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2011 Outlook on Ecommerce

2011-03-29T00:00:00-04:00

From Mobile Commerce to marketing strategies Multichannel Merchant takes an in depth look at the Outlook of Ecommerce in 2011.

5 Steps to Improving Your 3PL Relationship

2011-02-24T00:00:00-05:00

Members of the University of Tennessee's center for Executive Education share their five steps and a series of tips to improve your outsourcing relationship right from the start.

Not Using Rail? Maybe You Should

2011-04-07T00:00:00-04:00

Savvy consumers today want only quality food products for their families. But they also want that quality to be available to them at a comfortable price point. What they might not know are the intricate and complex behind-the-scenes activities railroads, short lines, trucking companies, and logistics providers perform successfully every day to bring that quality food to market at affordable prices. Just about every food product you can find in your local supermarket can ship by rail today, moving thousands of miles from growing fields to community grocery shelves.

How Freight Rail is Getting the US Economy Back On Track

2011-04-18T00:00:00-04:00

The success of the freight rail industry supports job growth, which ultimately leads to economic recovery.

There are 565 freight railroads in the United States. Those 565 railroads make up a nearly 140,000-mile long rail network that is used to transport imported goods that come via sea freight and air freight from far away destinations. Along with being a national heritage, the railroad is the most efficient and cost-effective way of moving goods into inner-America. Just don’t tell that to UPS and FedEx, who will try to convince you otherwise.

IDS Receives State Wide Honor for Innovative use of Technology

2011-05-09T00:00:00-04:00

IDS is honored to be the recipient of the 2011 MIRA Award from Techpoint. The Mira Awards honor individuals, schools, universities, businesses, and entrepreneurs for their contribution to Indiana not only through technology innovation, but also the way they promote technology within the Indiana Economy. IDS was one of three finalist from throughout Indiana in the Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics category.

Gas Prices Drive Shoppers Online

2011-05-11T00:00:00-04:00

Pain at the pump? Not for these shoppers. More than 28% of U.S. consumers say they are shopping online more because of rising gas costs, according to a survey conducted exclusively for Internet Retailer by Synovate, a global market research firm.

Three Principles of Transporation Optimization

2011-05-23T00:00:00-04:00

Companies are increasingly considering their transportation and logistics operations to be a competitive differentiator. That has triggered an increase in demand for advanced transportation management systems.

According to the Gartner research firm, the transportation management system market should see double-digit growth this year and a five-year compound annual growth rate of 9.4 percent.

Midwest Distribution Center May be the Key

2011-06-16T00:00:00-04:00

Having a centrally located distribution center can greatly contribute to lower costs in shipping and logistics. Choosing IDS Logistics as your distribution center you get just that.

Giving You More With Ecommerce Fulfillment

2011-06-14T00:00:00-04:00

When dealing with ecommerce fulfillment you face a combination of old and new problems in logistics. Ecommerce fulfillment management is vital to your business for many reasons.

You Have an Order Fulfillment Partner in IDS Logistics

2011-06-09T00:00:00-04:00

Using a single method of transport as first glance seems to be the most economical way to go. An order fulfillment network can bring many benefits that traditional network can't achieve on their own. Read on to learn more...

Your Dependable Partner for Outsourced Logistics

2011-06-07T00:00:00-04:00

Finding efficiencies in daily business operation such as outsourced logistics with IDS Logistics is one way to stay competitive. Outsourced logistics results in many benefits that your company can leverage to continue its overall healthy growth.

Order Fulfillment: Pick & Pack Services

2011-06-02T00:00:00-04:00

As the direct to customer (D2C) shipping method of shipping gains more popularity finding a company that can provide cost-effective pick and pack services is vital.

IDS Attends 2011 DSA Annual Meeting

2011-06-09T00:00:00-04:00

Last week IDS attended the Direct Selling Association (DSA) Annual Meeting at the Fontainebleau in Miami, FL. This is the 9^th year that IDS has been a supplier member of the Direct Selling Association. The theme of this year’s meeting was Focus Forward. After last year celebrating the 100^th anniversary of the DSA it is now time to focus on moving the industry forward.

Start-up Ecommerce Fulfillment Service Provider

2011-06-19T00:00:00-04:00

When dealing with ecommerce fulfillment you face a combination of old and new problems in logistics. Ecommerce fulfillment management is vital to your business for many reasons.

IDS Indiana Warehouse: At the Cross Roads of America

2011-06-27T00:00:00-04:00

An effective warehouse distribution operation takes dedication, best practices, and warehousing capacity. With IDS Logistics’ warehousing distribution services you have these vital areas covered and more.

Key Features of Our Warehousing Distribution Services

2011-06-30T00:00:00-04:00

State of Logistics: Slow growth, ‘elusive’ recovery

2011-06-20T00:00:00-04:00

“The recovery from the Great Recession has proven to be more elusive and prolonged than any other in our history,” said Rosalyn Wilson, the author of the SoL report sponsored by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). “The slow growth presented another year of challenges for the logistics industry.”

IDS Attends 2011 IRCE Show

2011-06-21T00:00:00-04:00

Internet Retailers Conference and Expo (IRCE) is the largest online retailing trade show and exhibition. This was the third year for IDS to be in attendance at the trade show and what a year to attend. The Internet Retailer Conference & Exhibition attracted over 7,300 participants this year which was an IRCE record.

IDS Scores a Superior Rating on Annual Audit

2011-06-23T00:00:00-04:00

For the third straight year IDS has scored a Superior rating on their AIB annual audit. . This year IDS scored a 940 out of a possible 1,000, which was a 25 point improvement from its 2010 score of 915 even though the audit standards were yet again more stringent.

Avoid the Domino Effect When Making Changes to DC Operations

2011-06-27T00:00:00-04:00

Based on surveys and interviews, many distributors are under pressure to find low cost alternative methods to improve throughput and productivity within their order processing operations. But, an unfortunate reality is that an inefficient, well established (ingrained) process can be very difficult to change. It appears that a major deterrent is the feared “domino effect” – changes to one process will necessitate unplanned changes to associated processes setting off a chain reaction creating additional complications.

Maximizing LTL freight discounts with a 3PL

2011-06-30T00:00:00-04:00

For companies looking for relief from high shipping costs and market volatility, a professional, third party logistics (3PL) provider can save an extra 18 to 25% off already heavily discounted LTL freight costs if they routinely make multiple shipments to multiple locations and work with numerous freight carriers. For every $100,000 in freight costs, that’s an extra $18,000 to $25,000 in savings.

Shippers, Carriers Temper Peak-Season Expectations

2011-07-05T00:00:00-04:00

Some shippers and port executives in Southern California, assessing trans-Pacific shipping prospects at the start of the peak season, say they believe cargo volume will increase modestly this fall rather than spiking sharpley.

California to e-retailers: Pay up

2011-07-06T00:00:00-04:00

California late Wednesday became the seventh state with an “Amazon Tax” law that requires online retailers to collect tax if they get customers referred from in-state affiliate web sites. As part of a budget bill signed yesterday by Gov. Jerry Brown, a Democrat, the state also clarified that web retailers must collect sales tax if they operate corporate subsidiaries in the state for purposes such as distribution centers.

Ecommerce Fulfillment Logistics with IDS

2011-07-12T00:00:00-04:00

Ecommerce fulfillment is a rapidly growing sector. Logistics handling done by IDS can open up new opportunities that alone you are unable to capitalize on.

Economical Freight Management Solutions

2011-07-14T00:00:00-04:00

Outsourcing freight management to an able third-party logistics firm allows you to focus on the other vital concerns of your business. Freight management from IDS Logistics is just what you need for a comprehensive look at your supply chain from beginning to end.

Order Fulfillment Tailored for You

2011-07-18T00:00:00-04:00

IDS Logistics’ is a leading provider of customer fit order fulfillment solutions for you direct to consumer (D2C) shipments.

Three carriers suspend Pacific Southwest trans-Pac service

2011-07-12T00:00:00-04:00

Increased capacity and a decline in ocean freight rates has spurred the suspension of a trans-Pacific service that operates between Asia and California.

