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The Ultimate Guide to Optimizing Reverse Logistics and Maximizing Profits

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The Transformative Role of Reverse Logistics in E-Commerce

The e-commerce sector is evolving rapidly, driven by changing consumer demands and fluctuating market dynamics. As companies strive to meet customer expectations for faster, cheaper, and more flexible services, the efficiency of supply chains has become a critical success factor. Amid this transformation, a crucial yet often overlooked element of supply chain management has emerged in prominence: reverse logistics. This process, which deals with the return of products from customers back to warehouses or retail locations, is a key driver of operational flexibility, cost efficiency, environmental sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

Reverse logistics is no longer just an afterthought. As consumers become increasingly aware of their rights to returns and exchanges and more conscious of environmental concerns, businesses must prioritize robust reverse logistics systems to stay competitive. Understanding how reverse logistics works, its differences from traditional logistics, and its impact on business operations can equip companies with the tools to enhance customer loyalty and profitability.


What is Reverse Logistics?

Reverse logistics refers to the management of products as they flow backward through the supply chain, from the end consumer to the retailer or manufacturer. These products may be returned due to defects, the need for exchanges, or simply buyer’s remorse. Once received, the products are inspected, categorized, and either resold, refurbished, recycled, or, in cases where no other option exists, disposed of responsibly.

Far from being merely about managing returns, reverse logistics encompasses exchanges, product recalls, recycling programs, and initiatives for refurbishing and redistributing goods. Companies that excel in reverse logistics use it not only to recover costs but also to enhance customer satisfaction and comply with environmental regulations. For instance, brands like Apple have made reverse logistics a core part of their operations, refurbishing returned products and reselling them as certified pre-owned devices.

When implemented strategically, reverse logistics has the power to enhance customer trust, reduce waste, and improve a company’s bottom line. However, doing so requires understanding its nuances and integrating it seamlessly into broader supply chain processes.


Traditional Logistics vs. Reverse Logistics

Traditional logistics, also known as forward logistics, focuses on the movement of goods from the manufacturer to the end customer. It involves production, inventory management, warehousing, and distribution. In contrast, reverse logistics operates in the opposite direction, beginning with the customer and moving backward to the supplier or manufacturer.

The key distinction lies in complexity. While forward logistics is relatively linear, reverse logistics must account for additional challenges like tracking returns, assessing the condition of products, managing restocking or recycling processes, and ensuring proper disposal of unusable items. Furthermore, reverse logistics often involves coordination across multiple touchpoints, including retail locations, warehouses, and third-party logistics providers.

The increasing volume of e-commerce returns—estimated at over 20% of all online purchases—has highlighted the need for efficient reverse logistics. Poorly managed returns can erode profits and damage customer relationships. Conversely, a well-executed reverse logistics strategy can help businesses recover value from returned goods, enhance customer satisfaction, and establish a competitive edge in the market.


The Importance of Reverse Logistics in Modern E-Commerce

As e-commerce continues to dominate global retail, the emphasis on reverse logistics has grown. Today’s digital marketplace is marked by high customer expectations for easy returns and exchanges. In addition, environmental concerns have prompted companies to rethink their end-of-life product strategies.

A robust reverse logistics system impacts several critical areas of a business:

  • Customer Satisfaction: An easy and transparent return process builds trust and encourages repeat purchases. Studies show that customers are more likely to shop with a retailer that offers hassle-free returns.
  • Cost Efficiency: By streamlining the returns process and recovering value from returned products, businesses can reduce costs associated with waste, storage, and inventory replenishment.
  • Sustainability: Properly managing returned goods—whether through recycling, refurbishing, or eco-friendly disposal—helps companies meet environmental goals and regulatory requirements.
  • Brand Reputation: A company’s approach to returns and recycling reflects its commitment to customer service and sustainability, which can enhance brand loyalty and attract environmentally conscious consumers.

The importance of reverse logistics goes beyond short-term gains; it’s a strategic imperative for businesses looking to thrive in the competitive e-commerce landscape.


Strategies for Minimizing Returns and Maximizing Profits

Given the challenges of managing returns, companies must adopt proactive measures to minimize return rates and optimize the reverse logistics process.

