The logistics sector plays a major role in the world of import and export, and rightfully so. Besides saving precious time and costs, a well-coordinated logistics plan can also minimise the occurrence of unnecessary mistakes, and ultimately, consequences of errors.

 

How do you build up a good logistics system, then?

Technology is a major factor that can help aid logistical processes. There is a wide range of logistics software in the market, all of which can be leveraged to boost your logistical operations and increase productivity. For example, good logistics software can help with freight forwarding, transport, distribution, supply chain, warehouse optimisation and more.

As your business expands, so will your operational and administration demands. Your business will need to handle inventory management, customer fulfilment, stock levels and manufacturing – imagine the amount of data and spreadsheets! A software can band all these together. You will be able to check your stocks, see which items are the most popular, and your customers will be able to view their orders too. This saves time, effort, and – most importantly – minimises mistakes so that you can focus on the other aspects of your business. According to Mr Adrian Tang, managing director of Champ Electronics & Systems, in a case study on the Singapore Infocomm Guide website (www.infocommguide.com), the electronic components dealer was looking into a warehouse automation system. The bar-coding system would help his staff keep track of stock in an organised manner, which would in turn eradicate instances of obsolete products and unnecessary losses.

If you’re a new start-up, or a small to mid-sized business that is still relying on spreadsheets, invoices, emails or even fax or letters and hasn’t fully embarked on the logistics software bandwagon, here are some of the key systems that you can explore:

1. Warehouse Optimisation: Unleash the Full Potential of Your Warehouse

Warehouse optimisation plays a crucial role in the logistics and supply chain sector. A typical warehouse management software can help staff streamline product placements, prioritise tasks, maximise productivity standards and increase logistical efficiency and minimise unnecessary errors and costs. There are a great number of advantages that come along with a warehouse management software, and this includes real-time inventory control, improved shipping accuracy, cross-docking, yard management, and most importantly, improved customer service – your customers can now track and trace their orders on their own, any time they need to.

2. Transportation and Distribution Solutions

Technology can make it easier for you to deliver your goods, and even help you coordinate your schedules, routes and avert hazards. These optimised inbound and outbound transportation processes will enable companies to enhance customer service and reduce overheads at the same time. A transport and distribution software eliminates the bulk of the use for error-prone manual work, right from ordering to hassle-free transport planning and delivery, all the way to billing. Likewise with warehouse optimisation, a good transportation and distribution solution enables customers to track their orders.

3. Overcome Challenges of Complex Operations with Yard Management

A yard management software enables companies to connect all logistical activities and improve the flow of goods by managing the movement of goods throughout the supply chain process. Examples include reducing dock congestion, optimising door utilisation and real-time visibility on the yard and yard inventory. Such a system can be used together with existing systems like the abovementioned transportation management and warehouse management solutions to boost efficiency and enhance accuracy during operations.

4. Reduce Supply Chain Costs through Supply Chain Inventory Management

Major shippers around the world are all using technology to eliminate inefficiencies throughout the supply chain to ensure smooth planning and execution of operations. A good supply chain management software can help users enhance inventory data collection, minimise delays and improve sales orders.

5. Get the Most Out of Cloud-Based Solutions

A cloud-based logistics software can provide real-time data to businesses and customers, regardless of location or time zone. This flexibility also proves to be extremely effective for business who are looking into global expansion as relevant information is made available to involved parties at any time, from anywhere.