What’s Ahead for Manufacturing Shipping Partners in 2023

Despite continued concerns for the overall stability of the supply chain, there are several exciting technological advancements that have the industry abuzz in 2023 — and they’re causing many experts to predict that the manufacturing industry will once again surpass expectations.

Here’s what you need to know about the year’s major manufacturing trends.

1. Frequent Supply Chain Reassessments to Minimize Disruptions

Manufacturers continue to put disruption management atop their to-do lists. This includes better preparing against large disruptions in the future and minimizing frequent pain points in the supply chain.

Manufacturers learned some hard lessons from the COVID pandemic, responding in recent years by implementing more supply chain safeguards to combat significant disruptions in the future. Central to these efforts is the accelerated adoption of new tools and technologies. The more digitized and automated manufacturing processes become, the more agile and flexible they can be when inevitable challenges arise.

Manufacturers are also prioritizing optimization across the board. That means running more frequent supply chain assessments in search of inefficiencies — and potential changes to management, communication and transportation processes in the near future. Also, don’t be surprised if your manufacturing partner requests that you utilize a new platform to process and fulfill requests.

2. Sustainability is Moving to the Forefront

Another emerging trend is a growing need for sustainable manufacturing, due to increased global interest in reducing the carbon footprint of individuals and businesses alike. Many companies are giving preference to manufacturers making efforts to “go green” — if manufacturers want to stay competitive, they’ll have to evaluate their current processes and actively pursue carbon-neutral practices in 2023.

Additionally, environmental, social and governance (ESG) regulations are on the rise. While many manufacturers are already voluntarily complying with existing regulations, any new laws or disclosure requirements will add steps to an already complex manufacturing process.

Not all sustainable manufacturing processes are as low-cost as the alternatives, so it’s likely shipping partners will see some increase in prices as manufacturers implement and refine these initiatives. However, using more eco-friendly manufacturers contributes towards your own business achieving its ESG objectives, and fosters increased brand loyalty among customers.

3. Reshoring: Moving Operations Closer to Home

“Reshoring” is a term often used to describe a company’s efforts to move its manufacturing services in-country rather than overseas. When applied to manufacturers, this term means showing an increased effort or preference for doing business close to home. Reshoring started as a necessary adjustment to maintain operations during the recent pandemic, but it’s since emerged as a permanent business model.

Manufacturers who practice reshoring often only source raw materials from domestic suppliers rather than shipping them in from afar. They may also limit distances they’re willing to ship and deliver products based on how far the customer is from the factory or shipment preparation facility.

By operating closer to home, manufacturers can offer faster fulfillment speeds and better service to local customers. It also lowers transportation costs, further reducing the manufacturer’s carbon footprint.

Fortify Your Manufacturing Supply Chain with First Call

Supply chain management is a complex undertaking — that’s why First Call offers a variety of manufacturing logistics services to help you safeguard your manufacturing supply chain against future challenges. Here are just a few of the benefits our team can help you enjoy:

• Access to four strategically located warehouse spaces to help with just-in-time deliveries.
• Cross-border shipping services.
• Experience moving everything from perishable food and beverages to oversized industrial equipment

Learn more about the manufacturing supply chain and how we can help you operate more efficiently. Contact us today!