Start with a Centerally Located Distribution Center in Indiana

2011-07-20T00:00:00-04:00

At IDS, we offer more than just your basic 3PL Fulfillment Company. We have proven process, systems, and personnel to increase efficiency in your supply chain. Strategically located in the heart of America, your products are swiftly delivered to U.S. residents from a single distribution center.

Moody's Sees Negative Shipping Outlook

2011-07-13T00:00:00-04:00

Moody's Investors Service set a negative outlook for the shipping industry over the next 12 to 18 months on Tuesday, saying the business from container carriers to bulk operators is facing overcapacity.

Factory Production Flat in June

2011-07-19T00:00:00-04:00

U.S. industrial production rose 0.2 percent from May to June but manufacturing activity was flat, the Federal Reserve said, as supply chains struggled to recover from the Japan earthquake and housing-related industries stayed in slow gear.

Are You Ready for Holiday 2011?

2011-07-21T00:00:00-04:00

Last-minute inventory and fulfillment planning tips to prepare you for the end-of-year rush.

Holiday plans, merchandise assortments and inventory purchases are pretty well in place by now for most cross-channel retailers. But since many businesses gain such a high percentage of their sales and profits in the fourth quarter — as much as 60 percent — it's never too late to see what additional things can be done to increase sales and customer satisfaction. Here are some last-minute tips to consider:

IDS Speaks to the Central Indiana APICS Chapter

2011-07-22T00:00:00-04:00

IDS Transportation employee Jimmy Ladd presented Controlling Transportation Costs, Improving Rail Transportation in Indiana to the Central Indiana APICS Chapter at their July Professional Development Meeting.

25 Ways to Lower Inventory Costs

2011-07-28T00:00:00-04:00

The prime objective for all supply chains is to provide clients with what they want, when they want it. Inventory management plays a central role in every supply chain’s need to satisfy its clients.

Reduce the Cost of Ecommerce Fulfillment Logistics

2011-08-01T00:00:00-04:00

Ecommerce fulfillment is about using the most efficient methods of logistics to offer a lower cost to you end-users.

4 Advantages to Selecting a Distribution Center with IDS

2011-08-05T00:00:00-04:00

IDS Logistics can provide all or parts to support your product shipping needs. One important service we provide is a Warehouse and Distribution Center that is dedicated to you.

Why You Should Consider an Indiana Distribution Center

2011-08-10T00:00:00-04:00

Central to any smart logistics plan is a strategically located warehouse. For the U.S, that means an Indiana warehouse. IDS Logistic has just the central distribution center for you.

Don’t Let Returns Processing be Your Bottleneck

2011-08-16T00:00:00-04:00

When performing order fulfillment you will enviably encounter returns processing. See why partnering with IDS will prevent this from becoming a logistics bottleneck.

Federal sales tax bill introduced

2011-08-03T00:00:00-04:00

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Illinois) today introduced a bill that would require all retailers to collect sales tax. If passed, the legislation would overturn the status quo backed by a 1992 Supreme Court decision that prevents states from forcing Internet retailers to collect sales tax unless they have an in-state physical presence.

Survey Sees Major Shift of Truck Freight to Intermodal

2011-08-12T00:00:00-04:00

Analysts say second quarter change was highest in eight years of shipper poll

Shippers shifted freight from all-truck modes to intermodal at the fastest pace in years during the second quarter, according to a closely watched survey by the Wolfe Trahan research group.

How to Ensure Productivity in the Warehouse

2011-08-18T00:00:00-04:00

Warehouses are struggling to make optimal use of labor and space, while ensuring that efforts to control cost don't compromise their commitment to top-notch customer service. Bob Heaney, senior research analyst for supply chain management with Aberdeen Group, describes the challenges they face.

Order Fulfillment with a True Logistics Partner

2011-08-29T00:00:00-04:00

There are many reasons to utilize a third-party logistics (3PL) handler when you need efficient order fulfillment. IDS Logistics is a results-focused fulfillment provider dedicated to our customers and their products.

Intermodal Rides Into The Future

2011-08-30T00:00:00-04:00

Looking for new strategies to enable your business to cut costs and increase supply chain efficiency? Want to boost your reputation as an environmentally conscious company at the same time? Then consider investigating how you might use the intermodal transportation network to send or receive shipments.

National Ecommerce Fulfillment Center

2011-09-06T00:00:00-04:00

Having a National Ecommerce Fulfillment Center that reaches the majority of your customers in a short amount of time can provide significant cost benefits to your supply chain.

Midwest Retail Fulfillment Partner

2011-09-07T00:00:00-04:00

For retail fulfillment solutions that offer flexibility, cost efficiency and fast delivery times to most of the Midwest; your choice is IDS Logistics.

IDS Adds New Customer Cookies & Corks

2011-09-13T00:00:00-04:00

IDS Fulfillment recently added a new customer, Cookies & Corks. Cookies & Corks, a new product line from CookieZen, is a manufacturer of gourmet cookies crafted to pair with wines.

IDS attends MercuryGate Conference

2011-09-15T00:00:00-04:00

IDS Transportation recently attended the annual MercuryGate User Conference held at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, NV. The conference is designed to bring together shippers and logistics service providers that utilize MercuryGate TMS software to execute their transportation activities.

Seven must have features in a TMS

2011-09-27T00:00:00-04:00

Even by the standards of the supply chain software world, transportation management systems (TMS) have proved to have exceptional legs. After nearly two decades on the market, these solutions continue to sell briskly. Last year, revenues generated through TMS sales and software support grew 11 percent, according to the research firm Gartner Inc. In fact, Chad Eschinger, an analyst at Gartner, estimates that in 2010, the global TMS market reached $625 million despite the sputtering economy.

45% of online shoppers say they’ll cut back on holiday spending this year

2011-10-04T00:00:00-04:00

The struggling economy will lead 45% of online shoppers to spend less this holiday shopping season than they did last year, according to a survey from comparison shopping engine PriceGrabber.com.

The dawn of the age of free shipping

2011-10-06T00:00:00-04:00

At Stonewall Kitchen, a multichannel retailer of foodstuffs, kitchenware and other home goods based in Maine, getting orders to customers throughout the U.S. in the fastest and more efficient way is forever on the mind of Aimee Roy, Stonewall's distribution manager. Having started as a retailer 20 years ago, Stonewall has worked hard to operate as a tight ship with its supply chain, fulfillment and shipping operations for store, catalog and web sales.

Keeping Ecommerce Customers Satisfied Through Order Fulfillment

2011-10-14T00:00:00-04:00

With more and more consumers going online to buy their holiday gifts, using the right ecommerce fulfillment company is more important than ever to keep customers satisfied. In a recent survey, conducted by Accenture, 59% of consumers say they will do most of their holiday shopping online. Of the people surveyed 47% of them said they are shopping online for convenience and to avoid holiday crowds. For these consumers online shopping is only convenient if the fulfillment of their order is done correctly and in a timely manner.

Flexibility with your Distribution Center

2011-10-17T00:00:00-04:00

With IDS you get a distribution center that offers the flexibility in space, process, and technology to handle any of your ever changing fulfillment needs.

How to Boost Your Site's Performance and Experience Before the Holiday's

2011-10-20T00:00:00-04:00

By now it's too late to focus on the tow big holiday readiness activities taht you'd have like to have kicked off in Q2, but here are 7 tips that you can use to boost your websites performance and experience before this holiday season.

E-commerce Gets a Holiday Jump

2011-11-07T00:00:00-05:00

Top e-retailers aren’t waiting for the day after Thanksgiving to shower consumers with discounts, sales and holiday offers. That’s because more consumers are starting their holiday shopping earlier this year, and retailers that don’t get into the game now risk being left behind.

5 2011 Holiday Tips to Spark 2012 Sales

2011-11-09T00:00:00-05:00

The holiday sales season is the make or break period for many merchants. When so much is riding on a short period of time, focusing on the immediate instead of the future is understandable.

Taking the Headache out of Apparel Fulfillment

2011-11-08T00:00:00-05:00

When it comes to order fulfillment few programs are as complicated and complex as apparel fulfillment. That is why working with a fulfillment company that is experienced and understands the complexities of apparel fulfillment is vital.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday at the IDS Fulfillment Center

2011-11-15T00:00:00-05:00

The day starts early, while everyone is recovering from their turkey feast hangover and others are eagerly waiting in line to get the best deal in town on a flat screen TV, IDS' fulfillment center is up early preparing for the cyber-shopping day. Just like traditional retailers need to make changes during this busy time by increasing hours, increasing staff, and adding security, we will be making changes for this time of year also.

