After a tumultuous 2020, many industries have been turned upside down: from live entertainment to airlines, hotels, and even college basketball. And of course, there’s the global supply chain. While you’ve undoubtedly felt the pinch, did you know that in March of 2021, only 40% of global container ships arrived on time? The truth is, our industry has never faced a steeper climb to regain customer trust and offset the impact of delays and a year of logistical nightmares. In times like these, every opportunity must be explored and every tool taken advantage of. That includes software.
So what impact does freight forwarder software have on the supply chain?
Let’s break down why transportation management systems matter for supply chain efficiencies and beyond. It’s time to regain control of your industry and emerge from 2021 victorious.
What’s The Link?
If you’re unfamiliar, a transportation management (TMS) system is a one-stop shop for all things logistics. A TMS platform uses technology to help small and large operations alike project manage, execute, and optimize the physical movement of goods.
Simply put, if you work in supply chain management, regardless of your division, you need a transportation management system. Why? Well, TMS impacts every aspect of the supply chain process. From planning to product lifecycle management to billing and complex logistics, TMS centralizes every step. Linking every step of the process allows you to work comprehensively and cohesively from a singular platform. Avoid miscommunication, redundancies, and increase project visibility company and client-wide.
Streamline & Optimize
Let’s get specific. The supply chain lifecycle is complex and, like most industries, demands top-notch customer service. These platforms allow customers a clear view into their freight, eliminating confusion and, depending on your system, even allowing for real-time communication between customers, carriers, distributors, and warehouses. TMS even allows professionals to navigate complex trade policies and compliance processes that may differ from country to country. When your job’s already tough, TMS makes the legwork easier and the confusion minimal.
Perhaps most importantly, TMS allows for supply chain optimization. In the planning process, TMS helps you choose the best mode of shipment and the best carrier based on distance, efficiency, and of course, cost. But it doesn’t stop at phase one. A strong TMS solution also optimizes freight forwarding in execution. What does that mean? Let TMS match loads and communicate with carriers, document and track shipments, and automate billing. The premiere TMS also provides data and analytics dashboards to assess shipments post-mortem and, if necessary, make strategic changes to your overall operation.
Why Single Platform?
There’s nothing worse than having 100 different types of management portals. Some for employees, others for clients, separate platforms depending on your rank and role, and scattered systems for both local and global freight. With TMS, everyone’s viewing the same portal. No matter your location, your freight, or your job title, we always recommend a one-stop shop.
Single platform systems help streamline communication. The last thing you want is for an important invoice or document to be saved to another dashboard entirely. Having a centralized touchpoint minimizes the risk that something essential slips through the cracks.
While it may not sound secure, great software allows for information segmentation. Although everyone’s working from the same platform, you can limit access to specific documentation for entry-level employees or external users using cloud-based software. Which brings us to our next point.
Why Cloud Technology?
As a freight forwarder, you shouldn’t be confined to problem-solving at your desk from 9-5. In an ever-changing industry within an ever-changing world, a supply chain snafu that needs immediate attention can happen at two o’clock pm…or am. No matter the time of day or time zone, TMS with cloud technology brings your workspace to you. Access essential compliance information and transportation delays wherever and whenever, on-the-go or at home. Having everything at your fingertips allows you to react in real-time. With real-time problem solving, you can prevent delays and other product and distribution issues from spiraling out of control while keeping clients satisfied and at ease.
In Sum
Over the past year, you’ve probably felt like the success of your business was just out of reach. With a mountain of uncontrollables derailing your normal routine, it’s important to take the reins over the things you can control. Freight forwarder software allows you to do just that.
From streamlining communications to remote work made easy, freight forwarder software is the link between your supply chain operation and success beyond 2021. With real-time updates and an organized workspace, you’ll breathe easier no matter the global chaos or worldwide pandemic.
CSA Software is a #1 choice for freight forwarders around the world. Increase your productivity with our complete freight management software solutions that run every aspect of a freight business utilizing the latest in Microsoft technologies. Call for your Free Demo today!