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Unlocking Potential of RPA in Logistics: Use Cases, Benefits, and Tips to Avoid RPA Implementation Failure


Logistics involves complex, tedious and time-consuming backend processes like customer data updates, order and inventory processing, scheduling and tracking delivery, etc. And, the industry focuses heavily on performing these tasks manually which reduces efficiency and produces a negative effect. 

Manual backend processes are repetitive and cumbersome. As humans are always prone to errors, creating unwanted or unexpected errors while performing their tasks is highly possible, which potentially impacts a logistics company’s bottom line. 

By automating the labor-intensive manual processes through RPA (take advantage of digital transformation services) the industry can overcome the delays, productivity loss, and inefficient process challenges. 

Also, using RPA (Robotic Process Automation) in supply chain and Logistics will streamline processes, accelerate performance and reduce operational costs substantially. 

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According to MRFR, The Robotic Process Automation Market is expected to grow at approximately USD 2,700 Million by 2023, at 29% of CAGR between 2017 and 2023 and logistics is one of the industries that has been included in the segmentation list. 

What is the difference between RPA and other automation solutions?

RPA is best suited for accelerating the below repetitive, mundane and high volume tasks that are difficult to perform on a daily basis. 

  • Time-critical
  • Highly manual
  • Low exception
  • Stable
  • Low complexity
  • Prone to error
  • Rules-based
  • Repetitive
  • Seasonal

With RPA implementation Logistics industry can experience

  • Cost-effectiveness and time saving
  • Faster, seamless process automation (requires minimal training)
  • Easy automation of existing processes and integration within the existing ecosystem
  • 24/7 Operations
  • High accuracy
  • Freed up humans to focus on other business activities and improvement
  • Improved customer experience
  • Scalability to accelerate process performance

3 Interesting RPA Use Cases in Logistics

Bill of reading 

The bill of reading is a major exercise done by contract logistics organizations.  

It has details of Sender, receiver, What item, how many no of boxes that is getting shipped. This data has to be loaded in DMS ( Distribution Management System) wherein delivery agents are mapped & assigned – largely manual including last-mile delivery – RPA can do this. 

Accounts receivable  – Credit note automation 

The credit notes & debit notes in a contract logistics are very high & are mostly done manually with the payment advice reconciliation  & finally updated in the ERP. RPA bots can do this. 

Warehousing operations 

Warehousing operations follow a scheduled task – say first in first out / last in last out etc – Material shipment details are available in ERP & the shipment data ( like serial no, mfg date, etc., time of shipment )  are loaded in WMS ( warehouse management system) – done manually in most of the logistics companies today – BOTs can be used here. 

RPA is certainly a potential tool for transforming the simple yet repetitive tasks Logistics workers perform on a daily basis. However, RPA may not suit all Logistics companies due to a few reasons.

Here are the reasons why RPA implementation could fail. 

  • Misunderstanding bots

Understanding your logistics process is highly critical even before implementing a bot. RPA can’t be applied under a few scenarios and it is better to have an open discussion with your implementation partner and they could help. 

  • Non-scalable bots

RPA implementation starts small and once the stage is set, it requires a lot of bots to accelerate the process speed. If the program doesn’t allow scalability and achieving the complete value out of the bot implementation will possibly won’t happen. 

  • Misunderstood IT dependency

Many logistics heads believe that involving the IT team in the RPA implementation would delay the process. But, it is a must as the IT team has to play a meaty role when you scale the bots for accelerating process speed as they have to govern the entire process. 

  • Misunderstood bots for human scenario

It’s not true that bots will replace humans. In fact, bots implemented on the logistics companies are helping the humans perform better by allowing them to focus on the critical process improvements and business advancements rather than focusing on the repetitive, high volume and time-consuming tasks. 

  • Selecting RPA implementation partner 

Partnering with an expert RPA implementation partner is recommended to avoid potential productivity loss even after implementing bots. Only expert RPA vendors understand the importance of automating the type of processes that require bots and guide with the right solutions. 

Also, the company should have a proven track record and certified RPA developers and partnership with reputed RPA development companies like UiPath, Blue Prism, Automation Anywhere to make the entire program successful. 

