FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
YOUR PATH TO AUTOMATION
What is 5 String Solutions?
5 String Solutions is a SaaS technology company specializing in connecting shippers, 3PLs, freight forwarders, and LTL carriers with best-in-class last mile carriers. By enabling electronic integration and simplifying data exchange, we make it easier to build scalable, cost-effective, automated last mile networks.
How does it work?
Shipping parties integrate once with 5 String to send orders and receive real-time shipping status updates from the last mile carriers they choose to work with. Through this single integration, last mile carriers can seamlessly engage and communicate electronically with shippers, without the need for custom tech builds or multiple data pipelines. We normalize and streamline data exchange, making it easier for everyone to operate efficiently and stay informed.
What is the main value 5 String Solutions offers?
In today’s logistics landscape, real-time visibility and data exchange aren’t optional—they’re expected. 5 String Solutions offers a smarter alternative to traditional integration methods that are often slow and expensive. Our platform enables shippers and their chosen last mile carriers to connect quickly, cost-effectively, and without the burden of complex custom builds—so they can focus on service, not systems.
What is the cost?
5 String operates a transaction fee model, charging shippers and last mile carriers per shipment. In return, shippers avoid the headaches of connecting and maintaining integrations with their carrier network. Carriers gain access to business opportunities they might not secure independently—along with seamless data integration that feeds directly into their existing systems. It’s a low-risk, high-reward model designed to help both shippers and carriers grow while staying focused on operations.
What types of opportunities are there for last mile carriers?
5 String Solutions offers its carrier clients a wide range of opportunities, including parcel carrier diversification, local LTL, pool distribution, residential and white glove deliveries, product assembly, retail distribution, reverse logistics, fulfillment and more. 5 String Solutions also integrates to much larger 3rd party technology platforms that multiple shippers use to source courier, local and last mile services.
Why do shippers prefer to work with 5 String Solutions?
Shippers prefer working with 5 String Solutions because we simplify the process of finding, engaging, and electronically connecting with high-quality last mile carriers. Instead of managing complex, one-off integrations or relying on manual coordination, our platform offers a single connection point to a vetted network of carriers. Through real-time visibility, streamlined data exchange, and faster onboarding, shippers can scale their final mile operations efficiently while reducing cost and complexity.
How does 5 String Solutions differ from a Third-Party Logistics company?
5 String Solutions is not a broker or third-party logistics provider (3PL)—we don’t take possession of freight or operate as an intermediary in the traditional sense. Instead, we act as a connectivity and enablement platform. We intelligently match shippers with qualified last mile carriers, then help both parties integrate electronically for real-time data exchange and seamless execution. Our focus is on simplifying connections, not controlling freight or carrier selection.
As a carrier, how do I know I will win business?
When a last mile carrier can electronically connect with their customers, they add value and save the shipper money. 5 String is engineered to simplify those connections and enhance a carrier’s potential to win business. Also, many shippers we work with ask for introductions to last mile carries. Thus, carriers can secure business they might not have been privy to otherwise.
How does 5 String Solutions electronically connect with carriers and shipping parties?
We provide multiple options to meet each party’s system capabilities, but we prefer OPEN or REST API integrations. We also support EDI and FTP connections.
What is an API?
API stands for Application Programming Interface. It’s a modern, flexible way for systems to communicate directly with each other—computer to computer—in real time. APIs allow for seamless data exchange and can offer expanded functionality beyond traditional methods like EDI. For example, APIs can support instant price quoting, real-time status updates, and even document retrieval. Unlike older, one-to-one integration models, APIs are built for “many-to-many” connections, making it easier and more cost-effective to scale connectivity across partners.
Is there a cost to setting up an API with 5 String?
Depending on your current platform, there may be a nominal one-time integration costs to connect with 5 String. However, once established, a single integration allows a last mile carrier to engage multiple shippers via the platform and multiple shippers can engage multiple carriers. It’s like an electronically connected community.
Can 5 String Solutions work with any carrier and system?
How long does the onboarding process take to get everything set up?
For shippers, identifying and matching with the right last mile carriers usually takes just a few days. From there, electronic connectivity typically takes less than two weeks—often faster if you’re using a familiar TMS. Many last mile carriers can be fully set up and ready to exchange data in a matter of hours.
