The logistics service provider cargo-partner has been working since 2000 with the cloud-based supply chain management platform SPOT. In doing so, the company is making use of the ever-increasing number of features to optimize its collaboration with customers and partners along the entire supply chain.
Following the introduction of the “Parcel Solution” in the previous year, the supply chain management platform SPOT has now been extended by a new module. The “Time Slot Management” supports carriers and warehouse operators in planning time windows for loading and unloading at the respective locations.
With the new module, cargo-partner road hauliers can independently book their time slots for loading and unloading or can be assigned a period by the warehouse operator within which they can select their preferred time slot. Alternatively, the warehouse can also allocate a specific time window. The available charging time is calculated based on the actual load of the truck. Also, the loading ramp offered depends on the load (e.g., oversized goods only at certain ramps).
The warehouse staff at the respective ramp receives a forecast of the daily volume as well as regular progress updates as soon as an unloading activity has been confirmed, such as. “50 perc ent done for today!” Or “75 per cent done!” After completion of the unloading activity, the warehouse staff gives a rating that can be used to monitor factors such as cleanliness, condition of the truck or cargo safety. The users of the “Time Slot Management” module can view the activities for control purposes directly on SPOT or send an overview via email.
With the exact information about delivery and pick-up times, the utilization of the ramps is smoothed and thus the efficiency of the warehouse operation is increased. Finally, loading gate occuption can also be optimized by blocking ramps or schedule them for certain activities, such as “pick-up/delivery only” or “short-term shipments”.