1. Enhancing Product Quality and Consistency

The first step to reducing returns is ensuring that products meet or exceed customer expectations. Implementing stringent quality control measures during manufacturing can prevent defects and inconsistencies from reaching consumers. By sourcing materials from reliable suppliers and conducting regular product testing, businesses can maintain high standards of quality.

Take Toyota, for instance, whose rigorous quality control processes have helped it maintain a reputation for reliability. Such measures not only reduce returns but also foster customer loyalty and trust.

2. Providing Accurate Product Information

Mismatched expectations are a leading cause of returns in e-commerce. Providing detailed and accurate product descriptions, along with high-quality images, can help customers make informed decisions. For fashion retailers, offering comprehensive sizing charts and virtual fitting tools can significantly reduce return rates.

Brands like ASOS and Zappos have successfully reduced returns by investing in tools that provide personalized sizing recommendations and showcase products from multiple angles. Additionally, user reviews and Q&A sections allow potential buyers to address their concerns before purchasing.

3. Improving Customer Support

Accessible and responsive customer support can resolve issues without necessitating a return. By offering multiple support channels—such as live chat, email, and phone—businesses can address customer concerns quickly and effectively.

Proactive communication is equally important. Notifying customers about shipping delays or product issues in advance can prevent misunderstandings that lead to returns. Amazon’s success in this area is a testament to the value of keeping customers informed throughout the purchasing journey.

4. Leveraging Data and Feedback

Return data provides valuable insights into why products are being sent back. By analyzing patterns and soliciting customer feedback, companies can identify problem areas and implement corrective actions. For example, if a particular product has a high return rate, the company can investigate whether the issue lies in its design, quality, or description.

Brands like Dell use return data and customer feedback to continuously improve their products and services, demonstrating the power of data-driven decision-making in reverse logistics.


Leveraging Technology for Reverse Logistics

Technology plays a pivotal role in streamlining reverse logistics. Advanced tools such as AI-driven analytics, real-time tracking systems, and automated notifications can enhance efficiency and improve the customer experience.

  • AI Analytics: Predictive analytics can forecast return volumes, enabling companies to allocate resources effectively and optimize return processes.
  • Real-Time Tracking: Providing customers with visibility into the status of their returns builds trust and transparency.
  • Automation: Automating routine tasks, such as return label generation and refund processing, reduces operational costs and speeds up the return process.

Companies that invest in technology are better equipped to handle the complexities of reverse logistics while maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.


Sustainability in Reverse Logistics

In an era of heightened environmental awareness, sustainability is a key consideration for reverse logistics. Businesses are increasingly adopting circular economy principles, which prioritize reusing and recycling products to minimize waste.

For example, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program encourages customers to return used clothing for repair or resale. This not only extends the lifecycle of products but also reinforces the company’s commitment to sustainability.

By integrating eco-friendly practices into reverse logistics, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint while enhancing their brand image.


Case Study: LogixPlatform’s Approach to Reverse Logistics

LogixPlatform offers a comprehensive reverse logistics solution designed to address the unique challenges of e-commerce. Its platform integrates advanced technologies, such as AI-driven analytics and real-time tracking, to streamline the return process and optimize resource allocation.

Key features of LogixPlatform’s solution include:

  • Centralized Returns Management: A unified dashboard for tracking and managing returns across multiple channels.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Tools for assessing the environmental impact of returned products and implementing recycling programs.
  • Customer-Centric Features: User-friendly interfaces and automated notifications that enhance the return experience.

By leveraging these capabilities, LogixPlatform enables businesses to turn reverse logistics into a competitive advantage.


Conclusion

Reverse logistics is no longer a secondary concern for e-commerce businesses; it’s a strategic necessity. From improving customer satisfaction to enhancing sustainability and reducing costs, the benefits of a well-executed reverse logistics strategy are immense.

As consumer expectations continue to evolve, businesses must adopt proactive measures to minimize returns and optimize their reverse logistics processes. By investing in quality control, accurate product information, responsive customer support, and advanced technology, companies can navigate the complexities of reverse logistics with ease.

