Streamlining logistics operations through automated data extraction and processing

The implementation of TABiT IDP for Bill of Ladings resulted in significant operational improvements, including a remarkable reduction in processing time from a full day to just an hour, enhanced accuracy through automated validation checks, and substantial cost savings by minimizing manual intervention.

Challenge

A major global shipping and logistics company faced a significant challenge in managing the vast amount of data contained in thousands of Master Bill of Ladings (MBLs) and House Bill of Ladings (HBLs) processed monthly. Extracting critical information such as shipment details, consignee information, container numbers and other relevant data from these diverse documents (due to several B/L formats) was time-consuming and error-prone. The manual data processing of the paperwork led to operational inefficiencies, delayed processing times and an increased risk of data inaccuracy. The client sought a solution to automate data extraction from the Master and House Bill of Ladings to streamline their internal processes.

solution

Using TABiT, our Intelligent Document Processing (IDP) solution for Bill of Ladings, we automated most of this process by leveraging AI/ML.

  • Document Understanding Models: With advanced Machine Learning (ML) algorithms, our team developed models specifically trained to understand and classify various sections of the Master and House Bill of Ladings. This allowed us to quickly recognize and extract values from key fields such as shipper details, consignee information, container, etc.
  • ICR Technology: Given the diverse formats of Bill of Ladings, our OCR technology, coupled with AI for recognition (Intelligent Character Recognition), accurately captured text and data from scanned BLs or BLs extracted from emails (attachments).
  • Data Validation: We ensured the extracted data met predefined standards by incorporating extensive validation checks. Any discrepancies or inaccuracies (resulting from low confidence scores) were flagged for review and correction by the operations team.
  • Integration with the Backend System: Extracted data with a high confidence score was pushed directly to the client’s existing backend system via integration. This ensured both real-time updates and accurate record-keeping. With the integration, they got a smooth flow of information throughout their logistics/supply chain management processes.

    result

    Implementation of TABiT IDP (Intelligent Document Processing) for Bill of Ladings delivered significant improvements that included:

    • Operational Efficiency: Automating data extraction reduced manual efforts, allowing the ops team to focus on more strategic tasks.
    • Reduced Processing Time: A full day of processing Bill of Ladings became an hour’s job, including checking and fixing errors.
    • Improved Accuracy: The automated validation checks minimized data entry errors.
    • Cost Savings: Automating data extraction reduced manual intervention and led to cost savings associated with data entry and error resolution.

    Overall, TABiT’s Intelligent Document Processing engine tailored for Bill of Ladings made a noticeable impact on the client’s logistics and supply chain operations, enhancing efficiency, data accuracy and overall productivity.