How an API can simplify your logistics planning
Knowing where your cargo is one thing. Getting that information directly into your own systems – and allowing it to automatically trigger the next step – is something else.
Interest in API solutions is growing among APM Terminals Gothenburg’s customers. Customer Care Manager August Gustafsson is seeing a clear shift.
“Many companies have made significant progress with their digitalisation and are now looking for better ways to connect their systems. At the same time, the world around us has become more uncertain, making it harder to know exactly when cargo will arrive. This makes access to the right information, as early as possible, even more important,” says August.
From emails and manual checks to information directly in your system
An API is based on the same information that many customers already use through Track & Trace. The difference is how the information is delivered.
“With Track & Trace, you can see what is happening with your containers. With an API, the same information can be sent directly to your own system. This means you do not need to check manually or wait for an email notification,” August explains.
The information can also be used to automatically trigger the next step in the process. When an import container arrives at the terminal and is ready for the next step, the information can automatically trigger, for example, collection planning or the start of a customs process.
“That is where it becomes really interesting. You are not just receiving information about what is happening – your systems can act on that information. It reduces manual steps, saves time and makes planning easier,” says August.
Tailored to each customer’s needs
An API solution always starts with a dialogue about the customer’s needs.
“We start by understanding what the customer wants to achieve and which systems and processes they have in place today. We then involve our specialised API team, which looks at the best solution,” he concludes.
Curious to find out what an API could do for your logistics planning? Get in touch with August Gustafsson.