Holiday e-retail sales could increase 15% this year

2011-11-16T00:00:00-05:00

Online retail sales in the U.S. this holiday season will increase 15% year over year, with growth largely coming from consumers shifting more of their gift-buying budgets from stores to the web as they seek to stretch their dollars, according to an analysis released today by Forrester Research Inc.

Cyber Monday Spending Jumps 33%

2011-11-29T00:00:00-05:00

Cyber Monday's sales are poised to eclipse last year’s $1.03 billion spent on the Monday following Thanksgiving weekend last year, according to estimates. Online retailers report big gains for the holiday weekend, thanks to aggressive promotions and increased consumer confidence.

A Record Day for E-commerce

2011-12-01T00:00:00-05:00

Online shoppers spent $1.25 billion on Cyber Monday, the heaviest online shopping day in history, according to new figures from comScore Inc. Consumers last year spent nearly $1.03 billion on the first Monday after Thanksgiving—meaning this year’s shopping event, invented by the Shop.org trade group, experienced a more than 21% jump in spending compared with 2010.

FedEx Rolls Out 2012 Rate Increases

2011-12-06T00:00:00-05:00

FedEx said late last week it will increase non-contractual rates for certain services, effective January 2, 2012.

FedEx Ground and FedEx Home delivery rates will increase by a net average of 4.9 percent. Company officials said that the full average rate increase for both of these offerings is 5.9 percent, which is partially offset by reducing the full surcharge by one percentage point. And they also said that rates for FedEx SmartPost, its “last mile” delivery service partnership with the United States Postal Service, which is primarily spurred by e-commerce, will also change, but specific information was not made available.

Delivering Competitive Advantage to Ecommerce Fulfillment

2011-12-07T00:00:00-05:00

Integrated Distribution Services (IDS) is known for delivering our customers a competitive advantage through our ecommerce fulfillment solutions. IDS provides custom fit ecommerce fulfillment solutions while still implementing our proven process to ensure your orders leave our facility accurately and on time. By providing strong capability, flexible solutions, and proven processes IDS is able to deliver a competitive advantage for our customers.

Centrally Located Fulfillment Center

2011-12-15T00:00:00-05:00

Having a centrally located fulfillment center does not just translate into lower delivery costs or faster delivery times, but it also helps to increase customer service.

Retailers should pay more attention to supply chains in 2012, a report urges

2012-01-03T00:00:00-05:00

In the wake of mishaps that left some online customers without their holiday orders earlier this month, a new report from Aberdeen Group urges retailers to get a better handle on their supply chains. In general, the report says retailers need to improve the responsiveness of the links in their supply chains and increase their ability to see how chains operate in order to avoid both out-of-stock and overstocked items.

U.S. Online Holiday Sales Reach $37 Billion, Set Record

2012-01-09T00:00:00-05:00

Deep discounts and free shipping fueled a record setting November-to-December holiday shopping season for online merchants in 2011 in the U.S., according to a new report. Cyber Monday also saw an extraordinary $1.25 billion in sales.

IDS - Fulfillment Services Designed Around Your Needs

2012-01-10T00:00:00-05:00

Looking to outsource your fulfillment services? With fulfillment services from IDS you get custom fit order fulfillment solution designed around your product, your customers, and your company.

IDS - Helping ecommerce companies grow through excellence in fulfillment services

2012-01-18T00:00:00-05:00

The recent growth of the ecommerce industry has also lead to the growth of customer expectations. Customers who order products online now demand faster delivery times, excellent customer service, and low to no shipping cost.

IDS 2011 Review and Outlook

2012-01-23T00:00:00-05:00

IDS had another successful year in 2011. Our core business segments continued to grow and our financial performance remains strong. Each year we like to provide our clients and friends a review of the significant accomplishments for the year and a look forward

Most Retailers Expect Web Sales to Increase in 2012

2012-01-30T00:00:00-05:00

The web continues to outshine bricks and mortar as the retail channel offering the most growth potential, according to a January survey of 94 retailers by Retail Systems Research LLC. The research and advisory firm found that 63% of multichannel retailers expect the online channel to account for a sharp increase in the share of their total sales by 2015, while fewer than 10% expect web sales to decrease as a percentage of total sales.

January Retail Sales Head in Right Direction

2012-02-15T00:00:00-05:00

Coming off of the holiday shopping season, January retail sales turned in positive performances and showed signs of slow but continuing economic improvement, according to data from the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

E-commerce Sales Jump 16% in 2011

2012-02-17T00:00:00-05:00

U.S. e-commerce sales totaled $194.3 billion in 2011, up 16.1% from $167.3 billion in 2010, according to an estimate released today by the U.S. Commerce Department.

The estimate, not adjusted for seasonality, show that e-commerce is taking a bigger portion of overall retail sales in the United States. 4.6% of total retail spending took place online during 2011, up from 4.3% in 2010, according to the Commerce Department. When excluding sales in categories not commonly bought online—automobiles, fuel, grocery and foodservice sales—Internet Retailer calculates that e-commerce accounted for 8.6% of total retail sales during the year, up from 7.6% in 2010. Total retail sales, which includes e-commerce sales, increased 7.9% in 2011 and totaled $4.2 trillion, according to the Commerce Department.

3 Tips for Choosing the Right Fulfillment Option

2012-02-23T00:00:00-05:00

For any merchant that sells online, order fulfillment is a crucial part of its business. It’s an important final step in creating a positive, consistent experience for your customers. It can mean the difference between a one-time buyer and a lifelong brand advocate. And, if done right, it can make your business more competitive, flexible and profitable.

Retail Container Traffic to Increase 10 Percent in March

2012-03-19T00:00:00-04:00

Import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports is expected to increase 10 percent in March compared with the same month last year, and year-over-year gains should continue through mid-summer, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

It's April: Time to Set Your Holiday Shipping Strategy

2012-04-11T00:00:00-04:00

Holiday 2012 is closer than we think. Now is the time to talk to your package delivery vendors and find out the shipping deadlines so you can plan your delivery cut-off dates.

Knowing your cut-off dates allows you communicate with your customers as well as develop marketing strategies (whether a special flat rate for ground shipping to a special messaging for last minute shoppers who need overnight delivery.)

E-commerce Jumps 15.4% in Q1

2012-05-17T00:00:00-04:00

First quarter figures from the U.S. Commerce Department show that online shoppers spent more than $50 billion—the first time that online sales have been so high outside of holiday shopping seasons. Internet Retailer calculates that e-commerce accounted for 7.3% of all U.S. retail sales in Q1.

Retailers Going Multi-Channel for E-Commerce

2012-05-30T00:00:00-04:00

With 92 percent of retailers selling online, 68 percent maintaining brick-and-mortar stores, and 64 percent utilizing catalogs, retailers are embracing a multi-channel approach to meet buyer expectations and battle for market share, according to Jones Lang LaSalle’s latest report, Retail 3.0: the evolution of multichannel retail distribution. In addition, nearly 80 percent of retailers state that online sales have increased in the past five years with some reporting increases of 25 percent or more. This has forced retailers to change the traditional distribution network for their e-commerce models.

Study conducted by UPS and comScore takes deep dive into consumers' online shipping preferences

2012-06-14T00:00:00-04:00

As e-commerce continues to become more prevalent and becomes a “go-to” shopping option for consumers, subsequent effects of that figure to impact supply chains in the sense that they might be more consumer-driven in the future. That was one of the main findings of a recent study put out by UPS and comScore.

The study, entitled the “Online Shopping Customer Experience Study,” analyzed data from a comScore survey of more than 3,100 United States-based online shoppers conducted last February.

5 Tips for Shipping Packages

2012-06-28T00:00:00-04:00

In the not so distant past, the shipping department would get a new product from the conveyor, find a large enough box from stock, insert the product, add packing material, seal it and label it for pickup by the carrier. This method often meant that the shipper paid a higher cost than necessary. Today an experienced shipper will consider a few important things BEFORE reaching for a box and the packing tape.

