Also known as: Direct transfer, Flow-through distribution
A logistics strategy where goods are received at a warehouse or distribution center and immediately reshipped to their final destination without going through a storage period.
Cross-docking is a logistics strategy where goods arriving at a distribution center are sorted, reorganized, and reshipped to their final destination as quickly as possible, typically within 24 hours, without intermediate storage. Merchandise enters through a receiving dock and exits through a shipping dock, crossing the warehouse without remaining on shelves or racks.
Cross-docking reduces storage costs by up to 70%, shortens delivery times, and minimizes merchandise handling. It is especially effective for perishable goods, high-turnover products, or shipments with critical delivery dates.
In the Mexican customs context, cross-docking is used in bonded warehouses and logistics centers to streamline distribution of imported goods. Once merchandise is cleared at customs, it moves to the cross-docking center for immediate redistribution to points of sale or final customers.
Supply Chain
An integrated network of organizations, people, activities, information, and resources involved in creating and delivering a product, from raw materials to the end consumer.
LogisticsLast Mile Delivery
The final stage of the logistics chain comprising the delivery of goods from the distribution center or warehouse to the final recipient, whether a point of sale or customer's address.
LogisticsBonded Warehouse (Depósito Fiscal)
Customs regime allowing foreign or domestic goods to be stored in authorized warehouses with suspension of duty payments.
LogisticsCargo Consolidation
A logistics process of grouping multiple small shipments from different shippers into a single transport unit to optimize freight costs and space utilization.