Shipping is the backbone of any supply chain operation, and for organizations using Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS), efficient shipping execution is critical. However, many companies rely solely on the standard Oracle EBS shipping module, which, while functional, lacks the advanced capabilities necessary for today’s fast-paced logistics landscape. Without an integrated shipping solution, businesses often face operational bottlenecks, higher costs, and suboptimal customer experiences.
The Limitations of Standard Oracle EBS Shipping Execution
Oracle EBS provides a robust foundation for enterprise resource planning, but its native shipping execution module comes with limitations. Without an integrated shipping software, companies are often stuck with manual processes and face challenges such as:
1. Time-Consuming Manual Data Entry:
Shippers must manually input data into carrier systems for tasks like rate quoting, shipment processing, and tracking. This increases the risk of errors and slows down operations.
2. Lack of Rate Shopping:
Standard Oracle EBS does not support multi-carrier rate comparisons. Companies miss opportunities to reduce shipping costs by selecting the most economical option.
3. Fragmented Processes:
Without automation, shipping workflows are often disconnected from order management and fulfillment processes, leading to inefficiencies.
4. Limited Tracking Capabilities:
Standard Oracle EBS shipping lacks robust tracking features. Shippers and customers must rely on external tools or carrier websites for shipment visibility.
5. Inadequate Support for International Shipping:
Complex international shipping requirements like customs documentation and compliance with ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) are not easily managed without specialized tools.
These limitations not only increase operational costs but also result in delayed shipments, dissatisfied customers, and missed opportunities for growth.
What Native Integration with ShipConsole Means
ShipConsole offers native integration with Oracle E-Business Suite, meaning it works seamlessly with Oracle’s architecture and existing workflows. This eliminates the need for third-party middleware and ensures faster, more reliable shipping execution. Native integration enables real-time data exchange between Oracle EBS and ShipConsole, improving accuracy and streamlining processes.
With ShipConsole, shipping execution is no longer a disconnected process but an integral part of the order-to-cash cycle.
Value-Added Features of ShipConsole
ShipConsole goes beyond basic multi-carrier, multi-modal shipping automation by offering a host of advanced features that add value to Oracle EBS shipping users:
1. Rate Quoting and Multi-Carrier Rate Shopping
ShipConsole integrates with Oracle Order Management to provide real-time carrier rate quotes and, using flexible business rules automatically selects the most cost-effective and efficient shipping service for each order.
2. Parcel and freight shipping in one platform
ShipConsole is a multi-modal, multi-carrier system so users can ship via an extensive network of both parcel and freight carriers from a single platform.
3. Advanced Oracle EBS Integration
ShipConsole seamlessly integrates with Oracle EBS, supporting serialized items, backorders, and Oracle WMS for LPNs. It streamlines shipping, ensures accurate tracking, and optimizes warehouse operations with efficient LPN handling.
4. Support for International Shipping
ShipConsole simplifies international shipping by generating customs documentation, ensuring compliance with ACE, and supporting export regulations.
5. Document Repository
The platform stores all shipping-related documents, such as bills of lading, invoices, and customs paperwork, in a centralized repository for easy access.
6. Reports and Dashboards
Advanced analytics provide insights into shipping performance, costs, and carrier usage. Dashboards allow businesses to make data-driven decisions and identify areas for optimization.
7. Real-Time Tracking and Proof of Delivery (POD)
ShipConsole integrates tracking information directly into Oracle EBS, allowing users to monitor shipments and view PODs without switching platforms.
8. ACE Integration for Compliance
For businesses shipping internationally, ACE integration ensures that all shipments comply with U.S. customs regulations, reducing the risk of delays or penalties.
9. Oracle-Certified and Listed on Oracle Cloud Marketplace
ShipConsole is Oracle-certified, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration with Oracle applications. Additionally, it is listed on the Oracle Cloud Marketplace, providing users with trusted, validated software solutions tailored for Oracle EBS and other Oracle environments.
10. Fast Implementation
ShipConsole is designed for quick deployment, minimizing disruption to business operations. Its native integration with Oracle EBS reduces the time and cost associated with onboarding.
The Value of ShipConsole’s Shipping Automation
By leveraging ShipConsole, Oracle EBS users unlock a wide array of benefits:
1. Single platform for parcel and freight carriers:
Ship via an extensive network of integrated parcel and freight carriers
2. Enhanced Operational Efficiency:
Automation eliminates manual tasks, reduces errors, and streamlines workflows.
3. Cost Savings:
Rate shopping ensures shippers always choose the most cost-effective carrier, while ERP integration and automation reduce labor costs.
4. Improved Customer Satisfaction:
Faster, more accurate shipping and real-time tracking enhance the customer experience.
5. Scalability for Growth:
ShipConsole supports high-volume shipping and complex logistics needs, making it an ideal solution for growing businesses.
6. Data-Driven Decision Making:
Reports and dashboards provide actionable insights, helping companies optimize their shipping strategies.
Conclusion
For Oracle EBS users, the standard shipping module can only take you so far. ShipConsole’s native integration unlocks the full potential of Oracle EBS shipping by automating shipping workflows, improving accuracy, and providing a suite of advanced features tailored to today’s complex logistics needs.
With benefits like multi-carrier and multi-modal shipping, rate shopping, international shipping support, and real-time tracking, ShipConsole doesn’t just streamline shipping—it transforms it into a competitive advantage. Don’t let outdated processes hold your business back. Invest in ShipConsole to drive efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate your supply chain operations.
Pavan Telluru works as a Product Manager at ShipConsole. He brings over a decade of experience to his current role where he’s dedicated to conducting product demos to prospects and partners about how to organizations can efficiently manage their shipping execution process. He also leads marketing efforts at ShipConsole.