VigorBuy Shipping: How to Compare Air and Economic Routes for Better Value
In today's global marketplace, choosing the right shipping method can significantly impact your bottom line. At VigorBuy, we understand that efficient logistics aren't just about speed—they're about finding the perfect balance between delivery time and cost. This guide will show you how to compare our air and economic shipping routes using simple spreadsheet tracking to maximize value for your business.
Understanding Your Shipping Options
Air Shipping Routes
- Delivery Speed:
- Best For:
- Advantages:
- Considerations:
- Best For:
Economic Shipping Routes
- Delivery Speed:
- Best For:
- Advantages:
- Considerations:
- Best For:
Creating Your Comparison Spreadsheet
Essential Columns to Track:
| Data Point | Air Shipping | Economic Shipping |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Volumetric Weight | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shipping Cost | ✓ | ✓ |
| Estimated Delivery Days | ✓ | ✓ |
| Actual Delivery Days | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cost per Kilogram | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cost per Day | ✓ | ✓ |
Key Calculations for Your Spreadsheet:
Cost per Kilogram
= Total Shipping Cost ÷ Total Weight (kg)
Compare this metric across both shipping methods for similar weights
Daily Shipping Cost
= Total Shipping Cost ÷ Actual Delivery Days
Helps determine the "value" of faster delivery
Cost-Speed Ratio
= Shipping Cost ÷ (1 ÷ Delivery Days)
Lower ratio indicates better value for speed
Making the Right Choice: Our Decision Framework
Choose Air Shipping When:
- Cost per day is justified by your profit margins
- Product value exceeds 20% of shipping cost
- Customer expectations demand faster delivery
- Items are time-sensitive or perishable
Choose Economic Routes When:
- Cost savings exceed 40% compared to air shipping
- Delivery window allows for longer transit times
- Shipping heavy, non-urgent inventory
- Building buffer stock for future demand
Pro Tips for Better Shipping Decisions
Track Seasonality
Note shipping times during peak seasons. Economic routes may experience longer delays during holidays.
Monitor Weight Breaks
Air shipping often has tiered pricing. Small weight reductions can sometimes move you to a lower price tier.
Update Regularly
Review your spreadsheet monthly. Shipping rates and transit times can change based on market conditions.
Factor in Hidden Costs
Include insurance, handling fees, and potential stockout costs in your total cost analysis.
Optimize Your Shipping Strategy with VigorBuy
By systematically tracking delivery speed and weight pricing in your spreadsheet, you can transform your shipping decisions from guesses into data-driven strategies. Remember that the most efficient line isn't always the fastest or the cheapest—it's the one that delivers the best value for your specific business needs.
Start building your comparison spreadsheet today, and discover how VigorBuy's flexible shipping options can help you balance cost and speed for optimal efficiency.