Containers on a barge

Container Planning Guide: Maximize Space and Efficiency

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The world is a lot smaller than it used to be. Essential items we use daily have a travel history, and many have spent a little time hanging out in a shipping container. It’s estimated that 80% of goods worldwide are transported via the sea—or about 1.95 billion metric tons annually—from your favorite jacket to the phone in your hand and even the car you drive. That translates to a lot of shipping containers on the move at any given moment, with the requisite container planning, of course, to keep things running smoothly. 

What is container planning? 

Container planning is the process of optimizing the use of shipping containers. It means figuring out the best way to arrange goods in a container to maximize space, reduce waste, minimize cost, and keep the products safe during transit. 

 

A standard shipping container is 8 feet 6 inches tall and 8 feet wide (a high cube container is a foot taller). Containers are typically 10 feet, 20 feet, or 40 feet long. Internal storage space for a 20 foot container is roughly 1100 cubic feet, or about the contents of a three or four bedroom house. That’s a lot of space, and filling it properly can get complicated! 

Why effective container planning matters

Sending goods across the ocean in shipping containers may feel a bit like sending your child off to college—with only so much you can control. However, having a packing blueprint in place allows workers all along the supply chain to pack your items correctly into boxes and pallets and then load them properly into the shipping container. Proper planning will make a huge difference in a variety of ways.

Reduce shipping costs

That’s right. Packing efficiently will reduce your shipping costs. You want to use as much of the available space as possible to reduce the number of containers you need to fill. If you have a variety of sizes, shapes, and weights, it becomes all the more complicated. Efficient container planning helps you maximize the container’s space, ensuring fewer empty gaps and lowering costs by cutting down on the number of containers needed. 

Improve efficiency

I recently went on a trip to Peru—what a beautiful country! I brought along quite a few things for some friends there. I must have packed and unpacked my suitcase at least five times as I tried to fit in as much as I could and still stay within weight limits for the airline. Most warehouse workers don’t have the time or energy to figure out the most efficient way to load a storage container. If they have a plan, they can move swiftly and get things loaded and on their way quickly, which improves overall supply chain efficiency and keeps your operations running smoothly. 

Avoid damage 

The optimal arrangement of goods within a container takes into account the safety of the product. Fragile items must be secured appropriately and weight distributed evenly to prevent shifting during transit. With the right container plan, items are less likely to sustain damage, reducing the risk of costly returns or customer dissatisfaction. 

Minimize the environmental impact

Optimizing container space allows you to reduce the number of shipments required, which directly lowers carbon emissions and fuel consumption. And if you want to align your business with eco-conscious goals, you can minimize your environmental footprint by shipping fewer, fully packed containers. Plus, fewer containers mean less plastic and packaging waste, which is better for the environment. 

Key elements of successful container planning 

So what does it take to successfully plan your container load? More elements are involved than you may think. 

  • Space optimization: Not to put myself on repeat, but it’s essential to use as much of the container’s space as possible. Arranging your goods carefully will minimize unused space (so you’re not paying to ship air across the ocean), reduce the number of containers you need, and subsequently reduce your transportation costs. Software solutions like Cube-IQ will help you calculate the best arrangement for different products to maximize space. 
  • Load balancing: Distributing the weight in the container will help prevent damage and maintain the stability of the load as it moves across the ocean. Generally, that means heavy items at the bottom, lighter items at the top–makes sense, right? It’s also important to ensure an even balance so the container doesn’t tip or shift easily. 
  • Regulation compliance: As you’re well aware at this point, moving goods from one place to another—especially across borders—means complying with regulations such as weight limits, customs documentation, and cargo securing standards. These requirements must be factored into the planning process so your shipments meet international standards and avoid delays or fines.  
  • Protecting your goods: If the goods you’re transporting are either fragile or temperature sensitive, your container planning takes on a new level of complexity. Make sure you take into account the need to properly cushion fragile items to prevent breakage. You can also place the goods within the container in ways that prevent exposure to unfavorable conditions. 
  • Efficient loading sequences: At this point you have several considerations to keep in mind as you’re planning your container loading. To load it efficiently, you can plan the order in which items are placed in the container. This will ensure that you have easy access to goods that need to be unloaded first and will minimize the time spent loading, unloading, and handling. 
  • Sustainability considerations: Proper loading of your goods will help you avoid using an excessive amount of packing material. This reduces waste and carbon emissions. You’ll also reduce the number of shipments necessary to transport your goods—something that’s good for the environment and your pocketbook. 
  • Communication and collaboration: Having a plan in place allows for better communication and collaboration from one end of the supply chain to the other. From suppliers to warehouse workers and logistics teams, communication is crucial to ensure everyone involved understands the plan and can make adjustments as necessary to keep your goods safe. 

