Cross docking is the process of shipping goods from one location to another. It transfers goods from one warehouse to another or from one location to another. Cross docking can be done by using a cross docking truck or other shipping containers. There are many different methods for cross-docking, depending on the product and the way it’s being shipped.
Here are some common methods used in the cross docking process;
Pre-cross-docking
Pre-cross docking is receiving a shipment before it has been fully processed, including filling and labeling it with your name and address. After receiving the shipment, you will call customer service to request that they add your name and address to the label. This helps prevent delivery delays caused by incorrect labeling on other shipments coming into the facility.
Flow-through
This method involves waiting until the other vessel clears its path and proceeding with your crossing. The flow-through system is used when no other vessels on the canal or ships are available. In this case, you must wait until your current route becomes clear before proceeding with your travel plans.
Hybrid cross-docking
Hybrid cross docking solutions combine two methods and use the best of both. The first method is to use an existing dock to transport goods from one end of the dock to another, while the second method is to have a second dock directly in front of the first, with a conveyor system transporting goods from one end of the dock to the other. This allows for fast and efficient movement of goods between docks without worrying about moving your cargo manually.
Shuttle cross-docking
Shuttle cross docking is a method of cross docking that involves using one mode of transport to deliver goods to another mode of transport. This method can be an alternative to hybrid cross docking if your business can’t use both modes of transport simultaneously, for example, while moving goods from one destination to another.
Opportunistic cross-docking
The opportunistic cross docking approach is similar to traditional cross-docking, but it is done opportunistically instead of waiting for inventory to become available in the destination location. In this scenario, inventory is moved from one location to another based on demand, supply, and other factors. This type of cross docking can help companies avoid having to build and maintain storage facilities for all their products.
Post-cross-docking
Post-cross docking is the process in which the goods are cross-docked before they are released to the carrier. The goods will be stored in a warehouse until they are ready to be sent out again. The first step in this process is that all freight must be surveyed, tagged, and loaded onto a trailer for transport to another location. The second step is for all the freight to be unloaded from the trailer, checked for damage, and repaired if necessary. All paperwork must be completed, including payment of any duties or taxes due on shipping.
Conclusion
Cross docking is an effective solution for reducing the inventory level of a company by transferring goods from inbound trucks to outbound trucks in a time and labor-saving manner. This storage method enables retailers, manufacturers, and wholesalers to optimize their supply chains, maximize on-time deliveries, and reduce production lead times while improving overall customer satisfaction.
