• Potential product loss between facilities. Issues in the middle mile can foster product loss between facilities if not adequately tracked with the right freight software.

• Poor software integration creates barriers to visibility. The lack of visibility from warehouse to warehouse makes it more difficult for shippers to track their shipments.  Most warehouses still rely on manual counting of inventory which can result in human error and product loss.

• Lack of optimization creates delays. The lack of optimization of freight moves increases delays because shippers cannot attain complete visibility for their shipments. As well as this, the lack of route optimization can keep trucks on the road longer, increasing the total cost of goods sold.

• Increases expenses for everyone. The bottom line: delays create excess costs for everyone.

Possible Obstacles Facing Effective Middle Mile Upgrade and Innovation

Consumers’ demands for faster shipping times create obstacles in middle-mile transportation. There are some points to consider:

1. The longevity of trucks and trailers can be a double-edged sword. According to Fleet Pulse, “It is important to note the average life of a trailer is 15 years. A trailer built today will still be on the road in 2035. The technology wave will continue, and trailers need to be built in a way that facilitates upgrades.” In other words, technology needs to be easily implemented to keep up with the growing demand in retail and e-commerce. Each brand will need to re-evaluate what they’re doing and what’s necessary to reach the next level of awareness and capabilities in the middle mile.
2. Training drivers to keep up with new technology and innovations. Drivers must keep up with new technology so they do not fall behind in their profession. Many freight carriers cannot afford to lose shippers, especially those carriers that have fewer than ten trucks in their fleets. If you cannot provide the visibility and tracking solutions that optimize the middle mile, a shipper will most likely jump to a competitor that does. Therefore, your drivers’ willingness to embrace new technology plays an important role in customer retention.
3. Ensuring that drivers are comfortable with new technology is crucial. Having the right technology is one thing; knowing how to use it to its full potential is another. Change is never easy and seldom comfortable. Drivers frustrated with new technologies won’t use them and might even quit for another job more in their comfort zone. Thorough training in various formats (written, audio, and visual) will help familiarize drivers with innovations. This approach will help maximize productivity and minimize driver turnover.
4. Ensuring customers adjust comfortably by using tracking apps and tools. Consumers are what keep the supply chain going. New apps and interfaces help customers know when their goods will arrive, which helps improve their service experience.

Improve Middle Mile Transportation With State-of-the-Art Tracking and Delivery Services

Improving middle mile shipping starts with new tracking and delivery services. Do not get stuck in the dark with little to no visibility. Eliminate searches for delivery truck service, and ship with Warp today.

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Perhaps Veruca Salt from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was on to something when she sang “I want the world. I want the whole world.I want to lock it all up in my pocket. It's my bar of chocolate. Give it to me. Now!” Consumers are becoming more demanding of faster delivery, and will often make purchasing decisions not just on price, but delivery speed as well.

Organizations large and small are constantly faced with challenges related to their supply chain, and with an ever-demanding customer, speed is often the most important element to be optimized. So how can transit times be improved without sacrificing damage? Let us help:

1. Use high-quality packaging materials: Invest in high-quality packaging materials such as sturdy boxes, padding, and cushioning to protect your shipments during transit. This can help reduce the likelihood of damages during transport.

2. Implement efficient loading and unloading practices: Ensure that your loading and unloading practices are efficient to minimize the time spent on these activities. This can help reduce the time in transit and increase the speed of delivery.

3. Optimize transportation routes: Optimize your transportation routes to reduce the time spent in transit. This can be done by selecting the most efficient mode of transportation, consolidating shipments, and selecting the most direct routes.

4. Use real-time tracking technology: Use real-time tracking technology to monitor your shipments throughout the transportation process. This can help you identify any delays or issues that may arise and take corrective action to minimize the impact on delivery time.

5. Implement quality control checks: Implement quality control checks to ensure that all shipments are properly packaged and secured before transport. This can help reduce the likelihood of damages during transit and improve overall shipment quality.

6. Train your staff and carriers: Train your staff and carriers on proper handling procedures to minimize the likelihood of damages during transport. This can include proper lifting and handling techniques and instructions for securing and protecting shipments during transit.

