Transforming Logistics Data into Actionable Insights: Lessons from Industry Experts

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In the logistics field, data serves as a vital backbone for decision-making. However, the challenge lies in converting raw data of varying quality into useful insights. Recently, industry leaders from Freightos and Gryn shared insights on overcoming these data obstacles to enhance logistics operations. Below, key strategies are outlined to make logistics data actionable, focusing on trends backed by authoritative sources.

The Data Challenge in Logistics

The logistics landscape is flooded with information, ranging from freight rates to shipment volumes and sustainability metrics. Despite the wealth of data, even large corporations face hurdles in data harmonization. As highlighted by experts, companies often rely on disconnected systems such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), Transportation Management Systems (TMS), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms. This fragmentation leads to inconsistent data formats and quality issues—consider variations in country codes (like “UK” vs. “GB”) or port codes for major cities like Shanghai. Such discrepancies undermine trust in data reliability.

According to Oliver Esch, VP Commercial at Freightos, the priority is to harmonize disparate systems. Many companies become overwhelmed by multiple standalone solutions that scatter data across different platforms.

Echoing this sentiment, Oliver Ritzmann, Founder of Gryn, noted that enterprises with extensive data resources fail to capitalize on them due to complexities in management and low data quality.

Effective data utilization means transforming it into actionable strategies for supplier management and supply chain enhancements, ultimately driving cost reduction and improving performance—essential objectives for any logistics operator.

Five Strategies to Elevate Logistics Data Utilization

To make logistics data a strategic asset, experts share five core approaches to streamline operations and improve sustainability and cost efficiency.

1. Set a Clear Objective for Data Collection

Data without a definitive goal is futile. It is crucial to align data collection efforts with specific business objectives, whether that’s procurement optimization, sustainability tracking, or supplier performance evaluation. Platforms like Freightos Terminal enable shippers to measure rates and monitor market trends, while Gryn’s solutions facilitate compliance with regulatory standards like the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. By concentrating on purpose-driven data, organizations can avoid squandering resources on non-utilized metrics.

2. Focus on Essential Data Sets

Not all data holds equal weight. A notable study revealed that around 80% of procurement-related data goes untouched. Organizations should pinpoint critical data points—be it transit timings, supplier ratings, or carbon emissions—and streamline their collection processes. Freightos Enterprise enhances efficiency by prioritizing only necessary data through its modules for procurement and intelligence, ensuring focus on what truly matters.

3. Guarantee Data Quality and Consistency

Flawed data can severely impair decision-making. Common problems, including inconsistencies in country codes and missing weights, can be mitigated through Artificial Intelligence (AI), which cleans and structures data effectively. Poor data quality can cost organizations millions annually. By employing AI, Freightos and Gryn ensure that data is correct and reliable, especially in processes like invoice verification—where a staggering nine out of ten invoices contain errors.

4. Integrate Data Sources for Cohesive Insights

Data fragmented across multiple sources obstructs visibility. Experts recommend integrating systems such as visibility tools and benchmarking platforms to establish a unified data source. By collaborating with real-time visibility providers, Freightos allows shippers to monitor shipments and validate supplier performance, while Gryn merges shipment data with sustainability metrics. This comprehensive approach spurs real-time decision-making, particularly when market conditions change.

5. Quantify and Communicate Success

Ultimately, data’s worth lies in its ability to yield results. Measuring outcomes—whether booked shipment volumes align with awards or if sustainability initiatives meet projected carbon savings—is vital. Gryn’s future AI-driven supply chain optimization tools will provide actionable recommendations for cost and carbon savings, paired with clear success metrics. Sharing these successes through dashboards facilitates stakeholder engagement and promotes ongoing improvement.

The Integration of AI in Logistics Data

AI is revolutionizing how logistics handles data—enabling better predictive analytics and automated processes. However, both experts stress that AI’s effectiveness hinges upon the availability of quality data.

Gryn plans to launch an AI report builder that will simplify performance reporting and data analyses. At Freightos, AI enhances rate management, providing shippers with informed procurement decisions.

Nonetheless, reluctance to share data remains a significant barrier—highlighting a need for secure cloud solutions like those Freightos and Gryn provide.

Data-Driven Logistics: A Look Ahead to 2025

The logistics industry stands on the brink of major transformation, influenced by regulatory reforms requiring enhanced data transparency and sharing, like the EU Data Act. These developments resonate with the missions of Freightos and Gryn: to simplify data flows while allowing organizations to respond quickly to market shifts. As Esch encourages, “Just start now; any data can be improved over time.” This proactive mindset, paired with progressive platforms, positions companies to weather market fluctuations and succeed long-term.

By adopting these five strategies and leveraging solutions offered by platforms like Freightos and Gryn, logistics professionals can unlock the potential of their data to boost efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

Yhteenveto

The actionable insights shared in this article illuminate the vital strategies needed for effective logistics management through data. From clear objectives to data quality assurance, these practices are essential for success in the logistics landscape. Despite a wealth of beneficial methodologies, firsthand experience remains unmatched. On GetTransport.com, efficient global cargo transportation options are readily accessible at competitive prices, enabling well-informed logistics decisions without overspending or disillusionment. The platform excels in transparency and convenience, catering to various transportation needs. Plan your next delivery with affordability and reliability. Hanki parhaat tarjoukset.