5 Tips for Choosing a Logistics ERP

How to choose an ERP for Transport and Logistics companies

In recent years, having the best tools and software has become completely necessary to manage supply chain flows, improving efficiency and competitiveness. Its implementation has advantages of clear competition, as we commented in our post about the advantages of an ERP software for freight forwarders and logistics operators

However, many organizations delay this decision because of the work involved in the search, hiring and implementation. What should we do to choose the right solution? Here are some tips.

1. Define the needs of the logistics sector

Being aware of this need is the first step to be able to put a solution in place, since the logistics software for freight forwarders that are on the market today, such as bytemaster, cover all the needs of logistics management. Being clear about the needs will help us to search in a more detailed way. If you are still in this phase, keep in mind these aspects as the most important ones:

Software for Forwarders

If we are a freight forwarder, we need a logistics ERP with a very powerful transport module. You need to have all the connections necessary to perform such tasks as traffic control, customer document control, tracking shipments by milestone, and integration with different information platforms that provide information on the location and status of the shipment.

Customs Control Software

Do you have a relationship with Customs and the Inland Revenue? If your answer is yes, you need to incorporate a powerful and dynamic customs management module. Customs information is constantly changing, so you need a module that incorporates that information on a daily basis, a vital issue that we already discussed in the blog of bytemaster.

Software ERP for Warehouse Management WMS

In addition to managing transport, if your company has a warehouse or is a logistics operator that stores goods on behalf of its customers, having software with a logistics management module is paramount. This type of ERPs allow us to have total control over the merchandise we have in the warehouse: its variation, outputs and inputs or stocks.

Business Intelligence for Logistics

Discover a powerful tool for the logistics sector, the BI for logistics has the configuration of customized reports for each member of your organization from a friendly and simple graphic interface. Determine the data, format and periodicity of a particular report and the system will automatically send it, or allow members of your organization to download this document through subscription.

2. Write a proposal

Once the needs have been defined, it is very important to draw up a requirements document. It can be a time-consuming task, but having a document of this type helps the organization to agree on the needs of the different business areas, identify the operations that are critical and those that would be an addition to any proposal. With a requirements document, it is much easier to be able to compare offers from different suppliers, and makes it much easier to manage the purchase of a management system for logistics operators.

3. Contact suppliers and conduct demos

Once the organization's information needs have been documented, it is time to contact the suppliers. There is a wide range of management systems available in the Spanish market, but few are specific to freight forwarders, customs agents and transport operations. Trust companies that have an up-to-date website, with clear access to information, and that meet your operational needs in a standard way. Another important aspect is to look at the references: which companies in the sector are working with this solution? Are they relevant players in the transport and logistics sector? A good indicator of the quality of a product is that its customers recommend it publicly through videos or articles.

4. Request high and low level technical proposals

Once you have made contact with potential suppliers, request technical and economic proposals based on your requirements document, and check that the solution covers all the needs you have identified. Pay attention to the things the system does by default, and to those operations that need custom developments. Generally speaking, custom developments imply an extra cost in the implementation phase, so it will always be better to have a solution that is able to cover your needs in a standard way.

5. Aspects to be taken into account

The Support

A very important element to consider when choosing an ERP software is what kind of after-sales support the company providing the solution offers. The purchase of a management system or logistics ERP, is a long-term contract in which it is essential that the communication channels and processes for solving incidents are clear and direct. Trust a solution that provides online platforms for incident management and different support and maintenance plans depending on your needs.

Implementation

The implementation of a management system can be a headache for any organization, since its implementation means a change in the way of working for many of its employees and for the time and dedication it requires for its optimal functioning. With this in mind, it is important to look for a supplier who will provide clear project management from the outset, with work dates and milestones and follow-up meetings at agreed times. Make sure that the work milestones are consensual and in line with the needs of your organization.

The purchase of a logistics ERP is an important decision and a long-term contractual relationship, so human relations are an important component to consider. A solution capable of meeting your requirements and a friendly and collaborative humane treatment is a perfect combination for a successful choice.

 

_b first | Logistics ERP Software for Freight Forwarders and Logistics Operators

 

Can we help you change your ERP? Request a Demo for your organization!