Find Top Supply Chain Consultants Near You

Supply Chain Consultants 

Effective supply chain management is vital for small businesses. Large companies usually have the budget and resources to hire an entire department or team that are dedicated to supply chain management. Small businesses don’t have the luxury to do just that, which can result in gaps in your supply chain. Supply chain consultants can identify these gaps and work with you to find the right solutions to improve all areas of your supply chain and logistics.

Who hires supply chain consultants?

Any business that is experiencing problems or challenges in its supply chain operations can benefit from supply chain consulting. Although no businesses have exactly the same problems or needs, below are some of the common reasons why small businesses seek out the expertise of supply chain consultants:

• You are struggling with the availability and delivery of supplies or delays
• You are finding it difficult to keep up with changing consumer demands 
• You want to open up your sourcing and delivery networks for backup
• You are struggling to maintain a healthy cash flow
• You are looking for ways to automate and streamline your operations

You are looking to redesign or restructure your warehouse or logistics operations and need expert advice on how to approach it

What does a supply chain consultant do?

Supply chain management consultants offer a variety of advice and services to help optimise the flow of your supply chain, reduce wastage and costs and find new ways to align your operations in a way that supports business growth. There are different types of supply chain consultants - some specialise in certain areas and some are multidisciplinary.

But what is the value of supply chain consulting? Is it really necessary or worth it for small businesses?

What are the benefits of supply chain management consulting? 

Below are some of the top benefits of hiring a supply chain management consultant:

• Expert advice: Supply chain consultants have years of experience working with small businesses, vendors, suppliers and manufacturers. They can offer you expertise and tailored solutions that you wouldn’t have access to otherwise.
• Unbiased commendations: As a small business owner you have a limited and biased view of the challenges and problems within your business. Supply chain consultants have an unbiased view and can offer you a fresh perspective.
• Value for money: Hiring a consultant is a great investment for small businesses that often provide a great return. They come in, help you improve what’s not working so you can cut costs and drive more revenue.

What services do supply chain consultants offer?

The initial activity of a supply chain consultant is to get an in-depth understanding of your business operations and identify any risks or problem areas that need addressing. They can then begin working on developing solutions. Some of the services offered by supply chain consultants include:

• Supply chain strategy
• Supply chain design
• Supply chain and logistics operations 
• Inventory management
• Outsourcing services 
• Technology and software selection

How much do supply chain consultants charge?

The answer to this question really depends on the type of work involved and the scope and duration of the project. You should also factor in the consultant’s level of experience - experienced consultants are likely to charge more than non-senior consultants. Supply chain consultants may charge on an hourly basis or offer a set price for specific service, packages or projects.

If you’re ready to hire a supply chain consultant or would like more information about the services offered, pricing or other queries, we can connect you with supply chain consultants in your local area. Simply answer a few questions to get started.

You can also reach out to other business owners in the community with any questions you have.