Short Answer: Data
Long Answer: Typically, when it’s time to book a shipment, most organizations email one or more of their customary providers. It may or may not include all the information the shipper needs to accurately provide a quote. The shippers may or may not be the most cost-effective for this particular category while some may over-extend to meet the timeframes. We believe the better way is to use “data”. Having the ability to gather and organize various logistics data will enable an organization to improve both processes and decisions by creating a road map that meets their specific needs.
The road map starts with identifying the various stakeholders and how their interests in the shipment may influence the decision to use a particular supplier. Then there are the many participants involved who will have a large impact on getting the shipment from its origin to its destination on time and on budget. These players are key when there are unforeseen issues that require a change in plan. For example:
Stakeholders: The most obvious are the organization sending and the one at the destination. However, within each are other disciplines such as management, accounting, sales, production, operations etc. It would be nice if their interests were all aligned but there are times when one is more important than another. The road map should help to manage these conflicts.
Participants: In addition to initiating the shipment there are the staff at the forwarder, customs broker, shipper, receiver, trucker, material handler etc.
A road map identifies both groups along with their roles and interests and maps out the shipment from start to finish. This approach enables people to make better informed decisions. For example, if the cost is a major objective, then choosing a low-cost provider might make sense but it could also impact the quality of the service. Inexpensive but late can be very expensive.
Healthy plug! Digital Freight’s platform creates an end-to-end system that helps select, track and measures freight decisions and spend. For organizations not yet ready for our platform there are ways of ensuring you are managing this process effectively.
1. Create a road map
2. Refine the process
3. Track results
4. Drive costs down and performance up!
If you would like to learn more about Digital Freight Group Inc. and how we can help develop a road map for your company, or if you simply have a question please visit our website www.DigitalFreightGroup.com