/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Shipping Software • Carriers • Freight • Parcel • Supply Chain/Logistics/ / 0 Comments

Breaking Down Shipping Documents: Understanding Parcel Labels, LTL Pallet Labels, and Bills of Lading

Unpack the components of essential shipping documents and gain a clear understanding of their role in the shipping process

Shipping labels and logistics documentation may seem like small details in the grand scheme of the logistics world, however, they hold extremely valuable information. An accurate and well-designed shipping label ensures packages and pallets reach their destinations on time, while precise documentation prevents costly delays and disputes. While these pieces are crucial, many people don’t have a full understanding of the critical components that they’re made up of, leaving room for missteps that can manifest into major operational issues.


In this blog, we will break down the essential elements of three key shipping documents: the parcel shipping label, the less-than-truckload (LTL) pallet label, and the bill of lading (BOL). Whether you’re shipping small packages to customers, coordinating freight shipments across the country, or a bit of both, knowing how these components work together can enhance efficiency and ensure consistent reliability in your operations.

The Anatomy of a Parcel Shipping Label

Parcel labels may appear straightforward, but these labels are packed with important information that ensures packages can travel from point A to B without a hitch. Let’s dive into the key elements of a parcel shipping label and what information they provide for the shipping process.

1. Sender and Receiver Details: In the top left corner of the label, you will find the essential contact details of the shipper and receiver (“ship to”) including their full names, street addresses, city, state, and zip code. This information is necessary for the correct delivery of a package.


2. Weight and # of Packages: The top right of the label will indicate the weight of the package as well as the number of packages included in that same shipment. This information ensures proper handling and that multi-parcel shipments are kept together accurately.


3. Unidirectional Code: Also referred to as a “MaxiCode” or “Smart Label”, this code is read by a machine to retrieve essential information about the shipment to help sort and route packages efficiently and accurately while moving through shipping facilities.


4. Routing Code: This section is used by carriers to guide the package through their network and to the appropriate sorting facilities. The first two letters indicate the state, the first three numbers match the beginning of the destination zip code, and the 9-02 code is used by the carrier to determine the delivery area and zone.


5. Shipping Method: This indicates the shipping method selected for the package, such as Ground, 2-Day Air, or Overnight services. The shipping method determines the speed and priority of the delivery and influences how the package is handled in transit.


6. Tracking Number: This number assigned by the carrier acts as a unique identifier for each shipping label that allows both the shipper and receiver to monitor the package’s transportation journey in real-time on the carrier’s website. Tracking numbers are vital for providing visibility and transparency.


7. Barcode: The tracking barcode is one of the most crucial parts of the shipping label as it encodes key shipment details and is scanned at multiple locations throughout the package’s journey. Shipping label barcodes help facilitate automated sorting, routing, and tracking that ensures packages move efficiently through the carrier’s network.


8. Billing Details: This section specifies how a shipment will be billed – Pre-paid (P/P), third-party (T/P), or by freight collect (F/C). Proper billing details ensure that charges are accurately applied, reducing delays or disputes.


9. Reference Details: Relevant reference numbers, such as purchase order (PO) numbers, customer reference numbers, or invoice numbers, may also be included on the label to help shippers or recipients match shipments with internal records.

Best Practices for Accurate Labeling

  • Print Quality Matters: Ensure all labels are printed clear and legible, with no ink smudges or fading.
  • Proper Placement: All labels should be placed against a flat surface, avoiding any creases or inconsistencies that could affect scanning.
  • Double-Check Label Information: It is important to always double check that the label information is accurate to avoid delays or misrouting.

The Anatomy of an LTL/Pallet Label

Different than parcel labels which are designed for individual packages, LTL/pallet labels are generated for freight shipments. These labels make sure that pallets or large shipments are routed, tracked, and delivered correctly, as the transportation process can be highly complex. Let’s take a closer look at the parts of an LTL/pallet label and why they’re crucial for freight logistics.

1. Shipping and Consignee Details: The top left corner of the label displays the name, address, and contact information of the shipper (sender). Slightly below displays the “ship to” or destination information for the consignee (receiver). This information ensures the shipment moves to and from the correct locations.


2. Carrier: The label must display the carrier’s name to indicate which carrier is providing transportation and is responsible for the shipment. This ensures the shipment is put on the correct route and properly handled.


3. PRO Number: The PRO (Progressive Routing Order) number is assigned by the carrier and acts as a unique identifier to provide traceability and visibility of a shipment. This enables monitoring of the shipment through transit to check status and ensure the package is moving where it should be. This number will be the same as the PRO number on the corresponding bill of lading.


4. PRO # Barcode: The PRO number barcode is the visual representation of the PRO number that allows carriers to scan and track the shipment throughout the transit process.


5. Purchase Order (PO) Number: The PO number is a reference code assigned to a specific purchase that helps the shipper and consignee easily link the shipment to its respective order, ensuring accuracy in fulfillment and tracking.


6. Pallet Weight and Pallet Sequence Number: This displays the total weight of the pallet, used by the carrier in calculating shipping costs and ensuring proper handling. Below the weight is the pallet sequence number which helps identify the order in which the pallet should be loaded up and delivered in the event the shipment contains multiple pallets. For example, a shipment that contains three pallets may have labels that display “1 of 3”, “2 of 3”, and “3 of 3”.

The Importance of Consistency and Compliance

  • Meeting Standards: Each carrier may have specific requirements for things like label placement, format, and included information. Ensuring adherence to these standards minimizes delays and other potential issues.
  • Clear Positioning: Pallet labels should be placed in a visible location to ensure packages are transferred correctly during scanning and manual handling.
  • Regular Auditing: Evaluating your label accuracy and processes every so often can help ensure your operations continue to maintain efficiency and meet standards.

The Anatomy of a Bill of Lading

Serving as both a legal contract and receipt of goods, the bill of lading is a valuable logistics document that provides critical details that guide the entire shipment process. An accurate BOL protects all parties involved in the transportation of freight as its three primary functions include:

  1. Contract Terms of Carriage: The BOL outlines the terms and conditions that the shipper and carrier agreed upon for transporting and releasing the goods.
  2. Receipt of Goods: It provides acknowledgement that the carrier has received those goods in the specified condition and has loaded them onto the vehicle of transportation.
  3. Title to Goods: The BOL can act as a title agreement, granting legal ownership of the goods and must be presented to the shipper in order for the goods to be handed over.

Let’s break down its components and the important role they play for each freight shipment.

1. Shipper and Consignee Details: Both the “ship from” and “ship to” sections clearly identify the shipper’s (sender) and consignee’s (receiver) information including name and address or destination. This ensures the goods are delivered to the correct destination.


2. BOL Number: The BOL number acts as a unique identifier for the Bill of Lading documentation, enabling the shipper and carrier to track and reference the shipment throughout its transportation.


3. Carrier Name: This identifies the carrier that is responsible for transporting the shipment to its destination and ensures all involved parties are aware of what carrier is handling the goods throughout transit.


4. Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC): An SCAC code is two to four letters given to a carrier for identification, tracking, and billing purposes. This ensures billing and payment processing is completed accurately.


5. PRO Number: The PRO (Progressive Routing Order) number is assigned by the carrier and acts as a unique identifier to provide traceability and visibility of a shipment. This enables monitoring of the shipment through transit to check status and ensure the package is moving where it should be. This number will be the same as the PRO number on the corresponding pallet label.


6. Special Instructions and Accessorial Charges: This area provides any specific requirements or handling instructions for the goods as well as additional charges that might apply to the shipment, such as liftgate usage, residential delivery, and hazardous materials handling.


7. Payment Terms: The freight charge terms disclose payment details including who is responsible for the freight charge and the payment method (prepaid, collect, or billed to a third-party).


8. Shipment Breakdown by Customer PO #: This section lists the PO number(s) included in the shipment, as well as the number of packages and weight associated with each PO number. This helps the shipper and consignee accurately match up the shipments to their specific orders.


9. NMFC Code and Class: The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) code is a number assigned to determine the proper classification of the shipment based on the freight’s characteristics, such as size, handling, weight, and liability. The class helps determine the shipping cost in a range from 50 (least expensive) to 500 (most expensive).


10. Shipment Breakdown by NMFC Code: A breakdown of the goods by their NMFC code ensures that the correct freight classification is applied, which is crucial for billing, insurance, and determining the shipment’s handling requirements. This information includes unit type and quantity, package type and quantity, weight, and description.


11. Collect on Delivery: This amount indicates the cost of the goods being shipped without the cost of freight included and whether it should be paid by the consignee upon delivery or if the amount was prepaid. This amount can be collected by the carrier on behalf of the shipper to ensure the goods are paid for before they are released.


12. Signature Section: The signature section of a BOL requires three separate signatures: One from the shipper to ensure the freight is sent out in good order, one from the carrier to acknowledge the freight was received in good order from the shipper, and one from the consignee to confirm the freight was received in good order at its destination.

