AP Cargo embraces digitization with future-proof integrated logistics suite

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Philippine express logistics service provider AP Cargo Logistics Network Corporation has tapped Indian-based software product and service provider Ramco Systems Limited to provide an integrated logistics platform that will streamline AP Cargo’s operations nationwide.

AP Cargo is spending multi-million dollars on Ramco’s integrated logistics system, bundled with its next-generation finance and human resources system. The logistics platform is an integrated cloud-based platform for third-party logistics companies, freight forwarders, and parcel/courier service providers that can link all stages of a logistics chain and bring all functionalities under a single technology platform, “which is flexible, scalable, cognitive, and ready to adapt to change,” Ramco said in a statement.

“The decision to automate our manual systems with a future-ready logistics suite is part of a larger strategy to overhaul our supply chain,” AP Cargo vice president for business operations Vincent John Villacorte said.

“Ramco’s unified solution will offer real-time operational visibility and better planning capabilities, enabling us to arrest revenue leakage and boost productivity to drive overall growth. Ramco has a great track record as a logistics software provider in the Philippines, and we are excited to work with them for our digital transformation,” he added.

Ramco Systems chief executive officer (CEO) Virender Aggarwal said: “We are pleased to announce AP Cargo as our latest customer in the logistics and shipping space. Logistics is the backbone of global trade and the Philippines has enjoyed remarkable growth in recent times. Our intelligent, mobile-friendly enterprise suite has won us the trust of customers throughout the Philippines, helping local enterprises optimize their operations and meet changing demands of commerce in the region.”

AP Cargo president and CEO Dr. Virgilio Villacorte, in a speech during the signing ceremony for the deal on August 9, said Ramco’s system will be replacing the “antiquated system” that AP Cargo has been using for years. The implementation of a new system, he added, is part of AP Cargo’s rebranding that started in 2015.

Villacorte noted that the outdated system limits the capacity of the company to handle more shipments from clients. He noted, as an example, that AP Cargo is now handling the logistics requirements of several e-commerce companies, but only portions of their needs, as its system cannot handle the demand.

Villacorte said the new integrated system will allow AP Cargo to handle the growing demand and prepare for more as it aims to open 20 more branches by 2020. Currently, AP Cargo has 80 branches, the newest being those in Siquijor and in Laoag, Ilocos Norte. Villacorte said more branches will be opened in areas “wherein we feel there is good business movement.”

Villacorte said they foresee the company’s net income increasing by more than 30% this year compared to the previous year, as the company gains from the government’s Build, Build, Build infrastructure program and the expansion of businesses to the southern part of the country.

He added that the new system can interface with the system of AP Cargo’s clients, providing real-time data and visibility to both AP Cargo and its clients. It will also allow customers to check the real-time status of their own cargoes, which means less cost for AP Cargo’s customer service, he added.

AP Cargo expects its new system to go live early next year, as the first phase for implementing the system, which will take five to six months, has already started.