LogixGRID | Logistics and Warehouse Automation Platform

The Ultimate Guide to Optimizing Reverse Logistics and Maximizing Profits

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The e-commerce sector is swiftly transforming due to shifting consumer demands and market dynamics. In this dynamic context, the efficiency of supply chains becomes a critical factor for success. A crucial yet frequently neglected element of these supply chains is reverse logistics. This component plays a significant role in enhancing a business’s operational flexibility, cost-efficiency, environmental sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Reverse logistics, which involves the process of returning products from customers back to your warehouse or store, is a crucial aspect of e-commerce management.

What is Reverse Logistics?

Reverse logistics refers to the supply chain process wherein products are returned from the end consumer to the retailer or manufacturer who originally distributed or sold them. These products are subsequently either resold, reused, or properly disposed of if they cannot be repurposed. This process encompasses returns, exchanges, and product recycling. Additionally, it may involve the redistribution of products back to the consumer through reselling, refurbishing, or recycling initiatives. Reverse logistics is crucial for businesses aiming to enhance customer satisfaction, comply with environmental regulations, and improve their bottom line by efficiently managing the flow of returned or end-of-life products. Understanding the ins and outs of reverse logistics enables you to remain competitive and maintain customer satisfaction

What’s the Difference Between Traditional Logistics and Reverse Logistics?

Traditional logistics, also known as forward logistics, involves the movement and management of goods from the point of origin (such as a manufacturer or supplier) to the end customer (such as a retailer or consumer). Reverse logistics involves the same set of procedures but starts with customers through the initial point, that is, the supplier. In comparison with traditional logistics, reverse logistics involves extra challenges like tracking returns, handling returned items, and restocking or disposing of these products.

The Importance of Focusing on Reverse Logistics

In today’s digital marketplace, the emphasis on reverse logistics is more critical than ever. Reverse logistics significantly impacts several vital operational areas, all of which contribute to the overall success of a business. For both retailers and manufacturers handling customer returns, as well as companies managing end-of-life products, a thorough understanding and strategic implementation of reverse logistics can yield numerous benefits. Here are several key reasons why focusing on reverse logistics is crucial:

Strategies for Minimizing Returns and Maximizing Profits

1. Enhance Product Quality and Consistency

Implement Stringent Quality Control: Ensuring all products meet high standards before they reach customers is crucial. Poor-quality products are one of the primary reasons for returns. Implementing robust quality control measures can significantly reduce return rates. For instance, brands like Toyota are renowned for their rigorous quality control processes, which have helped them maintain high customer satisfaction and low return rates.

Use Reliable Suppliers: Sourcing materials and components from reputable suppliers helps maintain consistency in product quality. Establishing long-term relationships with trustworthy suppliers ensures that the materials used in production are reliable and meet quality standards.

Regular Testing: Conducting regular testing and inspections to catch defects early can prevent subpar products from reaching customers. Companies like Apple and Samsung invest heavily in product testing to ensure their products meet high standards before they are shipped to customers.

2. Provide Accurate and Detailed Product Information

Clear Descriptions: Offering detailed, accurate product descriptions, specifications, and images helps customers make informed purchasing decisions. This reduces the likelihood of returns due to mismatched expectations. A study by the National Retail Federation found that 22% of returns are due to the product not matching the description.

Size Guides and Fit Information: Particularly for clothing and footwear, providing comprehensive sizing charts and fitting advice is essential. Brands like ASOS and Zappos offer detailed size guides and virtual fitting rooms to help customers choose the right size, thereby reducing return rates.

User Reviews and Q&A: Allowing customer reviews and a Q&A section helps address common concerns and questions. This transparency builds trust and aids customers in making informed choices. According to Bazaarvoice, products with reviews see a 63% increase in conversion rates, which can also lead to a decrease in returns.

3. Improve Customer Service and Support

Accessible Support Channels: Offering multiple customer support options, such as phone, email, live chat, and social media, ensures that customers can easily reach out with any issues or concerns. Providing excellent customer service can often resolve issues without necessitating a return.

Proactive Communication: Communicating order status, shipping updates, and any potential issues promptly keeps customers informed and can prevent misunderstandings that lead to returns. Companies like Amazon excel in proactive communication, which enhances the overall customer experience.

