Let’s get straight to the case study!
When one of our clients set out to shift their terminal’s focus from containerized cargo to general cargo, they faced a complex and high-stakes challenge. The transition would require not just a new operational mindset, but also a significant overhaul of long-standing automation processes. Fortunately, their existing Solvo.TOS system made this evolution far smoother than expected.
A Flexible Foundation: Solvo.TOS at the Core
The terminal was already operating with Solvo.TOS—our modular, flexible terminal operating system. Its architecture is designed to adapt, enabling quick reconfiguration for changing operational needs. Instead of implementing a new system from scratch, our specialists were able to simply adjust the existing setup to support general cargo handling. This saved time, reduced costs, and minimized disruption.
What Makes General Cargo So Different?
Unlike containers, which come in standardized sizes and weights, general cargo varies dramatically. We’re talking about everything from industrial equipment and roundwood to scrap metal, barrels, paper reels, and more. Each type of cargo has its own rules for compatibility, layout, storage, documentation, and loading/unloading procedures. The variety and complexity demand much more from a terminal management system.
Tailored Automation for Complex Operations
To meet these challenges, we reconfigured Solvo.TOS to automate a wide range of general cargo operations, including:
- Oversized cargo handling
- Cargo consolidation
- Overflow and packing of liquid cargo
- Repacking
- Pallet formation
- VGM-compliant cargo weighing
- Land transport coordination (inbound and outbound)
- Separate storage planning for import/export cargo
- Preparation of shipping and customs documentation
A dedicated general cargo module within Solvo.TOS provided the functionality needed to support all of the above.
Smart Rules, Smart Storage
Solvo.TOS doesn’t just track cargo—it thinks with you. The system applies tailored business logic to each cargo type, determining the sequence of operations, required equipment, and workforce allocation. This ensures efficient use of space and resources, from assigning storage cells to dispatch planning.
Even complex workflows are supported. For example, cargo like paper reels may enter the terminal as general cargo and later be shipped in containers or trailers. Solvo.TOS is designed to recognize and support these transitions within a single, seamless workflow.
Supporting Every Cargo Type
The upgraded system now enables the terminal to handle a wide variety of cargo types:
- Containers
- Ro-Ro cargo
- Bulk and break-bulk (e.g. fertilizers, grain, coal)
- Bagged and boxed goods (e.g. cocoa, sugar, rice)
- Construction and lumber materials
- Ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Food, including perishables
- Paper and pulp
- Metal waste
No matter the cargo, Solvo.TOS ensures that every step—from arrival to dispatch—is optimized and accounted for.
Enhancing Service with Digital Tools
In addition to operational upgrades, we also implemented a dedicated web portal for freight forwarders. This tool allows customers to:
- Schedule visits to the terminal
- Select available time slots
- Track shipment statuses
- Request additional services
And they can do it all without increasing the workload for terminal staff.
A System Built for Evolution
This project illustrates the power of Solvo.TOS not just as a tool for automation, but as a platform for transformation. By leveraging its modular structure and customization capabilities, our client successfully pivoted their business into a new operational domain—without hitting pause on efficiency or service.
If you’re facing a similar challenge, we’re ready to help you make the leap—on your terms, and with your cargo.
