HubBuyCN Spreadsheet: How to Forecast Monthly Freight Budgets
Accurate freight budget forecasting is essential for businesses engaged in international shipping and logistics. The HubBuyCN Spreadsheet
Why Accurate Freight Forecasting Matters
Without a clear forecast, logistics costs can quickly spiral out of control, leading to budget overruns and financial uncertainty. The HubBuyCN methodology transforms random shipping expenses into predictable, manageable data points, enabling you to:
- Make informed procurement and inventory decisions.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities in your supply chain.
- Improve financial planning and cash flow management.
- Set realistic monthly and quarterly budgets.
The Core Principle: Weight-Cost Correlation
At the heart of the HubBuyCN forecasting model is the fundamental relationship between shipment weight and total cost. By analyzing past records, you can establish a reliable cost-per-unit-weight
Start by compiling data from your last 3-6 months of shipments. Your HubBuyCN Spreadsheet should include the following columns for each shipment: This is the most critical metric for forecasting. Use the spreadsheet's built-in formulas to compute this. Pro Tip:
Based on your sales forecasts, production plans, or inventory needs, estimate the total weight of goods you expect to ship in the target month. This requires close coordination with your procurement and sales teams. Multiply your forecasted weight by your calculated average cost per kilogram. The spreadsheet will automatically perform this calculation, giving you a solid, data-driven budget figure. A forecast is a guide, not a fixed number. The HubBuyCN model allows for adjustments: The HubBuyCN Spreadsheet
``` How to Use the HubBuyCN Spreadsheet for Forecasting
Step 1: Gather and Input Historical Data
Step 2: Calculate Your Average Cost Per Kilogram
Average Cost/Kg = Total Historical Cost / Total Historical Weight
Step 3: Forecast Future Shipping Weight
Step 4: Calculate Your Forecasted Budget
Forecasted Freight Budget = Forecasted Total Weight (Kg) × Average Cost/KgStep 5: Refine and Adjust
Example Forecast Calculation
Metric
Calculation
Result
Total Historical Cost (Last 6 months)
-
$15,000
Total Historical Weight
-
2,500 kg
Average Cost per Kg
$15,000 / 2,500 kg
$6.00 / kg
Forecasted Weight (Next Month)
-
600 kg
Base Forecasted Budget
600 kg × $6.00/kg
$3,600
Budget with 10% Buffer
$3,600 × 1.10
$3,960
Conclusion