Cross-Docking
Also known as: Cross Dock, Flow-Through Distribution
Definition
Cross-docking moves products directly from inbound to outbound transportation with little or no storage in between. Goods arrive at a facility, are sorted, and shipped out within hours rather than being stored in a warehouse.
How Cross-Docking Works
- Inbound trucks arrive at receiving docks
- Products unloaded and sorted by destination
- Items moved across dock to shipping side
- Loaded onto outbound trucks
- Shipped to final destinations
Total time in facility: hours, not days.
Types of Cross-Docking
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | Components to assembly line |
| Distributor | Consolidate for retail delivery |
| Retail | Store-ready shipments |
| Transportation | LTL consolidation |
Cross-Docking Benefits
- Reduced storage costs
- Faster delivery times
- Lower inventory levels
- Reduced handling damage
- Better product freshness
Best Products for Cross-Docking
- Perishable goods
- Pre-sorted retail items
- High-velocity products
- Time-sensitive shipments
- Already-packaged goods
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