Supply chain excellence begins with visibility. Forward-thinking business leaders are constantly seeking ways to improve productivity and reduce waste while looking to remove inefficiencies in their supply chain. Greater visibility and enhanced communication are two objectives executives strive to obtain. In order to gain competitive advantage, you must first figure out how to clearly communicate to your upstream what your downstreamis doing.

Visibility to inbound and outbound shipments is readily available through advancements in cloud computing technology. Using this technology improves communication with suppliers and transportation providers. This translates into improved information for planning resources and a reduction in wasted effort. Generally, the most efficient, cost-effective method of acquiring this technology is partnering with a third party logistics (3PL) provider that has a web-based platform. Third party logistics companies can provide technology with tracking software, referred to as a Transportation Management System (TMS). A good TMS is critical in helping shippers visualize their entire supply chain.

Can implementing TMS technology increase visibility to your supply chain? The short answer is yes.

TMS software can be configured to provide a dashboard of inbound shipments with alerts to assist with identifying freight that has been delayed. These alerts can be provided within the system as well as through email alerts to supply chain planners. Actions can be planned in advance to expedite shipments. Hosted TMS programs have evolved. They no longer require hardware to install and are easily accessible through a web browser. Suppliers enter information such as quantity and item description for an order, so that consignees can gain better visibility of incoming shipments through the TMS. Vendors are able to schedule pickups and provide Bill of Lading (BOL)

information to the carriers through the TMS. This assists the carriers with preparing appropriate space or equipment prior to arriving for material pickup. Enterprises can view the BOL information to improve access to inbound shipments characteristics to plan for appropriate staffing and labor for unloading and storing materials, as well as reliable on-time delivery. Yard congestion can also be reduced through improved scheduling and enhanced shipment tracking and tracing.

The effects of increasing visibility increases productivity and a productive supply chain is reinforced through continually reducing waste and improving communication and collaboration with vendors and suppliers. Routine follow-up calls such as “Do you know where my shipment is?” can be virtually eliminated through visibility of material and shipping information on a common TMS platform. Vendors benefit from increased time efficiencies and consignees benefit through up-to-date shipment information that can be easily downloaded, printed and shard throughout the organization. Getting started with improved visibility is a worthy investment and can be accomplished by identifying the ideal supply chain partner who will listen to your specific challenges and come up with solutions for success. The right 3PL will see and understand your future business goals and have the ability to guide you on your journey to market dominance.

2015 Transportation Insight, LLC. All rights reserved. TMS Rev.1 2/2015

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