ProShip ParcelCast Unwined

[ProShip ParcelCast Unwined] Episode 45: The Partnership Puzzle: Connecting the Pieces for Shipping Success

Behind every successful business is more than just their own internal operations – it's a network of systems, providers, and technologies working in sync. As logistics becomes more interconnected and technology-driven and customer expectations grow more demanding, successful supply chain strategies rely on collaboration. The reality is that no one can go at it alone; partnerships have emerged as one of the most critical forces shaping the future of shipping. From software integrations and platform compatibility to strategic alliances and service providers, these partnerships aren’t just about convenience – they’re about unlocking new value for shippers. High-quality partner ecosystems empower businesses to build flexible, scalable shipping operations. This allows them to adapt confidently to new demands and disruptions – while maintaining a competitive advantage. In This ParcelCast EpisodeJoining our host and ProShip’s Content Marketing Manager, Katy Schroedl [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-schroedl/], on this episode of ProShip ParcelCast Unwined is industry experts Justin Cramer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer/], Co-Founder of ProShip, and Andrew Sulak [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsulak/], Head of Partnerships at ProShip. This episode is full of insightful conversation, diving deep into the importance of supply chain partnerships in growth and success. Tune into this episode to learn more about: * Partnerships are the foundation: Many leading companies’ growth has been powered by strategic partnerships, especially technical integrations. These enable shippers to create comprehensive, agile, and tailored solutions without having to rely on a single vendor. A strong partner ecosystem brings better visibility, smarter automation, and real-time decision-making. Together, these advantages lead to faster delivery times, lower costs, and a more satisfying customer experience. * Buy, build, or partner: When shippers seek new functionality, choosing whether to build in-house, buy off-the-shelf, or partner with a specialized provider depends on what they're limited by (time, money, internal capabilities, etc.). Partnerships often represent the most flexible and strategic choice. They enable companies to focus on their core competencies while still gaining access to innovation and industry expertise. * Strong partners share goals: A good partner goes beyond technical compatibility; they should align strategically and prioritize customer outcomes as well. When partners work in sync, they’re more likely to deliver smoother implementations and stronger post-purchase experiences. This alignment also helps reduce risks and ensures businesses can keep their promises – even in high-pressure situations. This Episode’s Cocktail: Guest’s ChoiceDuring this episode, our experts enjoy the cocktail or beverage of their choice. While Katy sips her Athletic Brewing Co. NA sour beer and Justin sticks with his go-to whiskey, Andrew enjoys his negroni with a special purpose. Made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, it is the perfect drink for this partnership episode – each ingredient pulling its weight to deliver a balanced and delicious experience. Andrew’s Perfect Partnership Negroni: Ingredients: gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, orange peel In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine equal parts of the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stir until well combined and chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube and garnish with an orange peel. Enjoy! Tune in to our next ProShip ParcelCast Unwined [https://proshipinc.com/resources/podcast] episode for more insightful conversations on industry trends and expert tips to improve your supply chain and logistics strategies.

[ProShip ParcelCast Unwined] Episode 44: Today’s Broken Returns Model: How Peer-to-Peer is Changing the Game

