Simplifying IT
for a complex world.
Platform partnerships
- AWS
- Google Cloud
- Microsoft
- Salesforce
Boosting Efficiency for Container Hub Trading
Industry
Trading, Conversion & Depot
About the Client
Container Hub Trading, situated in the industrial hub of Jabal Ali, Dubai, is a prominent provider of container-related services, including rentals, storage, sales, modifications, and repairs. Catering to a diverse clientele in the logistics and shipping sector, the company has built a reputation for reliability. However, as their business expanded, an outdated legacy system hindered their ability to manage operations efficiently and meet customer expectations. Partnering with Upscape, Container Hub Trading implemented a custom ERPNext solution to modernize their processes and enhance service delivery.
Project Timeline:
3 months
Launch Date:
June 1, 2024
The Challenges
Container Hub Trading grappled with operational inefficiencies rooted in their legacy system, which struggled to support their multifaceted business model. Key challenges included:
Inefficient Legacy System
The outdated software was slow and ill-equipped to handle the growing volume of container transactions.
Disorganized Data
Customer and operational data lacked structure, leading to errors and delays in processing.
Poor Inventory Management
There was no mechanism to track containers—whether in use, stored, under modification, or in repair—resulting in uncertainty about stock status.
Untracked Modification Cycle
The workshop operated without job cards or work orders, making it difficult to monitor container modification progress.
Limited Customer Visibility
Clients had no insight into the status of their containers, eroding trust and satisfaction.
Manual Billing Complexity
Invoicing for varied services like rentals and storage was time-consuming and prone to errors due to the lack of automation.
These issues collectively disrupted workflows, strained customer relationships, and threatened Container Hub Trading’s competitive standing in the industry.
The Upscape Process
Upscape deployed a tailored ERPNext solution, built on the Frappe Framework and enhanced with Frappe HR, to address these challenges comprehensively. Completed in just three months and launched on June 1, 2024, the solution transformed Container Hub Trading’s operations. Here’s how Upscape delivered:
Seamless Data Migration
Migrated existing SKUs, opening entries, and historical data from the legacy system to ERPNext without interrupting daily operations. Organized customer data with linked documentation, such as invoices and depot service records, into a centralized system.
Custom Container Depot Service
Developed a bespoke module to log container details—rental status, modification updates, in/out dates, and current status—tied to each customer. Implemented automatic rent calculation within the depot service, ensuring accurate billing based on container usage duration and terms.
Multiple Invoice Types
Introduced distinct invoice categories, such as rental invoices and storage invoices, to streamline billing for diverse services and improve financial clarity.
Workshop Management Tools
Integrated custom work orders and job cards into ERPNext, enabling the workshop to track the modification cycle efficiently and monitor container progress in real time.
Customer Portal
Launched a user-friendly portal, allowing customers to track their containers’ status and view updates, enhancing transparency and engagement.
HR and Payroll Integration
Deployed Frappe HR to automate human resource management and payroll, ensuring accurate employee records and seamless salary processing.
Inventory and Reporting Enhancements
Enabled precise inventory tracking to eliminate stock inconsistencies and provide real-time visibility into container availability. Delivered comprehensive reports and dashboards, empowering management with actionable insights into performance metrics.
Upscape’s solution was meticulously designed to align with Container Hub Trading’s operational needs, introducing automation and customization to simplify complex processes while enhancing visibility for both staff and customers.
Results
The custom ERPNext solution delivered transformative outcomes for Container Hub Trading, driving efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction:
Streamlined Business Flow
Unified workflows—from container tracking to invoicing—reduced manual effort and accelerated operations.
Enhanced Container Depot Service
The custom module, with automatic rent calculation, provided full visibility into container statuses and ensured accurate, timely billing.
Flexible Invoicing
Multiple invoice types (rental, storage) simplified billing processes, improving financial accuracy and transparency.
Organized Workshop Operations
Work orders and job cards brought structure to modifications, enabling faster turnarounds and better resource allocation.
Accurate Inventory Management
Real-time tracking eliminated stock inconsistencies, aligning physical and system records seamlessly.
Comprehensive Reports and Dashboards
Management gained data-driven insights, supporting strategic decision-making and performance monitoring.
Customer Transparency
The portal empowered clients with self-service access to container statuses, boosting trust and satisfaction.
Efficient HR and Payroll System
Automated HR processes reduced administrative burdens and ensured payroll compliance.
Conclusion
The partnership between Container Hub Trading and Upscape showcases how a custom technology solution can address legacy challenges and propel a business forward. Launched on June 1, 2024, the ERPNext implementation has redefined how Container Hub Trading manages its container trading and modification services. By replacing an inefficient system with a modern, automated platform, the company has achieved operational excellence, financial clarity, and enhanced customer relationships—solidifying their position as a leader in the industry.
Upscape’s ability to deliver a tailored solution, complete with multiple invoice types and automatic rent calculations, within a three-month timeline highlights their expertise and dedication to client success. For Container Hub Trading, this transformation marks a new chapter of efficiency, transparency, and growth in the dynamic container trading market.