Easy Returns Process: Making the returns process straightforward but aiming to solve issues without necessitating a return can significantly improve customer satisfaction. Streamlined return processes, such as those offered by companies like Nordstrom, are a major factor in maintaining high levels of customer loyalty.

4. Analyze Return Data and Customer Feedback

Identify Return Patterns: Using return data to identify common reasons for returns and address these issues can lead to significant improvements. For example, if a particular product has a high return rate, the company can investigate and address the underlying issues.

Solicit Customer Feedback: Regularly asking for feedback from customers about their shopping experience and product satisfaction provides valuable insights. This feedback can be used to make necessary improvements to products and services.

Continuous Improvement: Using insights from data and feedback to continuously improve products and services helps companies stay competitive and reduce return rates. Companies like Dell use customer feedback to enhance their product offerings continuously.

Strategic Location Placement

The strategic placement of pick-up points in convenient and accessible locations is essential. Retailers should collaborate with logistics providers to identify high-traffic areas and popular retail spots to maximize convenience for customers.

Data from the European OOH Delivery Options Survey 2022 shows that 45% of consumers prefer pick-up points located near their workplace, while 35% prefer locations near their homes. Understanding these preferences can help retailers and logistics providers place pick-up points where they are most likely to be used.

Leveraging Technology

Utilizing advanced technologies such as real-time tracking, automated notifications, and AI-driven analytics can enhance the efficiency and reliability of OOH delivery services. These technologies help in optimizing routes, predicting customer behavior, and managing inventory at pick-up locations.

For instance, AI-driven analytics can forecast demand for certain pick-up locations, enabling logistics providers to allocate resources more effectively. Real-time tracking provides transparency, allowing customers to track their parcels throughout the delivery process, which enhances their overall experience.

Key Features of Effective PUDO Solutions

Effective PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) solutions are essential for streamlining out-of-home deliveries and ensuring a seamless experience for both retailers and consumers. Key features of a robust PUDO solution include:

Extensive Network Coverage

A comprehensive PUDO solution should offer an extensive network of locations, including retail stores, lockers, and dedicated pick-up points. This broad coverage ensures that customers have multiple convenient options for receiving their parcels.

User-Friendly Interface

An effective PUDO platform features a user-friendly interface that allows consumers to easily select their preferred pick-up location during the checkout process. The interactive map and list options make it simple to find the most convenient location.

Real-Time Tracking and Notifications

A robust PUDO solution includes real-time tracking of parcels and automated notifications to keep customers informed about the status of their deliveries. This transparency builds trust and ensures that customers are always aware of when and where they can collect their parcels.

Secure and Reliable

Security is a top priority for any PUDO solution. It ensures that all parcels are stored securely at pick-up locations, minimizing the risk of lost or misplaced parcels and providing peace of mind for both retailers and customers.

Easy Integration

A well-designed PUDO solution is easy to integrate with existing e-commerce platforms. Retailers can quickly add OOH delivery options to their checkout process without significant technical challenges, making it a practical choice for businesses of all sizes.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

PUDO solutions contribute to sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of delivery operations. By decreasing the number of failed delivery attempts and optimizing delivery routes, these solutions help lower carbon emissions and reduce the overall ecological footprint.

Scalability and Flexibility

The scalability of a PUDO solution is crucial for businesses of all sizes, from small e-commerce startups to large multinational retailers. A scalable platform can easily accommodate increasing volumes of parcels and expand the network of pick-up points as the business grows.

Customer Support and Service

Comprehensive customer support is essential for ensuring a smooth implementation and operation of the PUDO solution. A dedicated support team should be available to assist with any issues or questions, ensuring that both retailers and consumers have a positive experience.

Conclusion

Out-of-home delivery solutions, particularly PUDO options, are transforming the last mile of delivery by offering increased convenience, cost savings, and enhanced customer satisfaction. By implementing industry best practices and leveraging advanced technologies, retailers can optimize their delivery services and stay competitive in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

For businesses looking to enhance their OOH delivery capabilities, a robust and user-friendly PUDO solution is essential. These solutions offer extensive network coverage, real-time tracking, secure storage, and easy integration, making them a practical choice for improving the efficiency and reliability of delivery operations.

LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution exemplifies these qualities, providing a comprehensive and reliable service that meets the diverse needs of retailers and consumers. With its extensive network, user-friendly interface, real-time tracking, and commitment to sustainability, LogixPlatform stands out as a leader in the OOH delivery space. Their solution enhances customer satisfaction and contributes to significant cost savings and environmental benefits, making it a valuable asset for any e-commerce business.

By choosing LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution, businesses can ensure a seamless and efficient delivery experience for their customers, ultimately driving higher satisfaction rates, loyalty, and growth in the competitive e-commerce market.Click here for more information on LogixPlatform’s PUDO solutions.

An Introduction to Out-of-Home Delivery Solutions: Enhancing the Last Mile

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Out-of-home (OOH) delivery solutions are revolutionizing the logistics industry by offering consumers flexible options for receiving their parcels. In a rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape, providing convenient and reliable delivery options is paramount for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty. This article delves into the various facets of OOH delivery, including PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) solutions, their benefits, and industry best practices.

What is Out-of-Home Delivery?

Out-of-home delivery refers to the method of delivering parcels to designated locations where consumers can pick them up at their convenience. These locations can include lockers, retail stores, post offices, and dedicated pick-up points. This method contrasts with traditional home delivery, offering greater flexibility for consumers who may not be available to receive parcels at home during delivery hours.

In Europe, OOH delivery has seen substantial growth. According to the European Out-of-Home Delivery Options Survey 2022, 65% of consumers have used OOH delivery services at least once, indicating a significant shift towards these flexible delivery methods. This trend is driven by the increasing demand for convenience and the rise of e-commerce.

Benefits of Out-of-Home Delivery

Increased Convenience and Flexibility

 

OOH delivery provides customers with the convenience of choosing a location that fits their schedule, reducing the risk of missed deliveries and the need for redelivery attempts. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals with busy lifestyles or those who are frequently away from home during delivery times.

A study by McKinsey & Company found that 70% of consumers prefer OOH delivery options for the flexibility they offer. This preference is even more pronounced in urban areas where people have less predictable schedules.

Enhanced Customer Satisfaction

By offering multiple delivery options, retailers can cater to a broader range of customer preferences, leading to higher satisfaction rates. According to the European OOH Delivery Options Survey 2022, 50% of merchants observed an increase in conversion rates after integrating OOH delivery options.

Customer satisfaction is further enhanced by the reliability of OOH delivery. With fewer missed deliveries and the convenience of 24/7 parcel lockers, customers experience a smoother and more dependable service. This reliability is critical in fostering customer loyalty and encouraging repeat purchases.

Cost-Effectiveness

For logistics providers, OOH delivery can lead to cost savings by consolidating multiple deliveries to a single location, thus increasing drop density and reducing fuel consumption. This efficiency not only cuts costs but also contributes to sustainability efforts by lowering the carbon footprint of delivery operations.

The European OOH Delivery Options Survey 2022 highlights that logistics companies can reduce last-mile delivery costs by up to 20% through OOH solutions. This reduction is achieved by optimizing delivery routes and decreasing the number of failed delivery attempts.

Higher Net Promoter Score (NPS)

The survey revealed that 57% of retailers experienced an improvement in their Net Promoter Score (NPS) after implementing OOH delivery options. This indicates that customers are more likely to recommend the service to others, enhancing the retailer’s reputation and customer base.

A higher NPS is a strong indicator of customer loyalty and satisfaction. It reflects positively on a retailer’s brand image and can lead to increased word-of-mouth referrals, which are invaluable in the competitive e-commerce market.

Industry Best Practices for OOH Delivery

Seamless Integration at Checkout

Retailers should ensure that OOH delivery options are seamlessly integrated into the checkout process. According to the survey, 60% of retailers use interactive maps to display available pick-up locations, while 49% use a list format. A smooth and intuitive user experience is crucial to avoid frustrating customers and potentially losing sales.

Clear Communication and Instructions

Providing clear communication about how OOH delivery works and detailed instructions on how to pick up parcels can alleviate customer concerns and improve their overall experience. This includes sending timely notifications and reminders about parcel availability and pick-up deadlines.

