A recent report from AMR Research found that reverse logistics technologies and strategies are gaining attention and offering enough savings to bring them to many shippers' attention. The report found that new focused software packages can streamline the reverse logistics process as opposed to tying together a host of other separate systems. The report also found that third-party logistics providers are gaining more expertise in handling reverse logistics services while disposal services are increasing in number and ability to take unwanted goods off buyers' hands.

"The [reverse logistics] options are only now gaining significant acceptance in the marketplace," the report says. "As they improve, make sure your approach matches your short-term and long-term requirements, not only for technology, but your philosophy to the logistics process, as well."

dhannon@reedbusiness.com