Shift to paperless operations the norm.

The integration of mobile applications has become a game-changer in the warehousing and depot sector, helping bridge the gap between warehouse and transport operations. According to Renko Bergh, co-founder of CtrlFleet, an easy-to-use mobile application can streamline crucial logistics processes significantly. "CtrlFleet's mobile solution functions either as an extension of a Transport Management System (TMS) or as a stand-alone tool. It's used by truck drivers, warehouse operators and yard management staff, making the coordination between warehouse and transport operations seamless."

Bergh highlighted the importance of digitizing what has historically been a highly manual process, particularly at the point where goods move from warehouse dispatch to distribution. "Post picking and packing of goods in a typical warehouse operation, goods are often transferred through paper-based methods, leading to errors and duplicate data entries," he said. "With CtrlFleet's planning and scheduling dispatch tool, orders can be automated from warehouse solutions, and manifest instructions are directly sent to the driver’s app. This allows for digital workflows, including digital signatures and document scans, significantly reducing paperwork."

One of the biggest challenges in the warehousing and depot space is the lack of integration between warehouse operations and transport coordination, which are often handled by different systems or third-party transport operators. "Warehouse operations work hand-in-hand with transport coordination, the intake of goods to the warehouse or the distribution from the warehouse. This interdependent operation is rarely integrated and that’s where mobile apps come into play," said Bergh. "Driver apps become the critical link, ensuring that instructions on received or dispatched goods are accurate, seamless and easily accessible."

He said mobile apps address the current manual processes by centralizing information, improving data analytics and enhancing supply chain resilience. "With mobile apps, critical logistics information is centralized, reducing the risk of miscommunication. The information is also readily accessible to everyone involved in the logistics process,” said Bergh. “Data analytics help identify trends and optimise routes. Ultimately, it allows one to make data-driven improvements. These apps also play a critical role in building resilience in the supply chain. During crises, for example, these apps assist logistics companies to adapt to disruptions by helping to reroute shipments."

He said significant trend in the warehousing and depot sector is the move from paper-based operations to fully digital processes. "The shift to paperless operations is becoming the norm as cargo owners, warehouses and transport operators digitise critical documents like proof of delivery and dispatch forms. Mobile apps are at the forefront of this transition, allowing drivers to complete custom forms and upload transactional documents directly from their devices."

Bergh said as the industry moved toward greater efficiency, mobile applications would continue to shape the future of warehousing and depot management, improving operational transparency, reducing errors, and building stronger, more resilient supply chains.

Link source: https://www.freightnews.co.za Warehousing, Depots & Distribution Feature.

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