Managing logistics in extreme weather conditions is essential to ensure the smooth operation of the supply chain, increasing customer satisfaction.
Otherwise, it can lead to delays, lost revenue, and damage to the company’s reputation. Here’s how to manage logistics in extreme weather conditions, according to Linkedin.
Understand severe weather
Severe weather is when heavy rain, snow, high winds to heat, drought, storms, floods… These can impact the supply chain in many different ways, including road closures, cancellations, etc. flights and power outages.
Severe weather greatly affects the goods delivery process. Photo: Linkedin
Prepare
Preparing for severe weather includes assessing potential risks and planning to mitigate them. Specifically, companies should review their logistics processes and identify areas that may be affected by severe weather.
Make a contingency plan
Make contingency plans such as creating a set of procedures to follow in case of severe weather. These processes should include backup transportation options, alternative routes, and protocols for communicating with customers and suppliers.
Deploy communication strategy
Keep all relevant parties informed about the logistics situation. Companies should have a dedicated communication channel to provide updates to customers, suppliers and employees.
Protect the workforce
Protecting the workforce is paramount. Companies should have procedures in place to ensure the safety of their employees. These procedures may include training on safe working practices, providing protective equipment, and implementing shift rotation.
In parallel, training the workforce on how to manage logistics is essential. Companies should provide training on processes, communication strategies, and safe shipping protocols.
Inventory and supply chain management
Inventory and supply chain management is important to ensure product availability. Companies should review their inventory levels and adjust their supply chain processes to minimize the impact of severe weather.
Invest in technology
Technology like GPS tracking and real-time weather updates can help companies make informed decisions about transportation and route planning.
Logistics management is essential to ensure the smooth functioning of the supply chain. Companies should prepare for severe weather following the steps above. By taking these steps, businesses can minimize the impact of severe weather and maintain customer satisfaction, as well as protect their reputation and profits.
MOC TRA