www.truckandtrack.com Summer 2024 Truck and Track 21 DESCARTES™ Automation: Efficiency and Accuracy: Automation in customs operations offers significant advantages in terms of efficiency and accuracy. Automated systems can process large volumes of data rapidly, reducing the time and resources required for manual entry. Moreover, automation minimises the risk of human error, thereby enhancing the accuracy of customs declarations and regulatory compliance. By automating routine tasks and processes, customs management software can streamline operations, expedite clearance processes, and improve overall efficiency in international trade transactions. However, despite its benefits, automation also presents challenges. The initial investment in technology infrastructure and software development can be substantial. Additionally, customising automated systems to meet the specific needs of individual clients or adapt to unique regulatory frameworks may pose challenges, particularly in highly specialised industries. Moreover, there is a risk of over-reliance on automated systems, potentially leading to a loss of flexibility and adaptability in addressing unforeseen circumstances or complex situations. What do our customers say? Automation is not for everyone, the timing must be right, and the costs understood whether its commercially viable to push ahead with automation or understand what can be achieved through a minimalised manual process. Typically, our customers are often keen to automate but through consultation there have been times it is not the right moment. Having access to functionality that can reduce time inefficient processes and build towards a phased goal of automation can often be the right outcome. Why stay with a manual process? Manual Processes: Flexibility and Adaptability: Manual processes offer a level of flexibility and adaptability that automation may struggle to replicate. Human operators can exercise judgment and discretion, particularly in ambiguous or complex scenarios where automated systems may fall short. Moreover, manual processes allow for greater customisation to meet the unique requirements of clients or respond to changes in regulations effectively. The human touch in customs operations fosters trust and confidence among clients, knowing that their needs are understood and addressed by experienced professionals. ■ Greater Understanding – This is the first time a process of this type has been brought into the business and wanting to learn the fundamentals first can often help build a better comprehension of how to overcome potential issues when they occur. ■ Direct Impact – Automation can take time to build into existing internal infrastructure, access through a manual
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