To successfully expand into global markets, it is critical for companies to have logistics systems and networks that are interconnected. This global linking of supply chains enables the seamless movement of products from origin to destination.
DACHSER’s interconnectivity – or interlocking – describes a sophisticated, networked process that enables their customers to tap into new markets around the world.
DACHSER South Africa’s Managing Director, Detlev Duve, says that the company likens the management of global supply chains to the challenges of a triathlon. Considered the supreme achievement for an athlete, the triathlon requires the mastery of three different disciplines in order to succeed overall. “In logistics our disciplines are land, sea and air transports which together enable the implementation of global procurement, warehousing and distribution to occur in an effective and transparent manner. At DACHSER we use the term interlocking to refer to how we link up these elements through interconnecting networks.”
DACHSER SA has recently embarked on a system revamp, not just including SAP integration but also migrating to a global freight system. Duve says, “This will give rise to a brand new track and trace system and advanced visibility for our customers and network, streamlining our service levels more than ever before.”
To prepare the way for this seamless interaction of road, sea and air logistics, DACHSER has had to envision and implement new logistics structures in conjunction with their customers in order to accurately meet the logistics requirements of their supply chains. The seamless flow of goods and information necessitates that the IT systems between customers and DACHSER’s branches are able to exchange information using the same ‘language’. This capability reaffirms DACHSER’s commitment to ensuring that they are an extension of their customers’ businesses.
The migration onto DACHSER’s in-house warehousing system means improved efficiency, the reduction in costs and the accelation of response times. Specific advantages for customers include easier access to global markets through a single source, real-time control via an IT interface, optimal supply and planning of production sites and warehousing, lean contract management and reduction of administractive processes, and complete transparency across multimodel transport.
Duve says “Through our network we are able to show our customers how to implement and manage sophisticated intercontinental supply chains that are consistent and standardised. The end result is a triathlon of transportation that, while appearing effortless, can only be achieved through critical process understanding and implementation, and sustained and accurate coordination. ”
