Omnimodal supply chain optimization continues to grow in importance for effective logistics management.
Especially as recent years have seen tight capacity in every shipping mode and as companies continue to implement e-commerce channels.
For years, shippers and LSPs have discussed the implications of omnichannel fulfillment, including the need to provide estimated arrival times (predictive ETAs) based on the unique nuances of each shipment. However, the process has only grown more complex and confusing.
Leveraging an omnimodal transportation management system (TMS) in supply chain processes provides several benefits. It is essential to understand what is an omnimodal TMS, the technological features to expect in a TMS for omnimodal shipping, and a few benefits that having an omnimodal-capable TMS brings for supply chain management.
Defining an Omnimodal TMS
An omnimodal TMS refers to a supply chain platform that enables the planning, execution, management, settlement, and visibility of ALL modes from a single platform.
Omnichannel fulfillment and shopping strategies created a demand by supply chain and logistics professionals for a mechanism to manage omnichannel activities that result in a mix of over-the-road, air, ocean, rail, and even drone transportation. As technology evolves, how these forms of transportation are managed must also evolve.
That’s where the omnimodal TMS empowers the future of the supply chain by continuously incorporating new features and resources to grow and improve management and visibility in the network.
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An Omnimodal TMS Brings Connectivity with Technology
The advancements of technology and connectivity are the common focal points of an omnimodal TMS.
TMS benefits stem from the ability to handle the transportation management of an omnichannel supply chain strategy, but the real power of the TMS is the ability to manage all shipping modes from a single resource.
However, a critical element of this capability comes from the TMS’ integration power to connect disparate systems via API, EDI, or other communication means, such as robotics process automation-powered chatbots, to keep everyone and each system informed.
The connectivity of systems and people enables more strategic collaboration, which empowers supply chains to solve larger problems and launch initiatives outside of transportation management, such as incorporating a new buy online, pick up curbside program. This is a top priority as e-commerce expansion continues, amassing more than $1 trillion in annual sales forecasts in 2022, notes Forbes.
Omnimodal TMS Supply Chain Benefits
The benefits of an omnimodal TMS closely mirror those associated with traditional TMS deployment, but they take the activity to an all-shipping mode level. For instance, consider these top benefits of leveraging an omnimodal system:
- Increased data tracking throughout the full shipment lifecycle to understand costs and their impact on transportation spend.
- Streamlined document management, including a digital POD or BOL, accessible and shared via a link, to keep outsourced and in-house networks on the same page.
- Better accountability within final mile management, including the first, middle and last legs of the final mile on a transactional basis, also helps promote better inventory management to avoid stockouts.
- The ability to look beyond the sale is another feature of a modern-day TMS supply chain strategy, including the partnerships with white-glove service companies and specialists for set up in the room of choice for furniture, installation of software and hardware components, and even debris removal following delivery.
- Decreased environmental impact by understanding the need for continuous supply chain optimization that accounts for changes in real-time and avoids waste, particularly deadhead or empty miles.
- Increased eligibility for shipper- or carrier-of-choice status, depending on the user, by effectively improving collaboration, communication, and transparency into all activities.
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There will always be uncertainty in freight management.
Shippers will want better rates. Carriers will want more profitable loads. Brokers will want to play both sides of the field, and customers will expect fast, free shipping. Together, it means the supply chain needs collaboration and tech-driven processes throughout all activities.
An omnimodal TMS makes that possible and offers strong benefits to those that realize savings opportunities by viewing the full shipment lifecycle. Download this infographic and learn about 7 Benefits of an Omnimodal TMS.
