Technology in 3PLs: The Future Is Now

If your company is looking to expand, you will benefit from partnering with a third-party logistics provider. These organizations are the experts when it comes to distribution and fulfillment – and they’ve got the technology to make it all as simple as possible.

 

API

Application program interfaces (APIs) allow users to get the right data quickly. Ideally for retail, APIs provide real-time data that streamlines logistics. Information commonly accessed through APIs includes the following:

  • Packing and Inventory Control
  • Automatic Billing
  • Customer Updates
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Paperwork Control
  • Warehousing

These systems are customizable, allowing immense flexibility for each business’s unique needs.

 

EDI

Electronic data interchange (EDI) is often used by corporations to transfer business documents to partners. This digital transfer provides several benefits, including these:

  • Reduced Data-Entry Errors
  • Reduced Time Spend on Manual Data-Entry
  • Ensures Corporate Partners are Sending and Receiving Documents Through a Singular System

Common since the 1970s, EDI takes the risk out of transferring important paperwork.

 

E-Procurement

E-procurement is a modern supply chain management tool. It takes full advantage of digital networks by establishing a direct line from a client to a 3PL. Software provided by the 3PL allows a partner company to track orders made by employees through a “punch out store.” This store may be accessed by a website that “punches out” the employee to the 3PL’s ordering system. Once the order is complete, the employee is sent back to the company website, and information such as quantity and cost is forwarded to the client.

 

Custom Integrations

Depending on the business model, a company may require more than one system for maximum efficiency. 3PLs are generally more than happy to determine what configuration best meets your business’s needs.

 

The fulfillment experts at SureShip are proud to help companies improve services with the latest logistics systems. To learn more about our full integration capabilities or to get a quote, contact us at 301-273-1651!

 

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