While working in North America for four years, Ali Javaheri was quite used to the logistics and shipping systems and solutions. He had understood that being a large industry with several complicated moving parts, these solutions helped the overall processes simpler and more efficient.
When Javaheri moved back to Dubai in early 2021, he found that the logistics and shipping processes in the MENA region lacked similar solutions. It was a no-brainer for Javaheri to start Shiplifier, a shipping aggregator.
The platform is a comprehensive solution provider tailored specifically for businesses navigating the complexities of shipping operations and logistics.
What does the platform do?
Today, Shiplifier has over 500 e-commerce clients. The platform allows them to optimise their order processing and explore a wider pool of shipping couriers.
“By offering discounted shipping rates from multiple couriers all under one dashboard, we streamline the logistics process, saving valuable time and resources for our clients,” explained Javaheri.
The product offers a seamless user experience, beginning with easy access to the intuitive dashboard. Users input their shipping details and select from different shipping rates, each linked to a separate shipping courier. Behind the scenes, the platform operates on a network of API calls, facilitating seamless communication between our platform and our esteemed shipping partners.
“We prioritise creativity, collaboration, transparency, and innovation, all while placing a strong emphasis on employee well-being and embracing diversity. It’s this collective commitment to excellence that drives us forward as we continue to redefine the shipping experience for e-commerce businesses worldwide,” said Javaheri.
However, the first challenge of building the platform itself. Javaheri explains it took the team over two years to build the platform before they could launch.
Building the MVP
The team also faced a hurdle around acquainting local e-commerce businesses with the concept of digitised shipping processes. Javaheri added it’s an ongoing effort to familiarise the clients with the ins and outs of the platform, ensuring they can seamlessly leverage all the benefits and services it offers.
“This involves consistent education and support to ensure our customers can fully capitalise on the efficiency and convenience our platform provides,” he said.
At the heart of the platform’s operations lies a technological framework centred on API calls. These calls serve as the backbone of our platform, enabling the team to seamlessly integrate new shipping partners and continuously update our database with the latest shipping rates.
“By leveraging this dynamic technology, we ensure that our customers always have access to the most comprehensive and up-to-date range of shipping options available. This commitment to technological innovation allows us to stay ahead of the curve in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape, providing our customers with unparalleled convenience and flexibility in their shipping endeavours,” said Javaheri.
The Shiplifier platform has evolved over the past year, based on the feedback loop of the customers. While building the first version of the web-app, Shiplifier focussed primarily on order processing and less on the shipping rates.
“After noticing that most of our requests and inquiries were linked to prices, we revamped the customer journey to simplify access to courier rates and make it easier to navigate through step-by-step order processing,” said Javaheri.
Finding a differentiator
Several experts believe the major challenge that B2B trucking sector faces is the fragmented supply chain, as small fleet operators with no more than five trucks account for vast majority of the trucking operations.
Startups like TruKKer, Shipsy, and several others are already trying to disrupt the logistics space. Explaining their differentiators, Javaheri adds there are a combination of factors, chiefly their innovative use of technology, unique business model, and strategic partnerships with multiple couriers to offer discounted rates.
Unlike conventional shipping solutions, Shiplifier harnesses cutting-edge technologies to streamline the logistics process for e-commerce businesses. This includes advanced API integrations, real-time rate updates, and a user-friendly dashboard interface.
Moreover, the business model is tailored to meet the specific needs of their clientele, providing a comprehensive suite of services under one platform. From order processing to shipment tracking, Javaheri added they prioritise customer ease and satisfaction, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
“By continuously refining our offerings and forging strategic alliances within the e-commerce ecosystem, Shiplifier aims to solidify its position as a leading business solutions provider in the dynamic UAE market,” he explained.
Model and future plans
Another differentiator is the team’s commitment to real-time data. As soon as users input their shipping details, the platform springs into action, generating accurate rates in a matter of seconds. This ensures that the customers receive precise pricing information instantly, empowering them to make informed decisions with confidence.
The revenue model has been built on marginal profit based on shipping rates provided to the customers. The startup’s business model depends on partnerships with shipping couriers. Javaheri explains the shipping rates the startup provides are lower than the rates accessible to the general market.
Speaking of the next steps, Javaheri says, “Diversifying our reach to encompass other nations within the GCC region is a pivotal step in our expansion strategy. By extending our services beyond borders, we aim to cater to the growing needs of e-commerce businesses across the entire Gulf region.”