In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, staying ahead requires a holistic approach to supply chain management—one that includes a robust and efficient reverse logistics system. For businesses seeking to enhance their capabilities, platforms like LogixPlatform offer the tools and insights needed to succeed. With the right strategies and technologies, reverse logistics can become a cornerstone of growth and sustainability in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

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Out-of-Home Delivery: A New Era in Logistics and E-Commerce

In the ever-changing world of logistics, innovation is the driving force behind consumer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Among the latest advancements, Out-of-Home (OOH) delivery solutions are transforming how businesses cater to consumer needs. By providing flexible, convenient options such as lockers, retail stores, and dedicated pick-up points, OOH delivery addresses the challenges of traditional home delivery while responding to the increasing demands of e-commerce.

The rise of OOH delivery solutions reflects a global shift in how logistics providers and retailers approach the “last mile” of delivery. In regions such as Europe, the trend has gained significant traction. According to the European Out-of-Home Delivery Options Survey 2022, an impressive 65% of consumers have used OOH delivery services at least once, signaling its growing importance in the logistics ecosystem.

This article delves into the fundamentals of OOH delivery, explores its benefits, and highlights best practices for businesses looking to integrate such solutions into their operations. We’ll also examine the evolving consumer landscape, the role of technology in advancing these services, and how companies like LogixPlatform are leading the charge with innovative PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) solutions.


What is Out-of-Home Delivery?

At its core, Out-of-Home delivery refers to the practice of delivering parcels to specific locations where consumers can collect them at their convenience. These locations range from parcel lockers and convenience stores to post offices and purpose-built pick-up points. Unlike traditional home delivery, where the consumer is required to be available to receive a package, OOH delivery gives recipients the flexibility to choose when and where they retrieve their parcels.

The popularity of OOH delivery can be attributed to shifting consumer preferences, particularly among urban populations with unpredictable schedules. As lifestyles grow busier and the volume of online shopping continues to climb, OOH delivery offers a practical solution that benefits both consumers and logistics providers.


Why OOH Delivery is Booming

The growth of OOH delivery solutions is a response to the challenges inherent in home delivery. Failed delivery attempts, inconvenient delivery windows, and growing urban congestion have exposed inefficiencies in traditional methods. For consumers, OOH delivery represents freedom and convenience. For retailers and logistics companies, it is an opportunity to optimize operations, reduce costs, and improve sustainability.

A study by McKinsey & Company found that 70% of consumers prefer OOH delivery options because of the flexibility they offer. This preference is particularly strong in urban areas, where population density and traffic make doorstep delivery less practical. For businesses, offering multiple delivery options helps tap into this growing demand while improving the customer experience.


The Benefits of OOH Delivery: Transforming the Last Mile

The benefits of OOH delivery extend beyond convenience for the consumer. It offers retailers and logistics providers new ways to improve efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction.

1. Convenience and Flexibility for Consumers

OOH delivery gives customers the freedom to select a location that suits their lifestyle. This is especially beneficial for individuals who are frequently away from home or have irregular schedules. With options like 24/7 parcel lockers or retail pick-up points, consumers are no longer restricted by delivery times or concerns about missed packages.

The European OOH Delivery Options Survey 2022 reported that urban customers are particularly enthusiastic about these solutions, with many preferring pick-up points near their workplace or along their commute. This convenience not only reduces the stress associated with online shopping but also encourages repeat purchases.

2. Improved Customer Satisfaction

Offering OOH delivery enhances the customer experience by providing more options and reducing the likelihood of delivery delays or failures. According to the same survey, 50% of retailers observed increased conversion rates after integrating OOH delivery into their checkout process.

The reliability of OOH delivery—thanks to fewer missed deliveries and secure storage options—further contributes to customer satisfaction. When consumers have a smooth and predictable delivery experience, they are more likely to remain loyal to the retailer.

3. Cost Savings for Logistics Providers

From an operational perspective, OOH delivery helps logistics companies consolidate multiple deliveries into a single location, such as a locker bank or retail pick-up point. This not only increases drop density but also reduces fuel consumption and the time spent navigating residential areas.

Research shows that logistics providers can reduce last-mile delivery costs by up to 20% through OOH solutions. These cost savings, combined with increased efficiency, make OOH delivery an attractive proposition for businesses looking to scale their operations sustainably.

