5 Steps to Achieving E2E Visibility

When we talk about E2E visibility, we are referring to the level of transparency across an entire supply chain. It is the ability to track, monitor and easily report on all freight movements from the point of origin to the final destination, and everything in-between. 

This concept is a must-have for the modern supply chain industry. However, it’s estimated that less than 10 percent of logistics businesses truly believe they’ve achieved complete E2E visibility. 

So, how can the other 90 percent achieve E2E visibility? What steps can they take to reach this somewhat elusive status?

That’s what we’re going to unravel today!

In this blog post, we’ll outline 5 steps you can take to achieve complete E2E visibility. 

What is Supply Chain Visibility?  

One of the quickly growing terms is Supply Chain Visibility. Supply Chain Visibility (SCV) is defined as the ability of components, products, or parts in transit to be tracked. 

There are several reasons why supply chain visibility is crucial...

First and arguably the most important is transparency. Consumers, advocacy groups, and government agencies are increasingly becoming aware of the importance that traceability plays in protecting the integrity of products and the industry itself. When data is readily available for everybody to monitor, and access, it improves trust and provides a crucial step to improve communication between stakeholders. 

In order to achieve supply chain visibility, shippers, carriers, manufacturers, distributors and more are beginning to implement technology solutions. Whether it’s the use of cloud-based communication portals, satellite or GPS tracking devices, or up-to-the-second live streaming of freight movements, supply chain partners actively search for tools and procedures that will help them monitor the movement of all products. 

There are five specific steps that all logistics businesses can follow to improve the potential of visibility throughout the movement process. 

Improve Communication Tools

The first step in achieving supply chain visibility is ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the best communication methods and tools that permit them the flexibility to connect with each other. Whether it’s investing in cloud-based TMS systems, that can be accessed from any time or any location with a simple Wi-Fi connection, or setting up instant notifications of incoming alerts on your mobile devices, starting with the right tools is a crucial first step.

Define Your Process

Every company has a process for managing their supply chain operations.

However, the key to increasing visibility through each phase of freight movement is to have a solid process in place. Whether it’s streamlining your process for freight inspection of international cross-border shipping or improving the steps for moving freight with specific carriers, you must have a strong process to achieve visibility.

Improve Tracking Tools

There are several advanced technology solutions that help shippers improve traceability. Some shippers utilize UPC or RFID tags. These are great as they can be scanned and uploaded to a cloud network each time the freight shifts into a different movement mode.

Additionally, GPS tracking is a great way to track the movement of freight from origin to destination. 

Collaborate with the Right Partners

Sometimes companies in logistics can offset a lot of their SCV options by partnering together to share resources. A customized FMS or TMS that allows you to connect with a carrier’s network is a smart way to collaborate with partners.

This level of trust and transparency between channels is extremely important. You absolutely cannot activate solid E2E visibility efforts without this.

Set Up KPI’s and Reporting Functions

Achieving a fully visible supply chain is attainable. However, it requires fine-tuning and revising for optimal efficiency.

To accomplish this, specific KPIs must be monitored.

This will give you a better idea of what areas need the most attention to truly achieve E2E visibility.

Final Thoughts - Work with a 3PL

Shippers of all sizes work with experienced 3PLs like Redwood Logistics to set up their supply chain visibility programs.

Whether it’s upgrading a TMS to include real-time tracking or updating your communication platforms, a proven 3PL can help! After all, keeping your supply chain in good shape is a large part of achieving E2E visibility. Specifically, this means keeping up with all the various pieces that keep it running.

Reach out to the experts here at Redwood Logistics and get started today!