Logistics Management System
An end-to-end logistics platform covering inventory management, order processing, live shipment tracking, driver assignment, and returns management — replacing a legacy system that had not been updated since 2014.
Results
The Challenge
The client operated a regional logistics network with 40 drivers and 6 depots. Their core system was a custom-built desktop application from 2014 that could not be accessed remotely, had no mobile interface for drivers, and produced reports only through manual Excel exports. As the business grew, the system became the primary bottleneck — orders were being lost, delivery confirmations were delayed, and management had no real-time visibility.
Our Solution
We built a web-based logistics platform accessible from any device. A central dashboard gave management real-time visibility over all orders, drivers, and depot stock levels. Drivers received a mobile-optimised interface for accepting jobs, scanning barcodes, capturing proof of delivery photographs, and logging exceptions. Automated SMS updates kept customers informed without manual intervention.
Replacing a Legacy System
Migrating a business away from a system they have used for a decade is as much a people challenge as a technical one. We ran a parallel operation for four weeks, with both systems running simultaneously. This gave staff time to build confidence in the new platform before the old system was switched off. We ran three training sessions per depot and provided a printed quick-reference guide for drivers.
Driver Mobile Interface
Drivers needed a tool that worked on their personal smartphones, required no training, and functioned on patchy mobile connections. We built a progressive web app optimised for one-handed use. Jobs appeared in chronological order with address, package count, and special instructions. Barcode scanning used the device camera via the browser API. Proof of delivery photos were compressed client-side before upload to minimise data usage.
Real-Time Tracking
The management dashboard showed every driver's last known GPS position, updated every 90 seconds via a background service. Order cards showed live status — picked, in transit, delivered, or exception raised. Depot managers could reassign jobs between drivers in seconds. A heatmap overlay showed delivery density by postcode, helping management plan depot stock levels.
Automated Customer Comms
Every order status change triggered an automated SMS to the recipient via Twilio. Messages included a one-hour delivery window, the driver's first name, and a link to live tracking. Exception messages — delivery attempted, access required — included a rebook link. Customer complaints about delivery communication dropped by over 80% in the first month.
Outcome
The platform went live across all six depots simultaneously. Within the first week, 100% of drivers had adopted the mobile app without prompting. Lost orders — previously averaging 12 per month — fell to zero. Management described the visibility improvement as transformative. The client subsequently contracted Forge9x to build a customer-facing order portal.
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