Is there any magic in cross‐docking?

Exel Logistics’ experience in a number of industry sectors, product profiles, operational techniques and technology suggests that the outputs of cross‐docking can appear magical, even though they result from fairly standard operational inputs. Explains the origins of cross‐docking and explores the operational aspects of switching from a traditional stockholding supply chain system to a cross‐docking system, using a case study from the motor industry. States that key benefits resulting from the adoption of cross‐docking techniques relate to improvements in service levels, inventory levels, stock returns and unit costs.