Mercator has launched the industry's first open API platform, Intelligent Cargo Ecosystem, in a bid to improve air freight management and ground handling at airports.
As part of the launch, a new warehouse app will be introduced that would allow air cargo carriers to connect goods, people, data, and processes to upgrade their warehouse operations.
The warehouse app, which is a transformative digital solution, is the first of a wide range of advanced applications that will be launched as part of Mercator’s Intelligent Cargo Ecosystem.
With the new open architecture platform, air cargo carriers will be able to move away from the constraints of legacy systems by enabling ground handlers and operators to quickly process changes.
Inherent to the ecosystem, the app-based approach provides carriers and handlers with opportunities to enhance the efficiency of their operations, as well as introduce new services.
Mercator chief technology officer Brendan McKittrick said: “The role of technology is rapidly shifting from being a driver of efficiency to an enabler of fundamental innovation and disruption in air cargo management and ground handling.
“Mobile technology and open API platforms will revolutionise the industry, allowing carriers to get a real-time digital view of the entire air cargo supply chain.
“The technology can really transform the industry, providing much greater visibility, versatility, and above all, the ability to simplify complex and challenging processes.”
The new warehouse app enables cargo handlers to view information through a single mobile interface and monitor warehouse management processes, from acceptance and relocation, through to breakdown, build-up, delivery, and tracking billing data.
Featuring smart search functionality, the app also allows warehouse agents to search and query shipments, display special handling codes (SPH) and labels, view shipment itineraries and retrieve loading details.
Once cargo has been scanned, the agent can track an entire shipment or a particular item within a shipment to enhance efficiency and offer an improved customer experience.
Image: Mercator’s warehouse app. Photo: courtesy of Mercator.