How the BOL and Pallet Label Work Together

In freight shipping, the bill of lading and LTL/pallet label work hand-in-hand, each playing their distinct but complementary role. The BOL is responsible for establishing the shipment’s contract terms and overarching legal and logistical documentation. At the same time, the label acts as the shipment’s physical identification, providing visual and scannable key information such as the PRO number and destination details. When paired together, they create a seamless workflow that enables freight shipments to move accurately and efficiently through the shipment process.

The Role of Automated Shipping Software in Shipping Documentation

As supply chains continue to grow more complex, outdated methods of manually managing shipping documentation are no longer efficient as they are not only time-consuming but highly prone to errors. Businesses need an advanced tool, such as automated multi-carrier shipping software, to help revolutionize the way they handle their shipping documentation processes by:

  • Streamlining Documentation Creation: Automates the generation of labels, BOLs, and LTL documentation with minimal input, ensuring consistency and compliance.
  • Enhancing Accuracy: Reduces human error through auto-population, validation, and standardized formatting of shipping details.
  • Increasing Operational Efficiency: Speeds up workflows with batch processing, quick adjustments, and instant sharing of documents.
  • Improving Scalability: Adapts to growing shipping volumes with various supporting carriers, centralized visibility, and seamless integrations.

Simplifying Shipping Documentation with Varsity Logistics Multi-Carrier Shipping Software

Designed exclusively for shippers on IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems, Varsity Logistics is an industry leading multi-carrier shipping software provider. Not only do we have a comprehensive suite of supply chain execution modules for both parcel and freight, but our solution also empowers shippers to seamlessly rate shop between parcel and LTL shipments – ensuring they select the most cost-effective option while managing shipping documentation efficiently and accurately.

How Varsity’s Software Revolutionizes Shipping Documentation

  • Automated Label and BOL Generation: Varsity’s software automates the creation of parcel and LTL labels, as well as bills of lading, ensuring all documents are consistent, accurate, and compliant with carrier-specific requirements while speeding up workflows.
  • Seamless Multi-Carrier Support: The platform supports a wide range of carriers, including all leading carriers in North America, enabling shippers to generate documentation that adheres to each carrier’s unique standards.
  • Real-Time Data Integration: By pulling information directly from your enterprise resource planning (ERP) system or warehouse management system (WMS) with our seamless integrations, Varsity eliminates manual data entry, minimizing errors and saving valuable time.
  • Barcode Integration for Enhanced Traceability: The software automatically generates tracking and PRO numbers, eliminating the reliance on premade carrier tracking sticker labels. It also incorporates scannable barcodes into labels and BOLs, facilitating real-time tracking and visibility throughout the shipping process.

Developed to handle the complexities of parcel and freight shipping from one centralized application, Varsity’s multi-carrier shipping software is a valuable player on every IBM i shippers’ team. As your business grows, Varsity’s platform scales with you, handling increased shipment volumes and a growing number of carriers with ease.


Whether you’re looking to reduce errors, speed up workflows, or optimize your shipping processes, Varsity Logistics can help you master the complexities of shipping documentation to achieve seamless shipping success. And with accurate labels and streamlined processes comes on-time deliveries and satisfied customers, enhancing the overall customer experience while ensuring your operations run smoothly.


Ready to explore how Varsity Logistics can help reduce shipping headaches and eliminate shipping documentation challenges? Contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a pressure-free demo today and discover how Varsity can help take your shipping game to the next level.

/ By Evan Knauss / Customer Experience • Carriers • Freight • Parcel • Shipping Costs • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics/ / 0 Comments

The Power of Containerization: How it Shapes the Modern Customer Experience

Unlock the benefits of containerization for your business and how it can enhance the customer experience

Imagine you order a new product online, and within days, your package arrives at your doorstep, unscathed and on time. And with the expectations of modern consumers, this is how anyone should expect it to happen, right? However, behind the seemingly effortless delivery process lies a crucial technique that helps make it all possible: containerization. This innovative method of optimizing how products are packed into cartons, pallets and trailers based on several key factors has significantly transformed the way goods move from the warehouse to the customer’s doorstep, ensuring smooth, secure, and efficient shipping.


While containerization plays a significant role in shipping logistics, it also enhances the entire experience as a customer. From faster deliveries to better product protection and cost savings, containerization touches every part of the journey. As we dive into the world of containerization, let’s explore the ways this innovative strategy directly influences the customer journey, creating a faster, safer, and more reliable consumer experience than ever before.

Faster Delivery

It’s no secret that today’s consumer expects their goods to be delivered quickly and accurately, especially with the increased availability of two-day, one-day, and same-day delivery options. Containerization helps shippers meet this expectation. By optimizing how products are packed, this strategy streamlines the entire fulfillment process, enabling warehouses to process orders quicker and more efficiently, speeding up the shipping process overall.


Struggling with oversized boxes and finding the right fit for product after product can be time consuming and a hassle, but containerization technology ensures each item is packed into the best-fitting carton for transportation from the start. This eliminates the need for last-minute adjustments and speeds up the packing process, moving orders out the door and to the customer faster.


Beyond its work in the warehouse, cartons optimized with containerization enable more efficient loading and transportation. Containerization tools evaluate each shipment to determine whether to pack them in cartons or pallets, helping warehouses process large orders faster. For parcel, properly packed shipments take up less space, allowing carriers to fit more deliveries into a single trip. For freight, properly packed pallets allow for quick, bulk loading onto trucks, reducing handling time and expediting the shipping process. This creates shorter delivery routes and reduces delivery delays, ultimately leading to faster deliveries and happier customers.

Reduced Damage and Reliability

It is typical consumer expectation that any goods they order should be protected throughout the shipping process and arrive in original condition, especially fragile or valuable goods. It is arguable that reliable shipping is just as important to consumers as speed, and this is where containerization shines. By optimizing packing choices for both cartons and pallets, containerization ensures that goods are packed securely, minimizing damage and enhancing the reliability of deliveries.


The containerization process carefully selects carton size for each individual order based on various factors such as weight and compatibility with other products. Securely packing items in a box that fits its dimensions eliminates excess space that could cause items to shift around or collide with other products. This prevents breakage, especially for products that might be more fragile or oddly shaped, while also reducing the need for excessive packaging that adds unnecessary waste and weight. By selecting the best-fit carton, businesses create more reliable deliveries and satisfied customers.


For larger shipments, containerization extends beyond individual boxes to pallets and trailers. When orders involve bulk quantities or oversized goods, this process determines whether products should be packed in cartons or consolidated onto pallets for more secure shipping. Properly stacked pallets ensure stability during transportation, reducing the risk of crushed or damaged items.


Reducing the risk of product damage also significantly lowers the number of costly returns. Properly packaged items lower the chance of crushed and damaged cartons during transportation because it allows for better stacking and load distribution within trailers, preventing tipping, sliding, or uneven weight distribution. Containerization helps ensure packages arrive at their destination in the same condition they left the warehouse, reinforcing customer trust and brand reliability.

Elevated Cost Savings

Behind every purchase is a complex chain of decisions aimed at balancing quality with affordability. Containerization is a significant factor helping to keep prices in check. This process optimizes the way items are packed, helping businesses save on both packing materials and transportation costs – savings that often get passed down to the customer.


Have you ever received an item free floating in a box that was three times the item’s size? Not only does improper packing put the item at risk for damage, but the business is also overpaying for all the space in the box that isn’t utilized (“paying for air”). While containerization provides the ability to select the optimally sized box for each order, it also minimizes the use of oversized cartons. This significantly reduces the amount of packing materials needed, lowering the costs associated with excess packaging and filler material. Furthermore, appropriately sized packages take up less space in delivery trucks and shipping containers, allowing businesses to move more items out in a single trip.


Containerization also helps businesses decide whether an order should be packed in boxes for parcel shipping or consolidated onto pallets for freight. This flexibility enables companies to choose the most cost-effective method – parcel for smaller shipments or freight for larger loads – while optimizing the space in each. By analyzing whether it’s cheaper to ship as a parcel or freight load, containerization helps businesses avoid unnecessary costs and further control transportation expenses.


Lastly, containerization helps companies avoid costly penalties from carriers who charge based on dimensional (DIM) weight, a pricing model based on the package volume relative to weight. For example, if a carton is too large, meaning there is too much air in the box, this can trigger an unexpected dim rate. If there are dim weight charges on nearly every package a company ships out, it can create a huge expense. Containerization helps business avoid this and keep shipping costs under control by finding the right sized carton.


So where do the savings come to the customer? The savings on shipping expenses means that businesses are more likely to offer competitive pricing on products and services. Whether this is reflected in lower product costs or free or reduced shipping, the financial benefits of containerization help enhance the shopping experience overall. Customers can enjoy high-quality goods at affordable prices, knowing that the logistics processes behind the scenes are optimized to save both time and money.

Leveraging the Power of Containerization

Containerization has redefined how businesses handle shipping, providing a cost-effective, secure, and efficient way to package and deliver goods. But while the benefits of leveraging containerization are already substantial, companies can take this efficiency even further with advanced packing technology. By strategically managing how products are packed and shipped, with the right tools in place, businesses can unlock even more savings, streamline operations, and further enhance customer satisfaction.

