When the Cleveland Browns heard early weather warnings last fall about a potential blizzard in Buffalo before their upcoming game with the Bills, their logistics team rushed into action. The NFL then cancelled the Buffalo venue, moving the contest to Ford Field in downtown Detroit, according to a report in Crain’s Cleveland Business. Browns management immediately searched for and booked a hotel for team members, coaching and other staff. The Browns usually bus to Detroit and Pittsburgh, fly by charter to other NFL cities. Once the hotel was set, Browns logistics management had to find and schedule seven buses; as well as find and schedule equipment trucks.
They also needed pre- and post- transportation to Ford Field from their hotel, supported by police escorts. All went smoothly, except the Browns lost the game. The lesson for logistics professionals? Plan well in advance, but always be ready for the worst contingencies and be prepared to change quickly.
