Ultimo Electronics opts for NetDespatch platform

Norwich-based Ultimo Electronics has selected the NetDespatch parcel data management platform to simplify its despatch processes. The NetDespatch platform “seamlessly connects” Ultimo’s marketplaces with its selected parcel carrier,  Royal Mail and, according to NetDespatch, it will reduce order processing and despatch time by around 20 hours per month.

Established in 2014, Ultimo Electronics sells home electronics and small appliances, such as laptops, tablets and cameras, online and via direct sales to corporate clients. Around 70% of the company’s 12,000 sales per year take place online via eBay and Amazon.

“Our carrier, Royal Mail, advised us to implement NetDespatch because we needed to move to a more efficient method of order fulfilment and despatch,” said Josh Hannan, Director, Ultimo Electronics.

Order data is downloaded from Ultimo’s marketplace stores to a CSV file for instant upload to NetDespatch. The solution produces the correct shipping labels, and also notifies Royal Mail that consignments are ready for collection, as well as updating their Online Billing Account. Customer service staff can view despatched items and track them online. The new operation was implemented in April 2015, and the company has already seen a reduction of around 20 hours a month in its order fulfilment process.

“NetDespatch is helping us move to a fully automated system in the near future, so that we can use thermal printers and switch to Royal Mail’s new 2D labels,” added Hannan.

NetDespatch is retained by postal and parcel carriers to provide shipping solutions for their customers through a secure web-based platform that automates the connection between order processing, despatch and delivery. There are no costs involved for installation, training or support, and the system is available instantly online.