Smith and Associates surveyed 200 respondents spanning across the electronics industry and found that 68 percent identified mobile applications as the most influential technology in the supply chain. Although some organizations are still using traditional tools in the supply chain process, more companies are now turning to smartphones, handheld computers and other mobile devices to reap the benefits of improved mobility and flexibility.

A new reform-minded government, a stable economy and sound infrastructure are among the factors combining to make Mexico a good market for logistics operations, says Eric Markeset, who is based in Mexico City as principal of consulting firm Tsol.

As merged channels (also known as omnichannel) become the default for an increasing number of retailers, the challenge of efficiently handling the supply chain and managing inventory becomes exponentially more complex.

Third-party logistics will not become a commoditized service as long as providers continue to add value and differentiate their product offerings, says Greg Spudic, vice president of marketing and sales at Dimerco Express.

Airfreight rates suffered another month of falls in June, sinking to new lows, according to Drewry's monthly Sea & Air Shipper Insight report.

Small to medium-sized shippers have a low adoption rate for transportation management systems because traditional systems cost too much and are not geared to the specific needs of smaller businesses, says J.P. Wiggins, vice president of logistics at 3Gtms.