About STM Logistics

Logistics is the process of planning, implementing and controlling the efficient flow of goods, services and information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. Its main objective is to meet customer needs effectively and efficiently, minimising costs and optimising resources.

A logistics service provider (3PL) is responsible for managing different aspects of the supply chain.

This may include:

1. Warehousing: They provide space to store products, managing inventories and ensuring they are available when needed.

2. Transportation: They are responsible for moving products from the point of production to the end customer, using different ways of transport (truck, train, ship, etc.).

3. Inventory management: They help control and monitor inventory levels, ensuring that there is enough stock without overloading the system.

4. Packaging and labelling: Provide packaging services to protect products and ensure they are correctly labelled for distribution.

5. Distribution: Plan and execute the delivery of products to customers, ensuring that they arrive on time and in good condition.

In short, logistics service providers are key partners for companies, helping them to concentrate on their core business while they manage the complexities of product movement, storage, order picking and distribution.

Logistics services can vary significantly according to the type of product and the target audience. Some examples of logistics services depending on the product, the market and its particularities:

1.Perishable products.

Refrigerated storage: Temperature-controlled spaces to preserve fresh food, medicines and other sensitive products.

Express transport: Express transport services to ensure fast delivery in optimal conditions.

2. Electronic products

Specialised packaging: Use of materials that protect fragile devices during transport.

Kitting and assembly: Services that bundle components or assemble products prior to delivery to the customer.

3. Fashion and apparel

Seasonal inventory management: Warehousing and distribution tailored to the fashion seasons.

Reverse logistics: Handling of returns and exchanges, which is critical in fashion retailing and especially in the e-commerce segment.

4. Industrial products

Specialised transport: Use of vehicles suitable for heavy and bulky loads.

Project management: Coordination of logistics in large projects, such as construction or manufacturing.

5. E-commerce

Order fulfilment: Warehousing and shipping direct to the end consumer, often with fast delivery options.

Integration with sales platforms: Systems that enable efficient inventory and order management across various e-commerce platforms.

Reverse logistics: Ensuring receipt of product, verifying its condition and incorporating it back into stock.

6. Pharmaceutical products

Transport under regulations: Compliance with strict regulations for the transport and storage of medicines.

Traceability control: Systems that ensure that each product can be traced throughout the supply chain.

7. Luxury products

Premium packaging: Use of high quality packaging materials, ensuring an exceptional brand experience.

Customised logistics: Unique services that may include hand delivery or time-specific shipments.

8. FMCG

Efficient distribution: Optimised transport networks to ensure availability at points of sale. Real-time inventory management: Systems to adjust production and distribution according to market demand.

9. Automotive sector

Just-in-time (JIT): Logistics systems that ensure that parts arrive at the production line just in time for assembly.

Spare parts logistics: Efficient management of the distribution of spare parts to dealers and workshops.

10. Customised services

Tailored to customer needs: Offering specific logistics solutions to meet each customer’s unique requirements.

These logistics services are essential to ensure that products reach their destination in optimal condition and on time, thus meeting consumer expectations and market needs.

Managing supply chain risks is crucial to ensure business continuity and customer satisfaction. Here are some effective strategies to mitigate these risks:

1. Risk identification

– Risk analysis: Assess potential threats, such as transportation disruptions, supplier problems, natural disasters, regulatory changes and fluctuations in demand.

– Supply chain review: Visualise all links in the supply chain to identify vulnerabilities.

2. Supplier diversification

– Multiple suppliers: Do not rely on a single supplier; diversify sources of supply to reduce exposure to failure.

3. Develop strong relationships

– Collaboration: Establish strong, trusting relationships with suppliers to improve communication and response to problems.

– Clear contracts: Ensure that contracts include contingency and dispute resolution clauses.

 4. Technology and management tools

– Supply chain management systems: Implement software that allows real-time tracking and management of inventories, orders and shipments.

5. Ongoing assessment

– Review: Regularly assess processes and associated risks, making adjustments as necessary.

– KPIs and metrics: Agreements between the client and the service provider on the design of key indicators to measure compliance with agreed commitments.

6. Sustainability

– Assess environmental risks: Consider factors such as climate change and sustainability in supplier selection and supply chain design.

– Ethical practices: Ensure that all links in the chain comply with ethical and social standards.

By implementing these strategies, companies can significantly reduce risks in their supply chain and improve their resilience to unexpected events.

Choosing the right logistics partner is crucial to the success of your supply chain. Here are several key factors to consider:

1.Experience and reputation

– Proven track record: Research the supplier’s track record and experience.

– References and testimonials: Check reviews from other customers to assess the quality of service.

2. Capabilities and services offered

– Specific services: Make sure they offer the services you need, such as transportation, warehousing, reverse logistics, etc.

– Flexibility: The ability to adapt to your changing needs is essential.

3. Technology and tools

– Management systems: Check if they use advanced technologies.

– Real-time tracking: The ability to track shipments and obtain real-time data is a great added value.

4. Costs and transparency

– Pricing structure: Make sure you understand all costs involved, and that there are no hidden charges.

– Transparency: A logistics partner should be clear about its pricing structure and fees.

5. Customer service and communication

– Proactive support: Quality customer service and responsiveness are critical.

– Communication channels: Ensure that there are multiple forms of contact and an effective communication channel.

6. Regulatory compliance

– Regulations and standards: Ensure that the supplier complies with all relevant rules and regulations.

– Certifications: Look for certifications that validate their commitment to Quality, Safety and Environment.

By considering these factors, you will be able to choose a logistics partner that aligns with your business objectives and helps you optimize your supply chain

Logistics services can offer multiple benefits to your company’s supply chain, improving both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Here are some of the main benefits:

1. Operational efficiency

– Process optimisation: Logistics providers can help simplify and improve warehousing, handling and transportation processes, reducing time and costs.

– Automation: They implement advanced technology to automate tasks, which minimises errors and speeds up operations.

2. Cost reduction  

– Economies of scale: By optimising processes and using space and machinery for various operations, logistics providers can reduce costs.

– Inventory management: Helps maintain optimal inventory levels, which reduces storage costs and avoids overstocking.

 3. Improved inventory management

– Real-time visibility: They provide systems that allow real-time inventory tracking, improving decision making.

4. Increased flexibility and adaptability

– Rapid responses to change: A logistics partner can adapt quickly to fluctuations in demand or changes in the market.

– Diversification of options: They offer multiple transport and warehousing solutions, allowing you to choose the most appropriate option.

By considering these factors, you will be able to choose a logistics partner that aligns with your business objectives and helps you optimise your supply chain.

5. Better customer service  

– On-time delivery: Improve the timeliness of deliveries, which increases customer satisfaction.

– Delivery options: Provide a variety of delivery options, such as dedicated or scheduled deliveries, to meet customer needs.

6. Access to advanced technology

– Management tools: Logistics providers often have advanced software for tracking and managing the supply chain.

7. Risk reduction

– Regulatory compliance: They ensure compliance with regulations and standards, reducing the risk of penalties.

8. Sustainability

– Responsible practices: Implement sustainable logistics solutions that help reduce your company’s carbon footprint.

– Resource optimisation: Improve resource efficiency, contributing to a more responsible operation.

By leveraging these benefits, your company can improve its competitiveness, optimise its operations and increase customer satisfaction, all of which contribute to long-term growth and success.