TwoSommers transforms bulk operations

American Bulk Commodities recently transformed its digital operations using TwoSommers’ efficiency-boosting BulkOffice software platform.

The project entailed replacing the company’s outdated legacy systems with a secure, cloud-native transportation management system (TMS) that delivers faster dispatch-to-cash cycles; live driver tracking; automated invoicing, billing, and driver settlement; and back-office solutions—all backed by well-secured data, the Ohio-based IT services company reported.

American Bulk’s subsidiaries include John Brown Trucking, Southern Haulers, and R&J Trucking, a Boardman, Ohio-based bulk hauler founded in 1960 that today runs a diverse fleet of over 600 trucks and 1,000 trailers. “BulkOffice proves even the most complex, legacy-dependent operations can become agile, efficient, and future-ready,” Bob Sommer, vice president of IT at TwoSommers, told Bulk Transporter.

“This transformation not only increased efficiency but positioned our client to scale and innovate for decades to come.”

Overcoming inefficiency

American Bulk, like many companies in the industry, struggled with operational inefficiencies caused by outdated infrastructure: manual dispatching without real-time visibility, paper-based billing prone to errors, slow driver settlements, and security limitations that restricted scalability. By partnering with TwoSommers, which specializes in enterprise modernization, the carrier embraced a modern TMS that leverages Microsoft Power Platform solutions.

System implementation featured:

• Cloud-native apps for dispatching, billing, invoicing, and settlements
• Real-time integration connecting drivers and brokers instantly
• Automated workflows for billing, document processing, and driver pay
• Advanced security features with multi-factor authentication and role-based access

The tank trucker’s game-changing results included a reduction in the dispatch-to-cash cycle, a lower invoice rebill rate, “significant” cost savings due to the elimination of third-party tools and manual processes, and faster customer onboarding through EDI exchanges, the companies reported—ultimately leading to enhanced compliance and driver experience.

“As our company grew over the years to 15 terminals and over 700 drivers, we saw an opportunity to move off our legacy AS/400 system to better service our customers and improve our employee and driver experiences,” said Mark Carrocce, American Bulk president. “We chose TwoSommers’ MAS [Managed Application Services] platform to build our new applications and relied on its consulting services to help guide us through our transition.

“We now have a fully digital process from in-cab apps through dispatching, billing, and payroll—and look forward to building on our success.”