Retailers Optimistic Imports Will Increase This Fall

2012-07-11T00:00:00-04:00

Port Tracker expects growth to pick up following lackluster July

Retailers continue to plan for increased imports this fall despite discouraging news recently regarding consumer confidence, employment numbers and retail sales.

Retailers' July Sales Exceed Forecasts

2012-08-06T00:00:00-04:00

US shoppers proved resilient in July, driving a key sales figure up at retailers across the country, despite persistent worry about jobs and the global economy.

Results came in better than expected for many retailers, helped by hot weather and summer clearance sales, an encouraging sign as the back-to-school season, the second-biggest shopping season behind the holidays, kicks off.

7 Tips To Prepare Your Distribution Center For Its Peak

2012-08-07T00:00:00-04:00

With less than 16 weeks until Black Friday, many in the distribution world are hitting the home stretch in preparation for peak season. Whether you service wholesale, retail or ecommerce (or any combination), time is running out to prepare for another peak season.

Real Time Metrics For Delighted Customers

2012-08-08T00:00:00-04:00

I recently read an article in a trade publication that made the point that although price will always be important in a customer’s purchasing decision, “outstanding service” is the number one reason that customers do business with a company. At IDS, we have always focused on providing superior service and our goal is to not just satisfy our customers but to delight them.

E-Commerce Spending Rises 15% In Q2

2012-08-14T00:00:00-04:00

Online retail sales jumped 15.0% in the second quarter, to more than $43.15 billion compared with $37.50 billion for the same period on 2011, comScore, Inc. said today. The second quarter spending marks the eleventh consecutive quarter of positive year-over-year growth and seventh consecutive quarter of double-digit growth, the web measurement firm says.

Why Retailers Need To Be Responsive In Social Media

2012-08-27T00:00:00-04:00

It’s one thing to simply set up a Facebook Page for your business, but it’s another entirely to actively engage customers in conversation, respond to feedback or questions in real-time, and be socially devoted to your fan base. Demandforce and Column Five made this issue easier to understand by creating this infographic, which explores the ROI of being attentive to customers on social media, the most socially devoted industries, and some notable brands that are doing it right.

Infographic: Will M-commerce Overtake E-commerce?

2012-09-04T00:00:00-04:00

Retail spending habits are changing. Smartphones have become tools that help shoppers gain better control over their buying experience. The trends shown in this infographic are the reason why BigCommerce says merchants need to adopt mobile and online strategies to ensure success in a changing market.

IDS Exhibits in Denver for The 2012 Shop.org Annual Summit

2012-09-10T00:00:00-04:00

This year, IDS will be exhibiting at booth #457 at the Summit from Monday September 10, 2012 through Wednesday September 12, 2012 as an e-commerce/retail fulfillment and distribution center solution. If you’re in the Denver area, please stop by to say hello to our EVP/COO, Mike Jones and Sales/Marketing Coordinator, Mike DeFabis.

Prepare For Crosschannel Consumers Before Black Friday

2012-09-17T00:00:00-04:00

Before Black Friday, merchants must employ mobile strategies and technology to adapt to their customer base and learn what will help their business grow as well as giving them a leg up on the competition.

Infographic: Is Your Site Holiday Ready?

2012-09-26T00:00:00-04:00

Yes, the holidays are fast approaching once again. If you haven't yet begun to consider how you'll prepare, don't worry - there's still time. Learn more about the state of e-commerce, the evolution of m-commerce and this season's best practices for optimization in several critical areas.

Online Holiday Sales Will Increase 12% This Year

2012-10-02T00:00:00-04:00

Retail web sales will increase 12% over last year’s holiday shopping season and reach between $92 and $96 billion, Shop.org, the digital division of the National Retail Federation trade group, says in its inaugural online holiday sales forecast released today. The forecast covers shopping during November and December.

September Sales Yield Optimisim For Holiday Season

2012-10-05T00:00:00-04:00

Although it was a bit of a mixed bag for retailers after September sales figures were released today, analysts maintain the overall sales growth in September is an encouraging sign as the holiday season beckons.

Supply Chain Efficiency Can Lead To Bottom Line Success, Says Retail Shipper

2012-10-08T00:00:00-04:00

The concept of “following the money” may apply to the supply chain and freight transportation sectors more than most. It comes from a school of thought, which states where the freight is, the money is.

September Retail Sales Show Growth, According To Commerce And NRF

2012-10-15T00:00:00-04:00

In a positive development for the United States economy, September retail sales saw decent growth, according to data from the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

5 Tips for Holiday Remarketing Success

2012-10-23T00:00:00-04:00

Last year, according to the Shop.org eHoliday Survey, nearly 85% of retailers sent an email to their customers about Black Friday deals. For many retailers, this Black Friday email blitz signals the start of an email sending torrent – flooding inboxes to the point of bursting and resulting in shoppers hitting “unsubscribe” and maybe even a few Grinches filing spam complaints.

The Holiday Season Starts Now

2012-10-24T00:00:00-04:00

Roughly half of consumers are starting their holiday shopping this month, and most retailers plan to begin Christmas marketing before Halloween, says a Shop.org survey released today. More e-retailers will offer free shipping on all purchases this holiday season than last, the report says.

Hurricane Sandy Disrupts Delivery Service On East Coast

2012-10-30T00:00:00-04:00

As Hurricane Sandy slammed the East Coast today, affecting about 50 million people from the Mid-Atlantic states to Canada, the country's major shipping companies incurred interruptions to some of its delivery areas.

UPS, FedEx Expect Heavy Holiday Shipments Driven Largely By E-Commerce

2012-10-31T00:00:00-04:00

As per the usual both transportation and logistics bellwethers UPS and FedEx are predicting a hectic holiday season paced by heavy volumes.

UPS said earlier this week that it expects to deliver 527 million packages between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, which would top last year’s record 480 million. And it said that its busiest day of the year is expected to be Thursday, December 20, a day that UPS said it will deliver an estimated 28 million packages globally.

4 Ideas For Cyber Monday Sales

2012-11-01T00:00:00-04:00

The Monday after Thanksgiving — Cyber Monday — could see more than $1.25 billion in online U.S. sales this year, as eager holiday shoppers look for special web pricing.

Like it or not, since about 2005 online retailers have trained shoppers to bargain hunt the weekend after the Thanksgiving holiday, including on the following Monday. Shoppers will expect nearly ridiculous pricing, free shipping, and more. Merchants that offer Cyber Monday specials likely will enjoy additional sales. For merchants, participating can be important. However, those sales often produce dramatically reduced margins. What follows are four ideas for customer-pleasing Cyber Monday sales that may also help preserve some margin.

Sandy + 2: Supply Chain Struggles To Return To Normalcy

2012-11-01T00:00:00-04:00

The mega-storm called Sandy began breaking up as it headed through the Great Lakes to Canada, leaving behind a life-altering trail of destruction that will take weeks, if not months, to repair.

By the morning of Oct. 31, Sandy's remnants had reached the lower Great Lakes region, where gale-force warnings were in effect for some areas. The storm was expected to pass over far northern New England and eastern Canada later in the day.

E-commerce Growth Inches Up To 15.4% In Q3

2012-11-08T00:00:00-05:00

That’s slightly higher than 15.0% growth in Q2 and the eighth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth for U.S. online retail, comScore reports today. ComScore says consumers spent nearly $42 billion in Q3—and that more of those shoppers are using smartphones to shop inside stores.

4 Steps For Going Mobile For The Holidays

2012-11-12T00:00:00-05:00

Mobile adoption is growing at triple digits year. Even customers who still prefer to make purchases in traditional brick and mortar stores are likely to do mobile research before making an in-store purchase.

5 Tips To Improve Holiday Shipping Efficiency

2012-11-13T00:00:00-05:00

The 2012 holiday season is fast approaching, and what better way to prepare than to get your shipping processes in tip top shape. Making a few changes now can pay dividends during your peak season, helping you meet marketplace shipping requirements, ensuring that your packages arrive on time, and maybe giving you a few extra hours of sleep each night.

