A seamless flow of information is the basis for the smooth operation of a logistics company. Therefore Raben Group has equipped all drivers in eleven countries with an IT solution based on the Thoughbook N1 handheld by Panasonic.
The multifunctional devices sends information recorded during the transport process automatically to the company’s IT systems, and enables real time data synchronisation between the elements of the process. The aim of the implementation was to improve the flow of information at every stage of the order and thus provide customers with precise, up-to-date data on the expected delivery time, status, watermark and access to documents – individually for each shipment.
Its scale was one of the biggest challenges during implementation. Approximately 5,500 mobile devices were implemented in 65 branches of the Raben Group, including 4,000 Toughbook N1 units. The project covered 11 countries). The units at the production stage were equipped with the required software, including TLME (TISLOG Mobile Enterprise) and MDM (Mobile Device Management).
Next, Raben integrated them with their systems: TMS (Transport Management System), T&T (Truck&Trace), transport map (PTV), transport navigation (PTV), vehicle management application (TISLOG), the tool counting the ETA parameter (xServer) and the Raben archive Contman CD3.
In addition, the devices have been adapted to the requirements imposed in individual countries by the regulatory authorities. For example, in Poland the units have been equipped with the SENT GEO application, which allows online monitoring of excise goods.
The 4.7-inch rugged Toghbook N1 handheld combine the functions of a tablet, phone and a barcode reader. The basic task for the device is to collect and provide real-time data on the status of the shipment. As a result Raben Group provides its clients and customers with the added value of a very precise tool for monitoring deliveries. Thanks to these features, Raben Group can use an innovative parcel tracking system based on the ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) parameter. It uses information about the current position of the driver based on the GPS location provided by the device.
In contrast to standard solutions of this type, which are based on historical statistical data, the Raben system uses real-time data and works with current information obtained dynamically during the implementation of tasks, calculating for example unforeseen events on the road.
The Dutch Raben Group has been operating in the European market for more than 85 years and offers a wide range of logistics services. The group’s companies are located in 12 European countries and have more than 8,000 transport units to cover various industries and requirements.
