Technology has become the backbone of the modern freight business but we have yet to see its full use by companies. The increasing influence of technology solutions and the dependence on technology for everyday work has made technology the differentiating factor in the freight business. Cloud-based solutions are making inroads like never before and companies have either migrated to it or making plans to do so in the near future.
Global players are leaning toward cloud-based solutions as a means to enable on-demand service capabilities that can be expanded with a growing business. Technology has made possible the rapid increase in service capabilities with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.
To use cloud or one’s own servers and networks is a matter of choice. However, the popularity of cloud is gathering momentum due to its affordability. It drastically reduces the dependence of maintaining your own data center and resources.
An ERP platform, which combines all the operations and functions of a freight forwarder into one integrated system, works out best for the business. Freight companies need software solutions that integrate the business under a single unified data repository and provide improved visibility across clients, agents and the supply chain. The unified data repository would make the seamless flow of information across the organization and stakeholders possible as the ERP solution would combine various operations across branches under one system.
The core functions of an ERP solution makes it the best fit for freight companies to drive their business. Significant gains can result from more efficient operations brought about by the technology. Companies will be able to lower costs and operate with greater efficiency.
The technology allows companies to offer a higher level of customer service through better communication and issue resolution. Disruptions can be resolved faster and, in many cases, can be prevented.
Technology creates a flexible ecosystem where multiple parties can communicate easily even as the freight is in transit and collaborate on how to best overcome challenges to its movement and delivery while still meeting customer’s expectations.
A company is assured of performing its due diligence to meet government regulatory and compliance requirements with automated processes provided within the ERP system.
ERP standardizes the reporting system and makes it accessible any time, in most cases on demand. Centralized data helps in analysis of trends, identification of recurring problems, and reveal cost-saving options that are missed otherwise.
Companies that rely on technology to help streamline their freight operations acquire a competitive advantage and can look forward to rapid business growth opportunities. The benefits of technology are real and achievable as it becomes the differentiating factor that helps businesses to be more stable, compliant, and cost efficient.