4. Enhanced Sustainability

Sustainability is a growing concern in the logistics industry, and OOH delivery contributes to greener operations. By optimizing routes and consolidating deliveries, logistics providers can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Fewer failed delivery attempts and the use of eco-friendly transport methods further enhance the environmental benefits of OOH solutions.

Retailers and logistics companies adopting OOH delivery are also in a better position to align with consumers’ growing preference for sustainable shopping practices. Highlighting these efforts can enhance brand image and appeal to environmentally conscious customers.

5. Stronger Customer Loyalty

The impact of OOH delivery on customer loyalty is measurable. Retailers implementing these solutions have reported a significant increase in their Net Promoter Score (NPS), with 57% of businesses observing a rise after introducing OOH delivery. This indicates that customers are not only satisfied with the service but are also more likely to recommend it to others.


Best Practices for Implementing OOH Delivery

Integrating OOH delivery into your logistics strategy requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some best practices to ensure a successful implementation:

Seamless Integration at Checkout

The checkout process is a critical touchpoint for offering OOH delivery. Retailers should ensure that customers can easily view and select available pick-up locations. Interactive maps and filters that display nearby options are particularly effective. Clarity and simplicity are essential to avoid frustrating customers or deterring them from completing their purchase.

Clear Communication and Instructions

Clear communication is vital to building trust and ensuring a smooth customer experience. Retailers should provide detailed instructions on how to pick up parcels, including notifications and reminders about parcel availability and pick-up deadlines. Visual aids, such as video guides or infographics, can further simplify the process for first-time users.

Strategic Placement of Pick-Up Points

The success of an OOH delivery network depends heavily on the strategic placement of pick-up locations. Collaborating with logistics providers to identify high-traffic areas—such as urban centers, retail hubs, and transportation terminals—can maximize convenience for customers. Businesses should also consider customer preferences, such as proximity to workplaces or residential areas.

Leveraging Advanced Technologies

Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and appeal of OOH delivery. Features like real-time tracking, automated notifications, and AI-driven analytics can improve operational performance and provide a better customer experience. For example, predictive analytics can help logistics providers forecast demand for certain pick-up locations, enabling more effective resource allocation.


The Role of PUDO Solutions in OOH Delivery

Pick-Up and Drop-Off (PUDO) solutions are at the heart of OOH delivery, enabling businesses to streamline operations and offer a seamless experience to consumers. An effective PUDO solution combines extensive network coverage, robust security, and advanced features such as real-time tracking and automated notifications.

For example, LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution exemplifies best-in-class design, offering a comprehensive network of pick-up points, a user-friendly interface, and seamless integration with e-commerce platforms. Its focus on sustainability and scalability ensures that businesses can adapt to evolving market demands while maintaining efficiency and reliability.


The Future of Out-of-Home Delivery

As e-commerce continues to evolve, the importance of OOH delivery will only grow. With urbanization, changing consumer habits, and technological advancements shaping the logistics landscape, businesses must stay ahead of the curve by adopting flexible, innovative delivery solutions.

OOH delivery is not just a response to current challenges; it is a forward-looking strategy that positions retailers and logistics providers for long-term success. By prioritizing convenience, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, businesses can build stronger relationships with their customers and remain competitive in a dynamic market.


Why LogixPlatform’s PUDO Solution Stands Out

For businesses seeking a reliable and scalable OOH delivery solution, LogixPlatform’s PUDO offering sets the benchmark. With features like real-time tracking, secure storage, and intuitive user interfaces, it provides a seamless experience for both retailers and consumers. The solution’s commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency further enhances its value, making it a smart choice for businesses of all sizes.

By choosing LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution, retailers can unlock the full potential of OOH delivery, ensuring satisfied customers, reduced costs, and a positive environmental impact. As the logistics industry continues to innovate, solutions like these will be at the forefront of shaping the future of delivery. Learn more about how LogixPlatform can elevate your delivery capabilities, click here for detailed insights into our PUDO solutions.

Elevating Logistics Excellence: Leveraging Shipping APIs for Seamless Operations

Automate Return Process

Introduction :

In the dynamic landscape of e-commerce and logistics, precision in order processing and shipping logistics is imperative for sustaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. This business case encapsulates the transformative journey of two distinct entities – an e-commerce company grappling with burgeoning sales and a mid-sized logistics firm endeavoring to optimize shipping processes. Through the implementation of the LogixPlatform and integration of shipping Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), both entities experienced remarkable improvements in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer experience.

