/ 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 / Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology • Varsity Logistics/ / 0 Comments

Optimizing Parcel Packing: How ShipOptimizer Transforms Containerization

Unlock cost-efficient and streamlined warehouse operations with automated containerization software

Anyone in the e-commerce and logistics space is familiar with the vast array of, what seems like, never-ending challenges. Especially when it comes to packaging, where complexities are ever-present. As each order is unique with a different number of items, shapes, and sizes, finding a way to efficiently pack goods into shipping containers can quickly become a nightmare for businesses. The pressure to find cost-effective and space-efficient packing solutions is no easy feat.


Traditional packing and shipping procedures often fall short, leading to increased shipping costs, inefficient use of space, and even unsatisfied customers who may receive damaged goods or excessive packaging. What shippers need is an innovative solution to tackle the pain points of efficient packaging. What shippers need is containerization.

What is Containerization?

At its core, containerization is a process that optimizes the way goods are packaged, reducing any wasted or extra space in the container, or package. This eliminates the inefficiency of shipping empty space, often referred to as “paying for air.” In a world where every penny counts, utilizing containerization software for efficient packaging can produce significant savings on a company’s bottom line while also ensuring the secure transportation of consumer goods.


Dimensional (DIM) weight is a calculation used by shipping carriers to assess the combined weight and volume of a package. Consequently, even lightweight, bulky items can incur higher shipping costs due to the space they take up in a delivery vehicle. DIM weight calculations frequently pose challenges for businesses, introducing unexpected high shipping costs and logistical complexities.


The process of containerization accounts for several factors such as dimensions, weight, and compatibility with other items like fragile goods. By coordinating and analyzing each of these factors, businesses can determine the most efficient way to package items into their parcels, eliminating excess packaging, reducing the risk of damaged items, and ultimately lowering shipping expenses. For any business who experiences the pain points associated with parcel packaging, considering the implementation of an automated containerization software, like ShipOptimizer, could be a game changer in shipping speed and efficiency. [Learn more on how to tackle unexpected shipping costs due to box size variance.]

Introducing a Revolutionary Solution: ShipOptimizer

A module in the Varsity Logistics ShipSoft-Parcel Suite, a multi-carrier shipping software for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users, ShipOptimizer is a revolutionary solution to the all-too-familiar challenges of parcel shipping packaging. Developed to address the complexities of modern e-commerce and logistics, ShipOptimizer enables businesses to overcome the obstacles of efficiently and cost-effectively packing consumer goods.

How ShipOptimizer Works

At the time of order entry, ShipOptimizer accurately predicts shipping expenses, providing businesses upstream visibility before actually shipping the product, streamlining the fulfillment process and optimizing container packing procedures. This transformative solution empowers businesses to quote freight costs in real-time, streamline warehouse operations, and improve the ordering experience for your customers, making it a must-have tool for companies looking to stay competitive in modern logistics.

Key Features

The ShipOptimizer module delivers several key benefits including:


Address Changes in Order Profiles: ShipOptimizer is equipped to handle changes in order profiles, accommodating both full-case and split-case picking processes. This adaptability ensures that businesses can efficiently manage these orders without compromising packing efficiency.


Efficient Carton and Pallet Building: With ShipOptimizer, businesses can develop an efficient plan for building cartons, pallets, and trailers, ensuring companies can streamline their distribution processes and eliminate wasted space.


Automated Carton Selection: The ShipOptimizer solution automates the selection of cartons based on item dimensions, weight, and compatibility, ensuring that each shipment is packed in the most efficient way possible. This automated process saves both time and resources while also reducing the risk of manual error and extra costs.


Meeting Complex Processing Requirements: ShipOptimizer enables businesses to meet complex processing requirements, such as those related to order customization and special handling instructions. By efficiently managing these requirements, ShipOptimizer helps companies save time, packing materials, and container space, ultimately reducing operation and transportation costs.

