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Dr. Ecommerce,

Can you give me any clues as to how transport companies could make use of Ecommerce. I'm having difficulty finding examples.

Regards,

Alex

Dear Alex:

There are a number of ways in which transport companies can implement technological solutions. Whether some of these solutions could be considered e-commerce is a point for debate.

Logistics: already many transport companies use software solutions to monitor where their vehicles are; where they are going and what time they are expected to arrive. By being able to monitor this information, it is possible to use vehicles more efficiently.

Shipment tracking: Federal Express and UPS made famous this concept of allowing customers to track their shipments via the world wide web. This not only benefits customers, but also allows the transporters to focus on the job transporting rather than answering customer queries about where their shipments are. This kind of tracking is useful for shippers of everything from parcels to 40 foot containers to shiploads of rice.

Selling their services: Transport companies can sell their services over the web or other networks. The companies can take orders and accept payment via on-line forms. Indeed, a sophisticated system can even book space on the best carrier (according to set criteria).

Auctioning empty vehicle space: Many transporters spend a lot of time travelling empty. They deliver their shipment and then must return to base or another destination - often without a load. An organisation could auction space, on these vehicles, via the Internet. Customers, with goods to ship, could enter destination and timing restrictions on a web site and then be invited to bid on any carriers which meet customer requirements. Alternatively, carriers could publish free space on a web site and prospective customers could bid for that space.

Locating suppliers: we often think of e-commerce web sites as means of selling. But, they can also be effective means of sourcing materials, services, etc. Transport companies could invite prospective suppliers of vehicles, parts and services to submit proposals via a web site.

I suspect if you look for transport firms on the Internet (via search engines), you will find many other interesting e-commerce applications. And, if you try any of my suggestions out and become filthy rich, I expect you to invite me in on your IPO ;o)

Dr.Ecommerce