This guide explains what cross-docking is and how it operates within our 3PL environment.
It is important that inbound shipments intended for cross-dock are clearly identified in advance. This ensures they are raised correctly in the OMS and handled appropriately upon arrival at our facility.
Cross-docking is a logistics practice commonly used within 3PL operations.
It involves unloading goods from an inbound vehicle and transferring them directly onto an outbound vehicle, with little or no storage time in between. Incoming goods from suppliers or manufacturers are received, sorted, and quickly reloaded for delivery to their final destination.
In most cases, goods move through the facility within a few hours, or at most within 24 hours.
Cross-docking offers several advantages:
Improved Speed and Efficiency
Accelerates delivery timelines and increases overall supply chain efficiency.
Better Inventory Flow
Enables distribution without holding stock in storage for extended periods.
Minimised Storage Requirements
Goods are moved through the facility quickly rather than being stored.
Consolidation and Deconsolidation
Consolidation: Combining smaller shipments from multiple suppliers into one larger outbound shipment.
Deconsolidation: Breaking down large inbound shipments into smaller consignments for multiple destinations.
Reduced Handling
Less movement and storage reduces the risk of damage and handling costs.
The cross-docking process typically follows three stages:
Goods arrive at the facility. Ideally, they are pre-labelled and prepared for their final destination.
Goods are unloaded, checked, and sorted according to outbound requirements.
Once sorted, goods are transferred directly to outbound vehicles for onward delivery.
To ensure smooth processing, the following steps must be followed:
Please include any specific requirements at the time of notification.
Please create an ASN within the portal:
“CD” will be included in the PO reference.
The designated cross-dock SKU will be associated with the ASN.
Expected quantities and carton/pallet counts must be provided.
Upon arrival:
The Goods In Team will book in the ASN.
Stock will be placed in the designated cross-dock area.
If there is an associated outbound order:
The Outbound Team will pick and palletise the order (if required).
The goods will be moved to the cross-dock location ready for dispatch.
4. Order Creation
Cross-dock can only be used when products are shipped out exactly as received on the ASN.
If SKUs need to be added, removed, or altered, the shipment must be booked as a standard inbound (not cross-dock).
Cross-docking is intended for goods that are expected to leave the warehouse shortly after arrival.