Cross-Docking Overview

Cross-Docking Overview

Overview

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.

What is Cross-Docking?

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.

Benefits of Cross-Docking

Cross-docking offers several advantages:

  1. Improved Speed and Efficiency
    Accelerates delivery timelines and increases overall supply chain efficiency.

  2. Better Inventory Flow
    Enables distribution without holding stock in storage for extended periods.

  3. Minimised Storage Requirements
    Goods are moved through the facility quickly rather than being stored.

  4. 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.

  5. Reduced Handling
    Less movement and storage reduces the risk of damage and handling costs.

How Cross-Docking Works in a 3PL Environment

The cross-docking process typically follows three stages:

1. Inbound Stage

Goods arrive at the facility. Ideally, they are pre-labelled and prepared for their final destination.

2. Sorting and Inspection

Goods are unloaded, checked, and sorted according to outbound requirements.

3. Outbound Stage

Once sorted, goods are transferred directly to outbound vehicles for onward delivery.

Cross-Docking Process at Expandly

To ensure smooth processing, the following steps must be followed:

1. Client Notification

The client must notify our CSR Team in advance of any cross-dock inbound shipment.
Requests should be emailed to 3pl@expandly.com

Please include any specific requirements at the time of notification.

2. ASN Creation

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.

3. Goods Receipt

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

  1. Once the cross-dock  ASN has been booked in, and order will need to be created in the portal, for the Team to action
  2. Any specific order instructions are to be added to the order
  3. If clients are arranging their own shipping, labels to be uploaded into the Order for the Warehouse Team
5. Shipping Arrangements
  1. Shipping method and carrier arrangements will be agreed and scheduled.
6. Dispatch
  1. The order will be shipped in line with the client’s instructions.

Important Considerations

  • 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.