C.H. Robinson upgrades TMS system

   C.H. Robinson, a large global-logistics provider based near Minneapolis, on Monday announced the roll out of an enhanced technology platform that provides real-time updates on shipment status, standardizes systems across the enterprise and increases analytic capability.
   The new platform, called Navisphere, is essentially a rebranded version of Robinson’s internal transportation management system with some added features, company officials explained during an interview at a supply chain conference this fall.
   Navisphere aggregates internal and third-party systems under one roof to streamline shipment visibility and automate order process flows domestically and internationally, across every service and mode, the company said. Shippers can use the system to tender orders, request quotes, run online reports, view invoices.
   The Web-based system now has a sleeker user interface, easier access to report functions and customization capabilities, according to a company news release.
   It also acts as a supply chain hub that allows customers to share data with more than 100,000 partners without the need to integrate systems with each service provider. Centralizing supply chain information gives users the ability to better analyze and control their logistics spending and identify areas of inefficiency, C.H. Robinson said.
   “Navisphere’s customized business processes enable all participants in a customer’s supply chain to comply with their specific business requirements. Simplifying complex scenarios creates real value for carriers, shippers and others in the supply chain,” Chief Information Officer Tom Mahlke said.
   C.H. Robinson has traditionally focused on domestic transportation management, but has significantly expanded into international freight management in recent years. A few weeks ago it finalized the acquisition of Phoenix International, a large freight forwarder based in Chicago with a large number of offices in Asia and other regions. – Eric Kulisch