Herschel Parts Cuts Shipping Costs 5-10% with Automated Multicarrier Solution

Herschel Parts, a global agricultural parts manufacturer and distributor, has successfully implemented Descartes Pacejet, an ERP-integrated multicarrier shipping platform, to consolidate previously siloed parcel and LTL shipping workflows. The deployment has yielded significant operational efficiencies: the company now processes 98% of shipments through a single workflow, eliminated approximately 10 hours of weekly manual data entry, and identified carrier options that are 5% to 10% less expensive on a per-shipment basis. The implementation addresses a common pain point in complex logistics operations: managing multiple carriers and modes through separate systems creates data redundancy, delays visibility, and obscures cost optimization opportunities.

By integrating shipping workflows with their ERP system and centralizing rate comparison capabilities, Herschel's team can now make informed transportation decisions based on current rates and actual shipment characteristics, including dimensions and accessorial charges relevant to nonstandard items like seven- and nine-foot agricultural sickles. For supply chain professionals, this case study demonstrates how technology-enabled consolidation can drive both cost and efficiency gains simultaneously. The immediate availability of tracking information and the elimination of manual re-entry processes have improved customer service responsiveness while freeing staff to focus on higher-value activities.

The results suggest that organizations managing mixed transportation modes, particularly those with irregular shipment profiles, may realize substantial returns from similar automation investments.