"We've seen CtrlChain grow from a smaller company into a significant player in this market. I believe we did it a little bit together. We supported you and you supported us. So, I see this as a true partnership."
Challenge
Ingram Micro encountered significant challenges post-COVID-19, particularly with a notable increase in theft incidents orchestrated by increasingly sophisticated criminal gangs. Safeguarding high-value goods during transportation became a priority, underscoring the necessity for a reliable, long-term partnership capable of understanding and addressing the industry's complexities beyond short-term, RFP-driven arrangements. In the past year, cargo FTL theft incidents have escalated by nearly 700%. With the implementation of CtrlChain, Ingram Micro was able to mitigate the risk of potential loses. Another challenge was that many carriers were unwilling to transport high-value goods due to the increased risks and costs associated with such shipments. Despite the growing market for these valuable items, the carrier market did not expand accordingly.
The European FTL market presented its own challenges, especially during peak seasons. While operational stability was maintained, unpredictable peaks—monthly, quarterly, and at year-end—strained previous partners' capabilities. They often struggled to meet increased demands, highlighting the critical need for flexibility and adaptability in logistics solutions.
Solution
One key solution involved establishing a long-term partnership with a reliable logistics provider, moving beyond the industry standard short-term RFP-driven agreements.. This strategic approach aimed to stabilise operations and deepen mutual understanding of the business's complex demands, ensuring sustained success through collaborative navigation of operational intricacies.
Additionally, leveraging a centralised logistics system facilitated streamlined operations and provided a comprehensive overview of the technology. This approach enabled real-time tracking of shipments, enhancing security and reliability in transporting high-value goods. Such capabilities were crucial in managing logistics efficiently and transparently.
Flexibility and reliability in managing fluctuating demands were also enhanced through strategic partnerships, notably with CtrlChain. This approach ensured consistent service levels during unpredictable peaks, demonstrating a commitment to adaptive solutions and continuous improvement.
"CtrlChain has been an instrumental partner for a difficult part of our business."
Benefit
Working with CtrlChain brings significant benefits to Ingram Micro, notably through the meticulous prework and comprehensive logistics management provided. CtrlChain boosts security by thoroughly checking and selecting secure parking lots, ensuring that high-value goods are stored safely during transit. The preselection of reliable carriers further ensures that only the most trustworthy and efficient partners are involved in the transportation process, reducing risks and improving service quality.
CtrlChain has established a carrier allowlist featuring only TFSR-compliant carriers preselected in collaboration with Ingram Micro. These carriers are the sole recipients of Ingram Micro orders. Their live-tracking system, which prevents subcontracting by restricting app usage to onboarded carriers, ensures accurate delivery and arrival times. Geofences have been implemented around Ingram Micro warehouses to monitor when trucks are within three hours of arrival. Additionally, performance reviews are conducted to provide Ingram Micro with detailed delivery performance insights and reasons for any shipment issues, such as weather delays.
Furthermore, CtrlChain manages the booking and coordination of timeslots, optimising the scheduling process and ensuring timely deliveries. This level of detailed planning and management allows Ingram Micro to operate with greater confidence and efficiency, minimising disruptions and optimising their supply chain operations.
"When I think of CtrlChain, two words come to mind: availability and reliability."