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Total packet of logistical software

J.P. Beemsterboer starts with Shipping Center Lite

When Martin Prins was still active as forwarder, he was surprised about the lack of an automation solution that connects shippers, shipping agencies, shipping companies, air cargo companies, customs offices and transport companies. That is why he personally took the plunge in 2012, when he started EXTRA Logistic Software with a few others. By now, the packet has also drawn the attention of the fresh produce sector, and from 1 September, J. P. Beemsterboer Food Traders has been working with the Shipping Center Lite packet.

“At first, the packet was aimed at shipping agents, but we have now also marketed a Lite variety, which is available for third parties such as importers and exporters,” Prins says. “Shipping Center Lite has been designed in an innovative manner, and it was created by and for shippers and shipping agents. Because Shipping Center Lite was created in a user-friendly environment and supports permanent processes and methods, it is easily usable and can be connected to existing software for every shipping agent and shipper via EDI.”



“Users can create a file using data from entities such as Booking, VGM Filing, Shipping Instruction, and others. They can give customers access to an account in order to always be up-to-date with the files. Users can book all of their FCL shipping directly from more than 30 shipping companies worldwide thanks to our coupling to INTTRA. Our coupling works in two directions. Besides sending a Booking, the user also digitally receives the Carrier Booking Confirmation. The use of statuses and e-mail notifications make this process well-organised, quick and user-friendly. The other shippings can also be sent, but via a standardised e-mail format,” Prins explains.

“Through our coupling with INTTRA, the Shipping Center receives the Status Events of a shipment from more than 30 shipping companies. A history of Status Events is kept up-to-date per container. Additionally, users are kept up-to-date with possible changes in the ETS and/or ETA by means of a checklist. Customers are personally able to take action, by sending a Delay Notice, for example,” Prins explains.



“The reports are also interesting for our customers. They have access to various operational and sales reports, and those have an export function to Excel, for example, a report of B/Ls, container volume, ETS/ETA surveys, and more,” Prins says, who is a firm believer in customisation. “Because every company is different, the logistical software packet for every company should also be different. Shipping Center Lite is completely adjustable to the wishes and demands of the customer.”

Prins is transparent about the cost of Shipping Center Lite. “Once-only starting costs of 1,200 euro, supplemented with 35 euro per user per month and 10 euro per client per month. Furthermore, the costs per VGM amount to 0.50 euro. But I think it is more important what you get out of it. I therefore always ask customers what they pay for traditional services or if they are able to create a complete file with entities such as Booking, VGM Filing, Shipping Instruction or a Delay Notice using their current software packet, and if they are then able to send this to the correct persons. I guarantee a 25 per cent saving on their FTE!”

For more information:
Martin Prins
EXTRA Logistic Software
Cypresbaan 25b
2908 LT Capelle aan den IJssel
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