Freight Forwarding and Supply Chain Logistics Specialists Adopt New Technology

WORLDWIDE – FRANCE – UK – Freight forwarding and automotive supply chain logistics specialist Gefco says it has invested in some of the latest information technologies in order to improve the quality of service it provides to its customers. The operational transport management system, cadis, from mobile solutions provider, Kratzer Automation, will provide Gefco with a transport management and embedded IT solution specially adapted to its needs. Luc Nadal, President of the Gefco Group, says:

“For a company with international reach like Gefco, it is essential to follow rigorous, standardised quality procedures on a global scale. They ensure our international customers are always satisfied as they find the same level of transparency in every country in which we are located. Innovative information management systems are further proof of our desire to deliver irreproachable end to end service and we are continuously investing in research and development into the very latest technological tools. The cadis system developed by Kratzer is the perfect example of this.”

The cadis system, which has been specifically developed for the logistics field, incorporates delivery instructions and manages the schedule planning for optimised distribution of loads. Regular checks mean that errors are avoided and the stages of a delivery round are shown in real time. Gefco claims customers thus benefit from increased operational reliability and complete traceability of their shipments.

The new tool also has the ability to record photographs of the condition of goods, useful in the event of a claim, and the customer signs directly on the screen. This electronic acknowledgement of receipt makes the written report associated with the checks at the end of a distribution round redundant since the tool instantly loads the information to the global information system. In addition to the reduced paper consumption, the time saved is entirely to the benefit of the customer, guaranteeing efficiency and productivity gains. Bruno Rivoallan, the Gefco Group’s Overland Director, said:

“This tool illustrates the importance of being able to access information at each level of the supply chain, from the production plants to the points of sale. In the aeronautics and automotive sectors in particular, the goods being transported are very valuable and traceability takes on significant importance. The cadis tool is a tremendous competitive asset in winning new customers.”

In other industry technology related news, DB Schenker has simplified the process for customers to access the internet based service portals on it global website, by creating an integrated entry screen allowing users to log on directly. The entry screen is now an integral part of the navigation menu and can be accessed from all the subpages of the website at any time. New customers, too, can use this entry field to register for DB Schenker eServices more easily than before whilst those seeking information for DB Schenker Rail also have quicker access to the freight timetable, RailService Online Portal and other Schenker Rail eServices. 

DB Schenker will also have a presence at the International Marine Purchasing Association (IMPA) show, taking place at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London from 11th to 12th September. Schenker will be show casing some electronic services on offer via their DB Schenker Marineparts business and various other freight groups will also exhibit including Geodis Wilson demonstrating the company’s tailored marine solutions.