While it may seem like Winter 2014 will never be over, spring is right around the corner (hopefully). In the meantime, we all still need to deal with freezing temperatures and icy surfaces. Using salt and other chemicals to melt ice that forms on roads, walkways and other surfaces is something practically every business does. … Read more
Lower than normal temperatures and an unending barrage of winter storms has made the Winter of 2014 one of the worst in recent memory. But this year’s bad winter weather also has had a negative impact on the nation’s business. The American Trucking Association’s seasonally-adjusted Truck Tonnage Index was down 4.3% in January, according to an … Read more
If something is not done to fortify the nation’s crumbling transportation infrastructure, it could affect businesses from coast to coast, according to US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “For years, the growing infrastructure deficit has been an issue akin to termites in our national basement, slowly eating away at our foundation,” Foxx said during a Feb. … Read more
Everyone knows that it is necessary to have fire extinguishers on hand at all workplaces. But do you have the correct type or types of fire extinguishers on hand for the flammable materials you have? No single fire extinguisher work across all types of materials, so having one extinguisher type may not be enough for … Read more
When distributing and warehousing products today, there are many options available. While traditional wood or hard plastic pallets provide versatility and the ability to be easily moved with standard materials handling equipment such as forklifts, an increasing number of companies are turning to collapsible bulk containers. Collapsible bulk containers come in a variety of sizes … Read more
While practice makes perfect, companies that can achieve the Perfect Order Index metric can both capture a larger market share and hold on to their existing customers longer, according to a new white paper issued by the Warehouse Education and Research Council. The document, entitled “Using Technologies to Increase Perfect Order Metrics“, seeks to help … Read more
When the $5.25 billion expansion of the Panama Canal is completed in 2015, it will allow ports up and down the East Coast to accommodate super-sized container ships known as “Panamax” vessels. These ships can carry nearly triple the capacity of traditional cargo ships, but require deeper trenches and upgraded port facilities. As a result, … Read more
There are plenty of anecdotes about soldiers and cowboys sleeping with their boots on. This served two purposes – first off, it kept them prepared for any emergency that might pop up during the night. Secondly, nobody can take your boots if you’re wearing them, and no one knows how important sturdy, comfortable footwear is … Read more
Whether you are addressing your investors, making a motivational presentation to your employees, or simply sharing information during weekly management meetings, knowing how to give a good presentation can help you get your message across more clearly and powerfully. When speaking in front of a group of people, making a good first impression is important. … Read more
In the latest sign that the national economy is improving, the National Retail Federation this month predicted that consumer spending will rise by more than 4% this year. That’s significant because consumer spending — which means people buying the products and services they need — is the driving force behind the US economy, representing about … Read more
