What is the definition of cross-docking?
Cross-docking is a widespread concept in logistics. It consists in transporting goods to end customers immediately after they arrive in the warehouse. If applied effectively in practice, this service minimizes the need for additional storage in the warehouse. Usually, the most appropriate goods for cross-docking are those in stable and constant demand; high-volume and fast-moving products.
At Cargo Center Ltd., we use cross-docking on the arrival of trucks on our groupage lines in Europe. When this happens, we do not store loads of the various customers in our warehouse but distribute them in sorting and consolidation zones according to a pre-prepared plan, reload them into a suitable vehicle with minimal or no delay and organize fast delivery.
Consolidation is the grouping of goods delivered to the same or nearby destinations. The opposite alternative is necessary when the loads are too large. Deconsolidation can then be applied by splitting the load into smaller “parts” for easier delivery. The result in both cases is a more economical and efficient supply chain.
Advantages of the concept
The implementation of the cross-docking principle has several key advantages:
- Minimization of costs – the costs of storage and processing of inventory are significantly reduced, as the goods spend less (or no) time in the warehouse;
- Shortening delivery times – loads usually reach their final destination (i.e., the customer) much faster, which significantly simplifies the supply chain;
- Simplify the workflow – when applied correctly, this concept can help significantly in the organization of the supply chain.
The cross-docking operations in Cargo Center serve the entire territory of Sofia. If you need more information, our team is always available to advise you. Contact us by phone at +359 2 956 9455 or email at gb.re1734851428tneco1734851428grac@1734851428eciff1734851428o1734851428.
