General

By investing in the right strategies and cost reduction techniques in logistics, energy companies can easily save up to 40% of their oil and gas logistics costs. By choosing a logistics-as-a-service model, collaborating and sharing assets with other energy operators, and using a robust and efficient platform, companies can increase their bottom line and remain financially viable. Let us take a look at 7 strategies that will help with upstream logistics cost optimization in logistics. 

7 cost effective logistics strategies for your organization 

Using a single integrated technology platform 

Supply chain operations are already very complicated to decipher. To avoid further complications, it is best to use a unified platform to track all upstream energy logistics. Having one integrated platform that is accessible to all parties helps avoid any snafus in the system. This cost reduction technique in logistics ensures that you avoid duplication of activities across operations, promotes transparency and keeps every person in the grapevine in loop. iLogistics from IBS Software is one of the best platforms to track the logistics of your business as it provides resources to match real-time demand and creates a cost-effective logistic system that is accessible for everyone with just a few clicks.

Demand and supply planning 

Planning your operations is an integral strategy of cost-effective logistics. The systematic planning of operations such as workforce and material demand planning production schedule, shipping routes, and transit time (from pick-up to delivery) is imperative. This step of energy logistics cost management ensures reduced overhead costs and will help steer clear of delays and missed deadlines, that can reflect badly on both the company image and finances.

Automation 

In the era of digitization, the best way to ensure cost optimization in logistics is by opting for automated methods. Outsourcing your energy logistics needs will help maintain the quality of services and reduce poor logistical errors. Using the latest AI-driven tools and analytics provide unmatched business performance. They eliminate the scope of human errors and deliver high results. iLogistics fromIBS Software provides end to end solutions for your supply chain logistical needs. Our software provides an all round cost-effective logistic system that will ensure smooth operations from company to customer.

Optimum utilization of resources 

While building a cost-effective logistic plan, it is imperative to ensure optimum utilization of the company's resources. Insufficient use of company assets like stagnant fleet vehicles, facilities or inventory results in reducing business efficiency. Rearranging the schedule of every avenue can optimize the use of these resources and help manage overhead costs. This method of cost optimization in logistics makes sure that no resource is idle and keeps the work flowing. These alterations can have a great impact on the final revenue of your business.

Supply chain visibility

One of the primary pillars that results in the smooth operation of the business is meeting the demand on time. Supply chain managers need to constantly monitor the inventory and ensure the energy logistics supply meets the demand. However, maintaining visibility in your supply chain can help you plan better and control expenses through optimal management of your safety stock. The nightmare of product deficit often troubles supply chain managers, however, overstocking can result in logistical issues. A great cost reduction technique in logistics is to track real time data and create visibility in the supply chain. This helps the supply chain managers make an informed yet quick decision in case there is a need to procure additional stock.

Follow a data-driven approach

While planning energy logistics, one of the most important ways of cost optimization in logistics is to always make an informed decision. Analyzing data can be your road map to a successful cost-effective logistics plan. Using an integrated software from IBS Software can help you see all your data at one glance. This will help you identify inefficiencies, reduce excess expenditure and improve the operational effectiveness of your supply chain.

Track your KPI's

The last and probably the most important strategy is to track your KPI. Tracking details such as delivery time, inventory, order accuracy, costs provides you with valuable data. This data can be used to plan a robust strategy and formulate a cost-effective logistic system for all your resources and labor. You can focus on improving your shortcomings, and also monitor avenues that are gaining you maximum profitability. This exercise is an effective cost reduction technique in logistics as it helps you determine your goals and objectives, observe how your logistics strategy is performing and alter them as needed.