FREIGHT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: FREIGHT OPERATIONS WITH ENHANCING EFFICIENCY THROUGH SHIPMENT EXECUTION, TRACKING LOAD CONSOLIDATION, AND ROUTE PLANNING OPTIMIZATION

Abstract

A Freight Management System is a Software as a Service (SaaS) designed to help transportation businesses streamline customer interactions and enhance business efficiency. In the context of "freight operations with improved efficiency through shipment execution, load consolidation tracking, and route planning optimization," this system will support Kargada in optimizing its freight operations. Specifically, the system will ensure that all necessary tasks and information are completed before shipment execution. Additionally, it will improve the tracking of load consolidation and optimize route planning, leading to more effective and efficient operations. This project utilizes the Agile Scrum methodology to break the project into phases, with a focus on continuous collaboration and improvement. Agile Scrum is a widely used approach in project management, including the development of a Transport Management System (TMS), which enables booking carriers, tracking shipments in real-time, auto-reconciling freight invoices, and providing valuable insights through detailed data analysis. Carriers also use dedicated SaaS platforms for dispatching and route optimization, which benefits retailers, distributors, and manufacturers. This methodology promotes iterative and incremental development, collaboration, and adaptability, ensuring flexibility and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. As a result of adhering to the project plan, the system's flow is functioning properly, but the overall outcome did not fully meet the original expectations. The project primarily focused on enhancing efficiency in shipment execution, load consolidation tracking, and route planning optimization within freight operations, as outlined in the scope. While the researchers concentrated on these specific areas, some related topics and details from other groups were not given enough attention. As a result, during the integration and testing phases, certain aspects of the system flow did not meet the expected outcomes. Moving forward, the centralized system for shipment execution, load consolidation tracking, and route planning optimization will enable clients to guide their employees in using the system efficiently and in a unified manner. This technology migration will help reduce overhead costs and the time currently required to manage these tasks with a large workforce. Additionally, the company will benefit from more timely, accurate reporting, leading to improved operational efficiency and decision-making.