Logistics Firm Optimizing Shipping Operations

Challenges Faced:

A mid-sized logistics company confronted obstacles in optimizing shipping processes:

  1. Manual Order Entry :Tedious manual order handling led to delays, errors, and increased operational costs.
  2. Limited Shipment Visibility:Inadequate insights into shipment statuses hindered effective tracking and communication with carriers.
  3. Customer Demand for Real-time Tracking:Customers sought real-time tracking updates and a seamless shipping experience.

Solution Implemented :

To address these challenges, the logistics company integrated shipping APIs into their LogixPlatform:
  1. API Integration : Shipping APIs from major carriers were seamlessly integrated, facilitating functionalities such as rate calculation, label generation, shipment tracking, and address validation.
  2. Order Automation : Orders were automatically processed and transmitted to the appropriate carrier, eliminating manual entry and reducing error risks.
  3. Real-time Tracking :Customers could track their shipments in real-time through a dedicated mobile app, receiving timely updates on shipment status milestones.
  4. Rate Shopping and Label Generation : Shipping APIs enabled real-time rate comparison and automated label generation, optimizing costs and ensuring compliance with carrier requirements.

Results Achieved :

The integration of LogixPlatform shipping APIs yielded significant business outcomes:
  1. Enhanced Efficiency: Manual order entry was eradicated, leading to streamlined operations and reduced error rates.
  2. Improved Customer Experience: Real-time tracking and seamless shipping processes bolstered customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  3. Cost Savings:Rate shopping capabilities enabled the selection of the most cost-effective shipping options, enhancing profitability.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the integration of LogixPlatform and shipping APIs exemplifies the transformative potential of technological solutions in revolutionizing logistics and e-commerce operations. By surmounting operational hurdles, both entities realized enhanced efficiency, cost savings, and elevated customer satisfaction, underscoring the pivotal role of technological innovation in driving business growth and competitiveness in today’s digital era.

Optimizing E-commerce Logistics: Focused Efficiency and Customer Satisfaction

Automate Return Process
 

Introduction :

In the fast-paced realm of online commerce, effective logistics and fulfillment play a pivotal role in ensuring customer satisfaction and business success. This case study delves into the challenges faced by a burgeoning e-commerce enterprise and the transformative solutions provided by the LogixPlatform, illustrating a paradigm shift from manual processes to automated efficiency.

 

Challenges Faced :

A burgeoning e-commerce entity encountered a series of logistical hurdles amidst its rapid sales expansion:

  1. Inefficient Order Processing : Manual handling of orders resulted in errors and delays, impeding timely fulfillment.
  2. Inventory Management Woes : Real-time inventory visibility was lacking, leading to instances of stockouts and overstock.
  3. Rising Shipping Costs: Inaccurate shipping calculations and suboptimal carrier selections inflated shipping expenditures, eroding profit margins.
  4. Customer Experience Impact : Delays in order fulfillment and shipping inaccuracies tarnished the customer journey, adversely affecting satisfaction and retention rates.

Solution Implemented :

To counter these challenges, the company embraced the LogixPlatform, a comprehensive logistical solution offering the following benefits:
  1. Automated Order Processing : Seamless integration with the e-commerce platform automated order processing, slashing errors and processing time significantly.
  2. Real-time Inventory Management : The LogixPlatform furnished real-time visibility into inventory levels across distribution channels, empowering optimized stock level adjustments and mitigating stockout scenarios.
  3. Optimized Shipping Strategies: Leveraging integration with diverse shipping carriers, the platform facilitated automated selection of the most cost-effective shipping methods, factoring in variables such as weight, destination, and delivery timeframe, thereby reducing shipping costs and enhancing delivery efficiency.
  4. Enhanced Customer Experience: With expedited order processing and precise shipping information dissemination, the company elevated the customer journey, affording timely updates and expedited delivery, culminating in heightened satisfaction rates.

Results Achieved :

The integration of the LogixPlatform precipitated tangible business outcomes:
  1. Efficiency Gains : Order processing time plummeted by 50%, enabling the company to seamlessly accommodate escalated order volumes sans an uptick in staffing.
  2. Cost Savings : Shipping costs witnessed a notable 20% reduction, attributable to optimized carrier selections and precise shipping calculations.
  3. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction:Logix On-time delivery rates surged by 30%, underscoring a marked improvement in customer contentment and retention metrics.