NRF Urges President to Act Now on Fiscal Cliff

2012-11-15T00:00:00-05:00

The National Retail Federation is urging President Barack Obama and Congress to fix the impending fiscal cliff before Thanksgiving fearing that tax hikes and spending cuts will affect consumer confidence for the holiday shopping season.

UPS Announces 2013 Rate Increases

2012-11-19T00:00:00-05:00

On Friday, UPS announced its new published non-contractual rates for 2012, which will take effect on December 31.

According to company officials, non-contractual 2012 rates will be comprised of a net increase of 4.5 percent for UPS ground packages, down from a 4.9 percent gain for 2012, and a 4.9 percent on all UPS air services and U.S. origin international shipments, matching 2012’s hike for this segment.

E-commerce Sales Grow 17.3% in Q3

2012-11-19T00:00:00-05:00

U.S. e-commerce sales reached $56.99 billion in the third quarter, up 17.3% from $48.59 billion for the same period a year ago, according to figures released today by the U.S. Department of Commerce. Third quarter 2011 e-commerce sales increased 3.7% from $54.94 billion in the second quarter, according to the department’s seasonally adjusted estimates.

E-commerce Sales Top $1 Billion On Black Friday

2012-11-26T00:00:00-05:00

Online measurement firm comScore today reported U.S. retail e-commerce spending surpassed $1 billion on Black Friday, up 26% vs. Black Friday 2011.

Read more: http://multichannelmerchant.com/ecommerce/ecommerce-sales-top-1-billion-black-friday-1125tpp1/#ixzz2DLEEop00

Online measurement firm comScore today reported U.S. retail e-commerce spending surpassed $1 billion on Black Friday, up 26% vs. Black Friday 2011.

But Black Friday was not the only big day for ecommerce. comScore reported a 32% rise in Thanksgiving Day shopping to $663 million.

Read more: http://multichannelmerchant.com/ecommerce/ecommerce-sales-top-1-billion-black-friday-1125tpp1/#ixzz2DLEULR72

E-Commerce Growth Fueling Expansions In Distribution Real Estate - IDS Transportation EVP Rick LaGore Mentioned

2012-11-27T00:00:00-05:00

E-commerce distribution is expanding at the speed of broadband, giving a jolt to the broader industrial space market that is picking up but still growing closer to the pace of modem dial-up.

US Spot Intermodal Rates On The Decline

2012-11-27T00:00:00-05:00

U.S. spot intermodal rates, particularly lanes west to east, are gradually weakening off of the peak holiday volume period earlier in the fall, according to data from 3PL IDS Transportation.

Cyber Monday Spending Soars To $1.46 Billion, Ranking As Heaviest US Online Spending Day In History

2012-11-29T00:00:00-05:00

ComScore, a leader in measuring the digital world, today reported holiday season U.S. retail e-commerce spending for the first 26 days of the November-December 2012 holiday season. For the holiday season-to-date, $16.4 billion has been spent online, marking a 16-percent increase versus the corresponding days last year. Cyber Monday reached $1.465 billion in online spending, up 17 percent versus year ago, representing the heaviest online spending day in history and the second day this season (in addition to Black Friday) to surpass $1 billion in sales.

Online Retailers Pay Postage To Make The Sale

2012-12-03T00:00:00-05:00

Once a bonus, free shipping is increasingly expected. So, at least for the holidays, online retailers are scaling back minimum purchases and other requirements that have accompanied those offers of the past.

Holiday Shoppers Spent $26.6 Billion Online

2012-12-10T00:00:00-05:00

U.S. online holiday spending approaches $27 billion for first 37 days of the November-December shopping season, up 13 percent vs. last year.

How To Drive Visibility Through A Supply Chain Network Control Tower

2012-12-11T00:00:00-05:00

As supply chains become increasingly stretched geographically and functionally, the challenge of driving visibility through layered and disparate networks becomes infinitely greater. When it comes to managing compliance among third-tier suppliers in Asia, speeding asset turns at a domestic distribution yard, or keeping track of carrier partners and shipments on the ground, at sea, and in the air, there is no substitute for visibility and the control it provides.

How To Measure Sustainability Program Performance

2012-12-11T00:00:00-05:00

For many companies, sustainability has become a burning platform for exploring smarter ways to move product through the supply chain. Sustainability principles dovetail with transportation and logistics best practices to rationalize natural resource and raw material consumption, and ultimately reduce operating expenses.

Big Day, Bigger Week

2012-12-10T00:00:00-05:00

Today will be the biggest online shopping day in what is likely to be the heaviest week ever for shopping on the web, comScore Inc. predicts. The web measurement firm says sales so far this holiday season are up 13% over last year. While the pace slowed a bit last week, comScore attributes that in part to there being two extra shopping days this year between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Free Shipping Day Last Minute Tips: Navigating The Discount Merchants Love To Hate

2012-12-12T00:00:00-05:00

The peak holiday season is underway, and merchants are rapidly approaching the finish line for 2012. With holiday purchasing going full throttle, the approach of Free Shipping Day on Dec. 17 is likely to cause anxiety as well as anticipation.

Green Monday Ranked 3rd Heaviest Online Shopping Day In History

2012-12-18T00:00:00-05:00

ComScore, a leader in measuring the digital world, today reported holiday season retail e-commerce spending for the first 44 days of the November–December 2012 holiday season. For the holiday season-to-date $33.8 billion has been spent online, marking a 13-percent increase versus the corresponding days last year. The most recent workweek saw four individual days eclipse $1 billion in spending, led by Green Monday with $1.275 billion.

Sorting Out Savings Opportunities In Your E-Commerce Warehouse

2012-12-18T00:00:00-05:00

The continuing growth of e-commerce has created challenges for distribution centers (DCs). Parcels are smaller, lighter, and harder to handle on the same conveyors and sorters. And shipping and logistics firms have amped up the pressure, adding dimensional charges as a penalty to those that ship lightweight goods.

NRF Welcomes Fiscal Cliff Agreement

2013-01-02T00:00:00-05:00

While the National Retail Federation welcomes the agreement made between the White House and Congress in regards to the looming fiscal cliff, they caution still more needs to be done in order to restore the economy.

Fiscal Cliff Deal Is Reached But Supply Chain Challenges Remain

2013-01-02T00:00:00-05:00

I originally was going to use a headline along these lines for this column: “New Year but same old problems” or something to that effect. But with Congress waiting until past January 1 to hammer out a deal for the so-called Fiscal Cliff, there is at least one less problem to worry about for now anyhow.

5 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Fulfillment Partner

2013-01-02T00:00:00-05:00

It is important to perform thorough due diligence prior to selecting a fulfillment partner for your company. When making your decisions regarding your fulfillment company, Innovative Business Services says you should keep these 5 crucial points top of mind, and you’ll be on your way to making all of your small business dreams of success a reality.

PRESS RELEASE: IDS Transportation Services, LLC and The Journal of Commerce Announce Partnership to Expand Coverage of Intermodal Pricing

2013-01-04T00:00:00-05:00

NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- IDS Transportation Services, LLC will begin providing weekly spot rates on heavy volume 53' door-to-door domestic intermodal lanes, along with market commentary to the Journal of Commerce (JOC) for use in its expanding coverage of the North American intermodal market. With the continued growth of domestic intermodal, the JOC is expanding coverage of the intermodal market and the supply chains and logistics strategies it supports. The JOC will initially use the spot rates provided by IDS to publish a weekly article on JOC.com analyzing the latest pricing developments and trends.

Holiday E-Commerce Sales Top $42 Billion

2013-01-04T00:00:00-05:00

U.S. consumers spent $42.28 billion online in November and December, a 13.7% increase over $37.17 billion spent during the holiday shopping season in 2011, comScore Inc. reports today. Meanwhile, sales at U.S. chain stores, not including drug stores, increased just 3.1% year over year in the same period, according to ICSC, a trade organization for shopping centers.

IDS To Attend The National Retail Federation's 'Retail's BIG Show 2013'

2013-01-10T00:00:00-05:00

NRF's Annual Convention & EXPO was nicknamed "Retail's BIG Show" many years ago and because the name was so appropriate, it stuck. Today, Retail's BIG Show is NRF's flagship industry event held annually in New York City. The four day event offers unparalleled education, collegial networking, and an enormous EXPO Hall full of technologies and solutions.