Varsity Logistics ShipOptimizer: Revolutionizing Container Packing

As shipping costs continue to rise and warehouse operations become more complex, businesses need more than just optimized cartons to stay competitive – they need smart solutions. With major carriers like FedEx recently announcing a 5.9% General Rate Increase (GRI) for 2025, controlling costs has become an even greater priority for shippers. Varsity Logistics, a leading provider of multi-carrier shipping solutions built exclusively for shippers on the IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems, offers a comprehensive suite of parcel and freight execution modules designed to help businesses revolutionize their shipping operations. Within that suite of modules is Varsity’s ShipOptimizer, an advanced containerization solution designed to streamline your packing process and reduce costs, all while enhancing the customer experience.


ShipOptimizer enables businesses to accurately predict shipping costs at the point of order, whether online or during entry, providing transparency that customers appreciate. This powerful tool can also optimize the entire packing process in the warehouse. By analyzing each item’s dimensions, weight, and compatibility, ShipOptimizer selects the ideal number and size of cartons needed for shipping. This eliminates the guesswork, reducing wasted space, packing materials, and even the likelihood of product damage that could lead to costly returns.


More than just a cost-saving tool, ShipOptimizer addresses the increasingly complex fulfillment requirements faced by businesses today. From handling split-case picking to developing pallet and trailer build plans, it transforms warehouse operations into a well-oiled machine. This results in reduced operating expenses, faster fulfillment, fewer damaged goods, and a better ordering experience for your customers overall.


By utilizing ShipOptimizer, companies can offer real-time shipping cost quotes, improve warehouse efficiency, and ensure their products arrive in perfect condition – ultimately passing down these benefits onto the end customer through lower prices, faster delivery, and higher satisfaction. To learn more about how Varsity Logistics can transform your shipping operations and help you meet the expectations of the modern consumer, contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a demo today.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Freight • Parcel • Shipping Costs • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology/ / 0 Comments

Precision Packing: Revolutionizing Control, Visibility, and Compliance with Advanced Shipping Software

Discover how advanced shipping solutions can improve order accuracy, lower shipping costs, and boost customer satisfaction

The shipping industry is a crucial component of global trade, driving the movement of goods across the world. And, with the rise of e-commerce and increasing consumer demands for fast and accurate deliveries, the industry faces many complexities and pressures. Finding a way to manage vast quantities of shipments, meet diverse regulatory requirements, and integrate various technological systems at once can be a challenge. However, the need to navigate these hurdles effectively has only grown as industry competition continues to loom and customer expectations evolve.


For parcel and Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shippers on IBM i (AS/400) Power systems, compliance and accuracy are more than just operational necessities—they are vital to maintaining a competitive edge, operational efficiency, and cost management. Accurate shipping practices ensure that packages reach their destinations on time and in good condition, minimizing costly delays and customer dissatisfaction. Compliance with carrier agreements and industry regulations helps avoid penalties and overcharges, contributing to a healthier bottom line. As transportation management becomes more complex, the importance of precision in shipping operations cannot be overstated.

The Need for Shipping Accuracy and Compliance

We’re all familiar with the phrase “domino effect”, where one event sets off a series of additional events in a chain reaction. The same thing can happen during the shipping process, where a single mistake can lead to a cascade of costly problems. For example, an inaccurate label or compliance issue can delay the entirety of a multi-piece shipment, causing customer dissatisfaction and hefty fines.


The complexity of managing large quantities of shipments, each with unique requirements, makes it difficult to ensure that every package is correctly processed and documented. Regulatory standards and consignee requirements can vary and change often, adding additional challenges. Manual processes are prone to human error, making it even harder to maintain high standards of precision and compliance. However, this highlights the importance of accuracy and adherence to regulations in the shipping industry.


For business that fall short when it comes to shipping accuracy and compliance in their operations, they are more likely to face several pain points including:

  • Increased Costs: Errors in shipments and non-compliance with regulations lead to additional costs from returns, fines, and penalties. These costs can quickly add up, impacting the shipper’s bottom line.
  • Operational Inefficiencies: Inaccurate shipments and non-compliance require additional resources to correct, leading to inefficiencies in the shipping process. This can cause delays and disrupt the flow of goods, affecting overall productivity.
  • Customer Dissatisfaction: Customers expect their orders to be accurate and delivered on time. Shipment delays and failure to meet specific customer requirements can lead to customer dissatisfaction, negative reviews, and lost business.
  • Regulatory Penalties: Failing to meet regulatory standards and consignee requirements can not only result in significant financial penalties, but also potential legal consequences, the seizure of goods, contract termination, and more. While these penalties can increase costs, they can also lead to increased scrutiny and damage the shipper’s reputation.

Given these challenges, the need for precision and control in the shipping processes is clear. Implementing an advanced shipping solution that enhances accuracy and ensures compliance is crucial for operational efficiency, cost management, and customer satisfaction in today’s complex shipping landscape. Luckily for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems shippers, Varsity Logistics’ ShipPack Module empowers shippers with total visibility and control of their pick/pack operations.

Introducing Advanced Picking and Packing Precision with ShipPack

ShipPack is a cutting-edge solution designed to revolutionize the picking and packing process for shippers. Part of Varsity Logistics’ industry leading multi-carrier shipping software and its comprehensive suite, this module provides complete control and visibility over each shipment for both parcel and freight. It empowers shippers to confidently navigate the complexities of modern shipping, delivering precise and compliant shipments every time.

How ShipPack Works

ShipPack offers complete control of the shipping process by providing total visibility to the contents of each package via the ShipSoft database. By capturing item-level details during the packing process, ShipPack ensures that all information, including description, size, weight, and contents, is easily accessible. The module mitigates costly violations and penalties by automatically providing compliant barcodes, labels, and packing lists.


ShipPack also automatically generates Advanced Shipment Notifications (ASNs) and produces customized forms and labels to meet specific consignee requirements. This automation minimizes errors and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.


Furthermore, Varsity seamlessly connects to all custom and major Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). This integration enhances operational efficiency and accuracy, allowing shippers to manage their packing process with ease. By linking ShipPack with existing ERP and WMS systems, shippers can streamline their operations, achieve better inventory control, and ensure accurate, compliant shipments, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and reduced operational costs.

Key Features

The ShipPack module provides essential advantages for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems shippers looking to improve front-line customer service, ensure order accuracy, improve their bottom line, and thrive in the modern logistics world. These advantages include:

  • Item-Specific Parcel Content Details: ShipPack captures detailed information about each item in a shipment, ensuring complete visibility and accuracy during the packing process. This capability simplifies order splitting and improves inventory management
  • Bar Code Labeling: Automatically generating UCC 128 barcodes, ShipPack ensures that packages meet consignee requirements and the contents are easily identifiable, reducing errors and speeding up the shipping process. It can also produce specialized bar codes, labels, and documents that may be required by consignees.
  • ASN Creation: ShipPack generates Advanced Shipment Notifications with line item content information, formatted for EDI transmission, a document notifying the receiver of the package contents. This automation minimizes errors and helps avoid costly penalties by ensuring accurate and timely notifications.
  • Order Reconciliation: By comparing packing lists with the order’s items as they are scanned, ShipPack verifies 100% shipment accuracy, preventing over- or under-shipping and maintaining tight inventory control.
  • Parcel Nesting: ShipPack efficiently nests parcels into one another, facilitating the building of pallets or trailers and consolidating multiple orders into a single shipment, enhancing tracking and operational efficiency.

Revolutionize Shipping Accuracy and Adherence with ShipPack and Varsity Logistics

Varsity Logistics is the leading provider of comprehensive, multi-carrier shipping software tailored for the IBM i (AS/400) Power systems platform. Beyond the advanced capabilities of the ShipPack module, Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel and ShipSoft-Freight Suites encompass a range of revolutionary modules designed to address complex shipping challenges, including:


Parcel-Specific Modules:

  • Ship Select [Automates the carrier selection process for parcel.]
  • ShipTalk [Provides real-time shipping communications.]
  • ShipAudit [Audits carrier invoices against carrier contracts.]
  • SpeedWeigh [Automates package weighing.]
  • ShipOptimizer [Accurately predicts shipping costs and necessary packaging.]

Freight-Specific Modules:

  • FreightPlan [Automates pre-shipment load planning process.]
  • FreightAudit [Automated freight bill processing and auditing.]
  • ShipSelect [Automates the carrier selection process for LTL.]

These modules provide shippers with essential tools to enhance operational efficiency, ensure compliance, and tackle the most demanding aspects of modern shipping. By leveraging Varsity’s holistic approach, businesses can streamline their shipping processes, reduce errors, and achieve greater accuracy and customer satisfaction.


