Delve into the critical role of parcel data in optimizing shipping operations, especially as businesses gear up for peak season. Megan Rudolph, senior director of parcel operations at Saddle Creek Logistics, shares her expertise on how to collect, analyze, and leverage parcel data to enhance customer satisfaction, reduce costs, and ensure carrier accountability.

Megan emphasized that parcel data boils down to two main metrics: transit time and cost. She explains, “Parcel analytics is all the data that allows you to measure those two things.”

Understanding these two metrics at a granular level enables businesses to manage consumer expectations, optimize costs, and hold carriers accountable. Megan also stresses the importance of real-time data, particularly for tracking shipments and managing delivery exceptions.

Surcharges are a significant factor in shipping costs, and Megan advises businesses to closely monitor these charges to identify opportunities for cost savings. Businesses can use parcel data to negotiate better rates with carriers and make informed decisions about service selection. “Knowing how to leverage that data to negotiate is really important,” Megan notes, highlighting that businesses can shift volume to different carriers if necessary to optimize costs.

Looking ahead, Megan is excited about the potential for AI to democratize data analytics. She explains that AI can help those who are less data-savvy to easily access and interpret parcel data, thus lowering the barrier to entry for effective data use. “AI becomes a facilitator,” she says, allowing businesses to ask simple questions and receive actionable insights without needing deep technical expertise.

• Connect with Megan on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/megan-rudolph-688a4743
• Visit Saddle Creek’s website: https://www.sclogistics.com/