trotec: Laser-precise results

Trotec, a leading global manufacturer of laser systems based in Wels, is committed to efficient transportation processes. In collaboration with INFORMATICS, the company implemented the SAP Transportation Management module, thereby taking the entire process to a new level.

With the introduction of SAP Transportation Management (TM)—included in the base module of the SAP license as a pure Fiori functionality—the company successfully digitized and automated its processes, from transportation planning to freight cost control. “Until now, the process was characterized by paper-based and ad-hoc workflows. Collaboration between departments such as transportation planning, warehousing, and customer service lacked transparency, and there was no central platform for transportation data and status tracking,” explains SAP Logistics Senior Consultant Walter Jamnig.

The transition to digitalized transportation planning was implemented in two phases. Phase one focused on the core functions of SAP TM.

“Shipping data from customer orders is automatically imported and managed centrally. The shipping coordinator can easily compile freight orders—whether for road, air, or ocean freight.” All departments access a central platform. This means the current status of shipments and warehouse movements can be viewed at any time. “Communication with carriers has also been automated: as soon as an order reaches a certain status, notifications are sent directly through the system.”

A milestone in corporate logistics

Phase two focused on automated freight billing and cost control. Special transport requests were automated—the system now directly solicits quotes and processes them. In addition, an efficient invoice verification process was implemented. Incoming invoices are digitally captured, verified, and automatically posted. The effort required for manual verification and approval was significantly reduced.

Finally, transportation costs were automated and allocated to individual customer orders, thereby simplifying cost control within the accounting department. “With this expansion, Trotec was able not only to further streamline its processes but also to significantly improve financial transparency.”

The system has been in use since September 1, 2024; the implementation took about six months. The results are impressive: paperless processes and automation have led to a significant increase in efficiency. “With the phased implementation of SAP Transportation Management, Trotec has fully digitized its logistics processes and positioned them for the future. The solution has become a milestone in the company’s logistics.”