‘Reliable systems critical to success of express cargo market'

The success of the express cargo market depends on a reliable IT system that provides constant visibility of vehicles, allowing for on-time delivery with minimum turnaround time, says Antonio Di Stefano, sales representative for Compu-Clearing. “Choosing a service provider who can give you control over all of the operations, bookings, fleet control, tracking and documentation is therefore essential.” The ediEnterprise platform that Compu-Clearing offers provides just that, he says. “However, there are several challenges in this sector – on-time delivery, while controlling and operating transportation effectively are probably the two biggest. Delays, specifically with regard to clearances, weather or any other unforeseen circumstances that may cause an interruption, will hinder the smooth operation of this process.” And delays cost money. “In the express sector goods have to arrive on time for a company to survive, which is why an accurate and up-todate tracking and information system with accurate billing is a must. At the same time challenges such as the increasing fuel price and the decline in demand for goods add further pressure to companies operating in this sector.” According to Di Stefano, it is important that an IT system speaks to these challenges and needs. “Which is why Compu- Clearing has developed a variety of solutions for customers to choose from. It allows us to deliver supply chain solutions, which provide real value by looking at the specific needs of an industry such as the express cargo and courier sector. At the same time our partnership with CargoWise offers an effective international logistics system with complete local customisation.” According to Di Stefano, Compu-Clearing has systems specifically developed for cross-border transport, such as the BLNS (Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland) system. “These systems quickly and easily capture data and produce all customs documentation, including electronic submission of manifests. Documents are then processed and cleared swiftly through EDI, allowing goods to be cleared before they reach the border, which reduces delays and increases efficiency,” he explains. “Our Air Waybill Production System also allows the customer to easily produce air waybills from anywhere in the world, with all previous information needed already stored in the system.” He maintains that having a variety of systems on hand allows for more value add to the customer as the company is able to address any specific need they might have. “The Automated Cargo Management (ACM) system allows agents to transmit the Master and House level details to Customs, in the case of groupage and degroupage entries, while the ediEnterprise solutions allow for distribution and pickup of goods. Different routes can be defined with their respective costings and vehicles can be monitored to gain information on transit times and delivery compliance,” he says. CAPTION Antonio Di Stefano ... ‘up-to-date tracking and information system with accurate billing is a must.’