Turning data into strategic supply chain decisions
Every shipment your company moves holds valuable insight into your logistics operations. Details about delivery times, costs, delays and more all create a clear picture of how your supply chain runs. But collecting data is only the beginning. The real impact comes when you use it to make smarter decisions.
What is shipping data?
Shipping data is information collected during the entire shipping process. It helps you understand how your loads move from origin to destination and includes details like:
- Delivery times
- Shipping costs
- Routes and warehouses used
- Freight size and weight
- Number of damages or late deliveries
Why does it matter?
Although this information may seem basic, it provides insight into how your shipping process works and where it may be failing. When evaluating these stats, you should be able to answer essential questions about your business. These may include:
- Which carriers deliver on time/late?
- Are certain shipping lanes costing us more money?
- Are there patterns in our peak shipping times?
- How often do we need to file claims?
How to use shipping insights to improve performance
Interpreting shipping data can lead to more innovative and efficient supply chains. Here are some things it can allow you to do:
Plan smarter routes
Shipping data can show you which routes are the fastest or the most affordable. If one route usually has delays or costs more than others, you can switch to another, saving you time or money.
Choose the right carriers
Not all shipping partners perform the same. Some are faster, others are cheaper, and some are the most reliable. By reviewing delivery times, costs and claims, you can choose the carriers that meet your expectations.
Reduce shipping costs
You can find ways to cut back when you know exactly where your money is being spent. For example, you may notice you're paying extra fees for last-minute shipping or that certain loads are not being sent ergonomically.
Forecast demand
Looking back at past data helps you notice trends when volumes go up or down. This makes it easier to plan for peak seasons and slower months.
Improve sustainability metrics
If you’re working to reduce emissions, shipping data can help you track miles traveled, fuel use and more.
Prepare backup plans
Delays happen. Weather or labor shortages can cause some of these disruptions in your supply chain. Analyzing data can help you spot any potential patterns to prepare a backup plan.
Getting started
If you’re not already using shipping data to guide your logistics strategy, the best place to start is with what you already have. Most transportation management systems (TMS) and internal reports track basic shipment details.
Begin by identifying the metrics that matter most to your business, like on-time delivery rate or cost per shipment. From there, look for patterns. Are certain lanes consistently delayed? Are costs trending up without a clear reason?
Even a simple spreadsheet review can help uncover opportunities. But if you want to dig deeper, consider consolidating your data in one platform and setting up regular reports to monitor performance over time.
Using a managed logistics provider is a great way to outsource this task — freeing up your team while gaining access to deeper analytics, industry benchmarks and proactive support.
Unlock data-driven decisions
Don’t let valuable shipping data go to waste. ArcBest gives you the tools and support you need to track performance and improve delivery outcomes. Whether you’re shipping across town or around the globe, contact us today to help turn insights into a better shipping experience.
Looking to simplify your logistics with a managed transportation service? Learn more about ArcBest’s managed solutions.
