**Europe**: A recent report highlights that under 40% of companies have digitized logistics operations. Girteka’s use of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) demonstrates significant efficiency gains, with a tenfold increase in usage since 2020, showcasing the potential of digital solutions in logistics.
Digitalization is rapidly reshaping industries across the globe, significantly influencing logistics operations. A recent report from McKinsey & Company indicates that fewer than 40% of companies worldwide have fully digitized their processes, presenting substantial opportunities for businesses willing to adopt new technologies. Girteka, a notable player in the logistics sector, is positioning digitalization not just as a means to enhance service efficiency, but also as a cornerstone of its commitment to responsible logistics practices, exemplified through the integration of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI).
EDI is defined as the electronic exchange of structured data between organisations, replacing traditional paper documents like invoices, orders, and shipment notifications. This method ensures a standardised format that mitigates manual entry, reduces the likelihood of errors, and streamlines operations. Girteka’s EDI Solutions Team Lead, Lina Lipske, stated that the company has experienced a tenfold increase in EDI usage since 2020, reflecting a growing customer demand for automation solutions that simplify operational processes while engaging with carriers.
The logistical benefits of EDI are notable. Companies integrating EDI can see substantial efficiency gains, improved visibility, and cost reductions. According to research conducted by Deloitte, businesses adopting end-to-end digital workflows can diminish manual errors by up to 80%. The immediate processing of orders, invoices, and updates allows for error reduction and faster operational execution, which is particularly critical in the logistics sector where timely information can significantly influence delivery schedules.
In Europe, EDI has long been a vital component of logistics, especially among high-volume shippers and retailers who depend on reliable communication. Girteka has reported that in the past year, it saved more than 32,000 hours through automated order updates, leading to lower administrative costs and a diminished environmental footprint. Today, approximately 40% of all orders processed by Girteka use digital channels, an impressive increase from just 4% in 2020.
Despite the emergence of advanced data exchange solutions like APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), EDI continues to be a robust choice for logistics due to its reliability and compatibility with existing systems. The World Economic Forum has suggested that the complete digitalisation of supply chains could unlock significant global value, indicating that both established and innovative solutions will be essential in driving efficiency across the sector.
Girteka is advancing its digital solutions with several initiatives slated for implementation. These include AI and machine learning-driven document reading capabilities, which will convert various document formats into structured data, thereby automating more of the operational process. Additionally, the introduction of flexible integration options aims to accommodate the varied technological landscapes of partner businesses without necessitating major overhauls of their existing systems.
The burgeoning Customer Portal self-service initiative is designed to enhance visibility and access to critical shipment statuses and documentation while reducing reliance on manual communications, which can also lead to errors.
Stasys Mikelionis, Chief Enterprise Architect at Girteka, outlines the broad potential of combining traditional technologies like EDI with real-time APIs and advanced analytics. He stated, “By harnessing EDI and APIs – alongside emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and customer self-service portals – a logistics ecosystem characterised by efficiency, transparency, and reduced environmental impact becomes increasingly attainable.”
This digital evolution in logistics highlights the accelerating impact of technology in facilitating more streamlined, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations, providing significant advantages for both large enterprises and smaller partners in the logistics chain.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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