Describe cross-docking in a storage context.

Cross-docking is a logistics practice where products are directly transferred from inbound to outbound carriers without being stored in between. This method is designed to minimize handling and storage times, which improves efficiency in the supply chain. In the context of inventory management, cross-docking allows for faster distribution of products, as it eliminates the need for products to sit in a warehouse before being shipped out.

This approach is commonly used in scenarios where just-in-time (JIT) delivery is needed, and it supports a streamlined flow of goods from suppliers to customers. By bypassing storage, businesses can reduce costs associated with warehousing and improve their response times to market demands. The primary focus is on moving products quickly rather than storing them, which distinguishes cross-docking from methods that emphasize inventory storage or security techniques in warehouse operations.