Exchanging transport orders via FreshBabel - Transportal 2.0

A new link between clients and transporters who can collaborate with each other via real-time information. With Transportal 2.0, the current connection is refined through an integration with FreshBabel, making it easy to exchange messages with each other. The technical preparation was carried out in the first quarter of 2024, after which the focus will be on easing the administrative burden later this year. In this update, developers Joost and Dave explain what users can expect.

Transportal was set up years ago in collaboration with Daily Logistics Group (DLG DailyFresh). The solution is currently used by various GreenCommerce customers and carriers. In addition to the exchange of information regarding logistics agreements, the Transportal also played an important role during the Brexit phase. DLG DailyFresh and other transporters were informed about planned transport orders via the Transportal. Later, DLG DailyFresh also started acting as a customs handler and FreshBabel was used to exchange customs information.

In this quarter, the existing technology was converted to a message flow via FreshBabel, with functionally the same options as the current Transportal. Later this year there will be extensions that will allow the carrier to also return information. Currently, the information flow from Transportal is one-sided: from GreenCommerce to transporter. Dave begins: “The carrier now only returns a status, but cannot provide any additional information. The new situation creates two-way communication, whereby the carrier can also return invoices and customs-related documents.” Companies can also benefit from digital deliveries of logistics statuses, customs-related matters and digital invoices for transports.

In the new situation, FreshBabel technology is used to facilitate communication between the systems. Joost agrees: “FreshBabel uses one standard with which messages can be sent and read. There was no transport message yet in the existing communication, so we added it for this project.” These are instructions that can be sent to the transporter. Furthermore, additional documents can be sent to the carrier, such as the delivery note and the CMR. “Moreover, technical preparations have been made to receive information back from the transporter. Consider the actual loading and unloading times, but also signed documents for export.” said Joost.

The big advantage is that it becomes much easier for users of Transportal 2.0 to reconcile invoices. This reduces paperwork and labor surrounding invoicing. Dave continues: “The next step is to start the pilot with transporters to test whether the functionalities that have been created work properly. Developments in GreenCommerce will be made in the last quarter of 2024 to simplify invoice reconciliation.”

The developments for Transportal 2.0 are interesting for all current Transportal users and companies that do not work with their own transport but outsource it to an external party. “It is also a great tool for transporters to collaborate efficiently with our customers.” concludes Dave.

Questions or more information?
Do you have questions about the Transportal 2.0 or would you like more information? Please contact us at info@greencommerce.nl or call +31 174 -642 622.