Challenges Faced :

This case study underscores the pivotal role of streamlined logistics and fulfillment in catalyzing e-commerce success. By leveraging the LogixPlatform, the company not only overcame logistical bottlenecks but also ushered in a new era of operational efficiency and elevated customer experience, laying a robust foundation for sustained growth and market leadership in the dynamic realm of online commerce.

Automates Return process of renowned eCommerce Business in Egypt

Automate Return Process

A Platform that automates automates the exchange and return process of ecommerce businesses. In their platform, users can order their exchange or return process in less than 3 minutes.They have their own platform to receive their delivery orders and assign them to 3rd party carriers.

Business Requirements :

This eCommerce business was in search Software platform where they can connect with other carriers to deliver their orders and to offer real-time tracking data.

Business Challenge :

  • They had multiple API gateways but were not able to find an API platform where they could connect with their local carriers.
  • They were working with their own site where they were receiving orders and the main challenge was to show on a real-time basis how their orders could be assigned to local carriers and from local carriers how they could get tracking and showcase on their site.
  • They were having a requirement to support multiple languages for tracking histories because in tracking they are working with different carriers in different languages.

Logix Platform Solutions :

  • Logix Platform is offering a solution that helps this platform in connecting with all of their local carriers, able to receive order details and assign those orders to their local carriers.
  • With Logix Platform, this business will get more scope in the future to connect with other carriers across the globe.
  • Logix Platform managed to provide real-time tracking data to present on their website.
  • We assured that Logix Platform will support multiple languages to work with and we have mapped the tracking histories in different languages as per user’s requirements on their website..

Benefits With Logix Platform :

  • They are able to push all orders through the Logix Platform and assign them to respective local carriers, and on a real-time basis through the Logix Platform, they could fetch tracking history to show on their website successfully.
  • Logix Platform is offering a customizable Logistics Software Solution with Cloud-based integrations and Mobile app support to manage and track your orders on a single platform.
  • Logix Platform helps to increase the productivity and efficiency of 3PL warehouse operations beginning with receiving materials or products at the warehouse and ending when an order is filled and shipped.
  • Logix Platform provides the latest IT and automation for 3PL companies which allows better tracking of shipments through each stage of the process.

3PL Courier Business Case Study

3PL Courier Business

This is a third-party 3PL courier service provider that helps online merchants to grow their business by effortlessly shipping the products to the doorsteps at a best possible price with the help of courier service providers.

1. Business Challenge :

  • Manage data transaction among multiple 3PL courier service providers and get a centralized tracking for the end-users.
  • Routing different set of waybills data and hand over to different 3PL carriers for delivery.
  • Merchant or carrier invoice accounting against waybills and reconciliation.
  • Provide access to customers for waybill creation and different carrier wise label printing.
  • Single admin dashboard to summarize the entire business at a single glance.

2. How LogixGRID addressed the challenge?

Logixgrid offered logixERP to manage its domestic courier business and outlined the scope of international business. LogixERP has been already pre-integrated with multiple 3 PL carriers to exchange waybill create and fetch tracking details which helped them to easy submit waybill data to Express Bees carrier for delivery.

In LogixERP customers have a privilege to provide portal access to their clients for bulk waybill upload, tracking, tariff calculation, pickup schedule and other which made entire process automated to deal with customers and independently.

LogixERP incorporated COD remittance and carrier invoice accounting module waybill wise where advance tally can be done including ledger, voucher, PNL, and balance sheet.

3. Benefits realized :

  • Having an automated process, overall productivity has been increased.
  • Complete transparency between the service provider and the customers.
  • A better experience in case of 3PL carrier management.

A leading Courier Business of East Africa (Kenya)

G4S Kenya Automation

They are the leading courier business, logistics arm of business for a renowned company in Kenya. It offers third party logistics, warehousing& distribution and courier for Covers, Parcels and Mailbags.