Retailers can enhance communication by offering multilingual support and providing visual guides or videos that demonstrate the pick-up process. Clear signage at pick-up locations also helps customers navigate and understand the process better.

Strategic Location Placement

The strategic placement of pick-up points in convenient and accessible locations is essential. Retailers should collaborate with logistics providers to identify high-traffic areas and popular retail spots to maximize convenience for customers.

Data from the European OOH Delivery Options Survey 2022 shows that 45% of consumers prefer pick-up points located near their workplace, while 35% prefer locations near their homes. Understanding these preferences can help retailers and logistics providers place pick-up points where they are most likely to be used.

Leveraging Technology

Utilizing advanced technologies such as real-time tracking, automated notifications, and AI-driven analytics can enhance the efficiency and reliability of OOH delivery services. These technologies help in optimizing routes, predicting customer behavior, and managing inventory at pick-up locations.

For instance, AI-driven analytics can forecast demand for certain pick-up locations, enabling logistics providers to allocate resources more effectively. Real-time tracking provides transparency, allowing customers to track their parcels throughout the delivery process, which enhances their overall experience.

Key Features of Effective PUDO Solutions

Effective PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) solutions are essential for streamlining out-of-home deliveries and ensuring a seamless experience for both retailers and consumers. Key features of a robust PUDO solution include:

Extensive Network Coverage

A comprehensive PUDO solution should offer an extensive network of locations, including retail stores, lockers, and dedicated pick-up points. This broad coverage ensures that customers have multiple convenient options for receiving their parcels.

User-Friendly Interface

An effective PUDO platform features a user-friendly interface that allows consumers to easily select their preferred pick-up location during the checkout process. The interactive map and list options make it simple to find the most convenient location.

Real-Time Tracking and Notifications

A robust PUDO solution includes real-time tracking of parcels and automated notifications to keep customers informed about the status of their deliveries. This transparency builds trust and ensures that customers are always aware of when and where they can collect their parcels.

Secure and Reliable

Security is a top priority for any PUDO solution. It ensures that all parcels are stored securely at pick-up locations, minimizing the risk of lost or misplaced parcels and providing peace of mind for both retailers and customers.

Easy Integration

A well-designed PUDO solution is easy to integrate with existing e-commerce platforms. Retailers can quickly add OOH delivery options to their checkout process without significant technical challenges, making it a practical choice for businesses of all sizes.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

PUDO solutions contribute to sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of delivery operations. By decreasing the number of failed delivery attempts and optimizing delivery routes, these solutions help lower carbon emissions and reduce the overall ecological footprint.

Scalability and Flexibility

The scalability of a PUDO solution is crucial for businesses of all sizes, from small e-commerce startups to large multinational retailers. A scalable platform can easily accommodate increasing volumes of parcels and expand the network of pick-up points as the business grows.

Customer Support and Service

Comprehensive customer support is essential for ensuring a smooth implementation and operation of the PUDO solution. A dedicated support team should be available to assist with any issues or questions, ensuring that both retailers and consumers have a positive experience.

Conclusion

Out-of-home delivery solutions, particularly PUDO options, are transforming the last mile of delivery by offering increased convenience, cost savings, and enhanced customer satisfaction. By implementing industry best practices and leveraging advanced technologies, retailers can optimize their delivery services and stay competitive in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

For businesses looking to enhance their OOH delivery capabilities, a robust and user-friendly PUDO solution is essential. These solutions offer extensive network coverage, real-time tracking, secure storage, and easy integration, making them a practical choice for improving the efficiency and reliability of delivery operations.

LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution exemplifies these qualities, providing a comprehensive and reliable service that meets the diverse needs of retailers and consumers. With its extensive network, user-friendly interface, real-time tracking, and commitment to sustainability, LogixPlatform stands out as a leader in the OOH delivery space. Their solution enhances customer satisfaction and contributes to significant cost savings and environmental benefits, making it a valuable asset for any e-commerce business.

By choosing LogixPlatform’s PUDO solution, businesses can ensure a seamless and efficient delivery experience for their customers, ultimately driving higher satisfaction rates, loyalty, and growth in the competitive e-commerce market.Click here for more information on LogixPlatform’s 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.