How to execute effective container planning

Before you get overwhelmed, let’s break container planning down into three simple steps. As you follow these steps, make sure to implement safety and compliance measures along the way and make adjustments as necessary as the need arises. 

Step 1: Assess your cargo

You’ll need to know the details of your cargo before you start your plan. That means you have to know the size, shape, weight, fragility, and special handling requirements of your items. That way you’ll understand the constraints or special considerations you’ll need to keep top of mind such as temperature control, stacking restrictions, etc. that influence how the goods are packed and shipped. 

Step 2: Choose the right container type

Knowing the characteristics of your cargo will inform your choice of container. Of course the first basic consideration is how big it should be. But this could also include whether you need a dry container, a refrigerated container, an open-top container, or some other specialized container. Choosing the right container will make your loading process more efficient. 

Step 3: Optimize loading patterns

This step refers to how you arrange your goods within the container. You want to maximize space, minimize damage, and ensure stability and safety during transit. Consider how each item is placed, weight distribution, stability, vertical stacking, and even grouping of items. It’s a lot. Load planning software would be helpful in every step of the process and in meeting the elements relevant to your goods. That said, planning software is especially helpful in optimizing your loading patterns. 

Container planning in three steps

Benefits of container planning software

I’ve mentioned it a few times, but it’s worth repeating. Container planning software will solve all your problems. Okay, it’s probably not going to solve your personal problems. But when it comes to shipping containers, it’s certainly going to make your life much easier. Let’s go through a few benefits of using software to handle your container or load planning. 

Optimized use of space

Advanced algorithms in container planning software calculate the best arrangement for your goods in the container, helping you to maximize the available space. The software makes sure that every inch of the container is used efficiently, which reduces the number of containers you need and reduces the overall shipping cost. 

Faster planning and execution

Software thinks faster than we do. Load your information into the system (this is done automatically through direct integrations), and you’ll have the right plan in your hands in a fraction of a second. Your team will be more efficient as they follow the plan. They won’t need to worry about trying to think it through themselves. 

Cost savings

When you ship large quantities of goods, it multiplies the savings you’ll experience when you fit your products into the right size boxes and the right size containers. You can read how FabFitFun saved millions in shipping each quarter or how Toysmith saw a 12% to 15% increase in revenue per carton. The planning pays off in measurable ways that will impact your bottom line. Optimizing your space, reducing the number of containers you need, and helping your labor force be more efficient (saving time and money) adds up quickly. 

Reduced risk of damage

The software will tell you the best way to pack your goods, and that will keep them safer. Full stop. It will calculate stacking patterns that ensure your fragile items are placed in safe, stable positions and that the weight is evenly distributed. This will help keep your cargo from shifting during transport. 

Improved accuracy and operational efficiency

Despite best efforts, manual loading can lead to mistakes. Container planning software reduces error with precise measurements, exact weight distributions, and optimal loading configurations eliminating the need for “best guessing.” Along with accuracy, eliminating the need to manually make loading decisions will speed up the process, contributing to overall operational efficiency. 

