Improved track and trace systems add significant benefit

Technology is making its mark on warehousing, as improved track and trace systems along with increased bar code scanning implementation become the latest trend. According to Anthea van Breemen of Macro 2000, track and trace is now happening on a variety of levels, ultimately resulting in better service. Macro provides software solutions for warehouse management, logistics, container terminal management, LCL and shipping. “Be it individual pallets, drums or containers through to production batches, container numbers, expiry dates or customer tracking numbers, the ability to track and trace within the warehouse system has improved drastically along with software development.” At the same time, said Van Breemen, there has been an increase in bar code scanning implementation with interpretation of international third party bar codes for quick receiving within warehouses. “We are also starting to see a bigger focus on the individual customer. For example, for third party warehouses the storage and other charges to the customer are being negotiated on an individual basis more often,” she told FTW. “That along with the improved technology is becoming the differentiating factor when it comes to warehousing. Being able to give customers timeous information on their stock movements while at the same time individualising their costs can be beneficial.” One of the big challenges, however, remains the ability to interpret the various trends being picked up and incorporate them into application software that can handle the detail required by customers. But ongoing research and development into software is proving worthwhile, said Van Breemen, who recently extended the Macro 2000 Container Management Software from empty containers to full import and export container management. “Ultimately, when it comes to warehousing, it’s all about customer satisfaction. Being able to keep the customer happy is the difference between success and failure.” CAPTION Anthea van Breemen … ‘strong focus on the individual customer.’