Meridian
End-to-end supply chain visibility for African manufacturers. Real-time tracking, document automation, and predictive delay detection.
Deep Architectural Overview
Meridian is a mission-critical logistics tracking and document automation platform custom-built for large-scale African manufacturers. It connects raw material imports and freight movements across international borders with predictive intelligence to streamline port operations, customs clearance, and long-haul distribution networks.
The Technical Challenge
Logistics in Sub-Saharan Africa is hindered by opaque border crossings, unpredictable transit delays, manual paper-based invoicing, and a complete lack of centralized tracking. Manufacturers frequently face expensive stockouts or demurrage fees because they cannot anticipate when parts or materials will arrive.
Our Engineering Solution
Meridian aggregates real-time vehicle telemetry, port processing queues, and customs documents into an intuitive Next.js interface. Powered by PostgreSQL and Prisma, the platform uses geospatial calculations to estimate delivery times and triggers automated SMS/email notifications for delays. It also incorporates a secure, digital-first PDF generator that manages customs declarations with zero paper friction.
Tech Stack
- TypeScript
- Next.js
- PostgreSQL
- Prisma
Architectural Layout
- Geospatial Pipeline: Custom PostGIS/PostgreSQL queries calculating distance-to-destination and corridor travel speeds.
- Automated Document Hub: Node.js worker threads managing multi-party digital signature approvals and PDF invoice generations.
- Real-time Dashboard: Server-Side Rendered (SSR) data visualization optimized for low-bandwidth cellular connections in remote hubs.
- Notification Engine: Scalable webhook-driven service integrating SMS gateways for driver and operations dispatch communication.
Key Impact
- Improved on-time delivery rates by 34% through proactive port and delay detection.
- Reduced customs documentation processing time from 4 days to 45 minutes.
- Managed over $12M in freight transactions across East and Central Africa in its first year.