As a pallet network member, you carry an extra layer of admin most operators don’t: keeping your data in sync across both your own system and the network portal. In practice, that means double entry, chasing PODs, and manually rekeying jobs that already exist somewhere else.
Qargo connects your network’s data directly into the system where you actually plan – so nothing falls into the gap between the two.
Here are five ways our pallet network TMS cuts that admin, tightens visibility, and protects your margins.
Creating and exporting network consignments in one workflow
Manually re-entering consignments from your TMS into one, or multiple network portals is time-consuming and prone to errors. Often your team will have to jump between multiple different tabs, spreadsheets and screens just to get one consignment correctly entered. And with tight margins, even the smallest data entry error can make the difference between a consignment running at a profit, or a loss.
With Qargo, you can raise consignments in your TMS with data flowing directly into the network portal with depot assignment. Pallet labels can also be generated and printed without having to leave the system.
Bringing implant orders into Qargo automatically
On the flip side, you can also import consignments someone else originated. Frequently, other member depots have pallets that need delivering within your postcode area. They feed this consignment into the network portal and implant it onto you so that it is clear that your company will be the delivering depot.
Without Qargo, you’d have to be constantly checking the portal for implant orders and then rekeying into your own TMS. With Qargo, any implant orders get automatically synced to Qargo so that you can see direct customer and network jobs on one board – making it easier to plan more effectively.
End-to-end tracking with bi-directional scan, status, and ETA updates
Pallet networks are only as effective as their scan data allows them to be. With so many pallets moving across multiple different depots, it’s essential that each stage of the consignment is recorded accurately and quickly. For each pallet movement, there will be approximately 11 different scans. And this data needs to be visible for customers and depots so they can see real-time pallet status, and keep the network flowing.
Qargo syncs scans, statuses, and ETAs to the network (and vice-versa) in real time so there’s no gap between what the network shows and what actually happened.
Managing delivery evidence – ePODs, paper PODs, and paperwork
Much like with scanning, a lot of pallet movements means a lot of paperwork – customer owned paperwork (COPs), PODs, and ePODs. Each consignment requires the relevant signatures and proof, but different customers require different forms of documentation – a lot of which is still physical.
Qargo lets you scan paper PODs, upload photos and generate ePODs that you can attach directly to the consignment so you have all the paperwork you need in one place. This means less chasing drivers and depots for proof as evidence is captured and tracked against the right job.
“The cross-docking scanning functionality delivers increased operational efficiencies in excess of 20 minutes per vehicle per day. This allows vehicles to leave Anglia’s yard earlier and be more productive.” – Pete Holden, Director, Anglia Freight
Handling complex rating, routing, and delivery optimisation
Rating for pallet networks is complex. Several independent variables stack on top of each other for each consignment meaning that pricing varies. Pricing is often calculated on a per-pallet and per-zone charge with a whole host of surcharges bundled on top. This opens up the door for rating to go wrong in a multitude of different ways.
Qargo helps remove the slow and fiddly process of manual rating by automating the rate card process to increase billing accuracy and speed-to-invoice.
Why this matters for pallet network members
Taken together, these five capabilities close the gap between your system and the network’s. Consignments go out already labelled and depot-assigned. Implant orders land on your board without anyone checking a portal. Scans, statuses, and ETAs stay in sync in both directions. Evidence sits against the right job the moment it’s captured. And rating happens automatically, so speed doesn’t come at the cost of accuracy.
The result is less duplication, faster invoicing, and a clearer picture for your customers — without adding headcount to keep up with volume.
Qargo already connects with major UK pallet networks, including Palletline, Palletforce, Pallet-Track, UPN, The Hazchem Network, and The Pallet Network. This brings supported workflows from multiple networks onto one planning board, although exact functionality and the direction and frequency of data exchange vary by network and the capabilities of its API.
Ready to see it in your own operation? Book a demo.
