Design And Implementation Of A Computerized Cargo Transportation Management System
(A Case Study Of Super Maritime Shipping Agency, Lagos)
A Computerized Cargo Transportation Management System refers to a sophisticated and technologically-driven solution designed to streamline and optimize the intricate processes involved in the transportation of goods. This innovative system leverages cutting-edge technology to efficiently manage various facets of cargo logistics, encompassing route planning, vehicle scheduling, inventory tracking, and real-time monitoring. By integrating advanced algorithms and data analytics, the system enhances decision-making, ensuring timely deliveries, cost-effectiveness, and resource optimization. It plays a pivotal role in enhancing supply chain efficiency, mitigating risks, and maximizing the utilization of transportation resources. The integration of this comprehensive system is instrumental in addressing the challenges associated with modern cargo logistics, fostering a seamless and adaptive approach to meet the dynamic demands of the transportation industry.
This project was out of the necessity to address the inherent problems encountered by members of staff of super maritime shipping Agency and their customers.
The manual process involved in the management of cargo were critical examined and the flows noted. The software so designed offers to a great extent, the solutions to these problems. The project went further to ret the different techniques used in implementing the newly design software in order to facilitate a broader understanding of the design software by any user.
Title page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Organization of the work
Table of contents
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Statement of the problem
1.2 Purpose of study
1.3 Aims and objective
1.4 Scope of delimitation
1.5 Limitations
1.6 Assumptions
1.7 Definition of terms
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
CHAPTER THREE
DESCRIPTION AND ANALYSIS OF THE EXISTING SYSTEM
3.1 Fact finding methods used
3.2 Organization structure
3.3 Objective of the existing system
3.4 Input, process, output analysis
3.5 Information flow diagram
3.6 Problem of the existing system
3.7 Justification for the new system
CHAPTER FOUR
DESIGN OF THE NEW SYSTEM
4.1 Output specification and Design
4.2 Input specification and Design
4.3 File design
4.4 Procedure chart
4.5 System flow chart
4.6 System requirement
CHAPTER FIVE
IMPLEMENTATION
5.1 Program design
5.2 Program flowchart
5.3 Pseudo code
5.4 Source program
5.5 Test program
CHAPTER SIX
DOCUMENTATION
CHAPTER SEVEN
RECOMMENDATION
CONCLUSIONS
REFERENCES
INTRODUCTION
1.1 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
The management of Cargo in Nigeria has over the years attracted poor patronage as a result of errors inherent in the system. it is no longer a mewling that loss of customers goods is now the order of the day, the reasons are not far –fetched. Due to this manual procedures involved in Cargo management, clients have no other option than to be at the mercy of this error prone procedures.
Members of staff of supper maritime one to the registered shipping agencies and a subsidiary of Nigerian ports plc cannot provide their goods that is the nature of the method used in calculating the tonnage to know the amount of money to pay as cargo fees.
The method of information storage in the company is poor. This limits the number of official documents accessible by the customers because the system is not capable of managing old items of information which could be of use to be customer of anytime.
There is little or no security control system where the customers’ goods, document and classified information of the customer could be safe quarded from unauthorized access.
1.2 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
The loopholes existing in the management of cargo under the suspicious of Nigerian ports plc and super maritime and the subsequent solutions to these existing problems were the driving force in undertaken this project or study.
1.3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
The aims and objectives of this study is to design and implement a computerized cargo transportation management system that will among other thing, make provision for a detailed breakdown of the customers weight of the goods / Cargo, quick retrieval and display of information pertaining to the client.
Provisions is also made to check fraud and other criminal acts carried out by both parties involved in the transaction and this lead to security and control. Also another aim of this study is to provide a system that will manage the customer’s document from the port of loading to the port of discharge with his on ground there will be no conflict between the port of loading and port of discharge.
1.4 SCOPE OF DELIMITATIONS
This study is restricted to the full operations of Nigerian ports plc and super maritime shipping company.
1.5 ASSUMPTIONS
It if assumed that the new system will do the following.
a. the new system will create room for the client to know all th necessary facts about the vessel, mat is, the name of the vessel, the Nationality of the vessel and the voyage number with in the he shortest possible time so that transactions will be an easy task for the two parties involved.
b. The know the actual port of discharge and port of loading so that the two ports will create no conflict or confusion for the client as regard the documents to be signed and counter signed by the client. For example, the bill of loading.
c. The new system will create an avenue where by the measurement and Gross weight of the cargo will be known and the commensurate fees to be paid.
d. The new system will also make all the on-line operations carried out in cargo management in supper maritime and Nigerian ports plc an easy task for official and staff of both establishment.