From the above discussion, it is prudent that RPA solutions will improve the process and productivity of  Logistics companies. 

Planning to automate your repetitive, manual and high volume tasks? Let’s talk.

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Frequent Asked Questions

Digital transformation is the process of using digital technologies to fundamentally change the way your business operates. It can involve everything from automating manual processes to creating new digital products and services. Digital transformation is important because it can help businesses become more efficient, improve customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge.

We offer a wide range of digital transformation services, including digital strategy development, process automation, cloud migration, data analytics, and software development. We work with each client to identify their unique needs and develop a customized plan that will help them achieve their business goals.

The timeline for a digital transformation project can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. We work with each client to develop a project plan that outlines the timeline and milestones for the project. Typically, a digital transformation project can take several months to a year or more to complete.

The cost of a digital transformation project can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project. We work with each client to develop a customized plan that fits within their budget. Our goal is to deliver the best possible value to our clients while keeping costs reasonable

Digital transformation can involve significant changes to business operations, and there may be some disruption as a result. However, we work closely with each client to minimize disruption and ensure that the transition to digital operations is as smooth as possible

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Our team has extensive experience in digital transformation and has worked with businesses of all sizes and industries. We have a deep understanding of the latest digital technologies and how they can be applied to achieve business objectives. We also stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices in the industry to ensure that we deliver the best possible results to our clients.

We take the security of our clients' digital assets very seriously. We follow industry best practices to ensure that all data and systems are protected throughout the digital transformation process. We also work closely with our clients to identify potential security risks and develop a plan to mitigate those risks.

Yes, we offer training and support services to ensure that our clients' employees are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to use new digital technologies effectively. We work with each client to develop a customized training plan that meets their specific needs.

To get started with a digital transformation project, simply contact us to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, we will learn more about your business and objectives and provide recommendations on the best digital transformation strategies for your business. We will then develop a project plan and provide a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work, timeline, and budget for the project.

Yes, digital transformation can be just as beneficial for small businesses as it is for larger enterprises. In fact, implementing digital technologies can often be even more transformative for SMBs, as it can help them become more agile and competitive in their markets

Digital transformation can help SMBs compete with larger companies by leveling the playing field. By adopting digital technologies, SMBs can streamline their operations, improve their customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge. They can also access new markets and reach customers that were previously out of reach.

Some common challenges that SMBs face during digital transformation include limited budgets, limited resources, and a lack of technical expertise. However, a good digital transformation partner can help SMBs overcome these challenges by providing cost-effective solutions, access to a broader range of resources, and technical expertise that SMBs may not have in-house.

To ensure that their digital transformation efforts are successful, SMBs should approach digital transformation strategically. This means identifying their business objectives, defining a clear roadmap for digital transformation, and working with a trusted partner that can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

Measuring the ROI of digital transformation can be challenging, but it's important to do so in order to determine the success of the project. Key performance indicators (KPIs) that can be used to measure the ROI of digital transformation include improvements in operational efficiency, increases in revenue, and improvements in customer satisfaction. A good digital transformation partner can help SMBs identify the most relevant KPIs for their business and track progress over time.

We offer digital transformation services to clients all over the world. We have experience working with clients in United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Canada, China, Japan, Italy, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria Europe, Asia,  and Australia, among other regions.

We have experience working with clients in a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, manufacturing, and more. Our team of experts has a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that different industries face when it comes to digital transformation.

Yes, we have offices in several locations around the world. Our offices are staffed by experienced professionals who are equipped to provide our clients with the support and expertise they need to achieve their digital transformation goals.

We take a client-centered approach to digital transformation, which means that we work closely with our clients to understand their unique needs and challenges. We have a deep understanding of the cultural, economic, and regulatory factors that can impact digital transformation in different regions, and we tailor our services accordingly to ensure that our clients achieve the best possible outcomes.

We have a global team of experts who are available to provide support and guidance to our clients in different time zones. We also use digital tools and platforms that allow us to communicate and collaborate with our clients regardless of their location. We are committed to providing our clients with the support they need, whenever they need it.

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