Optimizing your international shipping is key to customer satisfaction and cost efficiency. By systematically analyzing shipment timelines, you can pinpoint the most reliable and efficient routes. Your spreadsheet is a powerful tool for this discovery.
Every shipment record contains valuable data. By organizing this information in a spreadsheet, you transform raw numbers into a clear performance map. Essential columns to track include:
Gather historical shipment data for the past quarter or year. Ensure consistency in your date formats and carrier names for accurate analysis.
Create new columns in your spreadsheet to compute:
Use your spreadsheet's charting tools. Create bar charts to compare average times across routesconsistency (or lack thereof). Visual trends are often the quickest way to spot your best and worst performers.
Look for routes and services that balance speed, reliability, and cost. The fastest option may not be the most consistent, and the cheapest may cause delays. Your goal is to find the cluster of shipments that reliably meet your service-level targets at a reasonable cost.
Once you've identified your most efficient international options, update your shipping strategy. Direct high-priority shipments to the top-performing routes. Use the data to negotiate with carriers or to set accurate customer expectations. Remember, regular review is crucial—quarterly analysis will help you adapt to changing global logistics performance.
With LitBuy Shipping and a well-organized spreadsheet, you move from guessing to data-driven decision making.