Historically, returns have been the Achilles' heel of e-commerce – costly, inefficient, and frustrating for both retailers and consumers. The traditional process of returning unwanted items to distribution centers raises costs and causes logistical problems. It also leads to another issue that is often ignored: sustainability. This means more transportation emissions, more packaging waste, and an even bigger environmental footprint. But what if there was a better way? Peer-to-peer returns is a concept that’s changing the way we think about reverse logistics. Instead of sending items back through a costly and unsustainable loop, this approach enables returns to be processed more efficiently – often by connecting buyers directly to one another, eliminating the distribution center as the middleman. By cutting down on unnecessary shipping, reducing costs, and streamlining the process, peer-to-peer returns offer a glimpse into the future of e-commerce logistics. In This ParcelCast Episode Joining our host and ProShip’s Content Marketing Manager, Katy Schroedl [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-schroedl/], are two experts from the supply chain and logistics space. Justin Cramer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer/], Co-founder of ProShip, and Manish Chowdhary [https://www.linkedin.com/in/manish-chowdhary/], Founder and CEO of Cahoot, dive into an insightful conversation on how a peer-to-peer strategy is transforming the process of returns as we know it. In this episode, the three discuss: • The Current State of Returns: Traditional returns are costly and inefficient, with brands often paying for shipping twice – once to send the item to the customer and again to take it back. In industries like apparel, 20-40% of returns can take a direct hit on the company’s bottom line, putting a major strain on profit margins. Additionally, existing return solutions prioritize customer convenience at the brand’s expense, leading to significant financial losses in an already challenging economy. • The Concept of Peer-to-Peer Returns: This revolutionary concept eliminates a full leg of shipping by enabling customers to send unwanted items directly to another buyer, rather than back to the retailer. Peer-to-peer returns cut costs by up to 64%, while making the process four times faster. This results in a reduced carbon footprint by more than half. • The Importance of Trust: For peer-to-peer returns to work, trust is key. AI-powered screening verifies item quality, and a rating system – similar to Airbnb or Uber – ensures both the sender and recipient are accountable. As more brands adopt this model, the network strengthens. This reduces fraudulent returns and makes the process more seamless and cost-effective. This Episode’s Cocktail: The Peer-fect Return Old Fashioned In this insightful ProShip ParcelCast Unwined episode, our experts sip on the Peer-fect Return Old Fashioned – a cocktail that blends the classic charm of an Old Fashioned with the bold twist of coffee. Just as this drink reinvents a timeless favorite, the episode delves into how peer-to-peer networks are transforming traditional return methods, creating a smarter, more efficient return experience – one that’s truly peer-fect. Enjoy the Peer-fect Return Old Fashioned with our shipping experts: Ingredients: cafecito syrup, chocolate bitters, aromatic orange oil, coffee beans, rum In a mixing glass, combine the cafecito syrup, chocolate bitters, and rum, stirring well to blend the flavors. Fill the glass with ice and continue stirring until the mixture is well chilled. Strain into a lowball glass over a large ice cube, then finish with a spritz of orange oil for a bright, aromatic touch. Garnish with a few coffee beans and enjoy your Peer-fect Return Old Fashioned! Join us for our next ProShip ParcelCast Unwined [https://proshipinc.com/resources/podcast] episode for more expert discussions on hot industry trends and all things shipping and logistics.

[ProShip ParcelCast] Episode 43: The Pulse of Retail: ProShip's Insights from the NRF Show Floor

Earlier this month, ProShip was in the heart of New York City for NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show, where the retail industry’s brightest minds and leading innovators gathered to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and challenges shaping the future of retail. Amidst the show's excitement, we had the opportunity to record a special podcast episode where we asked four thought-provoking questions about the retail landscape. In this ParcelCast episode Hosting this month’s episode live from the NRF show floor is Katy Schroedl [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-schroedl/], ProShip’s Content Marketing Manager. As she sparks conversation around all things retail, she is joined by several ProShip shipping experts including Justin Cramer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer/], Co-Founder, Eric Levine [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdlevine/], Sales Executive, Miranda Dowler [https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-dowler-0a92ab195/], Enterprise Sales Executive, and Dave Salter, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidesalter/] Business Development. From the biggest buzzwords bouncing throughout the conference to the forces of volatility that retailers should prepare for, this episode provides forward-thinking insights into how the retail landscape is changing. Tune into this episode to hear valuable takeaways to the following questions: 1. Biggest Buzzword at NRF: Is It Living Up to the Hype? • Artificial Intelligence (AI): You must acknowledge its growing impact in many areas, however, when it comes to fulfillment, it still has a long way to go. Despite this, AI’s potential in retail will continue to evolve. • Carrier Volume Balancing (CVB) [https://proshipinc.com/resources/infographic/carrier-volume-balancing-ig]: This ensures retailers meet volume metrics to secure negotiated rates while also benefiting from rate shopping across carriers. CVB is already proving its worth in optimizing shipping costs and performance, making it a buzzword worth watching. 2. ProShip's One Piece of Advice for Retailers in 2025 • Be Prepared for Volatility to Continue: Retailers should ensure their systems are set up to adapt quickly to shifting market conditions, allowing them to stay resilient no matter what challenges arise. • Single Carrier Strategies are Dead: While it might seem like a way to secure better rates, having a broader range of carriers provides retailers with the flexibility to pivot, keeping them competitive and able to respond to changes in the market. • Keep Asking Questions: The retail landscape is constantly evolving, and what doesn’t work today might be the perfect solution tomorrow. ProShip, with its customizable solutions, can adapt to the unique needs of each retailer, ensuring they stay ahead of the curve. 3. Biggest Source of Volatility in Retail for 2025 • Potential Tariffs: With global shippers facing the possibility of new tariffs, retailers will need to stay agile. These tariffs could impact pricing and, ultimately, the ability of customers to purchase products, creating significant ripple effects throughout the supply chain. • Increased Complexity in Order Fulfillment: The shift from shipping to stores to direct-to-consumer (D2C) deliveries has increased complexity, introducing more address and carrier-specific requirements. This raises the potential for errors, making it crucial for retailers to streamline their fulfillment processes. 4. Adapting to Changing Consumer Expectations: How ProShip Is Responding? • Making Logistics System Changes Easier: ProShip’s software allows you to remove outdated business rules and implement current ones. Working with your IT and logistics teams now to identify the "must-haves" for your logistics system before volatility hits, will help ensure you're prepared for whatever comes next. • Supply Chain Visibility: Today’s consumers want quick shipping and real-time tracking. Through our partnership with ShipMatrix [https://proshipinc.com/resources/brochure/proship-x-shipmatrix], we can provide customers with the visibility they need while meeting their demands for faster, more transparent service. • Automation and Centralization: Manual tasks are outdated and prone to errors. ProShip automates processes and keeps a centralized system so retailers can ensure smoother operations and more efficient downstream movement of business rules.

