Logistics Tracking Software as A Means To A Profitable End

Managing the operations of a container shipping company (small or large) entails a lot of responsibilities. As an operator, not only should you make sure that goods arrive on schedule but you may also need to oversee other facets of the operation.
Liner shipping management is a tough job, especially when you need to consider such aspects as vessel and repair management.

Software systems are now available in the IT market, giving industry players a whole range of options that will benefit their businesses and clients by keeping track of cargo from departure to docking. Carriers have tapped a whole range of software packages that can efficiently facilitate and streamline important processes ranging from real-time vessel tracking to bunker management.

On the other hand, shipping agents also have to contend with a set of issues as well, the least of which is keeping tabs on the storage of their principals’ stocks through a system that enables real-time reporting done through automation.

Aside from operational maintenance, considerable attention should also be cast on managing finances. You want to make sure that every movement of a container or box maintains profitability. Moreover, keeping track of logistical processes ensures that your principals’ goods are in safe hands and thus guarantees customer satisfaction.

With an efficient logistics tracking software in place, shipping agents can effectively manage stock quantities. Through such an application, agents can provide updated reports to their principals without passing through errors typical in the movement of large containers taking into account lost and damaged items as well as stock locations and rented equipment.

But another problem entails a financial brunt on principals and customers alike. Fees for demurrage and detention of containers and equipment, if not managed and tracked properly, could only lead to reduced revenue. It is a must that agents make use of a sound software system that makes sure revenue data is updated. It is also crucial to manage stock invoices that can reflect that fees for detention and demurrage are properly met without any manual intervention on the part of the agents.

As we can see, having a logistics tracking software not only ensures your principals’ goods are being accounted for. It also makes sure that disruption on profitability is reduced. By appropriately billing customers through an automated system of invoice sending stock invoices, you are guaranteed of a steady influx of cash that will keep your operations running.

Logistics is one of many vital components that we can never overlook, and having the right and complete software package for the job would do you good.
 

Weathering the Weather: Using Container Management Software as Cargo Safety Net

The main challenge faced by container shipping managers is maintaining operational health. This entails tracking active supply chains and revenue growth as well as keeping tabs on bunker usage.

These are effectively managed through a container management software package that can help track voyage revenue as well as make sure your vessel delivers on time.

Regardless of these technological tools, managers are still faced by factors that lie outside their control and pose as threats to thousands of tons of cargo every year.

Inclement weather is a huge problem to shipping executives everywhere. In fact, just this year, CNN reported on an incident in which a Danish vessel lost at least 500 containers of precious cargo to rough waves near the Bay of Biscay.

More profound yet is the fact that attrition in cargo deliveries is almost unavoidable.

Apparently, weather issues are typical subjects of interests with regards to shipping operations and on-time scheduling. They entail adverse implications that can jeopardize essential processes on top of delivery reliability.

Given that we cannot simply tell the weather to act favorably on our behalf, we can still secure safe passages for precious cargo whatever part of the oceans the vessels tread.

In recent years, IT technologies that cater to container have seen innovations both in cargo management and schedule oversight. In this respect, there is a constant need for managers to make use of the latest shipping software as a means to improve deliveries and lessen cargo attrition.

Software solutions that seek to streamline important processes should be prioritized. Using a fine-tuned container tracking software, managers can effectively determine the real-time path of specific vessels while taking into account weather disturbances that lie ahead. Onboard personnel are also able to interact through such a software, give updates as well as take courses of action deemed necessary.

In terms of securing cargo, operators must make use of system packages that identify certain physical and operational issues with regards the vessel and regularly update on cargo space. With software that enables a good view on cargo space, operators can monitor space availability in real-time and initiate decisions on issues such as overloading.

Customers are paying a good deal for shipping companies to deliver on schedule and in tune with actual cargo listings. However, weather conditions render these prospects almost 100 percent unattainable. But by installing container management systems that allow oversight of vessel positions and cargo capacities, operators can give better assurances for a safer voyage. 

Which Shipping Software Solution Is Right for You?