Ready to say goodbye to adherence issues and say hello to streamlining your shipping operations for optimal precision and compliance? Discover how Varsity can transform the way you ship by contacting our team of shipping experts or scheduling a pressure-free demo today.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Shipping Software • Carriers • Customer Experience • Parcel • Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology/ / 0 Comments

Enhancing Supply Chain Visibility: The Vital Role of Real-Time Parcel Tracking for IBM i Shippers

Discover how leading shipping solutions and automated real-time tracking provide exceptional customer experiences

If you asked a group of people to describe in one word how they would feel if they were unable to track their package, it’s likely some possible responses would be: anxious, frustrated, stressed, impatient, uncertain, nervous, and inconvenienced. Collectively, each of these responses are negative experiences for the customer; something that any business wants to avoid.


In the world of modern commerce, the ability to track and manage shipments in real-time isn’t just desirable; it’s essential. This is especially true with the immense growth e-commerce has experienced in recent years, where customers now expect full transparency and control over their orders. In fact, a recent study showed that 96% of customers track their orders, and 43% track them daily.


Not only does the ability to track and trace your package in real-time bring consumers a sense of security and control, but it also introduces an element of excitement. The journey from “add to cart” to package delivery is more than just transactional – it’s experiential. The anticipation of a long-awaited package, waiting for the chance to open it up, and the satisfaction of knowing the exact moment of arrival are all part of the consumer journey.

Need for Automated Shipment Tracking Solutions

Imagine ordering a sentimental gift for a loved one, only to be left in the dark about its whereabouts. Or what if you order essential items for an urgent situation, such as medication, not knowing if they will arrive on time. Instant gratification has become a norm in today’s world, so delays and uncertainties can tarnish consumer experiences very quickly. This makes real-time order tracking and tracing a crucial capability for shippers.


Businesses that prioritize transparency and communication throughout the shipping process are more likely to maintain their competitiveness, keep their customers happy, and grow their brand awareness. However, those who fail to adapt to this imperative need put themselves at risk of losing customers and revenue.


Keeping up with the ever-evolving needs of consumers can present a myriad of supply chain challenges, threatening to impede efficiency and profitability. And standing at the top of these challenges is reliance on outdated technology and manual processes, showing the need for automated tracking solutions. For parcel shippers on IBM i (AS/400) Power systems, the lack of automated tracking solutions can lead to several pain points including:

  • Risk of Errors: It’s no surprise that any sort of manual task is at risk of human error. Manual errors in data entry and communication processes can cause discrepancies in shipment information, leading to potential shipment delays.
  • Inefficient Resource Allocation: Manual tracking and tracing methods are time-consuming and require heavy attention to detail, leading to inefficient resource allocation and increased labor costs.
  • Limited Visibility: The lack of real-time tracking limits supply chain visibility, making it a challenge to identify bottlenecks or areas for optimization.
  • Delayed Deliveries: Without real-time tracking, shippers often struggle to identify transit delays. This can lead to missed delivery deadlines and unsatisfied customers.
  • Increased Customer Inquiries: If customers are unable to track their orders in real-time, customer service teams are swarmed with where is my order (WISMO) inquiries. This can strain resources and lead to dissatisfied customers.

Now that customer expectations for transparency and control are at an all-time high, the importance of real-time shipment tracking solutions cannot be overstated. Customers expect their deliveries to be on time and visibility into the status of their shipments at every stage of the delivery process. To do so, shippers must leverage technology to streamline their operations, enhance visibility, and maintain competitiveness.


The good news for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems shippers is that there are advanced automated software solutions available, like Varsity Logistics’ ShipTalk Parcel module, empowering shippers with the visibility and control they need to navigate the complexities of parcel shipping.

Introducing Modern Shipping Transparency with ShipTalk

ShipTalk is a revolutionary solution enabling businesses access to real-time delivery status and online tracking. This module is a part of Varsity Logistics’ comprehensive supply chain suite for users. When paired with Varsity’s industry-leading multi-carrier shipping software, ShipSoft-Parcel, it works to help parcel shippers overcome the challenges of modern shipping with ease and confidence.

How ShipTalk Works

ShipTalk empowers shippers with the resources they need to streamline operations, enhance visibility, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. ShipTalk is more than just a tracking solution; at its core, it’s a connectivity suite that expands visibility and communication between shippers and their supply chain partners. By extending shipment control beyond the warehouse, it enables enhanced collaboration with carriers and consignees, facilitating real-time status updates, automated export filing, and enriched communication functionalities.


Customers can select from several of ShipTalk’s connectivity tools to meet their unique needs, including:

  • UPS Online Tracking
  • UPS Trace Request
  • FedEx Tracking
  • USPS Delivery Confirmation
  • Alerts (non-carrier specific)
  • AES (Automated Export System)

Key Benefits of ShipTalk

The ShipTalk Parcel module offers several key benefits to IBM i (AS/400) Power systems shippers seeking to transform their shipping operations, overcome parcel challenges, and achieve greater success in today’s dynamic shipping landscape.

  • Real-time Shipment Visibility: One of the primary benefits of ShipTalk is the ability to provide up-to-the-minute order status updates on the whereabouts of shipments. By leveraging electronic links with third-party carriers, ShipTalk offers shippers unparalleled visibility into the movement of their parcels, enabling them to identify potential delays, take proactive measures to ensure on-time delivery, and provide great customer service.
  • Enhanced Supply Chain Relationships: ShipTalk fosters stronger relationships with supply chain partners through enhanced communication capabilities. By facilitating real-time communication and collaboration between shippers, carriers, and consignees, ShipTalk strengthens trust and transparency throughout the supply chain ecosystem. This improved communication leads to smoother operations, fewer misunderstandings, and ultimately, more productive partnerships.
  • Reduced Expenses: Because ShipTalk automates several key supply chain processes, it significantly reduces manual labor expenses. Manual tasks like data entry, document handling, and partner communication are effortlessly facilitated through ShipTalk’s automation capabilities. With minimal need for human intervention, ShipTalk reduces labor costs, avoids costly errors, increases operational efficiency, and ultimately improves the bottom line.
  • ShipTalk Alerts: For shippers seeking a proactive approach to supply chain management, ShipTalk sends advance shipment notifications to supply chain partners prior to delivery. Through email alerts, shippers can promptly inform recipients about upcoming shipments at any time through the shipping process, providing them with important information like tracking numbers and delivery specifics. This proactive communication not only improves coordination but also helps recipients prepare for incoming shipments, reducing potential delays and enhancing the customer experience.

Enhance Supply Chain Visibility with ShipTalk and Varsity Logistics

Varsity Logistics, provider of top-tier multi-carrier shipping software for parcel execution, stands as the only holistic shipping solution built for the IBM i. In addition to the key capabilities provided by the ShipTalk module, Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel suite offers several other revolutionary modules, equipping shippers with the tools to navigate parcel shipping challenges, including:

Varsity Logistics also offers multi-carrier shipping software for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shippers with additional freight supply chain execution modules and multi-modal capabilities.


The modern logistics world demands automated solutions and capabilities that can meet the evolving expectations of our consumers. That is why Varsity Logistics plays a powerful force in supply chain management, offering comprehensive solutions that empower shippers to tackle even the most complex parcel shipping challenges. By leveraging ShipTalk’s automated functionalities, shippers can alleviate the pitfalls of manual tasks, provide full order transparency to their customers, and set themselves up for long-term success.


Looking for a way to provide the ultimate customer experience with automated real-time shipment tracking? To learn more about ShipTalk for parcel or Varsity Logistics’ other parcel or LTL shipping software solutions, contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a demo. Elevating your IBM i shipping strategy starts here.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Carriers • Freight • Parcel • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology • Varsity Logistics/ / 0 Comments

[Shipping Automation] How IBM i (AS/400) Users Avoid Manual Carrier Selection

Discover how Varsity ShipSelect eases pain points associated with the carrier selection process

Two things are certain when it comes to the logistics landscape today: the major growth of e-commerce over the past several years and the ever-dynamic conditions of up-and-coming and traditional shipping carriers. Therefore, the efficiency of logistics operations plays a crucial role for businesses striving to meet customer demands and maintain a competitive edge. And, with the exponential growth of e-commerce in recent years, the importance of fast and reliable parcel shipping has never been such a necessity.


However, with what seems like an unlimited variety of carriers to choose from, and several variables involved in the shipping process, selecting the optimal carrier for each parcel can be a logistical challenge.

The Pitfalls of Manual Carrier Selection

E-commerce businesses thrive on efficiency and speed. Every step of the fulfillment process needs to be optimized to meet customer expectations and stay ahead of the competition. However, carrier selection in a traditional, manual setting can become a significant bottleneck. Businesses must juggle a complex web of factors for each shipment, including:

  • Carrier Availability: With a vast number of carriers offering services, finding the right fit for every package size, weight, and destination requires extensive research.
  • Cost Comparison: Different carriers offer varying rates based on factors like distance, weight, delivery destination, and service level. Manually sifting through quotes to find the most cost-effective option is a time-consuming task.
  • Delivery Speed: Balancing cost with desired transit times is crucial. To determine which carrier offers the best combination for each shipment, many businesses must resort to manual comparisons between separate carrier systems, potentially leading to delays if the optimal option is missed.
  • Compliance Considerations: Shipping regulations and compliance requirements can be intricate and are ever-changing. Manual compliance verification of each label for each shipment adds another layer of complexity and risk of errors.

