Lightning Transportation is dedicated to using the power of technology to be more efficient and to continually meet the needs of each customer. The company strives to be “ahead of the curve” by continually reviewing and implementing new technology. The technology that we have in place is utilized for the customer’s advantage and will ultimately result in a cost savings for each customer.
EDI – Electronic Data Interchange
EDI is a powerful business tool that has become more apparent in the trucking / shipping industry. It can have a big impact on both businesses involved in an EDI Trading Partnership. Standard business documents such as bills of lading, load tenders, shipment-status messages and freight invoices can be handled electronically. Lightning currently handles but is not limited to the following transaction sets-
- 204 – Motor Carrier Load Tender
- 210 – Motor Carrier Freight Details and Invoice
- 214 – Transportation Carrier Shipment Status Message
- 990 – Response to a Load Tender
- 997 – Acknowledge Transmission Batch
Benefits of EDI – Electronic Data Interchange
- Offers “real time” data sharing.
- Improves Customer Service
- Improves Load Management and Coordination
- Eliminates Data Entry Errors
- Management Reporting
Imaging – Electronic Storage
Given the high volume of paper generated and the obvious need to share information with various companies involved in a shipment Lightning has put in place an Imaging – Electronic Storage System. This allows our staff the ability to locate and retrieve documents instantaneously allowing them to respond to our customer and driver inquiries immediately. This instant access to information eliminates time delays, confusion, and misinformation. More efficient workflow within the company translates into improved customer service.
Computerized Dispatch Control System (CDCS)
Lightning’s state-of-the-art computerized dispatch control system (CDCS) controls and monitors each individual freight movement from original order to final destination. This “real time” environment allows for a rapid response to our customers and drivers. The CDCS allows our experienced staff to make drop and pick arrangements to control container costs for the customer.
Custom Formatted Reporting
Lightning understands that each customer has different needs. The company is committed to providing personalized services. Our staff will listen to your needs and work with you to generate reporting that can make your freight management responsibilities easier.
Fuel Use & GHG Emissions Reports
Lightning knows that many of our customers are looking to capture and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from their supply chain. Lightning already tracks fuel use and we can provide interested customers with information about the GHG emissions that result from moving their cargo on Lightning vehicles.