It is well-documented: shipping software significantly improves the process of moving goods between ports and terminals. It automates admin-heavy tasks such as invoicing, demurrage, and detention billing, and speeds up work by eliminating the need for multi-entry of the same information on export forms.

In container shipping, software applications like container management software increases profit by maximizing the use of container space. Other software modules can be purchased off-the-shelf and integrated into existing IT platforms to automate certain areas of the logistics process, increase productivity, and reduce expenses.

But, how do you know which software solution is right for you?

With so many shipping software companies offering a variety of solutions, either in the form of a product or service, finding the one that best fits your unique business requirements should not be a problem. Here are a couple of tips you might want to consider.

There is no such thing as a “one-size-fits-all” solution. This is true simply because not all business models and requirements are the same. The good thing about packaged shipping software is that they are available in separate modules, each one designed to automate specific areas of the shipping process for which they are created. For example, if you want to ensure fuel efficiency and reduce bunker expenses, you can purchase a bunker management software package.

Make an outline of your software requirements. Consider choosing a liner shipping software solution like going to a grocery store. If you don’t make a grocery list, you will likely end up spending hours on the grocery lanes trying to figure out what to eat for dinner, and eventually picking the wrong items. Do not waste your money on software that you do not need at all.

Finding the right enterprise shipping software starts with knowing what you need. Conduct an organization-wide inventory and gather inputs from each department to build a list of your requirements before you go software shopping.  Doing so will not only save you time and energy, but will also give you more control of the buying process instead of just taking speculative suggestions from software vendors.

Green Shipping: Why Shipping Software Integration is Good for the Environment

Low market demand and increasing fuel prices have been hot topics in the maritime industry over the past few years. Because of this, interest in reducing logistics expenses has also become a top priority as shipping companies look toward building higher capacity ships with more fuel efficient engines. Additionally, modern ships, ports, and terminals are now equipped with high-end technologies and various types of shipping agency software, all designed to automate and streamline shipping operations.

But aside from financial benefits, another reason shipping companies push for more efficient maritime trade is the impact of shipping inefficiency, particularly of high fuel consumption on the environment. By plain logic, more energy consumed means greater Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission from ships. This is very alarming if we consider the number of vessels crossing our oceans and the amount of fuel they burn on a daily basis. Fortunately, emission problems can be reduced using already existing technologies including various types of marine software solutions.

There are two ways shipping companies reduce fuel consumption. First is through use of technical /design based measures such as more efficient engines and propulsion systems, improved hull design, and larger ships. Second is through implementing operational measures such as speed management, voyage calculation and optimization, etc. Operational measures can be best implemented with use of integrated shipping software solutions designed to automate various shipping tasks and allow operators to manage their logistics process more effectively.

For example, voyage calculation software can be used to calculate full load, voyage costs, distance travelled, estimated time of arrival, and fuel consumption in relation to external factors such as weather and sea conditions. Using these data, vessel operators can then manage vessel speed to achieve highest efficiency. They can easily lower fuel consumption by reducing vessel speed which results in lower carbon dioxide emission while ensuring that ships arrive at their destinations on time. In addition, liner shipping software reduce paperwork by digitizing documents making the entire logistics operation more environment friendly.

Solving The Issue Of Container Weight Inconsistencies

Aside from improper lashing, stowing and stuffing, another important concern for maritime shipping organizations regarding loading and unloading of cargo are incorrectly declared container weights. Correct information pertaining to the nature, weight, and amount of cargo are important for safety measures and accurate voyage calculation and proper disbursement of shipping lines. Declared vs. actual container weight inconsistencies cost maritime shipping organizations millions of dollars and can lead to tragic accidents on land and at sea which jeopardizes not only the containers but also the lives of shipping crew members, dockworkers and dockmasters.

The International Chamber of Shipping in conjunction with the World Shipping Council initially combined their efforts to release a publication that provides industry-recommended best practices pertaining to safety precautions in the loading and unloading of cargo for ships, shipping lines and port facilities, but this effort failed to address the issue of incorrect cargo declarations.