This tangled web of considerations makes manual carrier selection a slow, error-prone process that can negatively impact shipping costs, delivery times, and overall customer satisfaction. Manual processes only complicate these issues, slowing down operations with inefficiencies, human error, and delays in finding the most cost-effective carrier and service level for each parcel or LTL shipment. Even more, fluctuating transportation costs further exacerbate the complexities faced by businesses. As margins grow thinner, every dollar spent on shipping directly impacts businesses’ bottom lines.


Fortunately, innovative solutions like automated carrier selection tools can help businesses navigate these complexities. These tools factor in variables like transit times, costs, and compliance to ensure the perfect fit for each shipment, while eliminating time-consuming tasks and potential errors associated with manual selection. Varsity Logistics’ ShipSelect module is a powerful example of such a tool, optimizing carrier selection for businesses in today’s dynamic e-commerce landscape.

What is Varsity ShipSelect?

When used with Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel or ShipSoft-Freight solutions, ShipSelect offers a comprehensive tool, designed to alleviate the pain points associated with carrier selection during the shipping process. For various modes of transportation including parcel, Less Than Truckload (LTL), Truckload (TL), and rail, ShipSelect automates the entire carrier selection process.


The module goes beyond the conventional approach of carrier selection solely based on cost. While cost is a crucial factor, ShipSelect accounts for the multifaceted nature of logistics decision-making, considering critical criteria such as:

  • Transit time
  • Carrier preference
  • Transportation cost
  • Transportation mode
  • Carrier performance
  • Carrier service types

By weighing these important factors, ShipSelect creates an output of the most optimal carriers based on user-defined preferences. This ensures each shipment is sent with the carrier best suited to meet the specific requirements of both the business and its customers, while also conforming to routing guide requirements and shipping compliance at the time of order placement.

Why ShipSelect Matters

ShipSelect empowers shippers to efficiently select optimal carriers for their shipments, driving efficiency and value across their logistics operations. By automating the carrier selection process, it soothes the many pain points associated with manually finding the carriers best suited for your business and customers. This invaluable solution not only provides overall logistical enhancement, but it also minimizes transportation costs, ensures your business remains compliant, and saves you time on managing inefficiencies and costly human errors due to manual processes. Not to mention, insights into carrier performance empowers shippers to make informed decisions and remain competitive in the dynamic supply chain landscape.

Key Benefits of ShipSelect

The ShipSelect module offers several key benefits that significantly improve logistics efficiency and reduce costs for shippers, including:


Reduction in Shipping Costs: ShipSelect analyzes various factors such as package destination, carrier rates, and package weight to optimize shipping costs. By applying weight breaks (the weight at which the shipping cost changes based on how much the package weighs), ShipSelect ensures businesses get the best carrier option for cost without compromising service quality.


Mitigation of Costly Violations: Ensuring your shipments are compliant with complex routing guides (documents dictating how and by whom shipments should be handled and transported) and shipping instructions is crucial, as penalties for misalignment can be costly. ShipSelect automatically verifies each shipment adheres to these requirements, helping businesses avoid the risk of violations and maintain streamlined shipping operations.


Significant Time Savings: The process of manual carrier selection is not only labor-intensive but also highly prone to human error, causing inefficiencies and operational delays. ShipSelect completely automates this process, keeping operations moving and enabling businesses to allocate their time and resources to other valuable areas.

Optimize Your Carrier Selection Process with ShipSelect and Varsity Logistics

Varsity Logistics is the only holistic multi-carrier shipping solution built for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users who need parcel and LTL shipping capabilities. Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel and ShipSoft-Freight shipping platforms automate the parcel and LTL shipping processes at every step, serving as a centralized control center for each of Varsity’s supply chain execution modules, whether your supply chain includes parcel and/or freight:


Parcel-Specific Modules:

Freight-Specific Modules:

ShipSelect isn’t just a tool designed to alleviate the challenges of the carrier selection process, it’s a transformative solution that empowers businesses to enhance their shipping operations like never before and set themselves up for long-term success.


Ready to wave your shipping woes goodbye? Contact Varsity’s team of shipping experts or schedule a no-pressure demo to learn more about how ShipSelect and Varsity’s other parcel and LTL solutions can revolutionize your operations and meet your unique business needs.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Technology • Parcel • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics/ / 0 Comments

Ship Faster with SpeedWeigh: Auto Package Weighing

Learn about Varsity SpeedWeigh and how it works with ShipSoft Parcel to automate the package weighing process

Imagine you are mid-shift working in a bustling warehouse, where efficiency is crucial and every second counts for staying on track of your parcel shipments. In this high-stakes environment, every moment wasted on manual tasks, correcting inaccuracies, and inefficient processes can impact your business’s bottom line and lead to lost opportunities. When it comes to traditional package weighing processes, the reliance on manual scanning and data entry into shipping systems consumes valuable time and increases the risk for errors.


But what if there was a way to avoid these threats of inefficiency and streamline your shipping process with a solution that eliminates the manual tasks and integrates into your existing workflow? Enter SpeedWeigh, a module that partners seamlessly with Varsity ShipSoft Parcel to revolutionize the way packages are weighed and processed.


In this blog, we’ll dive into the world of SpeedWeigh, taking a closer look at how the module works, why it’s important for shippers, and the key benefits it can bring to your business’ shipping operations. From increased efficiency to significant cost savings, let’s explore how SpeedWeigh can transform the way you ship and propel your business towards long-term success.

What is Varsity SpeedWeigh?

SpeedWeigh works by automatically sending the package weight from the shipping scale to Varsity ShipSoft-Parcel (the only holistic shipping software built for the IBM i) at the precise time that the order number is scanned. This eliminates the need for an additional barcode scan or manually entering the package weight.


To find the best rate for a package, you need to consider all of these factors:

  • Package weight
  • Package dimensions
  • Service type
  • Carrier rate and discount
  • Destination

ShipSoft Parcel combines the package weight provided by SpeedWeigh with destination, package dimensions, service type, and carrier rates to determine your actual shipment costs in the blink of an eye. By using SpeedWeigh to eliminate the manual steps to scan or enter the package weight, companies improve accuracy and streamline the shipping process.


Varsity’s SpeedWeigh also eliminates the need for a keyboard wedge, a device that connects the scanner to the keyboard for inputting the weight. The data is transferred automatically from SpeedWeigh into ShipSoft Parcel on your IBM i (AS/400) Power system without the third-party device.

Why SpeedWeigh Matters

As we know, in the dynamic world of shipping and logistics, every step matters. That is why the SpeedWeigh module plays a crucial role in the industry as it offers a solution that goes beyond convenience. There are several benefits this module brings to businesses.

Key Benefits of SpeedWeigh

Automation of Package Weight Retrieval: Arguably the most important ability SpeedWeigh provides shippers with is the elimination of manual tasks. In traditional package weighing processes, manually scanning each parcel’s barcode and the tedious entry of weight information is not only extremely time consuming, but it also leaves the door wide open for introducing human error into the mix. This integration automates weight retrieval and removes the risk of inefficiencies, ensuring that the weight of each parcel is accurately recorded without the hassle of manual input.


Increased Throughput Speed and Efficiency: Automating the package weighing process allows for accelerated throughput speeds as workflows can move more quickly, creating an overall more efficient process. With less manual steps, employees can process more parcels in less time, leading to faster turnaround times, more time to allocate resources to other important tasks, and improving the overall customer experience.


Cost-Optimization: With manual processes comes the increased risk of costly human errors. Automated systems help to reduce the need for manual labor, saving businesses on staffing costs and costs associated with “damage control” from human intervention. Additionally, automated weighing systems provide accurate weight measurements, which help ensure shipping costs are appropriately calculated, minimizing the risk of overpaying, underpaying, or running into penalties and disputes with carriers.

Streamline Your Shipping Operations with SpeedWeigh and Varsity Logistics

Varsity Logistics multi-carrier shipping software is the #1 solution for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users who need parcel shipping capabilities. Our ShipSoft-Parcel Suite is a complete and integrated solution, automating your business’s shipping process from start to finish. The ShipSoft application acts as a central control for each of Varsity’s supply chain execution modules for parcel including:

SpeedWeigh isn’t just a ShipSoft-Parcel tool – it’s a transformative solution for shipping operations. By automating processes, enhancing efficiency, and creating opportunities for cost-optimization, Varsity SpeedWeigh for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users empowers businesses to revolutionize the way they ship.


