TCLogic, a leading provider of inventory optimization solutions, was featured recently in the American Fastener Journal discussing the ‘ups and downs’ of overseas sourcing and how companies can ‘ride these waves’ for improved inventory management and optimization, ultimately coming out on top.
According to the article sourcing products from overseas suppliers can reduce costs. “More companies including those in the fastener industry are turning this direction to lower the costs of goods, reduce the amount of working capital needed to run the business, or simply find an available supplier for their products.”
“There are significant advantages to sourcing material from overseas,” the article explains. “And the rewards of overseas sourcing naturally come with risks. As companies begin navigating the waters of overseas sourcing, they can be successful by knowing what to expect and how to best manage those risks. Risks that include longer and more varied lead times, increased purchasing, changes in customer service levels, variable shipping components, and more.”
So how does a company that is sourcing overseas take into account the increase in variability on factors, including lead-times, higher volumes and stocking strategies, while improving their performance?
Thomas Uhrig, president of TCLogic, an inventory optimization software provider based in Indianapolis, sees the need for companies to improve their inventory management. “As companies deal with increased volumes of overseas products, they must do a better job of managing the rest of their inventory or potentially risk running out of warehouse space or, even worse, draining their lines of credit,” said Uhrig.
“Inventory optimization can be a very effective solution to come up with the right mix,” added Uhrig. “Companies utilizing inventory optimization software solutions are far more capable of maintaining higher service levels for their customers, but doing so without overstocking their locations. And they are much more able to work through the longer and varied lead times and increased volume that comes with sourcing overseas. The results they can see are better business results, especially in markets where their peers are struggling to compete.”
To view the entire article, visit the American Fastener Journal.