The International Maritime Organization has stepped in and agreed to the proposed solutions for this long-standing safety problem faced by the maritime shipping industry. Mandating the verification of declared container weights prior to loading and the availability of container weights for safe cargo stowage planning will not only save lives, but also improve operational efficiency and reduce cargo losses.

Accurate cargo weight information coupled with container management software will help shipping companies maintain safety throughout stuffing, stowage planning, loading and unloading of containers. This shipping software is developed to adhere strictly to both local and international container stowing regulations as stated by recognized international shipping organizations.

Let Shipping Software Handle Your Shipping Operations

A shipping line software plays an integral part of a liner shipping company's welfare. It is highly recommended for these companies to select the right software solution that will enable them to sustain their business as well as maintain a healthy growth for their finances. Contrary to what many might believe, not all shipping software solutions provide the same result of reducing overall costs for the company or streamlining their operations.

Acquiring the right kind of shipping software enables most of the company's procedures to appear more manageable. With the right software solution, companies are able to reduce costs by lowering down the time it takes for processes to be completed and lowering down most labor costs that go along with it.

Like most computer programs and applications, not every software is exactly alike. Like those anti-virus programs that offer different means of busting computer viruses, there are many shipping software solutions that offer different standards of helping shipping companies with their operations. Shipping company owners and their decision makers need to choose the right software solution for their benefit. With a bit of research, the right type of software solution can be chosen.

With the acquisition of such, shipping companies are able to streamline processes magnificently thus lowering down costs and enabling them to boost their overall sales output significantly.

Steps to Choosing the Right Shipping Software Solution

Today, there is a whole new generation of shipping software products, the reason why shipping business leaders should carefully select the product that will deliver exact value they need. Not all software is alike and not all are reliable. It is very important to remember that the acquisition of new information technologies must not only reduce costs but also help improve process efficiency and gain commercial advantage.

Here are some of the time-tested and easy-to-follow steps when choosing shipping software:

Step 1: Collect relevant data. It is very crucial to know the key issues prior to starting the selection process. Knowing what you need and what you look for will help you choose what software to use. It will also save you time and resources using software that meets your exact shipping needs. 

Step 2: Create a list of software requirements. This way, you will be able to find out which requirements software providers should respond to. The list will help you identify candidates and select the most befitting one.

Step 3: Compare and Demand. It is very important to compare one software product with other similar solutions. The varying product information from different departments will help you decide what is most appropriate to you. Also it is very important to demand for what you need. Decide for a shipping platform that you want for your business and evaluate if the software can meet your demand.

Step 4: Come up with scripted scenarios. You can use scripted scenarios in selecting the right software for you. You can present a unique situation or problem that you want to be addressed and resolved. Creating these scenarios will give you the confidence that the software can really help you.

Step 5: Have the vendor perform a detailed demonstration. Shipping companies should have vendors arrange a detailed product demonstration using the organization's scenarios as basis. You can use this too to evaluate the software better.

Choosing the right shipping software solutions for your shipping business requires proactive decision-making. Firm solutions can be very costly that is why it is very important to do research and evaluation prior to the selection. Surely you can't afford wasting time and resources using software that does not meet your needs.

Speed Up your Shipping Business with Shipping Software

Any company that has to deal with shipping can attest to what a relief it is to have powerful shipping software in place. It allows them to keep track of thousands of packages everyday and to achieve best international delivery faster.

Shipping software has helped shipping companies to perform several shipping functions with ease. Operations are simplified and productivity is speed up. It enables shipping businesses to create a systematic solution for cargo and freight management, equipment control, disbursements management and management information.

Shipping management is made better and easier. Relevant information can be accessed faster and with complete transparency to ensure tighter control over critical processes. Operational cost is managed because business owners can make ardent decisions in short period of time like finding the quickest and most efficient direct route for shipping goods.

The software solution makes it easier for various departments to access, communicate, and share information in real time. It eliminates human errors and delays which can cause loss of income. Shipping functions that are used to be arduous and time consuming are made timely which can result to increased staff productivity and boosting profits.

