In both logistics and warehousing environments, manual data entry problems create significant issues for a good deal of personnel. These issues are widespread, from forklift drivers and truck drivers, to operations personnel and even freight customers.

Today we’ll not only evaluate what those problems are, but how we can remedy such issues.

Poor accuracy

A key reason that key decision-makers in warehousing decide to look into a software solution is the poor accuracy of manual data. Hand writing can be misinterpreted by others, but also may not have all the required information to manually input into a system.

Our digital solution uses a simplified font that is easily read. Users will be prompted on which data is required. Finally, the accuracy of digital data is significantly higher across the board.

Lost paperwork

Truck drivers routinely lose paperwork or simply don’t hand it in. In fact, here at CartonCloud, we suffered a $8,000 loss in our previous logistics business, as one driver took advantage of the often lost paperwork.

Losing paperwork creates an administrative and freight billing nightmare, and a top reason why clients decide to migrate to CartonCloud. We’re a robust digital solution that updates in real-time, and the data simply cannot be ‘lost’ along the way. Entering manual data rarely becomes a problem once implemented, as it becomes a rarity.

Increased time-cost

There are more resources in terms of staff numbers that are required to enter manual data. This creates problems as staff cannot be allocated to more efficient tasks in a warehouse or logistics business.

Truck drivers often can complete more pickups and deliveries through a more automated and digital solution. Dispatch teams can check in real-time the delivery status of a freight. Further still, freight customers often find the Proof of Delivery process (via a PDA system) to be more streamlined.

Confusion for staff

Often some companies find resistance towards moving into a digital solution for their operations. A key reason is confusion for staff, but paperwork can be even more confusing. Entering accurate data from daily run sheets, paper-based invoices and cash on delivery dockets not only requires training, but constant reminders to adhere to workplace standards.

Staff can be trained easily on how to utilized a cloud-based solution such as CartonCloud. Our solution also highlights key data (set by your operations team) that personnel must enter electronically before signing off.

Transitioning towards automation

For many, the time to transition towards a digital solution was yesterday. We’re always surprised to find a good portion of logistics companies in Australia and New Zealand still using paper-based systems.

Sure, there’s some resistance to change; “It’s the way we’ve always done it!” is a common catch-cry of many in a workplace. Especially from those who have been utilizing the same paper-based system for many years.

Now, as we’ve highlighted here, there are intrinsic downsides and problems with manual data entry, all of which are worth avoiding. Often, these downsides cost money and significantly more than the cost of implementing a solution.

CartonCloud currently has thousands of clients across Australia, New Zealand and even South-East Asia. We’re proud to have helped many customers move towards a streamlined approach in warehousing and logistics.