Regulatory compliance

Your planning software can ensure that shipments comply with regulations like weight limits, cargo securing methods, and customs requirements, and this is accomplished automatically. Your business will avoid fines, delays, and other compliance related issues. Some software can also generate the needed documentation for international shipments. 

MagicLogic container planning

MagicLogic’s load planning software is a game changer for container planning. Using advanced algorithms to maximize the use of space and optimize load configurations, MagicLogic helps companies reduce shipping costs, minimize the number of containers required, and increase operational efficiency. Our product will ensure that you’re using every inch of your container effectively, turning around plans in under 100 milliseconds, handling mixed loads, and reducing the risk of transport damage. 

Try it free!

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 

Container planning is the process of optimizing the use of shipping containers. It means figuring out the best way to arrange goods in a container to maximize space, reduce waste, minimize cost, and keep the products safe during transit. Container planning is important because it helps businesses load containers more efficiently, lowers shipping and labor costs, minimizes the risk of damage to goods during transport, and supports sustainability efforts.

Container planning software automates the process of loading a container so it’s both faster and more accurate than manual loading. Advanced algorithms calculate the best way to pack the goods into the container based on size, shape, and weight. Because it’s automated, less time is spent during the loading process, human errors are minimized, and the process saves money and time.

Yes, container planning tools can handle different container sizes and types. Whether you’re using standard containers, refrigerated containers, open-top containers, or specialized containers designed for hazardous materials, the software will plan your ideal load based on specific requirements. With planning software, businesses can handle a variety of containers with no problem, ensuring goods are delivered safely.

Forklift loading two pallets onto a truck

Planning Your Load: How Many Pallets Fit in a Truck?

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Are you paying for air? 

If loading pallets into a truck feels like a high-stakes game of Tetris, you’re not alone. The trouble is, when you’re loading pallets into trucks, every square inch counts. If you’re not maximizing your space, you’re essentially throwing money away. All those gaps and pockets of air inside your trailer might not seem like much at first glance, but they add up to significant inefficiencies such as higher fuel costs, more trips, and wasted resources. 

And when margins are razor-thin, you can’t afford to pay for space you’re not using. 

Unfortunately, inefficient loading doesn’t just cost you extra in shipping fees; it can lead to damaged goods and increased liability. Poorly packed trailers are more prone to shifting loads, damaged goods, accidents, or fines. On the flip side, mastering load planning can transform your logistics—reducing costs, improving safety, and boosting your bottom line. 

Let’s dive into some strategies that will help you load your pallets like a pro, minimizing that wasted space, lowering your transportation costs, and ensuring your goods arrive safely to their destinations. Let’s make sure you never heave to pay for air again. 

How many standard pallets are in a full truckload? 

On average, a 53 foot semi trailer can fit 30 standard pallets, assuming they aren’t stacked. However, this number can vary significantly based on several factors: 

  • Pallet size:  A 48” x 40” GMA (Grocery Manufacturers Association) pallet is standard, but other pallet sizes may be used, and that affects how many will fit in a trailer. 
  • Loading configuration: The pallets can be loaded straight (end-to-end lengthwise), pinwheeled (one lengthwise then one crosswise), or turned (end-to-end crosswise). This will affect how many will fit. 
  • Pallet weight: The overall weight of the pallets and their contents may limit the number of pallets due to weight restrictions on the truck. 
  • Stacking: If the pallets can be safely stacked, the number of pallets per truckload can increase up to double. 
  • Axle configuration: The specific axle configuration of the truck can influence how the weight needs to be distributed, which will impact how many pallets can be loaded. 

To provide a more precise estimate, refer to the following table that assumes the use of standard 48” x 40” GMA pallets, loaded without stacking. 

Trailer Length 48” x 40” GMA Pallet
53 feet (636 inches) 26 straight
28 pinwheeled
30 turned
48 feet (576 inches) 24 straight (tight)
26 pinwheeled (tight)
28 turned
40 feet (480 inches) 18 straight
20 pinwheeled
22 turned
24 feet (288 inches)  10 straight
12 pinwheeled
14 turned 
16 feet (192 inches)  6 straight
8 pinwheeled
8 turned 

What are standard pallet sizes? 