Shipping software solutions like EDI can move operations forward in an efficient and timely manner. Business is freed from tons of documentation and paperwork. It eliminates the need for data to be copied, reduces clerical workload and avoids the risk of inaccuracies. It also ensures that any modifications or corrections can be made quickly. Operators do not have to key in data over and over again thus preventing errors and rechecking of data.

It is very crucial for every business to process the right data at the right time. Delays and inaccuracies are prevented with high quality shipping software. Along with having great software is having a good software provider. Look and work with providers with enough knowledge and precision in shipping industry.

Guidelines for Choosing the Most Fitting Shipping Software Solution

In the shipping business, one of the primary considerations on your bottom line would be the type of shipping software solutions that you choose. However, choosing the right software solutions is not easy. It is a very crucial step for long-term business growth and sustainability. The challenge revolves around finding the right type of shipping software solution that is the most suitable to the business that you run. 

Shipping Software solutions come in different forms. In order to find the best software, shipping business leaders should choose one that does not only reduce costs but also take care of the progress of processes in order to improve efficiency and to gain business advantage.

Choose the software that can accurately gather data. It would be a waste of time and resources choosing software that does not meet your specified requirements. It is very important to consider key issues before doing the selection process.

Choose the software that bested the rest. Build a list of software requirements. Coming up with a list will help you in finding out which requirements solution providers respond to. The list will be your guide in choosing the most fitting software solution from the candidates that you come up to.

Choose the software that can help you save cost. The software that you acquire should eliminate the need for an additional in-house IT expert or another worker to fully navigate the various components of the software. The software should make the monitoring, controlling and tracking easy for you. The over-all user friendly interface, functional menus and other features with the highest quality combined in the software are made to speed up your business activities and to lower your operational costs.

Choose the software that can perform shipping operations efficiently. Shipping software should efficiently cover activities such as bookings, operations, documentation, managing distribution and other back office support. The software that you choose should eliminate redundant processes and should provide an economical and efficient resource in handling company’s needs and activities.

Choosing the most fitting and the most beneficial shipping software solution takes keen analysis and careful decision-making. Surely you don’t want to waste both time and resources in acquiring software applications that would fail. So acquire the right shipping software solutions by choosing the software provider with ultimate knowledge and experience in shipping IT and software solutions.

Shipping Software Takes Charge of the Shipping Processes

For shipping software plays a vital role in the shipping industry, it is necessary for shipping companies to choose a software solution that can maintain growth and sustainability. Shipping companies should be aware that not all shipping software vendors offer solutions that could address all their business concerns. Shipping business owners should remember that acquiring new information technology should not only reduce costs but also retain the progress, efficiency and the significant business advantage of the company.

Shipping software makes things appear manageable. In the shipping industry, choosing good shipping software is one of the most complicated tasks for it demands a fair amount of understanding. However, acquiring shipping software would cover various business activities in the most acceptable manner that would greatly help shipping companies. Most shipping software today includes applications that improve terminal operations. Terminal management software was developed in order to efficiently and simultaneously handles RoRo and general cargo for multiple shipping companies. With the reliable terminal management, which the shipping software provides, operators are assured to run their business free from irregularities and be able to communicate with clients worldwide in an entirely organized manner.

Shipping software that are essential for the company’s operation are developed and designed for different shipping activities like liner principals, liner agency, feeder operators, NVOCC, surveyors, container terminals and claim handlings. Shipping software has been a great help for many companies around the world in enhancing their productivity and competitiveness thru better and organized planning and management of the various operational activities.

Shipping software will save you time and make it easier to do more business and stay ahead of the competition. It simplifies outbound logistics and provides intelligence into shipping-related spending, fulfillment processing, resource allocation and more.

Shipping software solutions were designed to facilitate and improve the effectiveness of all the complex processes that shipping goods bring. No matter what task is needed to perform, the shipping software enables you to do it effectively and competently. Getting a shipping software will help you to stay organized and lessen the chance of making mistakes in handling and in transporting goods.

Why Use Terminal Management Software?

