Author: Stu Spikerman

FTZ Consulting: How to Reduce Costs and Streamline Your Supply Chain

What is FTZ Consulting? FTZ consulting is the process of helping businesses apply for, activate, and manage their Foreign Trade Zone operations. As the president of Tri-Link FTZ, a third-party logistics (3PL) company with over 35 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how companies struggle to navigate FTZ regulations. The FTZ program, overseen by U.S. […]

The Ultimate Guide to Linear Barcode Types: What You Need to Know

What Are Linear Barcode Types? As the President of Tri-Link FTZ, I’ve seen firsthand how linear barcode types revolutionize supply chain management. A linear barcode, also known as a 1D barcode, is a series of vertical lines and spaces that encode product or inventory data. These barcodes are scanned using laser or CCD (charge-coupled device) […]

Third Party Logistic Meaning: A Complete Guide to 3PL & Foreign Trade Zones

What is Third Party Logistic Meaning? If you’ve ever wondered, “What is third party logistic meaning?”, you’re not alone. The term third-party logistics (3PL) refers to outsourcing a company’s logistics operations—like warehousing, transportation, and order fulfillment—to a specialized provider. Instead of handling every step of the supply chain in-house, businesses can rely on 3PL partners […]

The Ultimate Guide to Third Party Logistics Brokers: How They Transform Your Supply Chain

What is a Third Party Logistics Broker? At Tri-Link FTZ, we’ve spent 35 years mastering the complexities of supply chain management. One of the most valuable services we provide is that of a third party logistics broker, but what exactly does that mean? A third party logistics broker acts as a middleman between shippers and […]

The Ultimate Guide to Storage Solutions for Warehouses: How to Maximize Space, Efficiency, and Cost Savings

What Are Storage Solutions for Warehouses? At its core, storage solutions for warehouses refer to the strategies, shelving systems, and inventory management techniques that help businesses maximize their available space while ensuring easy access to products. The right storage setup isn’t just about stacking boxes—it’s about efficiency, safety, and productivity. At Tri-Link FTZ, we specialize […]

Warehouse Vertical Storage Solutions: The Future of Efficient Logistics

What Are Warehouse Vertical Storage Solutions? In the world of logistics and warehouse management, space is one of the most valuable assets. Warehouse vertical storage solutions refer to the practice of using vertical space—floor to ceiling—to store goods instead of relying solely on traditional horizontal shelving. By stacking upwards rather than outwards, businesses can increase […]

The Ultimate Inventory Management System Use Case for Third-Party Logistics

What is an Inventory Management System Use Case? An inventory management system use case refers to the specific ways businesses apply IMS technology to streamline stock control, improve efficiency, and reduce operational risks. In a third-party logistics (3PL) and foreign trade zone (FTZ) environment, managing inventory is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining […]

How Trump Tariffs Reshaped Global Trade and Business Strategy

What Are Trump Tariffs? The term “Trump tariffs” refers to a series of trade policies imposed by former President Donald Trump, primarily targeting China, the European Union, and other major trade partners. These tariffs, which function as taxes on imported goods, were introduced between 2018 and 2020 as part of a broader strategy to reduce […]

How Can an Inventory Management System Report Help You Make Data-Driven Decisions?

What is an Inventory Management System Report? An inventory management system report is a detailed document—either digital or physical—that provides a snapshot of a company’s current inventory. It tracks stock levels, warehouse movements, product performance, and purchasing patterns. These reports are critical for managing inventory flow, ensuring proper stock levels, and making data-driven decisions that […]

The Ultimate Warehouse Management System Questionnaire: How to Choose the Right WMS for Your Business

What is a Warehouse Management System Questionnaire? A warehouse management system questionnaire is a structured set of questions designed to help businesses assess their needs before selecting a WMS. It ensures that companies understand what features they require, how the system will integrate with their existing technology, and whether it will scale with their operations. […]