West One Express hooks up to NetDespatch
12 May 2006

West One Express has turned to technology to boost its customer services with a new automated booking service that connects to the web. West One’s customers can now book and track their shipments online and connect their own sales order systems, eliminating paperwork and data entry. The system is the result of developments from NetDespatch and Neil Porter Associates (NPA) who have combined their respective web services and management system technologies to create one of the most advanced systems of its type in the UK.

West One Express uses Indigo, a comprehensive transport management system developed by NPA, which has been ‘web-enabled’ following integration with NetDespatch web services. Orders for services booked online, by phone, or processed on a shippers own system, all appear on Indigo’s colour-coded screens giving West One up to the minute visibility on the status of all jobs.

NetDespatch gives West One a service advantage through online bookings and, with NetDespatch Connector, easy integration with customer systems, including sales order processing, warehouse and online shopping carts. Tracking information and proofs of delivery, posted by West One or third party carriers, are automatically updated on Indigo and also available to customers via the web.

West One Express, who operate a fleet of 85 vehicles from its central distribution centre in Cardiff, is one of the largest independent transport companies in south west Britain. Servicing many Blue Chip clients, especially in the automotive industry, the company has seen big expansion in its pallet business.

NPA’s Indigo product ties together operations, fleet management, warehousing, sales, accounts and customer services into a single system. Indigo has been a big hit with courier and express companies looking for a complete management solution and high levels of customer support.

NetDespatch provides a range of e-commerce applications for transport companies and their customers. NetDespatch is designed to be incorporated into existing websites so companies can offer an own-brand web booking and tracking service. As well as replacing traditional implant systems, NetDespatch allows any customer irrespective of volumes to book online.