To learn more about SpeedWeigh or Varsity shipping software solutions, contact Varsity’s shipping experts or schedule a demo. We look forward to exploring how Varsity Logistics can meet your business’s unique needs.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Shipping Software • Customer Experience • Parcel • Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology • TMS/ / 0 Comments

Mastering Market Volatility: 5 Ways Shipping Software Helps You Weather the Storm

You can’t always predict the unexpected, but you sure can prepare for it

In 2020, a global pandemic forced our world into a lockdown, causing productions to shut down, surges in unavailable product demand, and delays at ports. In 2022, 1,743 entities were impacted by supply chain cyber-attacks in the U.S., a 235% increase year-over-year since 2017. In 2023, anticipation of a potential strike by UPS Teamsters triggered a defensive response in many businesses, increasing costs for alternative shipping options, stress and anxiety, and many other harmful effects. Uncertainty regarding capacity exceeding demand adds another layer of complexity, as businesses grapple with questions about how many carriers will survive or merge in the face of changing market dynamics. Not to mention, other threats of disruption, like natural disasters and labor concerns, continue to loom over the supply chain and logistics industries.


You might be wondering: What’s the point of calling out these examples of market volatility? The point is, the supply chain and logistics landscape changes rapidly, constantly evolving. At the same time, they’re consistently faced with irregularities and the unknown. The possibility of supply chain disruption can occur at any time, especially when we least expect it. So, how can businesses be prepared for the unexpected?


Not only understanding, but also preparing for these market dynamics is crucial for businesses looking to excel in today’s volatile shipping environment. An advanced supply chain technology solution, such as a Transportation Management System (TMS) or multi-carrier shipping software built for both parcel and LTL shipping, emerges as the strategic key, offering a variety of tools and capabilities designed to help you navigate uncertainty. Let’s explore how these solutions can set your shipping operations up for success against unforeseen circumstances and market volatility.

How Top-Tier Multi-Carrier Shipping Software (MCSS) Keeps Your Shipping Operations Resilient

From visibility to automation and provider expertise, here are five ways a robust shipping software solution can help you adapt to evolving market conditions and provide the control you need to weather any storm:

1. Enhanced Visibility: Industry leading multi-carrier shipping software offers real-time visibility into the entire supply chain ecosystem. Advanced tracking and monitoring gives businesses visibility to several factors including shipment status, carrier performance, inventory levels, and market conditions. This provides companies with the ability to quickly detect disruptions and proactively respond to any unexpected obstacles.


2. Optimized Routing: In times of supply chain disruption, a shipping software’s optimized routing capabilities can really make a difference. The software can analyze various factors like traffic conditions, carrier capacity, and delivery windows, to select the most efficient route avoiding any disruptions. This way, businesses can still minimize transit times and adapt to volatile market conditions.


3. Improved Communication: Superior shipping software platforms integrate seamlessly with other parts of the Enterprise Software Stack (ESS), ensuring smooth data exchanges and streamlining operations. This also allows for uninterrupted communication between shippers, carriers, and customers. By maintaining real-time communication between the different parts of the supply chain, it helps businesses keep stakeholders informed to swiftly mitigate the impact of unforeseen circumstances and vice versa.


4. Automation: The ability of a comprehensive multi-carrier shipping solution to automate manual tasks and streamline workflows improves overall operational efficiency and agility. Not only do automated processes reduce the risk of costly errors, but they enable businesses to quickly adapt to sudden market changes, ensuring high service levels even in unpredictable events.


5. Expertise: A top-tier shipping software provider’s expertise is invaluable when it comes to preparing shippers for market volatility. Experienced providers offer strategic guidance, innovative solutions, and proactive support. Leveraging their strong industry knowledge, these providers can assist businesses in anticipating potential risks and developing contingency plans to mitigate them. By partnering with an experienced shipping software provider, shippers can lean on a trusted resource to help them navigate turbulent times and ensure resilience in supply chain uncertainty.

Varsity Logistics: The Leading Provider of Multi-Carrier TMS Systems

While it’s clear that unforeseen circumstances and instances of supply chain volatility are inevitable, Varsity Logistics’ comprehensive shipping software solution is the obvious choice for safeguarding your shipping operations against them. Varsity Logistics is the industry-leading multi-carrier shipping software provider exclusively designed for shippers on the IBM i (AS/400) Power systems. Included in our parcel shipping suite are various robust functionalities and supply chain execution modules, built for even the most complex shipping challenges. As a premium shipping solution, we help you protect your shipping operations with our:

Supply Chain Visibility

Electronically linked via Varsity’s ShipTalk module, your shipping software is seamlessly connected to your carriers to provide your business with real-time, end-to-end visibility into various parts of the supply chain. This functionality gives insight to variables such as current time order updates, delivery status, and advanced tracking and tracing. The visibility ShipTalk provides gives companies the ability to swiftly identify disruptions and take proactive action.

Carrier Selection

Another functionality Varsity provides as an important tool in mitigating supply chain disruptions is our carrier selection process. Based on a list of criteria including transit time, cost, mode, performance, optimal carriers, and more, Varsity’s ShipSelect module chooses the best carrier for every single shipment. This kind of functionality offers your business an automated way to still select the optimal carrier option for your shipments even during volatile supply chain conditions.

Streamlined Communication

Varsity’s shipping software solution offers the most robust and powerful integration possible with IBM i ERPs, making it the clear choice for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users. This seamless integration allows for smooth communication and real-time shipping data access, empowering IT and e-commerce teams to stay informed of any potential threats or disruptions, allowing for immediate collaboration and proactive responses. [Learn why Varsity is the preferred shipping software partner of VAI!]

Automated Workflows

Automation plays a big role in helping shippers mitigate volatility. Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel solution automates the entire shipping process from start to end, eliminating the risk of expensive manual errors. From optimizing shipment pricing to ensuring label compliance, our automated solution ensures quick adjustments to your shipping strategies in response to shifting market conditions, like disruptions in transit routes. Additionally, our ability to conform to business requirements and industry compliance standards guarantees shippers a reliable solution regardless of supply chain challenges.

Supply Chain Expertise

We absolutely agree that the experience of your shipping software provider is invaluable, especially with unforeseen circumstances consistently looming. Founded in 1989, Varsity Logistics is proud to share that we hold over nearly 40 years in the supply chain and logistics space under our belt. Additionally, the tenure of our services and support teams surpasses 120 years. With that much experience, we know best when it comes to preparing shippers for resilience against market volatility.

Additional Features

There are many more capabilities of Varsity’s shipping modules that go beyond this list, but it’s important to mention:

  • Auditing: Varsity’s ShipAudit module reconciles carrier invoices against the anticipated costs, eliminating over-charges, duplicate bills, or invalid charges. Overall, by protecting profitability, ShipAudit helps companies fortify their supply chains against disruption and encourages operational continuity.
  • Analytics: TransData is Varsity’s transportation analytics tool that provides shipping companies with access to organized historical shipping and carrier data, enabling them to analyze performance, monitor trends, and make informed decisions. Leveraging this data helps businesses negotiate better agreements with carriers and reduce costs, thus helping to mitigate the impacts of a volatile shipping market.
  • Containerization: The ShipOptimizer module revolutionizes shipping operations by providing companies with the ability to predict shipping costs accurately before product shipment, offsetting rising transportation expenses and enhancing warehouse efficiency. By optimizing the container packing process, this module enables companies to seamlessly manage complex fulfillment requirements, reduce operating costs, and minimize potential product damage, ultimately helping companies navigate the challenges of supply chain disruptions.

To learn more about the modules mentioned above and Varsity’s comprehensive selection of parcel, freight, analytics and auditing shipping solutions, visit our resource center.


Varsity Logistics’ industry-leading multi-carrier shipping software is more than a shipping tool; it’s an essential piece of your supply chain software solution helping to safeguard your IBM i (AS/400) shipping strategy against the unexpected. Offering a valuable set of capabilities, including enhanced visibility, optimal carrier selection, streamlined communication, automated processes, and provider expertise, Varsity provides the solution to equip your shipping strategy for whatever’s around the corner.


Ready to weather the storm and take on supply chain disruptions with confidence? Contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a demo to learn more about how Varsity can help you navigate the ever-changing parcel shipping landscape.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Carriers • 3PL/Distribution • Customer Experience • E-Commerce • Parcel • Retail • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics/ / 0 Comments

4 Ways Zone Skipping Can Optimize Your Shipping Strategy

Learn how Zone Skipping can lower costs, decrease transit times, and boost customer satisfaction

In a supply chain and logistics environment where economic uncertainty is constant, businesses are always on the lookout for opportunities to reduce transportation costs without sacrificing transit times and customer experience. As e-commerce has continued to thrive by yielding high order volumes, the need for innovative shipping strategies has become more critical than ever.


Many will be relieved to know a logistics approach that offers a solution to both high shipping costs and extended delivery times does indeed exist. This approach is referred to as Zone Skipping, a logistics technique that consolidates individual packages and ships them directly to a parcel carrier’s distribution center closer in proximity to the final destination points of the consolidated packages. From there, a regional carrier delivers the package to the customer’s doorstep.


This technique is called Zone Skipping because consolidating individual shipments and transporting them in bulk to get them closer to their end delivery location allows the packages to bypass intermediate distribution centers, or zones.

How does Zone Skipping work?

Unlike traditional shipping methods that involve multiple sorting and transfer points, Zone Skipping minimizes the extensive routing of parcels across the country before reaching their end destination. Instead, the approach leverages local carriers for the final zone. The main purpose is to consolidate parcels headed for the same target location, allowing them to be shipped together in bulk. This process eliminates unnecessary handling and sorting, resulting in faster transit times and significant cost savings.