Optimize Your Container Packing Process with ShipOptimizer and Varsity Logistics

A top tier multi-carrier shipping software solution for shippers on the IBM i (AS/400) Power systems platform, Varsity Logistics offers an impressive suite of advanced supply chain execution modules, designed to tackle even the most difficult parcel shipping challenges including:

The ShipOptimizer module is a unique and revolutionary solution to help businesses offset growing transportation costs and improve overall shipping efficiency. By automating the containerization process based on various package factors, Varsity ShipOptimizer plays a critical role in lowering shipping costs and streamlining warehouse operations.


Ready to take your warehouse packaging strategy to the next level? To learn more about ShipOptimizer or Varsity Logistics shipping software solutions, contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a demo. Take the first step towards long-term success with the only holistic shipping solution built for the IBM i.

/ 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 / Event • Supply Chain/Logistics • Technology/ / 0 Comments

Explore Shipping Software for IBM i at MODEX 2024 with Varsity Logistics

Explore Varsity’s industry-leading shipping software for IBM i at MODEX 2024

The rapid growth of modern commerce demands innovation and agility, especially for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems users navigating the complexities of today’s supply chain. But what if there was an opportunity to connect with peers, explore emerging technologies, and gain valuable insights to overcome common IBM i shipping challenges and propel your operations forward? Look no further than MODEX 2024, the full spectrum supply chain solution trade show.

Visit Varsity Logistics at MODEX 2024

This year, Varsity Logistics, your trusted partner for multi-carrier shipping software built exclusively for IBM i Power Systems users, will be exhibiting alongside ProShip, Inc. at booth C7298. The show takes place from March 11th-14th in Atlanta, Georgia, bringing together supply chain professionals from all parts of the industry. It’s the perfect opportunity for businesses and suppliers to showcase their end-to-end supply chain solutions and technologies driving the future of supply chain operations.


Our team of IBM i shipping experts understands the unique challenges you face:

  • Modernization hurdles: Juggling outdated interfaces and limited functionalities can hinder your agility.
  • Integration headaches: Connecting your IBM i system with other applications can be complex and time-consuming.
  • Manual processes and errors: Relying on manual processes can lead to errors and decrease productivity.

Varsity’s comprehensive IBM i solution empowers you to overcome these challenges with a web-based interface to streamline shipping management for everyone on your team, regardless of technical expertise. In addition, Varsity’s seamless integration with your IBM i environment eliminates integration headaches and ensures smooth data flow. Finally, with automated tasks and error reduction, shippers can automate key tasks, minimize errors, and boost productivity.


Our team of IBM i shipping experts are thrilled for the opportunity to connect with supply chain professionals, explore top-tier solutions, and to share our industry-leading multi-carrier shipping software suite built exclusively for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems users. Schedule a meeting with one of our shipping experts at the show to learn how Varsity can streamline your shipping operations and unlock the full potential of your IBM i infrastructure.

Explore the Techs We Work With

With over 1,175 of the leading solutions in both manufacturing and supply chain on display at the show, and over 200 expert-led seminar sessions, there’s sure to be something of interest to everyone attending MODEX 2024. Several technology companies seamlessly integrated with Varsity’s IBM i solution will also be exhibiting. Make sure to visit these key partners:

Infor – Booth #A12214

Infor®, with over 30 years of experience, is a global leader in industry-specific cloud software solutions that empower businesses around the world. With over 60,000 organizations relying on us for digital transformation, we provide end-to-end solutions to help you build a better business. Infor, positioned as a leader for a 5th consecutive time in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Warehouse Management Systems, and its WMS caters to the evolving needs of modern businesses, emphasizing agility, usability, and exceptional outcomes.

Manhattan Associates – Booth #C7270

Manhattan Associates is a global technology leader in supply chain and omnichannel commerce. We unite information across the enterprise, converging front-end sales with back-end supply chain execution. Our software, platform technology and unmatched experience help drive both top-line growth and bottom-line profitability for our customers. Manhattan Associates designs, builds and delivers leading edge cloud solutions so that across the store, through your network or from your fulfillment center, you are ready to reap the rewards of the omnichannel marketplace.


