Streamlining a Logistics Company with a Custom Software Solution

“CSG demonstrated an exceptional ability to understand our business needs and create a system tailored to our exact requirements. Their expertise has allowed us to move from cumbersome manual processes to a fully integrated logistics platform that will drive efficiency for years to come.”

—Chris Lewis, Vice-President, Cooper/Ports America

Situation

Cooper/Ports America (hereafter simple “Cooper”) is a premier provider of full-service stevedore, terminal operation, container yard storage, and maintenance and repair. Stevedoring is the process of loading and unloading cargo from ships in ports—and in today’s modern port operations, this can involve multiple trucks moving to and from interim warehouses.

As it has grown, Cooper has begun to face logistical challenges of its own, particularly around back-office management and billing. For example, a single project might include thousands of trucks, many of which are operated by independent contractors, making the coordination and billing process highly complex. The leadership at Cooper realized that it could not continue to rely on spreadsheets and manual data entry, processes that can be prone to delays, billing complications, and the need for excessive back-office labor. What they needed was a tool that would streamline multi-truck job assignments, and that could ultimately integrate invoicing across various subcontractors and services.

At first, Cooper shopped around for off-the-shelf transportation management systems (TMS). But these failed to accommodate Cooper’s complex operational needs, and modifying existing software promised to be slow and prohibitively expensive. It soon became apparent that, to maintain their competitive edge, Cooper would need a custom software solution that could unify and automate their business operations.

The Solution

Through a trade show introduction, Cooper connected with CSG, recognizing their expertise in custom software development. After evaluating multiple vendors, Cooper chose CSG due to their ability to understand complex operational workflows and translate them into tailored software solutions.

CSG did a deep dive into Cooper’s needs developed a custom logistics management platform that:

  • Centralizes trucking operations, allowing for multiple trucks/contracts to flow into a single invoice for the client;

  • Automates POD (proof of delivery) collection, reducing manual processing and expediting billing cycles;

  • Integrates real-time tracking and reporting to enhance visibility across all cargo movements.

Measuring Success

The new system is still in its final stages of testing and deployment. But already, it can be seen that the new system will be effective in:

  • Reducing manual data entry, eliminating thousands of spreadsheets and redundant processes.

  • Accelerating invoicing cycles by automating POD collection and document processing.

  • Improving operational efficiency, enabling Cooper to scale operations without increasing administrative overhead.

As Cooper moves forward with phase two of implementation, the software will further enhance automation, integrating client billing modules and advanced analytics to drive even greater efficiencies.

Why CSG?

Throughout the development process, CSG showcased their ability to deeply understand Cooper’s unique needs. CSG’s approach to translating complex logistics challenges into intuitive, operator-friendly software set them apart from traditional TMS providers. By partnering with CSG, Cooper now has a scalable, intelligent logistics platform that aligns with their long-term growth strategy. They are now poised to handle increasing demand while maintaining the high level of service their clients expect.

Is your logistics or supply chain company struggling with its systems? Arrange for a discovery call and tell us about your business!