CHAMP Blog - Latest thoughts on air cargo, technology, innovation

5 things to consider when choosing your cargo handling software

Written by Kim Grant-Thomson | Apr 26, 2022 9:34:00 AM

In the rapidly evolving air cargo industry, what software do you need to ensure that you remain reliable yet competitive? Here are five important things to remember as you dive into the world of cargo handling management.

  1. Fully cloud-based

  2. We are living in a golden age of technology. The downside of that is that it can feel like every new solution we choose becomes redundant five minutes later. Using cloud-based technologies and solutions such as Software as a Service (SaaS), means that you will be getting continuous support for the latest technologies as it is made available by your handling management system provider. No need to worry about the latest updates as they can handle it for you, ensuring you’re always running at the top of your game.
  3.  
  4. Can integrate with third-party apps

  5. Integrating with third-party apps goes hand-in-hand with cloud-based operations. It can seem hard to keep ahead of the curve when there is always a new solution on the horizon. Choosing digital solutions that offer tools such as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) means that you will always have access to the latest technology, whether it is from you or another business. Unlock your potential by utilizing readily available software that is easily integrated with your operations and customizable to your needs.
  6.  
  7. Offers live data and updates

  8. Why go through all of the hard work of ensuring you have the latest technologies if it means you can’t capture live data and updates? Choose a handling management tool that allows you to provide real-time information to your clients, including booking availability and automatic status updates.
  9.  
  10. Customs and Security Compliant

  11. There is nothing more daunting than customs and security. Ensure that your risks and errors are kept to a minimum with a cargo handling system that supports a wide range of commonly used communication methods and that conforms to the quality standards.
  12.  
  13. Easy to learn and easy to use

  14. No one wants to spend their time learning and relearning new software. Nor do they want to install complex software that requires a thick user manual anytime they want to make a simple update. A simple solution, that can be installed into hardware that you already have—like your smartphone—should be at the top of your wish list. Intuitive interfaces with familiar drag-and-drop programs can be learned on the job, negating the need for hours spent in the classroom, and will most benefit the staff that uses these systems day in, day out.