Retail Sales Weak In December 2012

2013-01-16T00:00:00-05:00

Advance Retail Sales were again mixed in December 2012 depending if you follow the headlines or dive into the data. The headlines say retail was up moderately this month. This month, Econintersect‘s analysis is a lot worse than the headline data.

13 Tips For Ecommerce Success in 2013

2013-01-18T00:00:00-05:00

Running your ecommerce business can be a grind. You need to replenish products, drive more traffic to your store, create new promotions, respond to customers, develop your employees, and so forth.

[Infographic] How To Catch And Keep The Digital Shopper

2013-01-21T00:00:00-05:00

As retailers reinvent their in-store shopping experience in the face of the continued rise of ecommerce, research released by Cisco found that digital content from the internet is the most powerful influence in buying decisions for the majority of shoppers in all channels. In this infographic, based on the third annual Cisco study of consumers, you will see that online ratings and reviews were the most influential source for making purchasing decisions, and that shoppers increasingly want access to digital content in stores through a variety of devices.

Shelli Austin, VP of Transportation at IDS, Speaking on Intermodal Panel for The Midwest Association of Rail Shippers Meeting ‘2013: What’s on the Horizon’ January 23-24, Oak Brook, IL

2013-01-22T00:00:00-05:00

Shelli Austin, VP of IDS Transportation Services, LLC, was invited to speak on the ‘Intermodal Exploding – Don’t Let it Leave you Behind’ panel held on January 23^rd at 1:30pm.

PRESS RELEASE: IDS Transportation Services, LLC Announces Co-Marketing Agreement with Streamline, a Union Pacific Subsidiary

2013-01-23T00:00:00-05:00

PLAINFIELD, Ind., Jan. 22, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- IDS Transportation Services LLS, a full-service logistics company specializing in intermodal transportation, and Streamline, a subsidiary of Union Pacific Railroad Company, announced a co-marketing agreement today.

Fulfillment Companies Target 3 Ecommerce Trends for Business Expansion

2013-01-23T00:00:00-05:00

Since 2012 departed with a bang, 2013 is primed to follow right in its footsteps. Ecommerce retailers saw an excellent fourth quarter. According to comScore, holiday sales approached a record $3.6 billion, a roughly 16% increase over the same time last year, so it’s no surprise that the ecommerce industry is expected to continue to grow in 2013.

A Sunny Forecast for E-Retail

2013-01-28T00:00:00-05:00

Online sales will increase between 9.0% and 12.0% in 2013 over 2012, again outpacing total retail sales, which will increase 3.4%, the National Retail Federation, a retail industry trade group, predicted today.

Ecommerce Could Grow Up To 12% In 2013

2013-01-29T00:00:00-05:00

Shop.org, the National Retail Federation’s digital division, released its 2013 economic forecast today, expects online sales in 2013 to grow between 9% and 12%. Overall, NRF predicted 3.4% growth across all sales channels, slightly less than the preliminary 4.2% growth seen in 2012.

How To Make Your Packaging Products Reorder-Friendly

2013-01-30T00:00:00-05:00

In marketing, emphasis is often placed on the initial efforts to get a customer interested in a product or service. This is a natural part of the sales cycle, of course, but it tends to overshadow the very important aspect of repeat business and the contribution it makes to overall success.

How to Target the 7 Types of Valentine’s Day Shoppers

2013-02-01T00:00:00-05:00

With consumers spending nearly $18 billion last year on Valentine’s Day, according to National Retail Federation figures, now is the time for marketers to refine their retargeting efforts to ensure they make the most of this short, albeit lucrative, shopping season. Chad Blodgett, Vice President of Business Development at Rakuten MediaForge, says one of the best ways to influence this wide and varied audience is to identify the seven most common types of Valentine’s Day shoppers outlined below and then develop your content to effectively target and engage them.

Consumers Are Getting More Comfortable Shopping On Tablets

2013-02-01T00:00:00-05:00

Commerce conducted on tablets grew in the fourth quarter of 2012, according to the Couch Commerce Index, a quarterly measurement from CoffeeTable, a catalog aggregator app for the iPad, iPad mini and the iPhone. Shopping on tablets has increased 11% from Q3 2012 to Q4 2012 and grown 37% since Q4 2011, CoffeeTable says.

[Infographic] Holiday Roundup Reveals Tablet Shoppers' Unique Usage

2013-02-05T00:00:00-05:00

This infographic tracks online shopper activity across 3,500 tablet-optimized retailers in a wide range of industries, including apparel, consumer electronics, health and beauty, home goods, and jewelry between Nov. 25 and Dec. 25.

7 Ways Retailers are Saying "I Love You" This Valentine’s Day

2013-02-11T00:00:00-05:00

As Valentine’s Day nears, retailers have an opportunity to play Cupid. Smart and thoughtful strategies can serve as their proverbial arrows – showing consumers the love while helping to win their affections as well.

Retail Sales Are Relatively Strong in January 2013

2013-02-15T00:00:00-05:00

Advance Retail Sales was positive in January 2013. The headlines say retail was up marginally this month, but Econintersect‘s analysis is much better than the headline data.

E-commerce Grows 16% in 2012

2013-02-18T00:00:00-05:00

Online shoppers in the U.S. spent more than $225 billion last year, the U.S. Department of Commerce says. Online sales accounted for 8.8% of total retail sales during Q4 compared with 7.8% a year earlier, Internet Retailer estimates.

Consumer Delivery Demands Reshaping Big Box Warehouse Market

2013-02-20T00:00:00-05:00

Same and next-day delivery of online purchases drives demand for multichannel capable distribution centers, says Jones Lang LaSalle report.

4 Benefits of Outsourcing Fulfillment

2013-02-20T00:00:00-05:00

Many merchants who start a small business dream of one day standing over a massive company that employs hundreds and has offices all over the world. The delicate part of growing your e-commerce business is dealing with issues which one has no prior experience dealing with. One such decision that has to be made is that of outsourcing fulfillment.

5 Tips for Building Online Trust

2013-02-26T00:00:00-05:00

Although a number of factors come into play when a customer makes a decision to buy online, none other is more important than trust.

Report: Shoppers Open to Cross-channel Shopping

2013-03-01T00:00:00-05:00

A new IBM study of 26,000 global consumers released today at the 2013 National Retail Federation Big Show found they are diversifying the way they shop for and acquire goods, becoming increasingly open to buying both online and in-store depending on their needs at time of purchase.

Making the Most of your Post-Purchase Emails

2013-03-05T00:00:00-05:00

You spend a lot of time trying to get shoppers to buy. You probably also deliver orders to customers in a timely fashion. As I’m preparing for my “Begin with the Buy: Enriching & Evolving the Post-Purchase Experience” webinar with Multichannel Merchant, it’s becoming clear that the gap between the customer submitting their order and receiving your product is a severely underutilized phase of engagement.

10 Blog Topics for Online Retailers

2013-03-12T00:00:00-04:00

One of the best ways for an ecommerce site to rank highly in Google search results is through blogging. Most blog platforms are search engine friendly, and easy to use.
But merchants sometimes struggle with what topics to write about. Here are 10 post types to spark writing ideas that get Google's attention — and attract readers.

How to Deliver a Better Experience to Today’s Multi-Touch Shopper

2013-03-13T00:00:00-04:00

Many retailers are wary of the omnichannel consumer. How do you capture the attention – and purchases – of mobile savvy, price sensitive consumers who jump from their laptop, to tablet, to smartphone, to the store and back again?

US E-Commerce to Grow 13% in 2013

2013-03-13T00:00:00-04:00

A new Forrester projection says that online shoppers in the U.S. will spend $262 billion this year, thanks in large part to mobile commerce and investment by chains in e-retail. In Western Europe, meanwhile, e-commerce is set to increase 14% this year.

5 Tips for Choosing an Ecommerce Technology Provider

2013-03-13T00:00:00-04:00

For ecommerce merchants to succeed and grow exponentially, one of the catalysts is a deep relationship with their technology providers. As they say in marriage parlance, the initial matchmaking is crucial for ecommerce merchants to garner significant market share, paving the way for this relationship to flourish.