The 48” x 40” pallet is the most common size in the U.S. and Canada. Referred to as the GMA pallet, the dimensions were standardized by the Grocery Manufacturers Association, and the pallet is generally used for groceries and warehousing. 

Though 39% of pallets used in the U.S are custom sized, many other sizes are common throughout North America:

  • 42” x 42” or paint pallet, it’s frequently used in the telecommunications and paint industries
  • 48” x 48” perfect for transporting 55 gallon drums of liquid
  • 48” x 42” used by the chemical and beverage industries
  • 48” x 45” used in the automotive industry
  • 40” x 40” common in the dairy industry
  • 36” x 36” often used to transport bottled beverages

In Europe, pallet sizes are measured in millimeters, and the most common sizes are the EUR (1200 mm x 800 mm—also known as EUR 1, Europallet, and EPAL), the EUR 2 (1200 mm x 1000 mm—similar in size to the GMA pallet common in North America), the EUR 3 (1000 mm x 1200 mm), and the EUR 6 (800 mm x 600mm). 

How to maximize trailer space

Remember that air space you don’t want to pay for? It’s crucial to maximize trailer space to improve efficiency, get rid of that air space, and reduce shipping costs. To make the most of every inch, consider carefully how your goods are loaded, keeping in mind factors like stackability, pallet size, and the order in which items are placed in your trailer. This will also enhance the safety and security of your cargo during transit. 

These tips and strategies will help you maximize your trailer space effectively: 

    1. Stack your pallets when possible. Using the vertical space is more efficient, but if you do, it’s critical to make sure the items on the pallets are stable and secure to prevent shifting or damage during transit. Stacking properly can double the number of pallets you can fit into your trailer. 
    2. Opt for uniform pallet sizes that maximize available space. If possible, use smaller pallets for smaller shipments, which will help you be more efficient with your arrangement and reduce wasted space. Keep the configuration of different pallet sizes in mind to optimize loading patterns. 
    3. Load large and heavy items first. Placing larger and heavier items at the back of the trailer and on the bottom of the stack helps balance the trailer for safer driving. It also ensures that heavier items are securely positioned and less likely to cause damage to lighter, more fragile goods. 
    4. Load small and light items last. Seems like a no brainer, but it’s worth pointing out that filling in gaps with light and small items will ensure that no space is wasted. These items can be placed on top of heavier goods or in spaces between pallets to maximize every inch of your trailer. 

A note about weight distribution: Proper weight distribution within the trailer maximizes space but also maintains safety on the road. Unevenly distributed loads can lead to increased wear on tires, reduced fuel efficiency, and dangerous driving conditions. It’s never okay to sacrifice proper weight distribution for the sake of saving space. It’s not worth it in the long run. Make sure you understand axle weight limits, where the center of gravity needs to be, and how to avoid improper loading that could lead to accidents or fines during inspections. 

Still having issues with loading your pallets? Read these solutions to 15 common load optimization problems. 

The cost of inefficient loading

One of the biggest challenges in logistics is making sure each load is as cost effective as possible. Inefficient loading means wasted space and increased transportation costs, and nobody wants that. If you aren’t using your space efficiently—if your trucks aren’t fully optimized—you’re essentially paying to transport air. That jacks up fuel costs and increases your carbon footprint unnecessarily. On the flip side, higher efficiency with loading your pallets into your trucks will save on shipping costs, reduce fuel charges, and help the environment. 

Make load planning easy

Properly loading your pallets and placing them efficiently into your trucks will keep your goods safer and reduce shipping and transportation costs significantly. These tips in this article will help, but you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. The easiest way to plan your loads quickly, efficiently, and safely is to use load planning software like Cube-IQ. Our advanced load planning software is designed to handle the complexities of modern logistics so you don’t need to break a sweat. 

