Just as every manufacturer and retailer is having to extend its business operations around the world, the less-than-truckload industry is devising new ways to make itself a valuable member of customers' global chains.

Having visibility into its contract manufacturers allows Teradyne to better manage component supplies as well as finished inventory.

A series of potential roadblocks has caused companies to take a fresh look at transportation. First in a new series on best practices in supply chain management.