[ProShip ParcelCast Unwined] Episode 42: 2024 Unpacked: Looking Back and What Lies Ahead

The shipping industry never stands still, and the year 2024 has been no exception. From evolving carrier strategies to the rapid adoption of AI and the annual challenges of peak season, this year has tested the adaptability and innovation of businesses everywhere. While some familiar challenges persist, new opportunities have emerged, making it a year of transformation. With changing pricing models, improved tracking, and new solutions focused on streamlining operations and securing data, the landscape is becoming increasingly dynamic. By understanding the significant challenges the shipping industry has faced in 2024, we can better prepare ourselves to navigate the year ahead with success. In this ParcelCast episode Typically, the star running the show behind the scenes, ProShip’s Content Marketing Manager, Katy Schroedl [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katelyn-schroedl/], hosts our final podcast episode of the year. She is joined by two seasoned ProShip experts, Jeff Lukaszewski [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-lukaszewski-b3052415/], Sr. Director of Technology, and Justin Cramer [https://www.linkedin.com/in/justincramer/], Co-Founder of ProShip. This episode takes a deep dive into everything that’s affected the supply chain and logistics landscape this past year as well as what we can expect looking forward. Tune into this year’s final episode to discover more about: • Carrier Landscape Evolution: Justin begins the discussion by stating, “Everything has changed, but very little has changed.” While the four major carriers still handle over 97% of all shipments, the landscape is shifting, with nearly 30% of ProShip customers exploring alternative carriers. The elimination of postal consolidators has reduced shipping options, and carriers are now making pricing and service updates multiple times a year instead of at year-end. To stay competitive, they’re enhancing tracking capabilities to meet Amazon’s real-time standards, including detailed updates and delivery photos. • Artificial Intelligence in Shipping: AI is revolutionizing shipping by automating key processes like cost algorithms and document production, while also enhancing tasks like pick planning, cart recommendations, and transit day predictions. Though powerful, AI comes with limitations, such as occasional inaccuracies, emphasizing the importance of strategic implementation. The rise of AI agents showcases their expanding role in improving efficiency and decision-making across the industry. • Peak Season Challenges: Successfully navigating peak season requires careful planning and readiness testing to handle last-minute changes. Avoiding carrier-specific business rules simplifies adding or switching carriers, while having a backup plan ensures flexibility and resilience during high-demand periods. • Future Security Priorities: Data security is a growing focus for ProShip, with enhancements such as OAUTH authentication, OpenID, and updated APIs and UIs. Our processes now emphasize retaining only necessary data for as long as needed, while changes to our ticketing systems redact files and attachments after closure, reflecting a strong commitment to protecting the sensitive information of our customers. This Episode’s Cocktail: Guest’s Choice To finish off this year’s run of ProShip ParcelCast Unwined, our expert guests were given free rein to enjoy the cocktail or beverage of their choice. While Jeff and Justin stuck with a glass of their go-to's – Ardbeg Scotch and Southern Comfort – Katy took the festive route, mixing up a Cranberry Fizz Mocktail to ring in the holiday season. Katy’s Cranberry Fizz Mocktail: Ingredients: Cranberry Fizz Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Cranberry Juice, Fresh Cranberries, and a Rosemary Sprig In a lowball glass, add ice. Pour in equal parts cranberry fizz prebiotic soda and cranberry juice. Garnish your drink with some fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Cheers and happy holidays! Tune into our next ProShip ParcelCast Unwined [https://proshipinc.com/resources/podcast] episode for more insightful discussions on industry trends and key tips to improve your supply chain strategy. See you in 2025!

