Efficient cold storage management is the key to maintaining the quality and safety of perishable goods, conserving energy, minimizing waste, maximizing profit, and ensuring timely deliveries. Predicting and understanding lead times is an important part of this process. But what are lead times? Why do they matter? And how can they affect cold storage management?
Lead times in inventory management can refer to how long it takes from placing an order to receiving goods, or how long it takes to get an appointment for storing your refrigerated or frozen goods. Failing to account for lead times can cause operational inefficiencies at your cold storage facility and customer frustration due to stockouts and/or delayed delivery to end users. Arriving earlier than your scheduled appointment time can also cause problems, forcing drivers to sit and wait before unloading.
Understanding and managing lead times can help:
There are a number of factors that can have an effect on processing times in cold storage:
At Interstate Cold Storage, we strive to provide our clients with the most reliable and efficient service possible. We simplify processes to keep our operations running smoothly, retain experienced staff members who excel at their jobs, and run at optimal capacity to provide a better customer experience, rather than overfilling our facility.
We employ the latest technology to minimize processing times. RF barcode scanning instantly updates inventory records as products are received, stored, moved, or shipped. Eliminating manual entry pinpoints product locations for real-time tracking, reduces the possibility of errors, and speeds up receiving. We also use the Accellos One 3PL cold storage inventory management system with EDI capabilities and AS2 protocol for security and accuracy.
You can access your data around the clock through our secure and convenient web portal, generating customized reports to view trends, create strategies, manage inventory levels, and increase efficiency.
Although we do everything in our power to speed processing, it’s still best to plan ahead in peak times.
From July through October, the lead times for scheduling appointments at our facilities are generally longer due to the influx of seasonal products across the United States. During this period, what might usually be a 2–3-day lead time can easily stretch to 4-6 days. This extension of lead time will vary based on peak customer engagement times.
This is primarily driven by the seasonal nature of many products that require cold storage. Many producers have a special holiday line that begins production in summer and builds until shipping to market in October and November. These holiday products are in addition to the year-round items stored. As a result, our scheduling lead times need to grow a bit to accommodate the increased volume of goods needing storage.
To navigate these peak times efficiently, we recommend our clients plan their storage needs well in advance. Understanding that lead times can double during the late summer and fall allows you to better coordinate your logistics to avoid potential delays. Here are some tips to help improve your cold storage management effectively during peak seasons:
Communicate: Keep in close contact with our scheduling team to stay updated on current lead times and any potential changes.
Book early: If you know you will need storage during the peak months, try to schedule your appointments as early as possible. This will help ensure you secure a spot in our schedule.
Stay flexible: Be prepared for longer lead times and try to build some flexibility into your logistics plan.
At Interstate Cold Storage, we’re committed to helping you manage your cold storage needs efficiently every month of the year. By understanding the seasonal variations in scheduling lead times and planning accordingly, you can help ensure your products are stored safely and timely.
Need more information or want to schedule an appointment? Contact our scheduling team though our web form or call 260-428-2505 to make this year’s peak season the most seamless one yet.
How can I reduce lead times in cold storage?
You can reduce lead times by choosing an efficient cold storage facility, such as Interstate Cold Storage, that simplifies processes, employs experiences personnel, runs at optimal capacity, and employs the latest technology with real-time tracking.
Why is understanding lead times important in cold storage?
An important part of managing your cold storage products more efficiently is understanding lead times. This efficiency can help you maintain optimum inventory levels, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