Shipping goods overseas may take several days and require expertise in order to avoid problems that may lead to delays or expensive damages. Managing shipping operations is challenging because you need to remain efficient throughout the entire process. While many shipping companies use off-the-shelf shipping software solutions, doing so can be challenging when the cost-effectiveness, adaptability and scalability of software products are put into consideration.

The various processes involved in cargo management and control often bring optimization problems that require full attention from shipping operators. For many years, shipping companies have been looking for terminal management solutions to enhance the efficiency of cargo processing and shipping operations without putting too much burden on manpower.

Nowadays, there is a number of shipping software solutions that have been developed to resolve droning issues on shipping management. Terminal Management Software allow shipping operators to make real-time inventory of shipments, utilize flexible work flow tools, and integrate other shipping business activities in an automated fashion. This eliminates the need for additional manpower to handle loads of paper works and other manual tasks involved in the different stages of the shipping process – from packing to unloading of cargoes. Shipping software also improves operational efficiency, and provides the groundwork for future developments, while eliminating overhead and maintaining high-level customer services.

Terminal Management Software eliminate common shipping problems especially when moving shipments from one country to another. Common problems include delayed cargo delivery, lost or stolen consignments, documentation errors, and expensive communication between, the vessel, shore, and supplier. Shipping software allows for easy cargo identification, cargo positioning and location, accurate documentation of shipments from loading to unloading, and streamlined communication between the agents, vessels, and consignees.

Shipping software solutions help shipping companies simplify their entire shipping process to ensure that shipments cross borders quickly and arrive on time. Terminal management software automates complicated terminal operation routine such as booking, documentation, invoicing, and accounting. It manages logistics flow and allows for centralized control of the entire shipping process from a single point. It speeds up transactions, and provides real-time reports for more accurate performance monitoring. As a result, shipping operations become hassle-free, and shipping companies get more satisfied and loyal customers.

While there are many software companies offering terminal management software, price and functionality are two factors shipping companies must carefully consider. Expensive solutions are not necessarily more efficient than other cheaper alternatives. Even the cheapest shipping software in the market can deliver comprehensive management functionality and scalable applications to meet the needs of your business.

When choosing reliable terminal management software, make sure that it fits your current shipping management platform to ensure cost efficiency, productivity and profitability. With the fast-changing business environment within the shipping industry, it is important that shipping operators have the initiative to adopt best industry practices and a willingness to make a shift to more contemporary business strategies when necessary.

Why Use NVOCC Software?

NVOCC or a Non Vessel Operating Common Carrier is a term used to describe a shipment consolidator. It provides a variety of shipping services like packing and securing cargo, and pick up, transport and delivery of goods to customers worldwide.

NVOCC Software is developed to automate shipping processes such as sales, booking, documentation, invoicing disbursements handling and container control. Utilizing NVOCC software creates a systematic solution for shipment processing that minimizes shipping transaction errors that are caused by the human involvement in the operations. 

Shipping agencies that uses software to support their operations develop more effective ways to perform their business processes. It allows them to manage shipment processes, to increase transparency throughout the shipping operation, and to focus primarily on improving the quality of their services. The software enables the company to concentrate on more important business activities while mechanizing the less important ones. 

Shipping Software may cover critical business operations such as cargo and freight management, equipment control, disbursements management and management information. Ultimately, shipping software can save you company from financial stress. It reduces operational costs and helps save time by providing accurate tools and multi-functional solutions for the company’s shipping needs. The software enables you to gain more control over operations and expenses. It also provides a unified database for different business functions that makes it easier for a company to communicate, to access and to share information in real time. By using the most practical and highly attainable solutions available, you can compete to the ever changing market. 

It is a must for a shipping company to look for a NVOCC Software provider that can determine the immediate needs your company is facing. Choose a software provider that exceeds your expectation yet minimizes your expenses. For the main concerns of every company are to increase productivity and to decrease labor costs, choosing the best NVOCC provider is the best solution. Their knowledge on all facets of shipping operations, from packing and pick up, through transportation and delivery helps your company attain the best service and international delivery.

