How to implement digital dispatching: a step-by-step guide

Product update
28.03.2025

Digital dispatching simplifies yard management by automating operations with tools like Yard Management Software (YMS), real-time tracking (RFID/GPS), mobile apps, and automated communication. It saves costs, reduces errors, speeds up processes, and improves visibility. To implement it:

  1. Plan and prepare: Analyse current workflows, set goals, and create a rollout timeline.
  2. Choose the right software: Look for features like integration (WMS, TMS, ERP), real-time tracking, automation, and reporting. Evaluate costs, scalability, and vendor support.
  3. Technical setup: Configure the system, migrate data, and test features like gate check-ins and tracking.
  4. Train your staff: Tailor training for dispatchers, gate staff, drivers, and managers.
  5. Launch in phases: Start small, expand gradually, and monitor performance.

For example, Peripass offers QuickStart, with quick deployment (within 30 days) and features like driver self-registration and digital dispatching. These help reduce yard dwell times by 30% and boost throughput by 25%. Digital dispatching ensures smoother, faster, and more accurate yard operations.

Analysing your current situation

Start with detailed preparation. Be careful not to involve too many people, but consider polling key users’ thoughts to get input in a less time-consuming way. Knowing their pain points, challenges, and ideas for improvement is helpful. Plus, when they recognise your efforts to improve their work load, they will be more likely to see the benefits.

Planning componentKey activitiesExpected outcomes
Process analysisMap workflows, spot bottlenecksA clear view of operational gaps
Goal settingDefine KPIs, set baseline metricsMeasurable improvement targets
Resource allocationAssign roles, assess hardware needsDefined responsibilities and resources
Timeline creationPlan phases, set milestonesOrganized rollout schedule

Selecting yard management software

Picking the right yard management software is key to effective digital dispatching. The solution should fit your current needs while being able to grow with your business. Start by identifying the features and providers that align with your dispatching goals.

Must-have features

When evaluating yard management systems, focus on features that directly improve operational performance. A modern YMS should include:

Feature categoryKey componentsBusiness benefits
Integration capabilitiesWMS, TMS, ERP connectivitySmooth data sharing, less manual work
Real-time trackingRFID/GPS support, live dashboardsBetter visibility, quicker decisions
Automation toolsGate and trailer managementShorter wait times, higher efficiency
Communication systemsMobile apps, automated communicationImproved coordination, fewer delays
Documentation managementDigital and automated processingLess paperwork, faster operations

Opt for systems that provide detailed reporting and customizable workflows. For instance, Peripass offers modules like a digital twin and dispatch dashboard for real-time yard insights and multilingual driver self-registration.

Software provider selection

Choosing the right software provider involves analysing several critical factors:

  1. Support and implementation

A vendor’s level of support can make or break your system’s deployment. Look for providers offering thorough training and ongoing technical assistance. Make sure the implementation timeline fits your schedule. For example, Peripass assigns a dedicated Customer Support Manager to any client and creates an implementation schedule that includes training of your staff.

  1. Cost evaluation

Understand the full cost of ownership, including:

  • Setup and implementation fees
  • Subscription costs (monthly or annual)
  • Training expenses
  • Integration charges
  • Any required hardware investments

A quote or Statement of Work should always be transparent to avoid later unpleasant discoveries.

  1. Scalability assessment

Your YMS should grow with your business. Look for providers that:

  • Regularly update their software with new features
  • Offer flexible pricing options
  • Support additional integrations
  • Provide scalable infrastructure

Check for customer testimonials and industry references to confirm the provider’s expertise and track record.

Implementation steps

Switching from manual to digital dispatching involves three main phases.

1. Pre-implementation planning

Start with detailed preparation to improve the implementation and reduce friction from the start. Ideally, your YMS provider will help create a comprehensive overview of your site and pain points.

Assemble a team that includes IT staff, operations managers, and end-users. These key users of your new YMS should understand the tool and its value well to communicate this to their teams. Their trust and enthusiasm about your new YMS will make adoption easier. Once the team is ready, move on to system setup and integration.

2. Technical setup

Work with your IT team and YMS vendor to configure the system.

Start with these key steps:

  • System architecture: Set up servers and network infrastructure.
  • Data migration: Transfer existing yard data into the new system.
  • Integration setup: Connect the system with WMS, TMS, and ERP platforms.

