In global logistics, controlling freight costs is a primary driver of profitability. CNFANS Shipping empowers businesses to move beyond guesswork by leveraging their own historical spreadsheet data to make intelligent, cost-saving shipping decisions.
The Power of Your Historical Data
Every shipment record in your spreadsheets—carrier names, freight charges, routes, dates, and transit times—contains a blueprint for optimization. Most companies let this data sit idle. At CNFANS, we teach you to transform it into an actionable strategic asset.
A Step-by-Step Framework for Analysis
By structuring your historical data, you can perform powerful comparative analysis. Follow this framework to uncover hidden savings:
1. Data Consolidation & Standardization
Gather historical freight data from various files into one master spreadsheet. Ensure consistency in column headers (e.g., Origin, Destination, Carrier, Charge_Amount, Ship_Date, Transit_Days, Service_Level). Cleanse the data for duplicates and errors.
2. Comparative Route & Carrier Analysis
Use spreadsheet formulas and PivotTables to compare performance side-by-side.
| Route (A-B) | Carrier | Avg. Freight Cost | Avg. Transit Days | On-Time Rate | Cost per Day (Index) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shanghai to LA | Carrier X | $1,850 | 18 | 95% | $102.78 |
| Shanghai to LA | Carrier Y | $1,750 | 22 | 88% | $79.55 |
| Shenzhen to Hamburg | Carrier Z | $2,100 | 24 | 92% | $87.50 |
Analysis: While Carrier X is faster to LA, Carrier Y offers a lower cost per transit day, which may be preferable for non-urgent goods.
3. Identify Seasonality and Trends
Chart your freight costs over time. You will likely discover predictable seasonal spikes (e.g., pre-holiday surges, Chinese New Year). Use this insight to plan shipments during lower-rate periods or negotiate fixed contracts ahead of peak seasons.
4. Calculate Total Landed Cost, Not Just Freight
Add columns for related costs: port fees, insurance, customs delays, and inventory holding cost. The "cheapest" freight option often has hidden expenses that make it more costly overall.
Choosing the Most Economical Option
With your analyzed data, decision-making becomes objective. Use a simple scoring model based on your priorities:
- For Time-Sensitive Goods:Transit TimeOn-Time Rate
- For Cost-Sensitive, High-Volume Goods:Avg. Freight CostCost per Day
- For Balancing Cost & Reliability:
- For Cost-Sensitive, High-Volume Goods:Avg. Freight CostCost per Day
Update your analysis quarterly to reflect changing market rates and carrier performance.
CNFANS Shipping: Your Partner in Data-Driven Logistics
We don't just move your cargo; we equip you with the methodology to move it smarter. By systematically comparing historical freight charges and route performance in your spreadsheets, you gain control, visibility, and sustained cost reduction.
Start analyzing your historical data today. The most economical shipping options are already hidden in your past shipments, waiting to be discovered.