Global shipping can be a daunting, chaotic process—especially for companies managing dozens of shipments from Asia to destinations around the world. Before COVID, one company found itself overwhelmed with contracts, juggling multiple forwarders and direct ocean carriers. Each shipment posed a unique challenge, and consistency was nearly impossible.

To gain control, the company launched an Origin Management initiative and committed to implementing a comprehensive International Transportation Management System (ITMS). The goal: to bring the same structure and efficiency to global shipping that they had achieved domestically with their U.S. Transportation Management System (TMS). They wanted consistent processes, streamlined communication, and a clear view into every shipment—whether by air or ocean.

The search was intensive. The company started with 30 potential vendors, narrowed the field through a global RFP process, and spent eight months evaluating the top contenders. The chosen partner offered cutting-edge algorithms, powerful analytics, and a responsive global team—an ideal fit for a complex global rollout.

Overcoming Startup Challenges

The implementation wasn’t easy. Suppliers resisted change, integration was technical and time zone coordination was tough. But with strong project management and a committed ITMS partner, the company worked through the hurdles.

Rollout was staged by region. The first pilot region represented about 15% of volume, and the team trained remotely before flipping the switch. Once live, there was no turning back. Despite initial challenges, sailings weren’t missed, and within a few weeks that region was operating smoothly.

The next three regions followed in sequence, each supported by structured training and real-time assistance. After one year, all global shippers were using the ITMS to manage LCL and FCL ocean freight.

A Platform for Growth

With the ITMS now embedded in operations, the company is equipped to manage complexity, adapt to change, and grow. Logistics has become a competitive advantage, not a bottleneck. The visibility, control, and predictability once limited to domestic freight are now applied globally.

Ready to bring consistency to your international shipping? WOWL offers expert guidance and flexible tools to help you streamline global logistics with confidence. Let’s talk about how we can support your ITMS journey.