[ProShip ParcelCast Unwined] Episode 41: Spend Smarter, Ship Smarter: Parcel Spend Management 2.0

Managing parcel spend can be a challenge for shippers for several reasons. With increasing shipping volumes and rising customer demands, keeping shipping costs down while maintaining service quality is often a sore spot. Parcel spend, if not carefully managed, can eat away at profits, especially when unexpected surcharges, fluctuating rates, and a lack of transparency between shippers and carriers come into play. For many shippers, finding a balance between efficient delivery and cost containment feels like it’s out of reach, especially as parcel shipping costs have increased 30% over the past three years. However, as technology continues to evolve, advanced solutions are giving shippers a new way to not only track, but optimize their parcel spend. Introducing Parcel Spend Management 2.0 - an advanced way to optimize and manage your shipping costs by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning-based technology as opposed to utilizing consulting and analysts. In This ParcelCast Episode Joining our host, Jerri Dixon [https://www.linkedin.com/in/%E2%9C%A8jerri-d-5b66449/], on this episode of ProShip ParcelCast Unwined is industry experts Will Hennessy [https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-hennessy-340687126/], Sales Executive at ProShip, and Michael Falls [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-falls-74306434/], VP of Client Success at Reveel Group [https://reveelgroup.com/]. This episode is full of insightful conversation, diving deep into technological innovations paving the future for improved parcel spend management. Tune into this episode to learn more about: * The Key to Cost Transparency: Shippers want transparency into their costs and what they can do about them in a practical way without relying on a 3rd party consultant or analyst in the mix. The advanced capabilities of Parcel Spend Management 2.0 places the necessary tools into the hands of the shipper to take action in managing their parcel spend, leveling the playing field between shippers and carriers. * The Benefit of Focusing on the Right Metrics: The key to controlling costs and maintaining service quality is identifying which metrics are the most important to track. By identifying these metrics and then consistently measuring, optimizing, monitoring, and planning, shippers can have better visibility into their operational costs and make the necessary adjustments when needed. * The Importance of Data-Driven Insights and Machine Learning: As the future of parcel spend management moves towards AI and machine learning, more and more complex data can be transformed into actionable insights for shippers. Some of these include detecting late fees, identifying recurring address correction fees, and service level optimization. The data-driven insights provided by Parcel Spend Management 2.0 enables shippers to make smarter decisions, enhance efficiency, and cut costs. This Episode’s Cocktail: The Data-Driven Paloma During this episode, our expert guests enjoy the citrusy Data-Driven Paloma, a refreshing twist on the classic paloma. Just as data-driven insights are essential for optimizing your parcel shipping strategy, a well-crafted cocktail requires the perfect balance of ingredients. The Data-Driven Paloma is a refreshing blend of grapefruit juice, tequila, and simple syrup. Just like a successful parcel shipping strategy requires balance, this cocktail perfectly combines flavors for a satisfying experience. Enjoy the Data-Driven Paloma with our shipping experts: Ingredients: tequila, grapefruit juice, ice, salt, and dried grapefruit garnish Taking your glass with a moist rim, dip the glass into a small plate of salt. To a cocktail shaker, add your ice, tequila, grapefruit juice, and a splash of club soda if desired. Shake until well combined and then pour over ice in your salt rimmed glass. Garnish with a slice of dried grapefruit and enjoy! Tune into our next ProShip ParcelCast Unwined [https://proshipinc.com/resources/podcast] episode for more insightful conversations on current supply chain topics, industry tips, and the hottest logistics trends!