Five Years Post-COVID: How Warehousing and Transportation Have Evolved
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the world, and the global supply chain was no exception. With closures, economic challenges, and a workforce actively evolving, the transportation sector was forced to adapt to accommodate new demand. STG Logistics worked hard to navigate this challenging time, relying on digitization, continuous e-commerce growth, and more to shape our current warehousing services and transportation strategies.
We’re proud of our 40-year history, relying on our expertise to allow our company to evolve seamlessly throughout the pandemic—and beyond. We’re exploring how the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, the ways in which the supply chain industry has evolved, and highlighting the methods we used to adapt in the face of change.
Evolution of Global Supply Chains Post-COVID
How did Covid impact transportation and logistics? It did so in a variety of both expected and unexpected ways. While safety was at the forefront of Covid concerns, global disruptions forced shipping logistics companies to juggle protecting their employees and customers with lockdowns, increased demand, and more. Although this was challenging, the supply chain in turn became more resilient, flexible—and more equipped for new potential disruptions in the future.
In order to combat COVID-19 supply chain distribution challenges, improve supply chain management, and continue to provide the quality service our customers have always been able to rely on, STG Logistics had to implement a few strategies. A main contributor to our success was the diversification of sourcing and shipping routes. We have a presence at every major port in the United States and over 60 facilities across the nation, giving us unmatched flexibility when it comes to containerized freight shipments. With nationwide drayage and our additional over-the-road and intermodal capabilities, we were prepared to adapt our methods to best assist our clients. Check out our location directory for more information.
Our vast network helped mitigate the risk of disruption and allowed us to handle Covid logistics with ease. Businesses that also adapted quickly while handling supply chain issues during Covid were able to navigate this very tricky time and set themselves up for success down the line.
Digital Transformation in Warehousing and Transportation
In addition to our diversification, STG Logistics relied on our continuous investment in technology to make our process more reliable, handling supply chain issues during Covid with ease. The use of digital platforms, data analytics, and real-time tracking became indispensable in allowing us to manage all our inventory and transportation, handling Covid logistics more smoothly.
During and after the pandemic, there was also a rise in automated systems and warehouse robotics to enhance efficiency and reduce labor-intensive tasks. For many, these are critical components when it comes to navigating shortages, meeting evolving workplace demands—and keeping supply chain management running smoothly.
From our Cargo Manager that provides real-time inventory management to STG Edge, our platform designed to deliver real-time tracking updates, we’re able to streamline our processes and consistently deliver reliable results. We also utilize STG Carrier Connect in order for drivers and carriers to communicate and Synapse, an industry-leading warehouse management system designed to handle demanding warehouse environments. Learn more about our technology.
By investing and trusting in technology, STG Logistics was able to ensure our clients had full insight into our process, unprecedented levels of visibility, and high-level service they’ve come to rely on.
Shifts in Consumer Behavior and E-Commerce Growth
When talking about how the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, the surge in online shopping can’t be ignored. This surge forced shipping logistics companies to reevaluate their fulfillment strategies and last-mile delivery techniques. Flexible warehousing services and micro-fulfillment centers were a workaround for many looking to meet growing demands, increase their speed, and create more reliable systems.
While disruption was nothing new to shipping logistics organizations like ours, the pandemic took these disruptions to new heights. For the first time, customers had an inside look at how goods made it to their doorstep and a better understanding of the process. This created added pressure on companies to be transparent and navigate the ever-evolving landscape, something we worked hard to adapt to. Get an inside look at how we handle freight disruptions.
At STG Logistics, our e-commerce capabilities revolve around streamlined, customer-centric solutions. With warehousing services across the nation, we can integrate or build a dedicated retail distribution or e-commerce solution to help a variety of unique businesses meet their customers’ demands and address continuous growth in this sector. We have the ability to scale distribution, rely on real-time tracking, and have centralized inventory control, allowing us to have very competitive delivery rates, following rigorous safety standards in the process.
Ongoing Challenges in Logistics
While the pandemic may be behind us, the challenges it brought with it still linger and the ripple effects can be felt throughout the shipping logistics industry even today. Issues like port congestion, capacity constraints, and rising transportation costs were only complicated by ongoing geopolitical tensions and environmental concerns, continuing to leave the state of shipping routes and regulations in constant flux.
At STG Logistics, our experience helps us navigate these challenges, as we have an agile system in place to prepare for disruptions—and ensure the most timely and efficient solutions for our clients.
The Future of the Supply Chain
How did Covid affect the supply chain? Its impact is ongoing and as the state of the global supply chain continues to face challenges, there are several trends continuing to emerge. The need for warehouse automation will likely continue to grow, with companies increasingly relying on advanced data-driven decision-making to propel forward.
In addition, as we all look to make strides towards creating a more sustainable and socially responsible future, this is a priority within supply chain management as well. We’re working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and develop eco-friendly solutions to some of the supply chain’s most challenging problems. Our forward-thinking approach and 40-year history both enable us to remain at the forefront of industry innovation in the transportation sector, something we are very proud of—and will continue to prioritize for the years to come.
Looking Ahead
When exploring how the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global supply chains, it is important to note that the transportation sector is still facing ongoing challenges. While the last few years have been a tumultuous time for those in the logistics industry, following a few critical trends has helped companies like STG Logistics stay ahead of the curve. By making a digital transformation, shifting emphasis to e-commerce, and creating resilient operations, we continue to reshape the logistics landscape, handling supply chain issues during Covid and beyond.
We’re proud of our proven adaptability, handling COVID-19 supply chain distribution, and remaining at the forefront of industry leadership over the last 40 years. We have our sights set on the future. If you’re looking for expert guidance on navigating all your supply chain management needs, reach out to us today to leverage our comprehensive services.