Boost Liner Business Productivity With State-Of-The-Art EDI Capabilities of Shipping Software Solutions

In the shipping industry, businesses and agents are encountering rising economic pressure and increasing customer demand. This is why maintaining a cost efficient Information Technology has become more and more crucial. Using a cutting-edge and feature-rich shipping software solution that encompasses all of the vital elements in liner business operations provides agents and shipping lines accessibility, scalability, integration, and workflow optimization - which they need in order to achieve long-term success and gain competitive advantage.
One of the most critical processes in the shipping business that must not be overlooked is data exchange. In this process, a lot of information is required to be transferred between several different parties right from the shipper to the consignee. To ensure that information is managed and exchanged in the most efficient way possible, the usage of good shipping software should be taken seriously and smart technology decisions have to be made.
Today, the integration of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) capability in most off-the-shelf liner management software has made data processing and management so much easier for principals and agents alike. The risk of double entries and inaccuracies can be avoided and clerical workload can be reduced significantly.
EDI software applications have been designed not only to perform various logical checks to data on input and eliminate capturing spurious information, but also to ensure that day-to-day EDI traffic monitoring is completely and effectively maintained in order for leaders and staff to focus on their core activities.
With quick and fully automatic file and data management system features of shipping software solutions, you can sort, distribute, exchange and manage vital data with increased efficiency and boost productivity in your shipping line business.

Shipping Software Solutions: Breaking Barriers in Liner Business

In liner business, the need for an all-in-one software solution has to be satisfied in order for companies to maintain their competitive advantage, deliver high-quality customer service and improve shipping and logistics competence. An advanced, off-the-shelf liner agency software solution such as ALFA maintains data accuracy and ensures adherence to the liner agency's workflow. Such software features a wide range of functions, advanced technology and user-friendly interface that will enable your company to fill in gaps in your business flow.

One of the noteworthy benefits of using liner agency software is its ability to streamline critical processes such as sales and marketing, tariff/quotation/contract management, booking, documentation, invoicing, intermodal, dangerous goods handling, voyage account and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).

These functions, when carried out properly and efficiently with cutting-edge shipping software, can help you focus on your business' core initiatives, simplify cost center accounting, reduce overall shipping expenses and human errors, and link in-house systems. It can give you real time monitoring capabilities and let you evaluate statistics to figure out the most suitable way to load and ship cargos. This can all be possible due to an organized software platform which aims to eliminate inefficiencies that often occur because of old-fashioned liner shipping methods. Shipping software suites such as ALFA cover almost all elements of supply chain management enabling liner agencies to move shipments effectively and gain long-term business advantage.

Ultimately, reliable shipping software gives you the power to run your liner business in a manner that exceeds trade expectations and increases your profitability without burning your operational budget.

Shipping Software Solution For Streamlined Terminal Operations

In the shipping industry, ensuring the efficiency of terminal operations is something that operators need to constantly focus on. Finding the appropriate container terminal management software is in itself a challenge because not only terminal operators are looking for sophisticated packages, but they also need to consider the cost-effectiveness, adaptability and scalability of software products. In a fast changing global trade, a container terminal management software is required to improve operational efficiency and provide the groundwork for future development while minimizing overhead costs and maintaining high-level customer services.

Specially designed for complex business environments, Terminal Management System (TMS) offers unique capabilities for coordinating and automating processes involved in container terminal planning and management.

Among the great advantages of using such software is improved yard operations. With reliable cargo positioning and accurate yard planning functionalities, software users are able to competently process all gate and on-yard activities for different cargo types and conduct real-time equipment tracking for enhanced logistical performance.

Another key feature of TMS is its ability to reduce errors significantly by providing extensive EDI data input, which facilitates direct communication with agencies and makes reporting fast and complete.

Because TMS registers all utilized resources/actions and links to other related customer-tariff, users are able to have an online overview of costs and revenues by vessel, type of operation and period. Invoices (Pro-forma or real) can be generated based on these numbers which allows the management to create forecasts between not yet invoiced and invoiced vessels or handling costs.