Manhattan Seminar Sessions:

Schedule a Meeting with Varsity at MODEX

Transform Your Shipping Operations with Varsity Logistics

Looking for an all-in-one shipping solution built specifically for IBM i users to automate your operations, streamline your shipping processes, and overcome common pain points? Explore all the ways you can connect with our shipping experts on-site at MODEX 2024, or visit us at booth C7298 alongside ProShip!


Are you unable to attend the show? Discover more about Varsity’s #1 shipping software solution for IBM i (AS/400) Power Systems users in our resource center or reach out to us to explore how we can help you find the best shipping solution for your unique needs.

/ 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!

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FOG Software Group Acquires Suite of Transportation Rating Solutions from Logility, Inc.

Adds less-than-truckload (LTL), truckload, and rail shipping capabilities to Varsity Logistics software

FOG Software Group (“FOG”), a division of Vela Software announced today that it has acquired a suite of Transportation Rating Solutions (‘TRS’), which are on-premise freight shipping solutions for less-than-truckload (LTL), truckload, and rail shipments within North America, from Atlanta, Georgia-based Logility, Inc.


Following the acquisition, TRS will continue operations under Varsity Logistics, Inc., a business within FOG’s Supply Chain and Logistics portfolio that has been a trusted reseller of TRS products for nearly three decades. Varsity Logistics will continue to provide support and services to existing TRS customers while integrating the acquired capabilities natively into Varsity Logistics software.

“We are excited to announce the integration of TRS’s capabilities into our platform. We will continue to support TRS’s current customers while offering Varsity ShipSoft customers a more robust and comprehensive solution for freight shipping.”

–Yulia Popokh, President at Varsity Logistics

“The addition of Logility’s suite of Transportation Rating Solutions to FOG Software Group is a strategic move that will empower customers within our portfolio with even greater flexibility and choice,” said Andy Hodge, FOG Software Group Portfolio Manager for Supply Chain and Logistics. “This acquisition underscores our commitment to continually deliver innovative logistics and shipping solutions to meet the evolving needs of the industry.”

About FOG Software Group

Rosemont, IL-based FOG Software Group is a division of Toronto-based Vela Software that acquires, manages, and builds software companies in a variety of vertical markets. Acquired companies are held forever and strengthen their industry leadership positions via organic initiatives, enhanced operations, and additional acquisitions.

About Varsity Logistics

Varsity Logistics, Inc. is the leading provider of multi-carrier parcel and freight shipping software for the IBM i platform. Varsity’s ShipSoft suite of software modules enable companies to have a single shipping system to automate shipments for any parcel or LTL carrier. This automation can be applied across multiple distribution centers, while achieving total enterprise process and data integration for order management, customer service, financial management, and control over transportation costs.

About Logility

Logility’s Digital Supply Chain Platform delivers demand, inventory, manufacturing, and supply plans – helping to provide executives the confidence and control to increase margins and service levels, while delivering sustainable supply chains. Logility is a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Software, Inc.

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[How It Works] Varsity Logistics Shipping Software and Your Tech Stack

Discover how Varsity software’s integration works and discover its comprehensive set of features

Shippers operating on IBM i (AS/400) Power platforms often grapple with the complexities of managing complex logistics processes, and handling multiple systems involved in your shipping operations can present intricate challenges. Varsity Logistics recognizes the hurdles LTL and parcel shippers face, which is why we encourage shippers to utilize a meticulously crafted, all-encompassing solution like Varsity Logistics multi-carrier shipping software.


Varsity’s ShipSoft suite of shipping software solutions provides a transformative and streamlined experience utilizing just one centralized platform. Our multi-carrier shipping software seamlessly integrates with IBM i (AS/400) Power systems technology, bringing unparalleled efficiency to your shipping processes. Shippers, say goodbye to the complexities of juggling multiple disjointed systems, as our software empowers you to optimize your logistics journey from start to finish.

Varsity Logistics How It Works Brochure

Our How It Works Brochure presents a comprehensive look into the innovative approach allowing you to wield the power of a single system, offering seamless shipping capabilities to optimize, rate, ship and validate with any parcel or LTL carrier. Inside you will discover…

  • Information on the Varsity ShipSoft™ API
  • A list of platforms compatible with our software integration
  • Varsity’s unique features that set us apart from competitors
  • A detailed technical diagram showcasing the software workflow with the IBM i native interface

View the Brochure

Varsity Logistics Empowers Shipping Success

Want to learn more about how our industry leading shipping solution for IBM i (AS/400) Power systems users can transform your parcel and freight shipping operations? Contact our team of shipping experts or schedule a demo today.