1. Business Facts :

  • Market share : 58% – 60% of the Kenya courier market share.
  • Foot Print : Branch network- of 145 operational service centers and over 200 destinations covering daily countrywide.
  • Human resource : Workforce of over 1,200 Skilled and well trained man power where drivers and riders have over 7 years of active driving.
  • Experience in courier industry : Over 45 Years of experience in provision of courier solutions.
  • Capacity/Infrastructure : Fleet of over 200 ideal courier Motorcycles and over 200 Vehicles of different load capacities. One main hub, warehouses and four mini hubs in the regions.
  • Certification : ISO 9001:2018 Certified.
  • Shipments : Over six million shipments delivered yearly.
  • Clients served by industry : Banking, Agricultural, Pharmaceuticals, e-Commerce, Telecom, Motor and wholesale and retail industries among others.
  • Technology : Logistics Management system that has a track and trace capability that can be accessed through web or mobile app.

2. About Automation :

Thier management took up automation to improve productivity and increase customer confidence towards business products. The major components that were reviewed to ensure automation delivered success to the business were;

(a) Challenges faced and Customer requirements :

As a third party logistics various demands on automation come from customers with different needs/requirements. The business also required a productivity measuring tool to increase its productivity. Here are the challenges and requirements-

  • Lack of an effective end to end track and trace system that offers single source of track and trace.
  • Additional security and controls on to shipments by use of technology.
  • Lack of a seamless handshake between client system and their system.
  • Revenue leakages.
  • Movement of physical POD to requester station.
  • Manual keeping of records.
  • Longer time to close a call on track and trace.
  • Loss on man hours on track and trace.
  • Lack of mobility with the legacy system.

(b) About solution :

They contracted Logixgrid Technologies LTD to offer a solution to the above challenges. Logixgrid offered Logixgrid ERP application to address all above challenges/requirement. The Solution offers,

  • A web application that offers both back end and front end operations.
  • Matrix Mobile app that brings mobility to the applications where crews can capture data at client premises.
  • courier app – This a consumer facing mobile app where consumer can track and trace,get contacts and locations for service centers, get quotation and reports upon sign up to the app.
  • Customer portal – A web application and with consumer facing portal. It does enable consumer to; track and trace, get reports, invoices and making picking requests at his/her comfort of his laptop/Tablet/computer.
  • Tracking widget that is embedded at thier website for track and trace.
  • Web service API’s for shipments creation and track and trace.

(c) Impact/benefits :

Upon deployment the business has accrued the following benefits-

  • Better track and trace system.
  • Sealing of revenue leakages.
  • Better internal shipments reconciliation tool.
  • Better tool for productivity measure on resources.
  • Better stationary management.
  • Additional product such as COD services to customers/merchants.
  • Increased penetration to e-Commerce industry through seamless data exchange of both client and LogixERP.
  • Improved customer satisfaction.
  • Better tools for data mining and warehousing for decision support.

Inventory & Delivery Business – Ghana

Eagle Express

They are logistics service provider experienced in the management of courier/dispatch operations. With licensed by the Postal and Courier Services Regulatory Commission (PCSRC) to provide courier services within Ghana. They are here to bridge the gap within your value/service chain by ensuring seamless communication with your stakeholders through the carriage/delivery of your documents, parcels, articles etc. They serve clients operating in sectors including Manufacturing, Banking & Finance, Pharmaceuticals, NGO’s, Insurance, Retail, Education/Professional Bodies and E-commerce. They have consistently supported firms in these industries by providing bespoke and complex services including Cash on Delivery (COD) for leading e-commerce giants.

1. The Challenge :

As they caters all logistics operations in Ghana and while managing their operations they were facing huge challenges while keeping their customers satisfied.

Delivery Automation : With the increasing customers the major challenge was to automate the delivery process and collect the POD signature.

Automation of Logistics Operation : Managing logistics manually was costing manpower and was time consuming for country and outside the country.

Auto-Pickup Scheduling : Give access to customers for auto-pickup schedule.

Mobility Solutions : To manage delivery and pickups the need for the mobility solutions for the field employees was a need.

Customer App : To track shipments and download reports the requirement for the customer app was required to increase the productivity.