Terminal Management System also enables users to manage inspections and eventual claims file. Information about special cargo handling, damages and over-landed or short cargo are highly visible and can be noticed immediately.

Terminal operations should involve the combined use of hands-on terminal management and modern Internet-based technologies in order to improve logistical functions. Reliable terminal management software serves as an all-in-one solution that meets the ever-changing shipping environment while maintaining cost-efficiency, productivity and profitability.

Improve Shipping Operations With Liner Agency Software

Shipment of goods to and from different parts of the globe involves complicated and labor-intensive processes. Shipping agencies usually need a larger labor pool to carry out certain functions. These functions include shipment bookings, container management, documentation, invoicing, equipment maintenance, cargo releasing and delivery. Regardless of the cargo's size, both shippers and consignees recognize how vital it is to have a professional and dependable shipping agency to manage all the complex processes.

Albeit the fact that shipping agencies take preventive procedures to ensure shipment safety and control, the chances of mishaps happening is always imminent. Conventional shipping mechanisms that involve tons of administrative work and lengthy manual activities are susceptible to errors and oversights that can put shipping operations in jeopardy. Businesses that utilize old-school methods require time and design adaptability in order to provide competent service.

Even with the existence of modern shipping technologies, there are several shipping firms that keep on using conventional transporting and processing systems for cargo handling. These methods are constantly threatened with different types of problems not to mention the interminable operations they entail. These problems include:

-Prolonged data processing

-Erroneous reporting

-Double entry

-Altercations in shipment forms and other documents

-Lack of transparency in costs and expediency

-Expensive data exchange with all involved parties

The above mentioned complications cause inefficiency and low return on investment. Auspiciously, there are many shipping software solutions that can help eradicate these problems and help businesses gain the upper-hand. The key is in a business' resolution to use modern technology which will greatly improve operational conditions.

Businesses in the shipping industry know how important it is to transport cargos in a fast and timely manner. By using a reliable shipping software solution, the entire shipping process is simplified, employee productivity is increased and profits are elevated.

Simplify Freight Travel Operations With A Good Freight Trips Management Software

Freighter trips have become increasingly popular with tourists the world over. Unlike the conventional commercial cruise travels that we are familiar with, cruising on a freighter costs less, not to mention there's plenty of luggage allowance for passengers. Some people view freighter travels to be more of a relaxation vacation, and this is the reason why more and more sea travelers have grown to love and enjoy freighter trips.

The number of freighter tours operators have increased considerably over the past years and since the demand for this type of travel has risen significantly, there is a need for operators to use a software which can help organize freighter travel bookings.

Today, several software companies have come up with freighter trips management applications in order to facilitate travel bookings. These trips are not organized by typical travel agencies but by regular freighter staff so a professional application package such as PAX can help the person-in-charge manage freighter travels with ease and efficiency.

Among the advantages of using freighter trips management software are the serviceable and user-friendly screens, intuitive handling and built-in internet capability. Travel organizers can easily manage inquiries, quotes, and bookings as well as automatically calculate round trips and check cabin occupancy and voyages online.

Freighter travel booking involves a lot of documentation such as questionnaires for passengers, printed information about the ship and cabins, schedules, price lists, health certificates, etc. A freighter trips management software like PAX provides a direct link to each document for a smoother and simpler documentation process.

Other features of this type of freighter travel management application include:

• TO DO list

• Tickets

• Passenger manifest for the captain

• Automatic invoicing to customer and agency

• Check of incoming payments

• Owner accounting per month or quarter

Freighter trips organization can now be done with increased efficiency and effectiveness. Operators are assured that freight travels are planned and managed in professional capacity with the use of a cutting-edge shipping software solutions.

Improve Shipping Operations With Liner Agency Software

Shipment of goods to and from different parts of the globe involves complicated and labor-intensive processes. Shipping agencies usually need a larger labor pool to carry out certain functions. These functions include shipment bookings, container management, documentation, invoicing, equipment maintenance, cargo releasing and delivery. Regardless of the cargo's size, both shippers and consignees recognize how vital it is to have a professional and dependable shipping agency to manage all the complex processes.