February 2013 Retail Sales Show Promising Signs

2013-03-15T00:00:00-04:00

February retail sales exceeded expectations, according to data released today by the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Mobile Consumers Search Often, and Not Just When They are on the Go

2013-03-15T00:00:00-04:00

55% of the time when a consumer searches on a smartphone and then makes a purchase, that conversion occurs within one hour, according to a new study from Google Inc. and Nielsen.

IDS President and CEO Elected to Leadership of IWLA

2013-03-20T00:00:00-04:00

IDS (Integrated Distribution Services, Inc.) President and CEO, Mark DeFabis was elected Secretary of the International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) at its annual meeting in Orlando, Florida.

IDS Executives Make Presentations to Peers at IWLA Convention

2013-03-20T00:00:00-04:00

IDS (Integrated Distribution Services, Inc.) President and CEO, Mark DeFabis and Executive Vice President and COO of Transportation, Rick LaGore each made presentations to industry leaders at this year’s International Warehouse Logistics Association (IWLA) annual convention in Orlando, Florida.

E-commerce in US Could Grow to $370 Billion by 2017

2013-03-20T00:00:00-04:00

Online retail in the U.S. could grow to $370 billion by 2017, according to a report released March 13 by Forrester . The growth in online retail could outpace physical stores, as they continue to lose wallet share to web retailers, according to their report.

3 Cross-Channel Trends You Have to Know in 2013

2013-03-26T00:00:00-04:00

Five short years ago, brick-and-mortar stores were pumping away quite solidly. Sure, they were feeling some of the changes that ecommerce and a little mobile shopping brought on, but it was hardly the explosion that we are seeing today.

Tell-tale Signs You Need to Rethink Your Fulfillment Center

2013-03-26T00:00:00-04:00

To put it frankly, the ecommerce boom could cause fulfillment to buckle. In the past, retailers supported bricks-and-mortar stores with a single-channel supply chain to replenish goods from a central pool of inventory.

IDS Partners with OSM for Parcel Shipping

2013-03-27T00:00:00-04:00

Integrated Distribution Services, Inc. (IDS) is excited to announce a new partnership with OSM Worldwide. IDS strives to provide their customers with cost effective shipping solutions with faster delivery times. IDS’ partnership with OSM will offer customers faster delivery times at discounted prices from the United States Postal Service (USPS).

Shoppers Spending Less this Easter

2013-03-29T00:00:00-04:00

In the National Retail Federation annual Easter Spending Survey, shoppers say they will be on the prowl for deals when it comes to chocolate and springtime apparel. In this infographic from the NRF, you will see just how much money shoppers are planning to spend and where this Easter holiday including how only 21% of American shoppers will shop online versus the 63% who plan on shopping at discount stores.

E-Commerce Companies Bypass the Middlemen

2013-04-01T00:00:00-04:00

When the founders of a start-up that sells eyeglasses online, Warby Parker, began investigating why designer glasses cost several hundred dollars, they discovered that everyone in the process was taking a cut: designers, manufacturers, brands, wholesalers and retailers.

3 Retail Trends You Have to Know in 2013

2013-04-01T00:00:00-04:00

IWLA Announces Board Additions & 2013-2014 Executive Committee

2013-04-01T00:00:00-04:00

The association welcomed new members to its board during the 2013 IWLA Convention & Expo, and introduced the 2013-2014 Executive Committee.

Making the Case for International E-Commerce: Five Tips for Going Global

2013-04-02T00:00:00-04:00

E-commerce markets in South America, Europe and the United Kingdom can range from “emerging” in some areas to just as developed as the United States in others. Each has distinctive catalysts and factors that contribute to their stature in the global economy. But in the 21st century, all share one thing in common: Internet usage is growing.

5 Takeaways for Developing a Mobile and Tablet Strategy

2013-04-03T00:00:00-04:00

Over the past few years consumers have become the anywhere, anytime shopper. They will shop on their smartphone, on their tablet or on their traditional computer, but if a website has yet to adapt to consumer’s preference, it could mean a lost sale.

Consumers Buy More When Retailers Get Personal

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

Survey results from MyBuys and the e-tailing group reveal customer-centric marketing – the ability to engage consumers in one-to-one conversations across the customer lifecycle and all touch points – increases buyer readiness, engagement and sales activity, according to a press release from the e-tailing group.

Mobile Retargeting for the 21st Century

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

What was once considered an old marketing tactic has now become hip again. When it comes to mobile retargeting, it’s all about persistence.

Same-Day Delivery Might Not Be For Everyone

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

Amazon, Google, and eBay are striving towards national same-day delivery fulfillment, but the shipping option might not be the perfect decision for every retailer, according to Shop.org.

Using Omni-channel Personalization for Ecommerce

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

Many online retail sites use personalization features that are bundled with their e-commerce platforms or are enabled by integrating with a third-party vendor

eBay's CEO: Retailers Finally are Responding to the Commerce Revolution

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

Mobile, local, global and data are the battlegrounds, John Donahoe says. At the annual conference of eBay-owned e-commerce technology provider Magento, he also talks about how his company has again embraced innovation.

F-Commerce: An Idea Before It's Time

2013-04-10T00:00:00-04:00

Less than two months ago, a tree fell in the woods and you probably didn’t hear it. Payvment, one of the darlings of the early Facebook commerce story, folded up shop and sold their customers to their primary competitor, Ecwid.

4 Methods to Drive Revenue Using Purchase History

2013-04-11T00:00:00-04:00

Do you know your customers? Keeping your customers may be as challenging as gaining one. But you can drive revenue by using past purchasing history to create targeted relevant messages. Timing is essential when it comes to providing the right information.

Hearing Scheduled To Discuss Future of the U.S. Postal Service

2013-04-12T00:00:00-04:00

House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell, Issa, R-Calif., announced in a press release he would convene a full committee hearing to examine the future of the United States Postal Service.

More on 3PLs and the "Cold Chain"

2013-04-15T00:00:00-04:00

As we note in this month’s print edition of LM: “3PL Management: Conquering the cold chain, this sector is experiencing “explosive growth.”

Drop-shipping Remains a Big Opportunity for Merchants

2013-04-16T00:00:00-04:00

The percentage of merchants who drop ship merchandise to customers has dropped slightly, but the percentage of merchandise they drop ship has risen, according to the results of Multichannel Merchant’s MCM Outlook 2013 survey.

Shelli Austin, VP of IDS Transportation Services, LLC, speaks on Intermodal Panel at the TIA’s 35th Annual Convention and Trade Show in Las Vegas, NV

2013-04-18T00:00:00-04:00

IDS’s Vice President of Transportation Services, Shelli Austin, was asked to speak on one of the panel discussions during this year’s convention titled, ‘Intermodal in Action’. The panel had representation from the major rail lines such as Union Pacific, CSX, Norfolk Southern, and Florida Coast.

NRF and Commerce Report Lackluster March Retail Sales Numbers

2013-04-19T00:00:00-04:00

Coming off a better than expected month in February, retail sales were somewhat lackluster in March, according to data released today by the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

USPS Plan to Eliminate Saturday Delivery Comes to a Halt

2013-04-19T00:00:00-04:00

The United States Postal Services’ (USPS) desire to eliminate Saturday delivery—as part of an effort to become financially solvent—is not likely to come to fruition.

eCommerce: Finding the Sweet Spot

2013-04-19T00:00:00-04:00

Online retailers seeking new DC and warehouse sites need transportation infrastructure and other resources to support a constant, rapid-fire flow of shipments.

Sales Tax Bill Inches Toward a Vote

2013-04-22T00:00:00-04:00

A vote could come next week in the U.S. Senate on a bill that would force many web retailers to collect sales tax. Backers are encouraged by a 75-24 test vote in favor of the bill last month.

11 Steps to Select the Best 3PF Vendor for Your Business

2013-04-22T00:00:00-04:00

Third-party fulfillment outsourcing does meet many companies’ business requirements. Will it meet yours? Only an objective study of your requirements and discussions with 3PF users and clients can shed light on the advantages and disadvantages. Objectivity is a key word.

Consumers Want to Easily Move Across Shopping Channels

2013-04-22T00:00:00-04:00

Consumers are going to stores to examine products, pulling out their smartphones to check prices and sometimes buying online. They also often go online before a store visit. And they expect to do more of this cross-channel shopping and would like retailers to make it easier to do...