2. Solution :

LogixGRID offered LogixERP, a cloud based logistics management system. To streamline existing business LogixGRID suggested mobility solution with hand-held devices to scan packages at every step of operation and Incorporated COD remittance and delivery run sheet helped them to cop up with the last mile delivery challenges. When they could digitize the complete process, having next concern about satisfying clients and transparency in the process LogixGRID offered different modes of tracking which could be visible in the Customer’s website and end user could track shipment from mobile application. With LogixERP they was able to automate the delivery operations and collect digital signature for POD, automation of all logistics operations across the country and outside as well. LogixERP hosts a feature that gives access to the customers to schedule their pickup and delivery which helped Logix Customers to focus on other areas of their services. Mobile app and customized mobility solutions helped the field employees to manage deliveries and customer app helps customer to download reports and track shipments on their own.

3. Benefits :

  • Automated logistics business.
  • Ease of doing business.
  • Increased Profitability.
  • Time saver.

3PL & Cross Border Duties And Tax Calculation – Malaysia

ADS Malaysia

This company has been around since 2008 serving industrial and trading customers on international airfreight and express needs. They customized services into three sectors Sourcing, Management and Distribution to better assist our customers in managing and plan their supply chain and delivery model and trailering e-Commerce logistics also.

Business Challenges :

Their services are very distinguished and prime where they connect every corners of the world at a single delivery point and there were multiple difficulties came up to take care in terms of IT implementations. Region wise different duties and tax calculation and since there was a large networking with multiple carriers across borders, managing such a big network would become a real challenge with each and every remarks and locating the shipment when moving across one part of the continent to another though multiple carriers and fulfilling the e-Com requirement from several locations.

LogixGRID sorted process in a figurative way and offered global customer portal where their customers could schedule a pickup, create shipments, print label, track and export business report from anywhere in the world. Secondly to connect with others players and exchange information through API integration made things possible. Where they could easily route the shipments to the particular carrier and system would auto calculate the rate as per third party carrier contracts.

Now If you’re constantly having custom issue in both importing and exporting, no status updates, late delivery, run out of inventory space, too many last mile deliveries company to handle, this organization is able to help you.

Logistics Management System – Track Shipments Live On Website

Logistics Management System

A company can pick up from and delivery to any location in India. Five hundred strong truck fleet uses direct services not relays and break bulks. Company’s warehouses are located at strategic points and cities across India, encompassing a total land mass of 1 mil sq. feet. Company’s presence in more than 40 locations in India having 100 work force more than 35 operating units and warehouses. Company is compatible to cover 50 lacs KMs and handle 2 lacs ton cargo per year respectively.

1. Business Challenges :

Company have had been running transport business earlier with traditional method but while in operation of courier business provision of traditional retail booking shipments would cause delay in delivery. Company’s prime objective to render the best service among existing other companies seemed to be dull.

Decentralized process to connect multiple offices at one system for which company was not able to help client in making the delivery of shipments at the assigned destination in a safer, faster and most reliable manner.

Inflexible and sloppy accounting pulled down company’s growth plotted decline graph of stock and cash flow management.

It became difficult to trace the shipment on time and disengagement of customer started showing falling in business. Lack of latest cloud based technology and mobility solution in order to help clients in tracking their consignment lively and monitor each and every movement, in other hand status of tracing consignment to be auto communicated with the clients.

Higher service cost relatively other companies because of having no flat rate and mile payment to keep the price low.

2. How Logixgrid addressed the challenges?

Logixgrid proposed new age system logixERP to improve customer services by providing on time delivery report, quick booking and in house pick up helped them to speed up services along with mobility solution to the pickup and delivery person process and execute functions from anywhere.

Company was given a single cloud platform to manage both of their transport, courier and cargo companies, aside from one system was incorporated to monitor and manage multiple brunches where data of accounts, cash flow could be synchronized and exchanged among several distribution centers through single system.

Logixgrid has integrated their website with logixERP tracking system and made their website live where clients could easily track their shipments with each shipment movement and get the updated status either by SMS or Email.

Geo-mapping and route optimization which enabled to calculate the distance and digital COD makes a secure delivery overall.

3. Benefits realized :

  • Reduced operating cost.
  • Increased dispatch and delivery boy or pick up boy productivity.
  • Improved retail booking process.
  • Enabled centralized integrated system.
  • Enhance field activity and extension of tracking.
  • Organized stock management.
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