Core Capabilities of a Best-in-Class Global 4PL


Overview

If you are considering partnering with a global 4PL—or a global TMS provider that offers managed services, make sure you select a provider that offers the following core capabilities:



Technology architecture

  • Single cloud-based platform that enables the democratization of data required for real-time visibility and predictive analytics
  • Ability to aggregate data via IoT devices

Transportation planning and execution

  • Ability to automate and optimize order entry, event and exception management
  • Consolidate orders and create efficient routing and scheduling plans for complex, multi-leg shipments

Real-time shipment visibility

  • Provides panoramic view of the entire supply chain, from procurement to SKU-level details on every shipment worldwide
  • Inventory in-motion visibility and alerting

Predictive analytics and modeling

  • Delivers high-value insights to improve real-time decisioning and enhance long-term business strategies

Performance management

  • Reporting and analytics to make more sustainable business decisions that achieve cost and service goals
  • Standardized scorecards adapted to each global market to define performance metrics in accordance with different interpretations

Compatibility with all modes

  • Supports the management of bids for any method of transportation, and the coordination of contracts, carrier qualification, rates, and schedules of shipments

Ability to execute in all regions

  • Supports the management of bids for any method of transportation, and the coordination of contracts, carrier qualification, rates, and schedules of shipments

Appointment scheduling

  • Carrier appointments and dock scheduling to help alleviate congestion and avoid detention charges
  • Increases visibility, improves load planning, raises service standards, and reduces carriers’ administrative costs

Invoice auditing

  • Carrier invoice receipt, self-billing, and payment
  • Customization, versatility, and visibility to carrier processing

Carrier management

  • One version of the truth performance scorecards
  • Corrective action plans

Global connectivity

  • Connections to suppliers, carriers and other transportation providers to allow for automation and visibility
  • Real-time feeds via API or EDI from sources that impact supply chain performance: weather, traffic, natural disasters, etc.

Supply chain expertise

  • Understands your business to translate needs into supply chain solutions that save you money
  • Talent that understands different industries and acts as an extension of your team to optimize your business processes and results
  • Leverages technology, processes and expertise to identify actionable insights and make recommendations
  • Uses an unbiased carrier selection process, providing a neutral platform and level playing field for carriers
  • On-going continuous improvement to ensure maximum value creation


About TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson

Global supply chains are growing increasingly complex. Businesses need the latest technology and industry expertise to advance and stay ahead of the competition. At TMC, a division of C.H. Robinson, we understand what makes supply chains faster, stronger, and more efficient. As a leader in global logistics management, we combine industry expertise with our global technology platform, Navisphere®, to support the world’s most complex supply chains. Our logistics experts are located in Control Tower® locations around the world: Amsterdam, Chicago, Monterrey, São Paulo, Seattle, Shanghai, and Wrocław. This Control Tower® network, supported by our technology platform, connects our customers to their suppliers and supply chain partners. Our customers leverage these capabilities to manage their logistics in over 170 countries across all modes of transportation.

To learn more, visit www.chrobinson.com/TMC.