Adapting to a Post-Pandemic World

During the lockdown, where did you spend most of your time? Amidst the four walls of a brick-and-mortar business or browsing a digital store? If your answer is the latter, you’re not alone—this shift has become the norm for most of India.

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed how we live, shop, and conduct business. From disrupted consumer behavior to evolving logistics demands, the landscape has shifted. According to studies, 2020 saw a 30.6% increase in online shopping compared to 2019, directly impacting third-party logistics (3PL) services. Let’s explore the key factors businesses need to consider for navigating the post-pandemic logistics ecosystem.

Important 3PL Factors to Consider Post-COVID-19

1. Goods Regulations

With the resumption of production post-pandemic, consumer demand is expected to rise. However, shipping products across city and state borders while adhering to new regulations will be critical.

Key Warehouse Management Guidelines:

Minimise traffic and avoid mass gatherings in warehouses.
Split warehouses into multiple touchpoints to prevent overcrowding.
Collaborate with third-party logistics providers for efficient delivery.
Partner with companies like Shadowfax to ensure streamlined operations across borders.

2. Supply Chain Stability

The pandemic has disrupted supply chains globally, but stable transportation links between manufacturing units and end-users can help restore operations.

Questions to Consider:

Production or Transportation? Focus on core production while outsourcing logistics to 3PL providers for efficient transportation.
Competitor Strategies: Stay competitive by outsourcing logistics, which many brands are leveraging to boost production and delivery speed.

3. Omnichannel Experience

Even as the pandemic subsides, consumer behavior will lean towards safety-first practices. Ensuring an omnichannel experience is key to meeting these expectations.

Tips for an Omnichannel Approach:

Localise warehouses for quicker and safer delivery.
Partner with 3PL providers like Shadowfax to handle last-mile delivery.
Deliver products directly to consumers’ doorsteps while prioritising their safety.

4. Changing Consumer Behavior

India faces economic challenges, which means consumers are focusing on necessities over luxury items. Safety will remain a top priority for online shoppers.

Adapting to Consumer Behavior:

Facilitate home delivery and online shopping, especially for essential services.
Scale up on-demand delivery processes by collaborating with logistics partners.

5. Payment Methods

The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards contactless payments. Countries like South Korea even quarantined or destroyed cash to curb virus spread.

Action Points:

Transition to online payments and UPI-based doorstep payment options.
Upgrade systems to handle secure and efficient online transactions.

Must read: Importance of A Supply Chain

Takeaway

COVID-19 has redefined the logistics service landscape. By considering these factors and partnering with a reliable 3PL provider like Shadowfax, businesses can streamline their delivery processes, stay competitive, and meet evolving consumer expectations. As a smart business leader, embracing these changes will not only help you navigate the current challenges but also position your brand for future success.