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Streamlining Supply Chain for International Medical Corps with IoT
Technology Category
- Functional Applications - Inventory Management Systems
- Platform as a Service (PaaS) - Application Development Platforms
Applicable Industries
- Healthcare & Hospitals
- Transportation
Applicable Functions
- Logistics & Transportation
- Procurement
Use Cases
- Inventory Management
- Supply Chain Visibility
Services
- Training
The Challenge
International Medical Corps, a first responder organization providing emergency relief across the world, faces a gargantuan task of maintaining a robust and agile supply chain. The organization's efforts require constant replenishment of medical supplies and site equipment, making freight forwarding a vital component. The logistical demands of transporting supplies and equipment to devastated areas often surpass the challenges of most other types of shipping. Infrastructure may be destroyed by war, storms may wash out roads, economic turmoil can limit port access, and internet access may be non-existent or censored. Additionally, the organization faces challenges with customs, as multiple responses occur simultaneously around the world. The organization also has to maintain a steady stream of supplies to prepare for catastrophic or unknown scenarios.
About The Customer
International Medical Corps is a first responder organization that provides emergency relief in any region, under any conditions. The organization has more than 7,200 staff members, 90% of whom are local to the areas they serve. The non-profit also provides locals with the training they need to become self-reliant. Recent responses include deploying medical care after an explosion in Beirut; rebuilding hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico; suppressing Ebola in the Congo; and helping countries around the world, including the US, respond to Covid-19. The organization operates via a variety of funding sources, including contract and grant support, contributions, and donated supplies and equipment.
The Solution
With strategic support from Flexport, International Medical Corps has been able to streamline its relief efforts, making logistics management more efficient and transparent. Flexport provides assistance to International Medical Corps’ headquarters staff, monitoring shipment progress and helping reroute supplies, work with customs, and send updates outside the platform. Flexport's platform helps keep close track of all shipments on the way, including the individual goods within a container, truck, or plane. Flexport's local presence in China enabled it to navigate the regulatory update, inform International Medical Corps of the challenge and solution, and work with additional resources to replenish the non-profit’s stock. Flexport was also able to cover the cost of shipping donations through its Frontline Responders Fund, part of the Flexport.org Fund.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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