SFLWhat is E2E?
A product of WiseTech Global, E2E (Enterprise-class to Enterprise-class) integrates data messaging between two users of CargoWise One systems. E2E is inbuilt within the CargoWise One system and is used by CargoWise One customers to electronically transfer shipment information.
E2E is the premier eServices capability through which logistics companies and clients can instantly connect and exchange information.
It offers a fast, simple, and low-cost solution to access information and enable communications between businesses across the global supply chain.
What is Middleware?
Common terminology used in the IT industry, Middleware is the word used for software that bridge gaps between databases. Our signature Middleware, called SFL Connect is an external application that uses the CargoWise One e-Adaptor facility to transfer data from either CargoWise One to 3rd Party ERPs.
A common business requirement is the need to combine multiple app services to a single application that you are using, allowing you to add features without having to invest in a whole other software.
For logistics businesses, this would mean that your ERP, such as CargoWise One, would produce/receive data in a certain format. Normally, this data would then need to be converted to a format acceptable to the recipient software, and vice versa.
But the main purpose of Middleware is more advanced than what E2E performs on the CargoWise One platform: it not just enables data exchange; it converts data from one format to another to allow seamless data sharing that is reliable and accurate.
Examples of E2E and Middleware:
| E2E MESSAGING FUNCTIONS | MIDDLEWARE FACILITATES |
| • Forwarder & Overseas Agent | • Business Analytics & Statistics |
| • Forwarder & Local Transport | • Customized Tracking Portals |
| • Forwarder & Customs Broker | • Pricing Portals |
| • Forwarder & Warehouse | • Payment Gateways |
| • Forwarder & CFS | • Data Transfer to 3rd Pary Applications |
| • Forwarder & Ships Agency | |
| • Local Transport & Customs Broker | |
| • Local Transport & Warehouse |
What to Choose: E2E or Middleware?
| The Advantages of E2E: | The Advantages of MIDDLEWARE: |
| Supports Integration between companies using CargoWise One | Easy EDI transmission to 3rd party systems and large data flows possible—all in real-time |
| E2E can be set up between a forwarder and their overseas agent, customs broker, shipping companies, CFS, warehouse and more | Complete system compatibility—Transfers shipment information to manufacturer-required formats with zero user information required |
| Uses XML files to transfer data but sends the file through inbuilt Adaptors | Uses XML files to transfer date, however, sends the file to an external server to be held & extracted |
| No data mapping required | Can Import XML files from CW One & convert them to customer-preferred format |
| Quick and easy to activate, with no development costs to users | Automated Integration – On completion of mapping, triggers are automated, so file transfers take place without human intervention |
| E2E is limited to operational information | Middleware has no restrictions |
| E2E does not allow finance data transfer | Custom-built integrations that enable data to be easily transferred between systems. Seamless data transfer, visibility and cross-system compatibility |
The best part?
The fundamental difference between E2E and Middleware is that with E2E both parties exchanging data can only do so if both parties are users of CargoWise One.
But with Middleware there is no such condition.
Looking for more information?
You can learn more or connect with a Consultant for a Viability Check to figure out if your business requires E2E or Middleware.
To book a consultation, simply visit: https://softfreightlogic.com/ or email us with any queries you may have: connectwithus@resources.softfreightlogic.com