How does it work? Cube-IQ communicates with your other systems, plugging in all pertinent information about individual items and specific packaging rules you have in place. Our algorithm then automatically determines the optimal plan for the situation, whether you’re packing items into a carton, on a pallet, or into a truck. 

Cube-IQ plays the perfect game of Tetris so you can pack efficiently and safely, saving time, energy, and money in the process.  

Start your free trial today! 

MagicLogic Optimization Inc. Selected as 2023 Top 100 Logistics IT Provider – Our 21st Consecutive Year Receiving This Award

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We are proud to announce that once again, Inbound Logistics has selected MagicLogic Optimization as a Top 100 Logistics Provider for 2023. We have now been selected for this award for 21 consecutive years. It is always an honour to receive this award, and we like to display our Top 100 badge on our website and communications with customers.
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“Every April for the past 25 years, Inbound Logistics editors have selected 100 logistics technology companies that enable logistics and supply chain excellence’ explains Inbound Logistics editor Felecia Stratton. “MagicLogic Optimization Inc. was recognized for leading the way in 2023 and positioning enterprises to scale and grow. MagicLogic Optimization Inc. excels at providing solutions that drive supply chain excellence and answer IL readers’ needs for simplicity, ROI, and frictionless implementation. Inbound Logistics is proud to honor MagicLogic Optimization Inc. for continuing to offer our readers solutions that optimize logistics and supply chain excellence and drive enterprise performance.”

MagicLogic is constantly working on improving our load optimization software further and building and strengthening industry partnerships. Our recent introduction of Cube-IQ Web and hosted BlackBox solutions are proving extremely popular, with companies increasingly seeking more mobile solutions suited to today’s workforce.

R&D of existing and new products is incredibly important to us, so we can continue to cater to the changing needs of our customers. Felecia elaborates further on how our company was selected: “Top 100 Logistics IT Providers such as MagicLogic Optimization Inc. help customers navigate the complexities of global trade and expansion. MagicLogic Optimization Inc. provides the technology solutions Inbound Logistics readers need to successfully manage their global enterprises, minimize disruption damage, and adapt to changing trade currents. Accordingly, Inbound Logistics is proud to honor MagicLogic Optimization’s innovative solutions empowering global logistics and supply chain excellence.”

The Selection Process

Every April, Inbound Logistics editors recognize 100 logistics IT companies that support and enable enterprise excellence. Drawn from a pool of more than 300 companies, using questionnaires, phone calls, personal interviews, and other research, Inbound Logistics selects the Top 100 Logistics IT Providers who are leading the way to efficiency for 2023 and beyond. Editors match our readers’ fast-changing needs to the capabilities of those companies selected.  All companies selected reflect leadership by answering and anticipating supply chain leaders’ needs for simplicity, flexible pricing, ROI, and frictionless implementation.

About Inbound Logistics

Inbound Logistics is the pioneering magazine empowering demand-driven enterprises. IL’s educational mission is to guide businesses to efficiently manage logistics, reduce and speed inventory, and neutralize transportation cost increases by aligning supply to demand and adjusting enterprise functions to support that paradigm shift. More information about demand-driven enterprise practices is available at www.inboundlogistics.com

About Our Load Optimization Software

MagicLogic load optimization solutions are suitable for small to medium-sized companies and larger multinationals shipping thousands of products daily. Our Cube-IQ Load Optimization software includes our subscription-based service, where users can access the software from their smartphone, tablet or browser, and is perfect for flexible workplaces. BlackBox, our flagship product, can handle complex Cartonization and palletization, including true robotic palletization. BlackBox integrates easily with any WMS/ERP system, including legacy systems. Industry-specific solutions tailored to accommodate specific requirements are available. We also offer a custom service for companies with unique shipping requirements.
Please contact us to learn more about our software solutions and to arrange a quick demo.