4 Ways Zone Skipping Can Benefit Your Business

Now that we’ve laid the foundation for understanding how Zone Skipping works, it is important to explore how this innovative shipping strategy can positively impact your business.

1. Cost Savings

Zone Skipping can bring substantial cost savings for businesses by optimizing the final stages of the shipping journey. Rather than relying solely on individual parcel carriers for end-to-end delivery, Zone Skipping utilizes local delivery services to make final mile deliveries. This strategy eliminates the need for multiple sorting and transfer points along the shipping route, significantly reducing costs associated with shipping packages. This cost efficiency allows businesses to allocate budget elsewhere, bettering the business’s finances and operations.


For example, if you were shipping 5,000 parcels from Oklahoma City to Detroit at $10 each in shipping costs, you would incur a grand total of $50,000 in shipping spend. The flat rate, however, is $5,000 if they all arrive in a truck. From there, shipping the individual parcels from the Detroit sorting facility will cost $7 per parcel. If you add the $5,000 flat rate shipment with the $7 per parcel for local delivery, the total shipping will equal $40,000. That’s $10,000 in savings compared to using the parcel carrier for shipping the parcels individually.

5,000 x $10 = $50,000

(5,000 x $7) + $5,000 = $40,000

$50,000 – $40,000 = $10,000 in Savings!

2. Faster Transit Times

Zone Skipping also revolutionizes the speed and efficiency of parcel deliveries, significantly reducing transit times. Traditional shipping methods involve excessive back-and-forth traveling through multiple sorting facilities across the country throughout the duration of transit. However, this logistics technique utilizes local carriers to minimize unnecessary detours and ensures a direct route to the end customer. Not only does this eliminate transit delays, but it shines a spotlight on businesses offering reliable service. It is no secret that today, especially, faster delivery times translate to higher customer satisfaction.

3. Greater E-commerce Capabilities

As the e-commerce landscape continues to evolve, customer expectations grow right along with it. This means meeting the growing demand for seamless and hassle-free deliveries is crucial for businesses. Zone Skipping presents an ideal strategy for businesses to meet these expectations by providing faster and more reliable shipping options to their customers. With the ability to directly route a package to the customer, avoiding transit delays and sorting, it meets the immediate needs of today’s online shoppers. Not only will this boost your business’s customer service, leading directly to happier customers and increased customer loyalty, but it will help your business excel in the competitive e-commerce market and ultimately drive profits.

4. Fewer Chances for Damaged Packages

Not only does Zone Skipping save your business time and money when it comes to shipping, it also reduces the risk of damaged packages. As we know by now, traditional shipping methods can send packages through multiple sorting and distribution centers, exposing packages to more hands and a higher likelihood of becoming damaged. Zone Skipping decreases the opportunity of something bad happening to packages, such as being dropped or dented, by eliminating unnecessary touchpoints in the shipping process. This helps ensure that customers receive their orders in pristine condition, improving the overall customer experience and building trust with the shipping process and your business.

What Do I Need to Implement Zone Skipping?

Here are 3 things to do before you implement a zone skipping strategy.

Evaluate the Areas You Serve

Before implementing a Zone Skipping strategy, it’s crucial to evaluate the regions you routinely serve. This strategy is most cost-effective for businesses that consistently have a substantial volume of parcels going to the same area. If you are considering utilizing Zone Skipping, you should consider the frequency of orders that are headed to the same region and examine how many steps are in your current shipping process. Remember, reducing the steps in your shipping process creates a more streamlined experience as well as increases cost savings to your business. Ideally, you should have a shipping system that allows you to turn zone skipping on/off based on current volume to ensure optimal efficiency and savings.

Evaluate your Internal Infrastructure

Before jumping into Zone Skipping, evaluate your internal infrastructure to ensure a seamless implementation. You will need software that is equipped to seamlessly handle increased capacity requirements. The integration of a robust solution, like multi-carrier shipping software (MCSS), becomes crucial in this context. Advanced shipping solutions are designed to handle complex shipping scenarios and streamline parcel logistics, ensuring your system remains agile and efficient, even with the increased demands of Zone Skipping. Because of volume, Zone Skipping may overly burden a more traditional system, which could reduce efficiency and increase labor costs. By leveraging the capabilities of multi-carrier shipping software, business will be able to effectively utilize Zone Skipping to deliver ROI and operational efficiency.

Open a Dialogue with your Local Parcel Carriers

It’s important to foster a collaborative partnership with your local parcel carriers as these are the people you’ll rely on to make Zone Skipping a successful strategy. Communication with these carriers is vital to smooth operations and an effective plan. While Zone Skipping might reduce the sorting and shipping workload on your part, transparent communication with your local carriers will help them recognize the substantial benefits of increased volume. A collaborative approach to this strategy ensures benefits for both your business and the carriers involved.

Zone Skipping with Varsity Shipping Software

Zone Skipping is an effective way to reduce shipping costs and improve customer experience. The industry leading multi-carrier shipping software for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users from Varsity Logistics offers the ideal solution for flexibility and reliability when it comes to additional cost savings and promoting a positive customer experience.


Read our How it Works Brochure to learn more about Varsity’s software integration and comprehensive set of features.

View the Brochure

To discover all the ways Varsity’s multi-carrier shipping software can improve your parcel shipping processes, contact our shipping experts or schedule a demo.

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Technology • Parcel • Procurement • Shipping Software • Supply Chain/Logistics/ / 0 Comments

Custom ERPs Uncovered: Navigating Integration Complexities with the IBM i (AS/400) Power Series

Discover a breakdown of the challenges IBM i Power Series users face when using a custom ERP and how to solve them

In 1988, IBM introduced the AS/400 server. Today, despite advancements in technology, the IBM i (AS/400) Power Series continues to be a pivotal choice for many businesses. In fact, a recent IBM i survey conducted by All400s found that 49.32% of users operating on the IBM i platform do not plan on migrating off at any time. This underscores the strength and reliability of the IBM i (AS/400) Power Series, making it a cornerstone for businesses seeking robust and reliable computing solutions.


When it comes to the parcel shipping industry, many businesses choose custom Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions to tailor their operations to specific needs. Custom ERPs provide flexibility, allowing companies to fine-tune their systems to address unique requirements that some off-the-shelf solutions may not meet.


However, this customization journey, especially when paired with the robust IBM i Power Series, brings about challenges. Specifically, when businesses integrate custom ERPs with carrier systems, they encounter complex tasks, such as creating interfaces for customer interactions.

The Challenges of Custom ERPs and the IBM i Power Series (AS/400)

Let’s dive into three challenges that shippers face, exploring the difficulties of integration complexity, time-consuming customizations, and the natural tendency for errors.

Challenge 1: Integration Complexity

A significant challenge comes from the complexities of blending custom ERP systems, particularly those also operating on the robust IBM i Power Series, with carrier platforms. Shippers find themselves faced with the demanding task of crafting custom interfaces to establish seamless communication between their proprietary systems and the diverse array of carrier technologies. This integration complexity not only requires a substantial investment of time but also introduces the risk of errors, potentially disrupting the entire shipping process.

Challenge 2: Time-Consuming Customizations

Another difficult challenge arises when creating custom interfaces for businesses to interact with carrier systems, especially when using custom ERPs on the IBM i Power Series. Making and using these customizations is not only time-consuming but also demands a meticulous approach to ensure accuracy. Shippers struggle with the need for quick and error-free deployments, often facing delays and strained resources as they aim for a seamlessly integrated and efficient shipping workflow.

Challenge 3: Proneness to Errors

As shippers work through the intricate process of connecting their custom ERP, specifically designed for IBM i Power Series, with carrier systems, the potential for errors becomes a large concern. The manual nature of writing these interfaces leaves room for unintentional mistakes, risking problems like inconsistent data, communication issues, and operational inefficiencies. Addressing and rectifying errors post-implementation further compounds the challenges, highlighting the need for a more streamlined and error-resistant integration process.


Overall, the introduction of custom ERPs introduces an extra layer of complexity, requiring businesses to create custom interfaces for multiple carriers to integrate with the carrier system. Furthermore, changes or updates in carrier APIs, a common occurrence, may cause delays in aligning the ERP system with the latest requirements. This can lead to inefficiencies, hindering a business’s operational effectiveness. Businesses must understand that traditional or manual methods are no longer sustainable in our fast-paced and competitive environment. Embracing innovation and streamlined processes becomes crucial for navigating the challenges posed by integration complexities in the shipping industry.

A Multi-Carrier Shipping Solution

Once your parcel shipping volume starts to increase, the need for automation becomes increasingly evident. Among the leading solutions is multi-carrier shipping software (MCSS), an option that smoothly integrates with custom ERP systems. MCSS stands out for its ability to seamlessly integrate with custom ERP systems, presenting a streamlined alternative to the often complex and manual processes involved in supply chain workflows.

