Cross-Docking
Cross-docking is a warehouse method where inbound goods are sorted and transferred straight to outbound vehicles with minimal storage, typically under 24 hours. It cuts storage costs and speeds up distribution, for example from an import container directly onto CDD trucks bound for stores. It depends on accurate arrival schedules, clean labelling and good information systems so that goods do not pile up on the dock.
Related terms
- Warehouse Management System (WMS)
A WMS is software that runs warehouse operations: receiving, putaway to rack locations, order picking, packing and dispatch.
- SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
An SKU is the unique code for each item variant a warehouse manages, such as a combination of product, size, colour and pack.
- Palletizing
Palletizing is arranging cartons or goods on a pallet so that a forklift can move them as one unit.
- CDD Truck (Double)
A CDD truck is a two-axle truck with six tyres, meaning twin wheels on the rear axle.