Before going live, test the system thoroughly. Simulate real-world scenarios to validate:

  • Gate check-in and check-out processes
  • Dock scheduling features
  • Real-time tracking
  • Communication tools
  • Reporting functionality

3. Training and launch

After planning and setup, focus on getting users comfortable with the system. Develop a training program tailored to different roles:

User groupTraining focusDuration
DispatchersSystem functions, workflows2-3 days
Gate StaffCheck-in procedures, documentation1-2 days
Yard DriversMobile app usage, task management1 day
ManagementReporting, analytics, oversight1-2 days

Roll out the system in phases to reduce disruptions:

  1. Pilot phase: Start with one aspect, usually digital self-registration at the gate.
  2. Gradual expansion: Add more modules or features incrementally.
  3. Full implementation: Complete the rollout.

Keep an eye on user feedback and fine-tune training or processes as needed.

Common problems and solutions when changing systems

Staff acceptance strategies

Getting your team on board with digital dispatching is essential. Involve key staff members in the software selection process to give them a sense of ownership and address any concerns upfront.

Resistance pointSolution strategyExpected outcome
Fear of job displacementShow how the system enhances their rolesBoosted confidence and engagement
Technology anxietyProvide hands-on training sessionsImproved comfort with the tools
Process change concernsShare documented workflow improvementsBetter understanding of benefits

Make it clear that the system is here to support their roles, not replace them. These strategies lay the groundwork for long-term success with the system.

Peripass Software Overview

Peripass delivers a configurable digital dispatching platform to optimize yard operations and logistics workflows.

Peripass core functions

Peripass focuses on three key areas to streamline yard management, offering a range of features that improve efficiency:

FunctionFeaturesImpact on operations
Automated dispatchingReal-time truck assignments, workflow automation, digital twin dashboardIncreases dispatch speed and reduces manual tasks
Driver self-registrationMultilingual interface, mobile portal, safety certificationSpeeds up and simplifies driver check-ins
Yard monitoringLive dashboards, queue management, automated weighingEnhances throughput by up to 25%

These features integrate smoothly with existing WMS, TMS, and ERP systems, ensuring uninterrupted data exchange and operational consistency.

Customer results

Peripass delivers measurable improvements for logistics operations. With its QuickStart package (€1,299/month, billed annually), businesses can implement digital dispatching within 30 days and manage up to 75 trucks daily.

For larger-scale needs, the Basic, Plus, and Pro plans (starting at €1,799/month) provide additional tools, such as:

  • Customizable logistics workflows
  • Advanced document management
  • Automated weighbridge integration
  • Enhanced security with blacklist options

Key benefits reported by businesses include:

  • A 30% cut in yard dwell times
  • A 25% boost in throughput
  • Reduced documentation errors
  • Better visibility across yard operations
  • An 85% reduction in external fees, like idle fees

The platform’s multilingual support and easy-to-use interface are invaluable for facilities handling international shipments. The mobile driver portal enables remote check-ins, easing congestion at entry points and improving traffic flow.

The Peripass packages are scalable and build upon each other, allowing businesses to start with core features and expand as needed. This makes them an excellent fit for mid-sized facilities and larger logistics hubs.

Summary

Digital dispatching requires thoughtful planning and execution to achieve the best results.

Implementation checklist

PhaseKey actionsSuccess metrics
Pre-implementationReview current yard operations Identify specific needs. Choose a suitable YMS solution.Completed requirements document and system selection
Technical setupConfigure essential features Link with existing systems Test workflowsSeamless integration with current systems
Training and launchConduct thorough staff training Observe initial usage Collect feedbackImproved staff skills and smooth system adoption
OptimizationMonitor performance metrics Activate automation tools Expand operationsNoticeable gains in operational performance

These steps help implement the system effectively and adapt to meet evolving operational demands.

To succeed, organizations should prioritize smooth integration, scalability, user engagement, and ongoing performance tracking. A well-implemented system should cover:

  • Easy integration with existing tools
  • Scalable features to support growth
  • Thorough user training for better adoption
  • Consistent performance monitoring to maintain efficiency

Modern tools like Peripass can be up and running for smaller setups within 30 days. Routine updates and maintenance keep the system aligned with your business needs.

Let's find out how Peripass can support your yard

Find out why companies like Bridgestone, Alpro, and Saint-Gobain use Peripass to manage their yards. Please fill out the form to see how our software works.

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At the gate
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On the yard
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In the control tower
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