Streamlined Integration Process

One of the unique features of automated multi-carrier shipping software is the ability to simplify the integration process with custom ERP systems, especially those operating on the robust IBM i Power Series (AS/400). Unlike manual efforts that may require additional work to seamlessly connect with diverse carrier systems, MCSS is purpose-built for shipping-related functions. This eliminates the need for custom interfaces, simplifying the integration. Embracing this automation isn’t just a strategy – it’s a necessity for businesses relying on the IBM i (AS/400) Power Series and custom ERP systems.

Real-time Adaptability to Carrier Changes

Top-tier multi-carrier shipping software solutions don’t just optimize shipping operations – they adapt in real-time to changes in carrier APIs. This agility ensures that businesses using MCSS can quickly align their ERP systems to meet updated carrier requirements, minimizing delays and disruptions in shipping operations.

Enhanced Operational Efficiency

The introduction of automated multi-carrier shipping software brings significant efficiency benefits for parcel shipping businesses. By integrating seamlessly with a business’s ERP system, MCSS acts as a centralized hub, automating decisions for various shipping processes. This unified platform enhances visibility and streamlines tasks such as returning shipping rates, label generation, and shipment tracking across carriers. The result is an improved responsiveness that contributes to an enhanced customer experience (CX) for both the business and its customers. The automation aspect not only mitigates manual bottlenecks but also substantially reduces shipping costs and errors, freeing up valuable resources that can be redirected to other critical core business functions.


In summary, choosing automated multi-carrier shipping software is a must for businesses dealing with the challenges of custom ERPs and IBM i Power Series (AS/400).

Varsity Logistics Automated Multi-Carrier Shipping Software for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems Users

Are you ready to say goodbye to those time-consuming manual processes? Say hello to Varsity Logistics! As the leading provider of automated multi-carrier shipping software for businesses using IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems and with over 30 years of proven experience, Varsity stands out.


Designed for retailers, manufacturers, 3PLs and healthcare companies, Varsity’s parcel shipping software is a seamlessly integrated suite of advanced supply chain modules. These modules are built to simplify every aspect of your parcel shipping operations, from order entry to shipment tracking and reporting.


Varsity’s parcel shipping solution automates each step of the shipping process, ensuring efficiency at every step. To learn more about how Varsity Logistics can transform your shipping operations, contact our team of shipping experts or request a demo. Your streamlined and automated supply chain begins here!

/ By Varsity Shipping Specialists / Supply Chain/Logistics • AS400 • Customer Experience • Parcel • Shipping Software • Technology • Varsity Logistics/ / 0 Comments

The IBM i (AS/400) Guide to Handling Increased Parcel Throughput

Learn how IBM i (AS/400) Power users can streamline their shipping operations and increase their parcel throughput with ease

Up and running since 1988, IBM i (AS/400) operating systems (now Power Systems), are a cornerstone of many businesses’ shipping operations. In fact, the AS/400 platform is used in over 100,000 companies including Fortune 500 companies that use IBM i Power systems. As these systems have stood the test of time, their reliability, scalability, and durability have remained strong, which is why they are still relevant in today’s modern business environments. IBM i (AS/400) Power systems act as a central hub for various business functions, including those related to shipping and distribution. For those in the parcel shipping industry, these systems play a critical role in managing the various aspects of daily shipping operations.


E-commerce and customer expectations have surged over the last few years. This has caused the pressure for shippers to handle increased parcel throughput to grow in tandem. As businesses find themselves grappling with the challenge of managing an increased volume of packages, they must find an efficient solution to help them navigate this quickly changing environment to remain competitive. For shippers relying on IBM i (AS/400) Power systems, there are strategies and solutions that can empower your business in tackling the ever-growing demand for efficiency. Let’s start by looking at potential challenges you may face if you fail to adapt your strategy.

The Challenges of Handling Increased Parcel Throughput

While increasing your business’s parcel throughput can point to many positives, such as business growth, improved customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage, it is not always an easy undertaking. A quick spike in orders can stretch a company’s staff and resources thin without proper planning. Operational bottlenecks and a slow down or halt in tasks due to inefficient processes can result in order processing delays, late shipments, and unfulfilled customer expectations.


As mentioned previously, there has been a substantial increase in consumer demand and expectations surrounding the delivery of their products and customer service. Because of this, there is a heavy pressure on shippers to ensure they meet order fulfillment timelines and delivery promise dates. This requires businesses to adapt their shipping operations quickly to meet high order volumes and keep their customers satisfied.


As a reliable system for over 35 years, it is no wonder that the IBM i (AS/400) Power system is one of the world’s “most popular business computing systems”. However, because it has been around for so long, it is considered a legacy system by many – mainly because of other, newer solutions that have been released since. In fact, many companies with IBM i (AS/400) Power systems still have homegrown shipping solutions that may not be as adaptable or efficient, making it hard to keep up with increased throughput demands. Because of this, it is crucial for shippers to find scalable and efficient technologies that can seamlessly grow with their operations and provide the adaptability they need to keep up with such a dynamic parcel shipping landscape.

Strategies to Handle Increased Parcel Throughput Like a Pro

While the challenges of managing increased parcel throughput are evident, there are several strategies for shippers utilizing IBM i (AS/400) Power systems to empower them to tackle these obstacles effectively.

Automating Order Processing

Order processing automation is crucial for businesses experiencing an increase in demand. Implementing the automation of tasks such as order entry, address validation, and order routing can minimize the need for manual data input. Overall, this significantly reduces the possibility of human error and allows businesses to handle increased parcel throughput with ease. When integrated into IBM i (AS/400) Power systems, order processing automation substantially improves the precision and seamlessness of order fulfillment, delivering a streamlined processing of orders and efficient dispatch of shipments.

Rate Shopping

Rate shopping is an invaluable strategy for shippers utilizing IBM i (AS/400) Power systems to efficiently handle the challenges that come with increased parcel throughput. Rate shopping technology gives shippers the ability to compare and select the best carriers and rates for each shipment, allowing them the opportunity to stay cost-effective for both their business and their customers. Incorporating rate shopping into the shipping process also guarantees a reduction of overspending on shipping costs while ensuring users can make well-informed decisions in real time, guarantee timely deliveries, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Real-Time Tracking for Customers

With the high expectations consumers hold today, real-time tracking and visibility to their orders is extremely important. Shippers can utilize their technology to provide their customers with tracking information, providing them insight into every step in the shipping process of their order. Notifications of early, on-time, or shipping delays make deliveries more convenient for consumers, as well as builds trust with the business, enhancing the overall customer experience. IBM i (AS/400) Power users can achieve this through integration with shipping software, like a multi-carrier shipping software solution, ensuring real-time tracking and visibility for their customers.

Dimensional Weighing

Incorporating dimensional weighing technology can significantly boost your company’s parcel throughput. This strategy is critical for IBM i (AS/400) Power users to integrate in order to get accurate rate calculation and cost-efficient shipping. It ensures accurate pricing based on the dimension and weight of parcels, minimizing discrepancies between manifest weight and actual weight. Not only does this technology lower shipping costs and allows businesses to handle increased parcel throughput, but it also results in substantial labor savings. [Learn more about dimensional weight pricing and unexpected shipping costs.]


The list of strategies for shippers using IBM i (AS/400) Power systems to handle increased parcel throughput goes on, but wouldn’t it be nice if there was one comprehensive platform that combined all of these strategies into one helpful solution?

Introducing: Varsity Logistics’ Multi-Carrier Shipping Software Solution

Varsity Logistics has stood as a top-tier supplier of multi-carrier shipping software for companies in need of parcel shipping capabilities for over a decade. Designed exclusively for IBM i (AS/400) Power users, our comprehensive parcel shipping suite is seamlessly integrated, hosting various top tier supply chain execution modules engineered to handle even the most intricate small package shipping.


Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel seamlessly integrates with ERP, legacy, and Order Entry systems running on IBM i (iSeries, Power, AS/400) systems. It delivers a unified and automated shipping solution that ultimately eliminates manual data entry and significantly reduces shipping costs for your business. This solution incorporates several technologies to apply the strategies for businesses to handle increased parcel throughput discussed above.


Within Varsity’s ShipSoft-Parcel solution, ShipSelect automates the carrier selection process based on factors such as transit time, cost, and carrier service. It chooses the optimal carrier for every shipment, following business requirements and routing guides. ShipOptimizer technology finds the ideal containerization process and accurately predicts shipping costs before processing the order. SpeedWeigh allows shippers to automatically retrieve the package weight from the scale which is pulled into the system at the time the order number is scanned. This eliminates the need for an additional get-weight barcode scan or manual entry, ultimately saving your business processing time and money.


Varsity’s multi-carrier shipping solution is a unified platform that encompasses automation, order processing, dimensional weighing, real-time tracking, and more. This all-in-one solution optimizes operations, improves efficiency, and guarantees the effective and successful management of increased parcel throughput for those operating on IBM i (iSeries, Power, AS/400) systems. To learn more about Varsity’s Parcel shipping solution, the additional execution modules, and how our software can transform your shipping operations, contact our team of shipping experts or request a demo.