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Organize Your Shipping Systems With Palletization Software

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Palletization software is a vital part of supply chain operations and is designed to help with the process of placing items to be shipped onto pallets. The software automates what has historically been a manual and time-consuming task, ensuring that goods are arranged efficiently and securely on pallets to maximize space, reduce the risk of damage, and improve overall handling.

What is palletization

Palletization is the process of stacking goods or materials onto a pallet, a flat structure designed to support and stabilize them during storage and transportation. The main purpose of pallet building software is to organize the handling, storage, and movement of goods, making them easier to transport by forklifts, trucks, and other machinery. When pallets were originally introduced, the impact on material handling was dramatic.

Benefits of palletization

Faster delivery

Using pallets as a base for goods allows them to be loaded and unloaded far more quickly and efficiently, saving hours of human resources, reducing labor costs, and enabling a faster turnaround and transportation of products.

More efficient handling

Operators can insert and remove pallets more effectively, as handling equipment can stack products, reducing the number of movements required.

Lower labor costs

Labor requirements are reduced dramatically with palletization. Moving fully loaded pallets allows warehouse workers to move a greater volume of goods during each shift.

Protection of perishable goods

Palletization is particularly important for perishable goods that must be kept refrigerated. Using pallets allows these goods to be moved more quickly across unrefrigerated areas, and they can be loaded and unloaded more quickly.

Lower risk of damaged goods and freight loss

Proper palletization reduces damage to goods, protecting items and ensuring that products remain in perfect condition until the pallet is unloaded and ready for the next part of the supply chain. Items secured on pallets are bound together with plastic wrap, strapping, or both, so the chance of items falling off are low.

Warehouse staff safety

When items are palletized correctly, the pallet is stable, reducing the chance of injury to workers.

Warehouse storage optimization

Material handling is more efficient, enabling better optimization of warehouse storage, since one key factor in optimizing transportation is stackability.

Better inventory control

Palletizing loads enables better inventory control, as it is easier to monitor each SKU. Logistics managers can gauge a product’s stock level at a glance since they will know the number of products stored on each pallet.

Versatility

Usually, goods loaded onto pallets are stacked on top of one another in columns, resting directly on the item below. However, load strength and stability considerably increase when pallets are loaded in an interlocking pattern. Achieving the best loading pattern is not easy. Additionally, some goods are not suitable for palletization. These include long and thin items or irregularly shaped items that will not stack easily.

Choosing the best way to palletize

pallet loading

You can choose from a variety of palletization methods, as long as you keep stability in mind. The following tips will improve your palletization process:

  • Use cartons or boxes: Opt for regular-shaped cartons or boxes to ensure goods can be neatly stacked, resulting in more even loading.
  • Fill to max capacity: Pack the boxes as full as possible within weight and size limits.
  • Ensure even stacking: Avoid uneven stacking or bulging loads to maintain stability, and be sure to distribute items on the pallet evenly by weight.
  • Create a compact structure: Aim for a compact and uniform load structure for enhanced stability, without any items extending past the pallet base.
  • Wrap the load with transparent film: Secure the load by wrapping it in transparent film to protect the goods and keep them together.
  • Use strapping for additional  security: Consider using strapping to further secure the load and bind the goods together.

Consider pallet characteristics

Pallets are available in several standard sizes, helping optimize supply chain operations. A standard pallet is 40 x 48 x 5 inches, and most shipping companies base their freight charges on pallet volume. Using pallets can add 20% – 30% volume to a shipment, so proper optimization is essential to ensure the pallets achieve maximum volume. Most companies use standard-sized boxes that are easier to stack without wasting space, but this isn’t possible for every order.

Pallets can be made from different materials, depending on the goods to be shipped. These include pallets made from wood, metal, or plastic. Pallets can also be selected according to the storage systems available in the warehouse, the handling equipment that can be manual or automatic, and facilities available at supplier locations.

