Other critical issues include limited real-time tracking capabilities, which can lead to delays and losses, making real-time visibility essential for timely delivery and effective issue management. Security risks pose another major pain point, as high-value pharmaceutical products are susceptible to theft and tampering. This demands secure transport routes, tamper-evident packaging, and robust security measures. Furthermore, the administrative burden of extensive documentation, the availability of specialized transport services, effective coordination with multiple suppliers, and managing high costs are significant challenges. Delays due to regulatory inspections or logistical inefficiencies can disrupt the pharma supply chain, impacting delivery schedules. Efficient inventory management and robust disaster recovery plans are also crucial to avoid stockouts and manage disruptions. Leveraging a Transportation Management System (TMS) can address many of these challenges, enhancing the efficiency, security, and compliance of first mile logistics in the pharmaceutical industry.
Here are the top reasons why digitizing your supply chain and logistics with Alpega TMS and an open carrier network is essential for the pharma industry:
1- Temperature-Controlled Shipping
Pharmaceuticals often require strict temperature control to maintain their efficacy and safety.
Alpega TMS sets up temperature-controlled management as a property on the transport order. This ensures that the carrier understands what is needed in order to maintain the temperature-sensitive products remain within the required temperature ranges, protecting their integrity and effectiveness.
2- Real-Time Visibility and Tracking
Pharma companies need to track their shipments in real-time to ensure timely delivery and monitor conditions.
Alpega TMS provides integration to real-time visibility into shipment locations and conditions. This capability helps in proactive management of any issues that arise during transit.
3- Inventory and Order Management
Efficient inventory management is crucial to avoid stockouts and overstock situations in pharma logistics.
Alpega TMS integrates with order creation management systems helping in planning and execution.
4- Carrier Management and Performance Monitoring
Ensuring reliable carrier performance is essential for maintaining the integrity and timely delivery of pharma products.
Alpega TMS monitors carrier performance based on key metrics such as on-time delivery rates, condition compliance, and service quality. It helps in selecting the best carriers and managing carrier relationships effectively, ensuring consistent and reliable service.
5- Cost Optimization
Managing transportation costs while ensuring quality and compliance is a significant challenge in the pharma industry.
Alpega TMS provides tools for optimizing transportation routes, consolidating shipments, and negotiating better rates with carriers. It helps in reducing overall transportation costs while maintaining service quality, contributing to a more efficient and cost-effective supply chain.
6-Pharma Supply Chain Collaboration
Coordination between manufacturers, distributors and carriers is crucial for an efficient pharma supply chain.
Alpega TMS facilitates better collaboration and communication among all supply chain partners. It ensures that all stakeholders have access to real-time information and can coordinate effectively to meet delivery schedules and manage exceptions, improving overall supply chain efficiency.
7- Cold Chain Management
Many pharmaceutical products require a cold chain (refrigerated supply chain) to maintain their stability.
Alpega TMS manages multiple container types related to air freight ensuring that the cold chain integrity is maintained throughout the journey, ensuring product safety and efficacy.
8-Automated Documentation and Reporting
The pharma industry requires extensive documentation for regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
AlpegaTMS automates the generation and management of necessary documents such as bills of lading and customs declarations. It also provides comprehensive reporting capabilities for audits and performance analysis, reducing administrative burden and improving accuracy.
9-Direct Patient Distribution and Return Logistics: Alpega's reusable packaging management solution for direct patient distribution and return logistics efficiently handles the time-critical lifecycle of tests, probes, and empty packages, delivering value to the pharma industry by enhancing resource efficiency, reducing waste and costs, lowering carbon footprints, ensuring regulatory compliance, improving brand reputation, and boosting supply chain efficiency, thereby supporting a circular economy and sustainability goals.
In addition to these essential features, partnering with Alpega offers a comprehensive business transport excellence approach and delivers a route to value for Pharma industry customers. Alpega delivers integrated solutions beyond TMS, adding tendering and dock scheduling functionalities to their suite of services. This holistic approach ensures that pharmaceutical companies have the tools and support they need to streamline their entire supply chain operations. With Alpega, businesses can optimize their transportation processes, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance while enhancing collaboration with carriers and other stakeholders. Embracing Alpega's integrated solutions is a strategic decision for pharma companies looking to achieve excellence in their logistics operations and stay ahead in today's competitive landscape.