Finding that balance between speed, quality, and service doesn’t need to be a juggling act anymore. WARP leverages multiple vehicle types, route optimization, and a network of cross-docks to ensure that pallets and parcels are moved as quickly as possible and with the fewest touchpoints, resulting in reduced damage. 

So while customer expectations continue to change, so should your logistics and supply chain.

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Have you heard of Section 321? If you're a business owner who imports goods to the United States, this might be the money-saving tactic you've been waiting for. Section 321 is a U.S. shipment type used to clear U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) and allows businesses to bypass the duties and tariffs typically associated with shipping internationally. The best part? It's 100% legal!

But who qualifies for Section 321? The main qualification is that your shipment must be valued at $800 or less, also known as the “de minimis”. Additionally, you can only send one shipment to one address per day, and multiple shipments are not allowed and may be subject to a fine. If you meet these requirements, you're good to go!

However, there are a few exceptions to Section 321. Goods that require inspection, those subject to Anti-Dumping Duty (ADD) and Countervailing Duty (CVD), and those regulated by Participating Government Agencies (PGAs), like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), do not qualify for Section 321.

So, how does it work? It's simple! You import inventory through a U.S. port, such as the San Diego or Los Angeles ports. Your inventory is shipped to its destination, where it's held in bond. When an order is ready to be fulfilled, it's picked, packed, and shipped tax and duty-free back to the U.S.

In theory, it's straightforward. In practice, it's all about who's doing the legwork. Filing paperwork, navigating governmental regulations, and fulfilling orders at lightning speed and laser accuracy can be overwhelming. It might be in your best interest to seek help from a logistics company like WARP. 

At WARP, we leverage our expertise and relationships to manage the entire process for shippers, helping them to realize the significant cost savings while removing the burden of paperwork and other time-consuming tasks.

WARP provides additional support to shippers through our extensive network of customs brokers and experts. Our partners help alleviate the complexities of international customs clearance that are specific to Section 321 shipments.

So how do we do it?  Section 321 requires submitting an eManifest specifying that a U.S. shipment is on the way. This eManifest includes vital details like the number of goods, the consignee, the total value, and the origin of shipment. WARP handles this process to ensure accurate and timely delivery of these goods. 

Importing inventory can be a headache, but with Section 321, business owners can maximize their savings while minimizing stress levels. If you're interested in using Section 321, speak to a WARP team member today. 

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Perhaps Veruca Salt from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was on to something when she sang “I want the world. I want the whole world.I want to lock it all up in my pocket. It's my bar of chocolate. Give it to me. Now!” Consumers are becoming more demanding of faster delivery, and will often make purchasing decisions not just on price, but delivery speed as well.

Organizations large and small are constantly faced with challenges related to their supply chain, and with an ever-demanding customer, speed is often the most important element to be optimized. So how can transit times be improved without sacrificing damage? Let us help:

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1. Use high-quality packaging materials: Invest in high-quality packaging materials such as sturdy boxes, padding, and cushioning to protect your shipments during transit. This can help reduce the likelihood of damages during transport.

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2. Implement efficient loading and unloading practices: Ensure that your loading and unloading practices are efficient to minimize the time spent on these activities. This can help reduce the time in transit and increase the speed of delivery.

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3. Optimize transportation routes: Optimize your transportation routes to reduce the time spent in transit. This can be done by selecting the most efficient mode of transportation, consolidating shipments, and selecting the most direct routes.

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4. Use real-time tracking technology: Use real-time tracking technology to monitor your shipments throughout the transportation process. This can help you identify any delays or issues that may arise and take corrective action to minimize the impact on delivery time.

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5. Implement quality control checks: Implement quality control checks to ensure that all shipments are properly packaged and secured before transport. This can help reduce the likelihood of damages during transit and improve overall shipment quality.

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6. Train your staff and carriers: Train your staff and carriers on proper handling procedures to minimize the likelihood of damages during transport. This can include proper lifting and handling techniques and instructions for securing and protecting shipments during transit.

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Finding that balance between speed, quality, and service doesn’t need to be a juggling act anymore. WARP leverages multiple vehicle types, route optimization, and a network of cross-docks to ensure that pallets and parcels are moved as quickly as possible and with the fewest touchpoints, resulting in reduced damage. 

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So while customer expectations continue to change, so should your logistics and supply chain.

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