Logistics & Inventory AutomationPurpose
1.2. Minimize manual management, errors, and delay in logistics allocation and order fulfillment.
1.3. Enable instant partner selection based on cost, distance, and partner performance data.
1.4. Integrate live inventory updates to inform dispatch decisions and ensure precise delivery scheduling.
Trigger Conditions
2.2. Drop in inventory below reorder threshold.
2.3. Completion of product packing.
2.4. Receipt of payment confirmation.
2.5. Real-time logistics partner availability query.
2.6. Scheduled daily/weekly routine dispatch window.
Platform Variants
3.1. Twilio
• Feature: Messaging API
• Setting: Configure SMS/WhatsApp dispatch alerts to drivers, sample endpoint: POST /Messages with order dispatch info.
3.2. SendGrid
• Feature: Email Integration
• Setting: Automated email notifications to logistics managers using Mail Send API, set recipients and dispatch data in payload.
3.3. Zapier
• Feature: Webhooks & Integration Triggers
• Setting: Use “Webhooks by Zapier” to catch dispatch request, then push to logistics partner app.
3.4. Shippo
• Feature: Shipping API
• Setting: Real-time carrier rate fetching and booking, set order details with “Create Shipment” endpoint.
3.5. EasyPost
• Feature: Shipping API
• Setting: “Shipment Creation” for label/dispatch, trigger on ready-for-shipping event from inventory system.
3.6. FedEx Web Services
• Feature: Pickup API
• Setting: Call “Create Pickup” API upon order completion, passing sender/location/order payload fields.
3.7. UPS Developer Kit
• Feature: Shipping/Pickup APIs
• Setting: Use “Pickup” endpoint with auto-generated order data from warehouse system.
3.8. DHL XML Services
• Feature: Shipment Creation API
• Setting: “CreateShipmentRequest” API with consignment, delivery, and timing information in payload.
3.9. Google Sheets API
• Feature: Order Data Logging
• Setting: Append inventory and dispatch event to master spreadsheet, triggering automation when new row is added.
3.10. Salesforce
• Feature: Workflow/Process Builder
• Setting: Trigger outbound dispatch request using custom object fields (e.g., logistics status update flow).
3.11. Microsoft Power Automate
• Feature: Automated Flows
• Setting: Build flow triggered by order/inventory update, connect with HTTP/REST step to call partner API.
3.12. Shopify
• Feature: Order Fulfillment Webhooks
• Setting: Listen for order paid webhook, push shipment to third-party logistics through app extension.
3.13. WooCommerce
• Feature: REST API Webhooks
• Setting: Trigger REST call (e.g., update shipment status) on new order or product stock changes.
3.14. Slack
• Feature: Incoming Webhooks
• Setting: Automated notification to logistics channels when dispatch event occurs.
3.15. Trello
• Feature: Card Creation API
• Setting: Dispatch requests generate cards in “Shipping” board, configure with shipment data fields.
3.16. Monday.com
• Feature: Board Automation
• Setting: Auto-create shipment tasks using “Create Item” API on dispatch trigger event.
3.17. Oracle NetSuite
• Feature: SuiteScript Automation
• Setting: Use script to automate outbound shipment orders, connecting internal and external partners.
3.18. SAP S/4HANA
• Feature: Logistics Execution API
• Setting: Automate shipment creation transaction based on incoming outbound delivery event.
3.19. Amazon SNS
• Feature: Notification Service
• Setting: Publish dispatch events to subscribed logistics endpoints, triggering partner integrations.
3.20. RESTful/Webhooks (Generic)
• Feature: Universal Trigger
• Setting: POST prepared dispatch JSON to custom partner endpoints on event trigger from ERP.
Benefits
4.2. Fewer manual errors and omissions in logistics processes.
4.3. Enhanced visibility of shipments and inventory flow.
4.4. Real-time optimization of partner selection and allocation.
4.5. Automated record-keeping and compliance alignment across all movements.