Using blackbox logistics pallet loading software

MagicLogic BlackBox software includes a separate optimization engine developed specifically for palletization, including complex mixed-case pallet stacking. Our palletizing software can build layers and semi-layers. It can also automatically switch to free stacking when required. The main aim of our palletization engine is to achieve excellent pallet stability, maximum fill quality, and maximum load stability. It supports manual pack stations and robotics.

These days, more companies are choosing to automate or semi-automate their logistics operations, and BlackBox can provide packing sequences suitable for robotics. Robotics is especially useful for packaging pharmaceutical goods and the food industry, ensuring goods remain clean and hygienic during palletization.

Our BlackBox palletization software includes configurable parameters for different end-of-arm tools and approach points, allowing users to achieve true mixed case robotized palletization. Our R&D team spent considerable time solving this difficult problem effectively and is rightly proud of this achievement.

Easy to integrate with your WMS/TMS

We designed our BlackBox to be configured to work with any system that generates data to a standard schema, using powerful APIs that ensure system integrators will be up and running within a few days.

Custom solutions available

Over half of our business focuses on providing custom solutions to meet customers’ specific requirements. Many of our customers need to ship products that must be packed in a certain way to ensure they arrive in perfect condition and are accepted by the end-user. We specialize in finding solutions for tricky problems using our decades of experience and knowledge gained within the supply chain industry. For more information you can reach out to our customer success team.

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20 Years in the Top 100

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MagicLogic Optimization Inc. Selected as 2022 Top 100 Logistics IT Provider – Our 20th Consecutive Year Receiving This Award

We were recently thrilled to learn that MagicLogic Optimization has yet again been selected as an Inbound Logistics Top 100 Logistics IT Provider for 2022. This marks our 20th consecutive year receiving this honor. We never take this award for granted and are always proud to display the latest Top 100 badge on our website and in all communications with customers.

Inbound Logistics editors recognize 100 logistics IT companies that support and enable logistics excellence. Drawn from a pool of more than 300 companies, using questionnaires, phone calls, personal interviews, and other research, Inbound Logistics selects the Top 100 Logistics IT Providers who are leading the way to efficiency for 2023. Editors seek to match readers’ fast-changing needs to the capabilities of those companies selected.  All companies selected reflect leadership by answering Inbound Logistics readers’ needs for simplicity, flexible pricing, ROI, and frictionless implementation.

Felecia Stratton, Inbound Logistics Editor, explains: “Every April for the past 24 years, Inbound Logistics editors have selected 100 logistics technology companies that enable logistics and supply chain excellence. MagicLogic Optimization was recognized by Inbound Logistics for leading the way in 2022 and positioning enterprises for the years ahead. MagicLogic excels at providing solutions that drive supply chain excellence and answer IL readers’ need for simplicity, ROI, and frictionless implementation. Inbound Logistics is proud to honor MagicLogic for continuing to offer our readers solutions that optimize logistics and supply chain excellence.”

Supply chains worldwide have continued to be under unprecedented pressure over the past two years. These are compounded further by rising fuel costs and the rising prices of essential commodities, coupled with continuing labor shortages and with no end in sight. MagicLogic provides a suite of software solutions to ensure products are loaded more efficiently and safely, so they can arrive in pristine condition. Our innovative software solutions are designed to be intuitive, and even an inexperienced user will be up and running within just an hour or so with our tuition.

Felecia Stratton elaborates further on how they selected MagicLogic. “Implementing the best logistics technology helps large companies expand markets and drive undiscovered efficiencies. World-class solutions such as MagicLogic Optimization are force equalizers for SMEs by leveling the playing field with their larger competitors. Best-in-class logistics IT also helps today’s business logistics managers boost supply chain performance and customer service while cutting overall logistics costs. Inbound Logistics editors selected MagicLogic for its consistent ability to deliver innovative solutions empowering logistics and supply chain excellence for companies large and small.”