Albeit the fact that shipping agencies take preventive procedures to ensure shipment safety and control, the chances of mishaps happening is always imminent. Conventional shipping mechanisms that involve tons of administrative work and lengthy manual activities are susceptible to errors and oversights that can put shipping operations in jeopardy. Businesses that utilize old-school methods require time and design adaptability in order to provide competent service.

Even with the existence of modern shipping technologies, there are several shipping firms that keep on using conventional transporting and processing systems for cargo handling. These methods are constantly threatened with different types of problems not to mention the interminable operations they entail. These problems include:

-Prolonged data processing

-Erroneous reporting

-Double entry

-Altercations in shipment forms and other documents

-Lack of transparency in costs and expediency

-Expensive data exchange with all involved parties

The above mentioned complications cause inefficiency and low return on investment. Auspiciously, there are many shipping software solutions that can help eradicate these problems and help businesses gain the upper-hand. The key is in a business' resolution to use modern technology which will greatly improve operational conditions.

Businesses in the shipping industry know how important it is to transport cargos in a fast and timely manner. By using a reliable shipping software solution, the entire shipping process is simplified, employee productivity is increased and profits are elevated.

Streamline Container Maintenance and Repair with Superior Shipping Software Solutions

The processes involved in shipping goods to and from different places of the world requires intensive planning and constant monitoring. As much as possible, goods must be kept undamaged and equipments must always be in good working condition. In liner shipping, parties like depots, surveyors and operators must ensure that container maintenance and repair management must be conducted efficiently and effectively.

There is no way of telling when containers will need fixing. Equipments can fail before, during or after travel. For this reason, a good Container M&R (Maintenance and Repair) software should be in place in the event that containers get damaged.

Shipping software solutions such as SMARTS provides transparent repair processes for container operators to completely control and manage their equipment. Everyday workflow requirements are processed and delivered for dry vans, tanks, reefers, chassis or Gensets with efficiency.

This software solution also offers quick and easy damage reporting by providing support for the whole Depot Management process from Gate In to Gate Out.

Another advantage of having a shipping software solution like SMARTS is that each user may select his own method of organizing any report he receives to suite his everyday work requirements.

There are other great features this type of shipping software solution has. These include:

1. ISO 9897 compliance

2. Integrated repair tariff module with cost validation

3. Full control of container repair and survey

4. Fully or semi-automated billing

5. Repair history and analysis

6. Real-time data of complete equipment fleet

7. EOR validation against double or improper repairs

8. Warranty and claim control

9. Standard EDI interfaces

With a cutting-edge shipping software solution like SMARTS, liner agencies and container operators are assured that container M&R processes are fast, simple and precise.

Revolutionize Claims Processing With A Reliable Shipping Software Solution

In the shipping industry, businesses are always faced with the possibility that goods will get lost or damaged. No matter how efficient shipping agencies are, there are unexpected occurences that could result in ruined goods such as mishandling, weather conditions or accidents. This is why shipping agencies must have a fast and reliable claims service system in the event that cargoes become damaged.

It is important for shipping companies to process claims quickly and efficiently because damaged packages or goods can costs clients a lot of money and time. This can also be a reason for liner agencies to lose business.

Fortunately for businesses and shipping companies today, claims handling can be expedited and simplified with the use of modern shipping software solutions. Shipping software products such as ATLANTIS streamlines and speeds up claims processing through electronic files. The effectiveness and quality of claims handling are improved considerably with logical recording, consistent use and clearly structured data. Its convenient design of windows and short response times make it distinct.

In addition to the above benefits, a reliable shipping software application like ATLANTIS can:

• Capture new claims data in record time.

• Automatically set dates/time for file reviews.

• Look up and access files with various search criteria.

• Connect to ISDN, modem or the web.

• Fax, export ASCII data

One can never tell when accidents or mishaps will happen that is why shipping software solutions are fundamentally created to conduct claims procedures with ease and quality. Modern shipping technology has made claims handling a cutting-edge process for improved shipping operations.