[Infographic] The eCommerce Movement: 2003 vs. 2013

2013-04-24T00:00:00-04:00

In the last 10 years the face of the ecommerce industry has changed significantly. In this infographic by Corra, you can go back in time and see how far the ecommerce industry has come in terms of technology.

3 Important Mobile Commerce Trends

2013-04-26T00:00:00-04:00

Tablet-based purchases, an explosion in video watching, and shopping activity of men are among the hottest mobile commerce trends that could impact how online retailers market and sell.

How to Monitor, Prevent Fulfillment Errors

2013-04-26T00:00:00-04:00

Ecommerce companies typically focus on acquiring traffic and selling a wide range of products that shoppers will actually buy. Many ecommerce firms track key performance indicators like new visitors, conversion rates, and average order values.

US eCommerce Sales Could Top $434 Billion in 2017

2013-04-29T00:00:00-04:00

E-retail sales in the United States will grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 14% over the next four years, topping out at $434.2 billion in 2017, according to a new projection from eMarketer Inc.

75% of Mobile Conversions Stem From Tablets

2013-04-29T00:00:00-04:00

75% of mobile conversions happen on a tablet while 25% occur on a smartphone, finds retargeting marketing vendor SeeWhy Inc. in a study of 21 million transactions from its 2,500 retailer clients.

Want More Tablet Sales? Improve the Shopping Experience

2013-05-01T00:00:00-04:00

Retailers today know one thing for certain: the future of ecommerce is mobile. By the end of 2017, mobile retail sales in the U.S. will reach $31B, up from $8B this year.

Web-0nly Retailers Use Tried and True Tactics to Stay Competitive

2013-05-02T00:00:00-04:00

Excluding Amazon, online-only retailers are growing at about the same rate as their competitors.

7 Different Types of Free Shipping You Can Offer Today

2013-05-03T00:00:00-04:00

Free shipping is the ultimate buzz word in the ecommerce world today. Not only is it something that every shopper is looking for, but it’s one of the ways you can boost conversion rates while satisfying customers.

The Number of Top 500 Retailers Active in Mobile Commerce Doubles in 2012

2013-05-03T00:00:00-04:00

Many leading e-retailers recognize the opportunity in mobile commerce, and that’s reflecting in a more than doubling of the number of Top 500 retailers with mobile sites or apps in the 2013 Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide.

The Number of Top 500 Retailers Active in Mobile Commerce Doubles in 2012

2013-05-06T00:00:00-04:00

322 of the merchants in the 2013 edition of the Top 500 Guide operate a mobile commerce site or app, compared with 135 in last year’s rankings. For several of the Top 500 retailers sales through smartphones and tablets represent a substantial part of their business.

Mobile Commerce Grows 31 Percent in Q1

2013-05-08T00:00:00-04:00

Mobile ecommerce sales rose 31 percent in the first quarter of 2013 as tablet-fueled, couch commerce is rapidly becoming the most popular form of online shopping with the so-called multi-channel shopper.

Senate Approves Internet Sales Tax

2013-05-08T00:00:00-04:00

The Senate has approved the long-anticipated internet sales tax proposal, which would require shoppers to pay sales tax for most of their online purchases, in a 69 to 27 vote.

Consumers Stretch Their Budgets This Mother’s Day

2013-05-10T00:00:00-04:00

Consumers are expected to spend an average of $168.94 on mom, this Mother’s Day. This is an 11% increase from last year’s $152.42 and total spending is expected to reach $20.7 billion.

Progressive Railroading Names 20 'Rising Stars' of Railroading

2013-05-13T00:00:00-04:00

Today, Progressive Railroading is announcing 20 individuals selected by the magazine's editorial staff as the "Rising Stars" of North America's railroad industry in 2013. IDS Transportation VP, Shelli Austin, announced as winner!

Retail Sales Gain Shows Resilient American Consumer: Economy

2013-05-13T00:00:00-04:00

Sales at U.S. retailers unexpectedly advanced in April, helping ease concern of a sustained pullback in consumer spending that would stifle the economy.

E-Commerce Outlook Is Bright

2013-05-13T00:00:00-04:00

While online retail could soon lose its immunity from state taxation, new research shows that the sector has never been more healthy.

66% Abandon M-Commerce Purchases Because of Issues at Checkout

2013-05-13T00:00:00-04:00

Mobile commerce is growing, with 68 percent of smartphone and tablet owners having attempted to make purchases on their devices. However, problems during the payment process have forced 66 percent to abandon their transactions.

U.S. E-Retail Spending Rises 13% in Q1

2013-05-14T00:00:00-04:00

Online shoppers spent $50.2 billion via PCs and another $5.9 billion on tablets and smartphones, comScore says. The web’s share of consumer discretionary spending hit 10.6%, a record.

Commerce, NRF Report Slight Gains in April Retail Sales

2013-05-14T00:00:00-04:00

While retail sales were up in April, the growth rate was less than impressive based on data released today by the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Commerce, NRF Report Slight Gains in April Retail Sales

2013-05-14T00:00:00-04:00

While retail sales were up in April, the growth rate was less than impressive based on data released today by the United States Department of Commerce and the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Sluggish Retail Sales Remain a Concern for Supply Chain Managers

2013-05-14T00:00:00-04:00

Consumers are taking advantage of falling pump prices, a relatively better employment market, modest consumer goods price increases, a strong stock market, and a housing market that seems to be gaining traction.

Half of Online Shoppers Pay Sales Tax Already

2013-05-15T00:00:00-04:00

Charging sales tax for web purchases may not dissuade consumers from buying online, suggest new survey results from Bizrate Insights. The e-commerce services provider found that 50.93% of online shoppers had paid sales tax on their most recent online purchase, leaving 49.07% who said they had paid no sales tax.

Designing Your Site for the Mobile Customer

2013-05-17T00:00:00-04:00

Have you taken a look lately at how many of your website visitors are viewing your web pages on a mobile device? Has that number grown over the past several months? If so, you should be thinking about offering a mobile-optimized experience (if you haven’t already).

Retail Sales Gain Shows Resilient American Consumer

2013-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

Sales at U.S. retailers unexpectedly advanced in April, helping ease concern of a sustained pullback in consumer spending that would stifle the economy.

3 Tips to Spring Clean Your Ecommerce Strategy

2013-05-20T00:00:00-04:00

Spring is the perfect time of year for small-to-medium size multichannel merchants to identify new ways to streamline their business operations and improve go-to-market programs. A good spring cleaning is in order as part of a solid plan that will attract new and repeat customers, allowing businesses to enjoy strong sales heading into the summer season.

Site Search: Leading the Customer to Purchase

2013-05-22T00:00:00-04:00

Like it or not, when a visitor heads to your site they are most likely there to browse, which is why it’s important for retailers to give shoppers what they want, the quickest way possible. The best way to do that is through highly optimized search and navigation functions.

How to Snag the Mobile Shopper

2013-05-22T00:00:00-04:00

While more and more consumers are researching products and comparing prices on their mobile devices most showroomers are not using their device to finalize a purchase. According to a recent Forrester Research survey report, only 13% surveyed said they used a smartphone or tablet to actually purchase a product.

IDS Transportation Services VP, Shelli Austin, Selected as Progressive Railroading's Top 20 'Rising Stars' of Railroading

2013-05-23T00:00:00-04:00

PLAINFIELD, Ind., May 23, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Progressive Railroading announced 20 individuals selected by the magazine's editorial staff as the 'Rising Stars' of North America's railroad industry.

IDS | Servicing the E-Commerce Market - IWLA's 3PL America's Member Profile

2013-05-23T00:00:00-04:00

Being flexible is certainly a selling feature for 3PLs, and it’s something IDS has proven itself good at. Jumping in fast after a panicked call from a large international company on a Saturday morning, IDS took over shipping about a third of the company’s orders to two or three of its big-box clients while the company worked to recover from the crash of its new warehouse management system. Within a few days, IDS was covering all of the outbound orders for several of the company’s key clients out of a facility of about 100,000 square feet that IDS had quickly acquired for just this purpose.