OneRail has integrated its logistics platform with IBM’s Sterling Order and Fulfillment Suite to enhance inventory management and decrease shipping costs for retailers and wholesalers. This integration allows businesses to efficiently source inventory from nearby warehouses and stores while making real-time choices about shipping modes and carriers based on costs and delivery timelines. The goal is to eliminate split shipments, stock-outs, and cancellations by enabling earlier decision-making in the order workflow.
Utilizing its OmniPoint platform, OneRail leverages artificial intelligence to dynamically assess inventory, shipping options, and carrier availability. The approach is designed to minimize unnecessary delays and complications in the last-mile delivery phase. For customers using IBM Sterling, the collaboration promises capabilities such as same-day delivery with a 98% on-time performance rate, access to an extensive network of drivers, and real-time optimization of routes and carriers based on shipment specifics.
Kambiz Pakzad from IBM emphasized that retailers are increasingly looking to utilize inventory from various points within their distribution network, which will enhance the reliability and accuracy of order fulfillment. OneRail's commitment to investing in data science and machine learning aims to further improve fulfillment coordination, allowing operators greater visibility and control in managing the sourcing, routing, and delivery of orders.
From an expert perspective, this integration reflects a significant trend towards real-time logistics optimization in the supply chain sector. As e-commerce continues to grow, the demand for faster and more reliable delivery services becomes paramount. By embedding advanced analytics and AI into logistics systems, companies can not only cut costs but also improve customer satisfaction through timely deliveries. Emphasizing seamless integration with existing workflows, as OneRail has done, is crucial for the smooth adoption of these advanced technologies, ultimately leading to a more agile and responsive supply chain.