1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS
Cargo : Goods carried in a ship
Shipping :The acts of transportation goods by ship
Tonnage : A measure of the capacity of a ship (1 ton = 100 cubic feet.
Port : A place where ships load and unload cargo shelter from storms
Vessel : This is a ship for transport by water.
Bill of loading :This is a list giving details of a ships cargo
Consignee : This is a person or company to who in goods are send from the country of export and who receives them.
Manifest : A list of cargo on a ship
Wharf : A list of cargo on a ship
Berth : A place for a ship to be tied up in a harbor or anchored.
Port of loading : A place where ships load cargo and leaves for the destination point
Port of discharge ; a place where ships unload cargo flow port especially a port or loading.
Harbor : an area of water protected from the open sea by land or walls, in which ships can shelter.
Agency : this is an organization authored to act for another.
Freight : term applied to goods being transported, it is also the term for the charge made for transporting the goods.
Buddy : A floating object fixed to the bottom of the sea, a rival etc to make a place that is dangerous for boats or to show where boats may go.
Computerized Cargo Transportation Management System:
A Computerized Cargo Transportation Management System (CTMS) is a software solution designed to streamline and optimize the management of cargo transportation operations within the logistics and supply chain industry. It plays a crucial role in improving efficiency, reducing costs, enhancing visibility, and ensuring the smooth movement of goods from one location to another. Here are some key components and functionalities typically associated with a CTMS:
- Order Management: CTMS software helps in creating, tracking, and managing cargo transportation orders. It allows users to input details such as shipment size, weight, destination, and delivery deadlines.
- Route Optimization: The system can calculate the most efficient and cost-effective transportation routes for cargo, taking into account factors like traffic, fuel costs, and vehicle capacity.
- Carrier Management: CTMS software helps in selecting and managing carriers or logistics providers. It can provide information about carrier performance, rates, and availability.
- Load Planning: It assists in optimizing the loading of cargo onto vehicles, considering weight distribution, space utilization, and other factors.
- Real-time Tracking: Real-time tracking of cargo and vehicles using GPS technology ensures visibility throughout the transportation process. Customers and stakeholders can monitor the progress of their shipments.
- Inventory Management: CTMS may include features for inventory management, allowing users to track the status of goods in transit, in warehouses, or at various distribution points.
- Billing and Invoicing: The system can generate invoices and handle billing for transportation services, automating the financial aspects of cargo transportation.
- Reporting and Analytics: CTMS provides various reports and analytics tools to help businesses analyze transportation data, identify trends, and make informed decisions for process improvement.
- Compliance and Documentation: It can assist with compliance requirements, such as generating shipping documents, managing permits, and ensuring adherence to safety regulations.
- Integration: CTMS can integrate with other software systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, to ensure seamless data flow and coordination with other business processes.
- User Access and Security: Role-based access control and data security measures ensure that only authorized personnel can access and modify sensitive transportation data.
- Customer Portals: Some CTMS solutions offer customer portals, allowing clients to submit orders, track shipments, and access relevant information independently.
- Mobile Access: Many modern CTMS platforms provide mobile applications or interfaces for drivers and field personnel to stay connected and update information on the go.
Benefits of a Computerized Cargo Transportation Management System:
- Efficiency: It streamlines processes, reducing manual tasks and paperwork, which can lead to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.
- Visibility: Real-time tracking and reporting enhance visibility into the supply chain, helping businesses make proactive decisions.
- Cost Reduction: Optimized routes, load planning, and carrier selection can result in lower transportation costs.
- Customer Satisfaction: Improved tracking and communication with customers lead to higher customer satisfaction levels.
- Compliance: Ensures that transportation operations adhere to regulatory and safety requirements.
- Data-driven Decision Making: Provides valuable data and insights for better decision-making and strategic planning.
Implementing a CTMS requires careful planning and consideration of the specific needs of your cargo transportation operation. The choice of software should align with your business goals and logistics processes. Additionally, ongoing training and support are essential for successful adoption and utilization of the system.