Freight forwarding is a dynamic and growing enterprise for the logistics industry. In line with economic evolutions, the field is changing fast. Shipping companies increasingly use technology to improve efficiency, automate processes, and innovate their operations.
Increasing automation
The technology to fully automate the process of importing or exporting goods, from order placement through to delivery has existed for a few years. Automation of freight forwarding requests using computers and software platforms can greatly simplify the process by integrating all relevant information into one location (and removes the opportunities for human error). However, the practice isn’t yet commonplace because it requires a high level of trust in a single system or company. While many companies still use a manual process to handle freight forwarding requests, Levaco is implementing a new platform to ensure a smoother follow-up of transport files.
Tracking Systems
In addition to shipping items worldwide, freight forwarders also engage in other activities such as customs clearance. The systems used by freight forwarders to organise shipments and track their progress are also becoming increasingly sophisticated. For example, many freight forwarders now offer clients the ability to track shipments on mobile devices using GPS technology (Global Positioning System). This allows them to keep tabs on the location of their goods while they’re in transit. In addition, another type of technology, referred to as geo-fencing, allows clients located in the vicinity of certain designated locations where cargo ships berth to determine exactly when their containers will come off deck.
Customer Service
The client is king, so it’s important to keep up with new technologies to help improve customer service and data accuracy. The reason why customer service is a such a key element of the freight forwarding business is because it helps to build trust. When the customers know they can count on you to provide a fast reliable service and accurate tracking information, they’ll be much more likely to engage in repeat business. In addition, great customer service creates loyalty between a company and its clients. The more loyal customers you have, the more referrals will follow.
As new technology becomes increasingly important for every business, so does good customer service in equal measure!
Software Solutions
The use of innovative software in the freight forwarding industry helps to improve efficiency, security, and accuracy. A variety of software solutions have been developed to address various aspects of the shipping process. The task of coordinating shipments is complicated and requires coordination between multiple parties. Automated solutions reduce the lead time to consolidate shipments. Additionally, automation also benefits the tracking and monitoring of shipments. Integrated tracking systems allow shippers and receivers to view status updates in real time, increasing transparency on when a shipment will arrive at its destination. Furthermore, these solutions allow shippers to receive notifications when problems should occur.
Newly developed software solutions are designed with specific business needs in mind; therefore, they make it more comfortable for companies to scale up as they sustain growth without necessarily needing to consider a HR solution.
AI revolution
New technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are also used to streamline shipping and logistics workflows. AI has proven useful in organizing shipments, tracking their progress, and providing real-time data. This greatly assists companies to make informed decisions about how to optimize their operations. As a result, it’s becoming easier than ever for these businesses to maximize profitability while simultaneously improving customer satisfaction.
Improving operations and increasing profits
Improved technology in the freight forwarding industry is not simply a trend, it’s becoming increasingly necessary as the industry grows. It improves customer service and data accuracy, and digitization of a multitude of processes. It even helps forwarders deliver better services to their clients.
Further, freight forwarders, such as Levaco, that are currently developing and using emerging software solutions to improve their operations, have noticed an increased efficiency. As a result, they have been able to reduce costs while improving security measures and minimizing errors.
In summary, new and developing technology is shaping the freight forwarding industry. It can help to save time, reduce costs, and improve customer service. This in turn allows companies to spend less time on control measures and allows them to focus on growth opportunities.
