Logistics firm CH Robinson is providing talent and technology to fellow Minnesota-based company Northern Tool + Equipment combining logistics expertise and capacity access paired with a global transportation management system (TMS).

The Navisphere TMS technology allows the retail company to receive real-time updates around the movement of products, shipments, deliveries and invoicing both internationally and domestically. The cloud-based platform takes tasks that previously needed to be done manually, automates them and gives the team real-time access to plan, order, execute, procure and settle merchandise sales more efficiently across the company.

“It’s one of the most important technology upgrades Northern Tool + Equipment has made,” said Shaun Bunch, Northern Tool senior vice president. “All pieces of the network are designed to optimise our supply chain, enhancing our relationships with manufacturers, brand partners and customers around the world. Over the last few years, we were able to spot opportunities to increase efficiency across the company. The state-of-the-art technology sets up Northern Tool + Equipment to grow exponentially for years to come.”

The upgrade will allow Northern Tool to continue serving its core customer base of everyone from serious DIYers to professional tradespeople. The proactive installation not only ensures the company keeps up with current industry technology but positions it to adjust rapidly to retail industry trends in the future.

“Supply chains are under tremendous pressure to deliver high service while maximising efficiencies and navigating a challenging market,” said Chris O’Brien, chief commercial officer at CH Robinson. “Pairing TMS technology with connectivity to our seasoned logistics experts and extensive transportation network provides companies like Northern Tool + Equipment with a competitive advantage.”

Northern Tool + Equipment is a family-owned company serving both DIYers and trades professionals. A supplier of more than 100,000 tools and equipment for over 40 years, the company’s team has a breadth of knowledge to help customers in-person at more than 130 retail stores, online and over the phone through their fully-staffed contact centre. It helps customers get the right tool for the job and helps with parts and repairs that keep tools running at peak performance.

CH Robinson solves logistics problems for companies across the globe and across industries, from the simple to the most complex. With $28bn in freight under management and 20 million shipments annually, it is one of the world’s largest logistics platforms.