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[Webinar Recap] How to Tackle Unexpected Shipping Costs Due to Box Size Variance

Check out the on-demand webinar with Varsity customers Waytek and Concordance Healthcare Solutions

Varsity Logistics was thrilled to be invited to participate in this year’s ProS Who Know 2023 Virtual Webinar Event, hosted by ProShip Inc. This is the fourth year for this annual virtual event, which brings together a diverse panel of supply chain professionals, industry leaders, and top-notch shipping and logistics experts. Throughout 5 live webinar sessions over two days, attendees enjoyed an engaging lineup of discussions diving into pressing industry topics, strategies for success, tools for streamlining operations and more.


Varsity Logistics shared the spotlight with expert speakers from Varsity customers, Waytek and Concordance Healthcare Solutions, and a guest from Cubiscan in their session: “[Waytek Wire, Cubiscan & Concordance] How to Tackle Unexpected Shipping Costs Due to Box Size Variance”. The speakers offered a high-level look at what’s effecting shipping costs in the current shipping environment and then took a deeper dive into strategies and tools to mitigate some of these financial discrepancies. Waytek and Concordance speakers were able to provide firsthand experience with some of these issues, while Cubiscan offered depth and knowledge into one of the tools that helps to address these cost issues – automated dimensioning technology.

[Watch the full version of the Waytek, Cubiscan & Concordance session on-demand!]

Session Overview

A common issue many shippers face today is receiving overcharges and unexpected costs. First, shippers must dive in to find the source for these frustrating parcel shipping chargebacks. Often, however, it is a result of discrepancies between the box size declared by the shipper and the actual size determined by parcel carriers. With the dim factor always changing, these issues can affect both low and high-volume shippers. But there are advanced supply chain technologies out there that can help businesses overcome challenges like these.


This webinar brought together 5 experts to discuss these supply chain obstacles further in-depth as well as provide insight into tools and technology that have proven beneficial in mitigating overcharges and streamlining overall shipping operations.


In the on-demand session recording, you will discover…

  • The intricacies of dimensional weight pricing and its role in common shipping cost discrepancies
  • Customer testimonials on shared challenges and solutions
  • Strategies and tools, like automated dimension capture technology and multi-carrier shipping software for IBM-based (Power I, AS400) systems, to cut overcharges and improve shipping operations

“When we first started this, when we would ship our small parcels like UPS and FedEx, our average cycle time was over three minutes. By changing to add automation, now we’re under a minute on an average package and what that does is help all of our customers, whether external or internal, show that we’re controlling our costs. We’re presenting accurate information and I think that’s a key that for every customer, if we’re shipping on some other customer’s account number, we want to make sure they’re getting billed correctly and not getting audited by manual. Humans don’t try to make mistakes, but whenever there’s a human process in there, there’s going to be mistakes.”

– Tim Mark, Warehouse Operations Manager at Waytek

Is inaccurate-dimensional information causing delays in getting shipments to your customers? Listen in to learn more!

Meet the Expert Speakers

Tim Mark, Warehouse Operations Manager | Waytek

Travis Peltier, Director of Sales and Marketing | Cubiscan

John Bouillon, Director, Freight Management | Concordance Healthcare Solutions

Charlie Hawkins, Director of Sales | Varsity Logistics

Tom Reber, Director of Business Development | Varsity Logistics

Why Varsity Multi-Carrier Shipping Software

Varsity Logistics’ multi-carrier shipping software serves as the cornerstone for tackling the challenges shippers face such as excess costs from box size variation. Want to learn more about how Varsity’s multi-carrier shipping software solution for IBM-based (Power i, AS400) system users can help remove some of these manual processes and avoid chargebacks to enhance and streamline your shipping operations? Contact our team of experts today or schedule a demo to transform the way you ship!

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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.