Elkjop Optimizes Cross Docking with Tradeplace Message Hub

Executive Summary

To address increasing supply chain complexity and rising customer expectations, Elkjop implemented a cross docking strategy aimed at reducing storage requirements while expanding product availability. Successful execution depended on accurate, real time data exchange between Elkjop and its suppliers. By implementing Tradeplace TradeXML functionality via Message Hub, Elkjop established a fully automated EDI based cross docking process that improved efficiency, reduced manual intervention, and maintained consistent customer satisfaction across the Nordic region.

The Challenge

Elkjop operates in a market where delivery speed, reliability, and assortment breadth are critical competitive factors. Traditional stock based logistics models resulted in high storage costs, particularly for major domestic appliances that require significant warehouse space. Early cross docking initiatives reduced some inventory pressure but relied on incomplete automation, leading to manual corrections, invoicing inconsistencies, and delivery delays. Elkjop needed a standardized, scalable solution to exchange high quality order, availability, and invoicing data across a growing supplier network.

“Cross docking only works when data quality and system integration are reliable. Tradeplace TradeXML via Direct Connection allowed us to standardize processes across suppliers and scale without added complexity.”                Elkjop Supply Chain Team

The Solution

Elkjop implemented Tradeplace TradeXML through the Tradeplace Message Hub solution to fully automate cross docking data exchange. TradeXML provides a standardized XML based framework for exchanging transactional messages, including orders, order confirmations, availability updates, delivery notifications, and electronic invoicing.

Through Message Hub, Elkjop connected its internal systems directly with suppliers on the Tradeplace platform, enabling real time, system to system communication without manual intervention. This approach ensured that all suppliers could participate in the same automated cross docking flow, supporting omni channel ordering models such as stock orders, cross docking, and drop shipment, while maintaining data accuracy and operational control.

The Results

With Tradeplace Message Hub in place, Elkjop transformed cross docking into a stable, predictable logistics process. Accurate and timely data exchange enabled products to move directly from inbound supplier deliveries to outbound transport with minimal handling time. Storage needs were reduced, assortment availability expanded, and operational efficiency improved, all without negatively impacting delivery reliability or customer satisfaction.

• Cost savings: Reduced reliance on warehouse storage for large appliances lowered structural logistics costs.

• Efficiency: Automated TradeXML messaging eliminated manual corrections in ordering, availability management, and invoicing.

• Market reach: Cross docking enabled Elkjop to offer a wider assortment without increasing inventory levels.

• Customer experience: Delivery performance remained consistent, with no observed difference in NPS between cross docked and stock orders.

• Scalability: Message Hub allowed additional suppliers to be onboarded efficiently using the same standardized TradeXML framework.

• Digital & Green impact: Optimized logistics flows, reduced storage, and paperless data exchange lowered unnecessary transport and manual processes.

   

  “This case demonstrates how standardized XML based data exchange enables retailers to turn complex logistics requirements into an efficient, automated operation.”
  Iwan de Dooij, Tradeplace

   

Why Tradeplace

Elkjop selected Tradeplace for its ability to provide standardized, scalable connectivity across a complex supplier ecosystem. Tradeplace TradeXML, delivered through Message Hub, offered a future proof foundation for automated cross docking and omni channel logistics. Close collaboration between Elkjop and Tradeplace ensured rapid onboarding, operational stability, and long term flexibility as supply chain requirements continue to evolve.