TMS for FMCG TMS for FMCG
While purchasing consumer goods from store shelves or ordering online is easy, the process of getting these products to retail outlets and online distribution centers is a complex one. In today’s competitive and demanding market, where convenience reigns supreme, brands are prioritizing the streamlining of their distribution operations in the consumer goods supply chain through the use of innovative logistics technology.
What are the challenges faced by consumer Goods Distribution Company
Manual logistics planning processes
Despite the rapid shift towards digitization in supply chain management, many brands still need to grapple with manual, repetitive processes in planning their logistical operations. These processes include dispatching orders, assigning driver responsibilities, allocating fleet resources, and planning delivery routes. Manual planning can result in supply chain inefficiencies and errors.
Geographical restrictions
Consumer goods distributors, particularly those operating in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, face a significant challenge in navigating the complex geographical terrain. Moreover, brands often need to pay more attention to dynamic restrictions like traffic and weather conditions, which further impede timely deliveries.
Market demand fluctuations
Market demands are constantly evolving, particularly during uncertain times like the present. Therefore, failing to forecast demand accurately can make managing orders challenging, leading to either overstocking or a shortage of inventory.
Lack of supply chain visibility
Distribution businesses often need more visibility across various supply chain stages, resulting in difficulties for logistics managers to monitor and manage on-ground operations effectively. This lack of visibility also leads to inefficiencies during transit.
TopFreight’s solutions that we offer
End-to-end route optimization
Implemented TopFreight’s advanced route planning solution backed by accurate geocoding and AI algorithms. This solution utilizes three distinct metrics – geography, time, and vehicles – to plan delivery routes while also providing a comprehensive, single-screen view of distribution operations.
Automatic dispatch management
By eliminating manual dispatching processes, shipments can now be automatically assigned to the most optimal delivery routes and to the riders best suited for each shipment.
Real-time tracking and visibility
Real-time tracking and visibility – We tackled the limited supply chain visibility challenge by providing a comprehensive overview of on-ground operations and real-time tracking. Our solution also includes intelligent alerts based on SLA breaches, battery levels, and customer interactions, enabling proactive operation management.
Electronic Proof of Delivery
The Locus on the Road (LOTR) mobile app was implemented to enable drivers to record shipment status and delivery confirmations in real time, utilizing an electronic proof of delivery ePOD system. This system promotes faster, more transparent, and contactless deliveries.
Modernizing supply chain operations for Indonesia’s leading FMCG distribution brand
One of top consumer goods distribution companies was struggling with manual supply chain processes, suboptimal utilization of fleet capacity, and foggy visibility. They partnered with TopFreight to digitize their operations and increase efficiency.
By implementing an end-to-end distribution planning and visibility solution, TopFreight was able to establish a complete Transport Management System for the company. This solution assisted in planning, executing, and streamlining their supply chain operations.
With TopFreight, the customer saw significant efficiencies in their supply chain including 100 % digitization of their Proof of Delivery (POD) process, volume utilization increase right from the first month of go-live, and distance reduction cost per order/task.