3PL Central has introduced SmartDock, a dock scheduling solution integrated with 3PL Warehouse Manager designed to help 3PLs improve scheduling efficiencies. It allows warehouses to add more control to their receiving and shipping processes.
SmartDock enables 3PLs to automate and take control of the scheduling process, creating their custom dock availability by inputting available receiving times, dock specifications, and work times associated with different types of loads. Carriers can access the cloud-based scheduling tool from any mobile device or web browser to self-schedule appointments and arrival times based on warehouse staffing and dock availability. Carriers can also modify or update their availability based on known delays. SmartDock enables 3PLs to:
Boost operational efficiencies by reducing time spent on support and carrier management.
Gain real-time visibility to appointments across the entire supply chain in order to better plan labor and staffing.
Level loads by spreading shipments across a week to avoid labor shortages and overtime costs.
Reduce costs from avoiding carrier detention fees and traffic fines.
Run reports on vendor and carrier performance for on-time, delayed, or canceled deliveries to hold vendors accountable.
