Whilst Christmas may not be top of your list to think about just yet, we’re mentioning it for good reason. As logistics finance specialists, we appreciate how pressured this time of year can be with such a sudden increase in business. Trying to cope with the level of demand on the same supply chain can lead to increased stress and pressure for everyone.
Therefore, we’re encouraging logistics businesses to get ahead of the game this year and ensure the required infrastructures are in place early. If you can get ready now, you might even have some time enjoy the festivities amongst the madness!
There are several ways you can prepare your business for Christmas, so let’s look at a few now.
Planning ahead for the logistics rush
If there’s one thing for sure, no one in logistics can say the Christmas rush took them by surprise. It happens at the same time every year, so logistics need to plan accordingly.
Keep on top of the news around you too, like shipping delays, driver shortages or postal strikes. They are all likely to happen, so it’s just a case of being prepared and looking at operational plans a few months in advance.
Extend your fleet of logistics vehicles
The likelihood that the fleet size that worked for you in January and February will also work for you in November and December is slim. It’s the busiest time of year for logistics so to keep things running smoothly, you need a bigger fleet.
Moorgate Finance can help with finance to extend your fleet of vehicles to a more manageable capacity. Be it via asset finance, leasing, or a short-term business loan we can work through your lending options to see what suits your requirements best.
Seasonal logistics staff
With a larger fleet of vehicles also comes the need for more drivers. The more in advance you plan this, the more likely you are to secure the staff you need. Invoice Finance can really help logistics companies to manage the costs of an increased headcount. Invoice Finance improves your cash flow by releasing cash held up in invoicing terms and allows you to pay your contractors on varying payment dates.
Upgrade equipment
The last thing you want do is invest in more staff and then find that the infrastructure is let down by unsuitable or outdated equipment. Whether you need new forklifts, pallets, sorters, or pickers we can offer a range of lending options to get you the right equipment for the job.
Invest in new technology
The same rule goes for technology. In a world of sorting, packing and delivering the latest technology can make a real difference to the efficiency of your business. Investing in things like cloud logistics, artificial intelligence and Blockchain technology can take the pressure off your business whilst also providing a better customer experience – win win! Soft asset finance is often seen as harder to secure, but with Moorgate Finance’s panel of 70+ trusted lenders we can secure the finance terms you need to make it happen.