Descartes Systems Group has developed a new version of its Global Logistics Management Suite for Ocean Freight. Enhancements to the application were driven by feedback from shippers, non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOs) and other types of service providers, the vendor said. The tool supports compliance with a number of global regimes, including the "10+2" Importer Security Filing requirements of U.S. Customs & Border Protection. It gives NVOs the ability to organize paper contracts and spreadsheets electronically, through a centralized database. In the process, they can compare rates and services across their carrier bases, generating the best options for customers. A Rate Builder module offers intuitive, self-service publishing tools, while aiding in users' ability to manage complex carrier surcharges. The latest version of the application includes a price-management feature, which supports a drag-and-drop quoting module for the searching, comparison and quotation of rates on the fly. Freight-auditing capability automates invoice collection, auditing and approval, while supporting integration with customers' back-office systems. A Reporting Services component allows customers to perform financial analysis in order to determine profitability and anticipated transportation spend.

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