Modernizing Balikbayan: A Logistics Platform for Automated Parcel Delivery

The developed platform automates and streamlines the process of last-mile delivery to the Philippines. It facilitates the management of shipments from pickup to delivery, providing tracking, container management, and tools for forwarding agents. By automating manual processes and improving communication, the platform increases efficiency, reduces errors, and enhances the overall shipping experience.

Client

An Australian logistics provider specializing in international shipping to the Philippines.

Service

Logistics and Supply Chain Management Platform Development

Timeline

3+ Year

Goal

Redefine the 45-year-old tradition of Balikbayan Box shipping by blending cultural legacy with digital ease. Build a tech-enabled platform for seamless coordination with forwarding agents. Make sending a Balikbayan Box as simple and reliable as sending a message.

Challenge

The client needed a system to manage the complexities of international parcel shipping, specifically for Filipinos sending packages to the Philippines. Key challenges included:

Coordinating between different “first mile” and “last mile” delivery companies.
Managing fixed-size containers and varying box sizes.
Tracking shipments across sea routes.
Providing visibility to both the shipping company and the senders.
Automating processes previously done manually.

Outcome

The platform successfully streamlined the international parcel shipping process, providing a comprehensive solution for managing shipments, tracking, and coordinating between stakeholders. It automated key workflows, reduced manual effort, and improved visibility into the shipping process.

Brief

An Australian logistics provider specializing in shipments to the Philippines sought to create a robust and scalable system to manage sending parcels, specifically the “Balikbayan” boxes. The company partnered to develop a platform that would automate workflows, provide tracking capabilities, and improve overall efficiency.

Challenge

Coordination: Managing the involvement of multiple delivery companies in the first mile and last mile delivery.
Container and Box Management: Handling fixed-size shipping containers and varying parcel dimensions.
International Shipping Complexity: Tracking shipments across sea routes and providing real-time updates.
Manual Processes: Replacing inefficient manual processes.
Customer Visibility: Providing senders with the ability to track their parcels and manage pickups.

Solution

Built a full-suite web and mobile platform for agents, drivers, and forwarders that automated door-to-door workflows from pickup to delivery and enhanced tracking, container management, and scalability.

Shipment Management: System for creating and managing shipment details, including origin, destination, and contents.
Pickup and Delivery Management: Enables booking and managing parcel pickups and deliveries, including options for senders to drop off parcels.
Tracking and Visibility: Provides end-to-end tracking of parcels, allowing senders and the company to monitor the shipment status.
Container Management: Tools for managing container information, including size, capacity, and booking details.
Forwarding Agent Management: Functionality for managing forwarding agents, their assignments, and pricing.
Automated Workflows: Automates key processes such as assigning pickups, generating barcodes, and creating packaging slips.

Impact

Efficiency: Reduced manual intervention, significantly improving operational efficiency.
Visibility: Enhanced tracking capabilities for both the company and the senders.
Scalability: The platform is designed to handle a growing volume of shipments and data.
Improved Coordination: Streamlined communication and coordination between the various parties involved in the shipping process.