Managing a network of distribution centers can be a daunting challenge. Orders must be filled complete, on-time, and without carrying excessive amounts of inventory. In April, Aberdeen, a Harte-Hanks Company (NYSE:HHS) executed a comprehensive survey of multi-site distributors to uncover the secrets that allow top-performing companies to excel in all of these areas and grow their businesses.

Some of the more compelling findings in the survey were:
1. Companies that have reduced their order fulfillment costs year-over-year are 82% more likely to have sales order splitting capabilities.
2. Companies have reduced their inventory carrying costs year-over-year are almost TWICE as likely to practice order distribution by inventory level.
3. Companies that have 99% or more complete shipments are 54% more likely to practice Vendor Order Splitting.
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