Introduction

E-commerce has changed the game for logistics.

More than 40 % of Irish enterprises were generating online sales in 2024. Meanwhile, e-commerce orders across the EU (including the UK and Ireland) grew by about 21 % year-over-year in Q2 2025. These trends are putting pressure on haulage operators for same‑day and next‑day delivery, live tracking, and flawless documentation—especially when shipping across the UK‑Ireland border under post‑Brexit controls and customs compliance.

Customers want fast delivery, real-time updates, and zero hassle. For haulage operators, that means tighter deadlines, more complex routes, and higher expectations. Meeting these demands takes more than extra trucks. It takes smarter systems and better visibility.

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Modern Problems: the game has changed

Online shopping keeps growing, and that puts pressure on delivery networks. Common problems include:

• Short delivery windows and strict service agreements
• Customers asking for live updates instead of vague time slots
• Cross-border shipments slowed down by customs paperwork
• Admin teams buried in manual booking and invoicing

These issues eat into margins and create stress for operators still relying on old processes.

What Customers Expect Today

The bar is high. E-commerce customers want:

• Real-time tracking from dispatch to delivery
• Easy booking and clear communication
• Fast, accurate invoicing and proof of delivery
• Sustainability and cost transparency

If operators can’t provide this, they risk losing contracts to competitors who can.

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How Stratum Helps Operators Deliver

Stratum’s platform is designed to handle these demands without adding complexity.

Real-Time Visibility and Customer Portals
Operators can give clients direct access to book jobs, track progress, and download PODs through web portals. No chasing emails. No waiting for updates.

Integrated Dispatch and Route Planning
The TMS brings everything into one place: booking, dispatch, tracking, invoicing. Route planning tools help cut delays and reduce fuel costs.

Automation for Speed and Accuracy
Customs submissions like MRN, PBN, and GVMS are automated. Invoicing and POD management happen with a single click. Less admin, fewer errors.

Data for Smarter Decisions
Dashboards show performance, costs, and compliance status. Operators can adjust routes and pricing during peak periods without guesswork.

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Why It Matters

Meeting e-commerce expectations isn’t optional. It drives repeat business and keeps contracts secure. It also reduces admin workload and improves cash flow. Compliance and sustainability features help operators stay ahead of future regulations.

Conclusion

E-commerce isn’t slowing down. Operators who invest in visibility, automation, and data-driven planning will handle the pressure and keep customers happy. If you want to see how these tools work in practice, let's talk!

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See also:

E-Commerce Information Society Statistics - Enterprises 2024 - Central Statistics Office

Q2 2025 EU E-commerce & Logistics Report: Growth, China-EU Trade & Ireland Insights | E2G

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