In the midst of rapidly evolving Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs), businesses face a unique set of challenges. From new bilateral agreements to the dynamic e-commerce environment and the wavering landscape of U.S. trade agreements, the need for a focus on your trade processes is a must. After making a business case to move operations into a FTZ and selecting the SAP GTS solution, the next step of selecting a proficient SAP GTS implementation partner to operationalize your FTZ plans is even more critical.
Whether you are a current FTZ operator or considering developing a business case, imagine actively transforming these trade challenges into opportunities with the right SAP Global Trade Services (GTS) implementation partner. Explore how the ideal partnership can unlock unprecedented potential, streamline your processes, and propel your business to new heights.
Understanding SAP Global Trade Services (GTS)
SAP GTS is a comprehensive suite of solutions designed to streamline international trade compliance, facilitating smoother and faster global transactions.
With SAP GTS, businesses can adapt to region-specific customs requirements, increase visibility into global transactions, standardize and automate processes, and contain costs. The US FTZ management module within SAP GTS offers a complete solution to manage and monitor all FTZ activities, ensuring compliance with regulations, and providing visibility into operations.
Why the Right SAP GTS Implementation Partner Matters
Successful SAP GTS FTZ implementation hinges on your choice of implementation partner. A partner with not only technical expertise in SAP GTS but also a deep understanding of US FTZ regulations, US ACE Import and Export self-filing requirements and your unique supply chain network can tailor the right SAP GTS project approach, empowering your business to maximize the benefits of operating within an FTZ while staying compliant.
A well-implemented SAP GTS FTZ solution can streamline FTZ operations while meeting stringent filing deadlines, inventory controls and US CBP and FTZ board reporting requirements.
Five Top Tips for Choosing Your SAP GTS Implementation Partner
The ideal implementation partner helps you navigate the complexities of FTZ management, guiding you through the implications of regulatory requirements and optimizing your supply chain and trade processes. They bring a deep knowledge of SAP GTS, industry best practices, and hands-on experience to ensure a smooth implementation.
Here are five top tips for choosing the right partner:
Assess their knowledge and expertise in SAP GTS FTZ solution: Look for a partner with a firm grasp of SAP GTS functionalities and capabilities, demonstrated through certifications, training, and successful referenceable implementations. Have them work with your chosen partner to map out the steps for establishing FTZ operations. A partner that can file your FTZ applications and audit your warehouse operations to meet FTZ requirements needs to work closely with your SAP GTS FTZ implementation partner with several timeline overlaps.
Evaluate their experience in FTZ management: FTZ management requires specific knowledge and expertise. Ensure your partner has a track record in three domains of i) Implementing SAP GTS for FTZ management, ii) A track record of implementing US Import & Export self-filing to CBPs ACE system and iii) A thorough understanding of ERP goods receiving, issuing and manufacturing processes. SAP GTS FTZ solution provides end-to-end functionality integrating backend ERP warehouse receiving, manufacturing, and warehouse issuing processes with e-filings to US customs ACE system. A competency in all three areas is a must.
Review their past projects and client testimonials: This can provide insights into their performance, reliability, and professionalism. Typically a customer will not only be new to US FTZ processes, but also to e-filings and monitoring of various steps involved in clearing customs. Work that would normally be undertaken by their broker. Bringing all this work in-house involves a complete transformation of trade operations. A patient and systematic approach to the implementation and business readiness is a must.
Ensure their commitment to post-implementation support and maintenance: A successful go-live is just the beginning. Only a complete month-end and year-end FTZ process will completely prove out the robustness of your implementation. Despite the rigor in testing your processes, regulatory curveballs around yearly Harmonized Tariff Schedule changes, ACE changes, FTZ modernization etc.. will require some level of engagement with your chosen partner to keep the program humming. This is critical to address any issues and ensure the SAP GTS solution continues to meet your business needs and respond to any demands from US Customs and Border Protection.
Check their adaptability to your specific business needs and requirements: Every business is unique. The right partner should customize the SAP GTS FTZ solution to fit your particular needs. While the same FTZ regulations apply to everyone, your specific supply chain might either require adjustment to comply with FTZ requirements or a complete change in business practices. A competent implementation partner will highlight such required adjustments. For e.g. business practices to hold shipments in yards while you clear space in the warehouse might be ok for goods declared at the border but the same poses a problem for receipts into FTZ. An adjustment or a revamp of such practices has to be part of design discussions.
Choosing the right SAP GTS implementation partner is vital for successful FTZ management. With the right partner and SAP GTS solution, your business can enhance FTZ management, ensuring compliance, boosting efficiency, and cutting costs.
Empowering FTZ Management with Ropaar: Your Trusted SAP GTS Implementation Partner
Standing at the forefront of SAP GTS implementation, Ropaar distinguishes itself by crafting solutions tailored to your distinctive supply chain challenges. This adaptability positions us as a top-tier choice for businesses aiming to elevate their FTZ management capabilities.
A Customized Approach to SAP GTS: Ropaar takes an individualized approach to SAP GTS implementation, studying your business thoroughly, understanding your unique problems, and crafting suitable solutions. This relational approach results in a deeper understanding of your needs and more effective solutions.
Innovative Technology Integration: Ropaar integrates ClassifAI™, a machine learning-based Trade Classification Assist tool, into your GTS processes. This tool learns from your existing classification data and predicts trade classifications for new products, which significantly enhances the efficiency and accuracy of your trade management processes.
Trusted "TRADEblazing" Partner: With Ropaar, you work with a trusted partner in your SAP GTS journey. Our team, known for empathy, independent thinking, and global diversity, communicates effectively in the customer's language. We balance a small firm's personal touch with a large firm's accountability.
Partnerships Beyond Implementation: Ropaar is committed to fostering long-term partnerships, guiding you through your SAP and supply chain optimization journey. This commitment ensures you achieve profitable and sustainable outcomes, with Ropaar as a partner in your growth and success.
Choosing Ropaar as your SAP GTS implementation partner means opting for a partner committed to your success. Our tailored approach, innovative technology integration, experienced team, and long-term commitment make us an ideal choice for any business seeking to improve its FTZ management through implementing SAP GTS.
Ready to elevate your FTZ management with a tailored, innovative, and efficient SAP GTS solution? Let Ropaar, your trusted "TRADEblazing" partner, guide you through this journey towards improved global trade processes and sustainable outcomes.
Contact us today to learn more about how our SAP GTS expertise can transform your business.