About Inbound Logistics

Inbound Logistics is the pioneering magazine empowering demand-driven enterprises. IL’s educational mission is to guide businesses to efficiently manage logistics, reduce and speed inventory, and neutralize transportation cost increases by aligning supply to demand and adjusting enterprise functions to support that paradigm shift. More information about demand-driven logistics practices is available at www.inboundlogistics.com

About Our Load Optimization Software

MagicLogic provides load optimization solutions for all sized companies, including those who might only load a few containers a month, right up to multinationals shipping thousands of orders each day.

Our products include Cube-IQ Load Optimization software and Cube-IQ Web, our subscription service allowing users to access our software from their tablet, browser, or smartphone no matter where they are. As workplace flexibility looks set to stay, our web version is becoming increasingly popular.

BlackBox is our flagship product, handling complex Cartonization and palletization with ease, including true robot palletization. BlackBox integrates seamlessly with any WMS/ERP system and can be up and running within a short while. We also offer industry-specific solutions tailored to accommodate unique requirements or can customize our software to suit the needs of the client. Contact us to learn more about our software solutions.

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MagicLogic Optimization Inc. Selected as 2021 Top 100 Logistics IT Provider

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We are delighted to announce the editorial team at Inbound Logistics has selected MagicLogic Optimization Inc. as a Top 100 Logistics IT Provider for 2021. This marks the nineteenth consecutive year MagicLogic has been chosen for this honor. Each year, we proudly display our Top 100 badge on communications with customers and on our website.

Every April, Inbound Logistics selects the Top 100 Logistics IT Providers who are leading the way in 2021. The editors make their selection using research, questionnaires, and personal interviews from a pool of more than 400 companies.

Felecia Stratton, Editor of Inbound Logistics, elaborates on how they choose the Top 100: “When choosing the 2021 Top 100 Logistics IT Providers, Inbound Logistics editors looked at excellence in optimizing supply chain, logistics, and transportation operations. Strategically, editors make their selections based on how transformative solutions impact those business activities driving integration across internal and external business processes. MagicLogic Optimization Inc. was selected because its solutions solve specific logistics challenges and improve processes, and create a ripple effect of enterprise efficiencies across the entire value chain.”

The past year has tested the strength of supply chains like never before. MagicLogic has risen to the challenge. Our team continues to solve complex logistical problems and customize our software solutions to meet the current demands and are an important part of the supply chain for many top-tier companies.

Felecia Stratton explains further how these problems have affected companies: ”The business disruptions of the past year remind businesses to focus like a laser beam on improving enterprise operations through investments in technology. The challenges are many and are now top of mind. Improving end-to-end visibility, achieving closer integration with value chain partners, finding efficient sources of transport lift, nailing down chain of custody and sustainability concerns to limit liability, inventory scalability have clearly become survival issues for many. MagicLogic was selected as a Top 100 Logistics IT Provider because its solutions address these critical needs and help companies move along the continuum to truly becoming demand driven enterprises.”

MagicLogic provides loading software designed to grow with companies, loading more and ensuring orders arrive in pristine condition. It is increasingly likely that the challenges presented by COVID-19 will change consumers’ shopping habits for good. While B2B growth remains strong, there is a continuing need for B2C solutions. Our flagship product, BlackBoxTM, integrates seamlessly with any WMS/EMS system and handles Cartonization and palletization, and ensures the correct cartons are selected for online orders in near real-time, minimizing fill material and reducing shipping costs.

About Inbound Logistics

Since its inception in 1981, Inbound Logistics’ educational mission is to illustrate the benefits of demand-driven logistics practices, give companies the knowledge to help them match the inbound flow of materials to their demand, and align their business process to support that shift. Inbound Logistics offers real-world examples and decision support to guide businesses to efficiently manage logistics, reduce and speed inventory, offset rising transport costs, and balance transport needs with demand, supporting business scalability across their value chain. More information about demand-driven logistics practices is available at www.inboundlogistics.com

Contact

Suite 170, 422 Richards St.Vancouver, BC Canada V6B 2Z4
+1 206 274 6248 (PST)
info@magiclogic.com

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