Know the kinds of cross docking

In our previous article, we learned about cross-docking (add link), and the benefits it offers to the warehousing companies in India. Here is a small recap:

In the cross-docking method, the word ‘Storage’ is eliminated which means the products are directly distributed from the manufacturing plant or suppliers to the customers. The whole process takes place within a docking yard for distribution that includes unloading incoming delivery from vehicles and loading material directly into outbound delivery trucks.

With cross-docking, warehousing companies in India expedite the delivery of the shipment to the customers, thus increasing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Let’s understand the different types of cross-docking

Manufacturing cross-docking: Especially for manufacturing units this cross-docking method is quite useful. Having a warehouse in close proximity to the construction unit can help plan components in advance and the warehouse can support it with just-in-time production. In this way, the factory unit doesn’t have to maintain an inventory but can receive it from the manufacturing plant through cross-docking.

Distributor Cross Docking: When a distributor is collecting input products from different suppliers into a pallet of mixed products. This pallet is received by the customer as soon as the final component is received. You can take an example of computer part distributors who source different components from different suppliers and push them into a single shipment for their customers.

Retail cross-docking: In this cross-docking method, the products from multiple suppliers are received and sorted, and moved to outbound trucks for the different retail stores.

Opportunistic cross-docking: This method can be used in any warehouse wherein moving a product directly from the receiving area to the outbound area. This is for those customers who have already told about the requirement in advance.

Transportation cross-docking: In this method, it mixes together the shipments from different carriers in LTL form.

20Cube is actively involved in cross-docking as few of our customers are keen to use this method for its operations for quick delivery.