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Margarita Tokareva

Expert in sales process optimization in the logistics industry. Helps freight forwarders go digital and boost their sales with the implementation of the right freight forwarding software.

Automation Quotiss

Freight Automation: 8 Smart Ways to Win More Deals

Automation & Digitalization, Sales Automation / By

In freight forwarding, time is money, and your sales team is often stuck in a loop of quoting, following up, checking rates, and updating spreadsheets. It’s repetitive, prone to error, and frankly — not scalable. That’s where freight sales automation comes in.

In 2025, forwarders that leverage automation tools are closing more deals, responding faster, and creating better customer experiences. Whether you’re a local freight company or a global logistics brand, automating key sales processes is no longer optional — it’s essential.

Here’s how to get started.

📌 1. Standardize Your Quoting Process

Many forwarders still send quotes via manually edited Word documents or spreadsheets. Not only is this slow, but it also introduces inconsistencies and errors that damage your professional image.

With automation, you can:

  • Pre-build branded quote templates

  • Auto-fill key customer details

  • Standardize pricing logic (per route, per client, per trade lane)

Using a platform like Quotiss, your team can generate accurate, on-brand quotes in a couple of clicks — reducing quote turnaround time by up to 90%.

📌 2. Centralize & Automate Rate Management

Rate updates from carriers come in daily — often as Excel attachments with hundreds of rows of surcharges, validity dates, and conditions. Manual entry takes hours and leads to outdated rates, which can cost you the deal.

By automating rate uploads and syncs:

  • You eliminate copy-paste errors

  • You can apply markups or discounts automatically

  • Your sales team always works with the latest rates

Platforms like Quotiss let you upload tariffs using simple templates and manage them dynamically. Imagine sending a rate update to all clients with just a few clicks.

📌 3. Track Leads and Conversions with Built-In CRM

It’s common for freight sales reps to use sticky notes, personal notebooks, or WhatsApp threads to manage their follow-ups. But that’s risky — what happens when someone leaves the company?

Instead, integrate a CRM that:

  • Generates leads automatically

  • Follows up on email conversations and activities

  • Shows sales metrics and quote history per client

With Quotiss, CRM is built-in — no need to buy a separate product. Everything from first contact to confirmed booking is stored and visible.

📌 4. Use Automated Email Templates

The average sales rep sends dozens of repetitive emails per week — quote confirmations, rate follow-ups, general inquiries.

With automation, you can:

  • Use email templates for common replies

  • Insert dynamic fields (client name, quote ref, summary, etc.)

  • Monitor email open ratio

Bonus tip: Set up reminder sequences if the client hasn’t responded in X days.

📌 5. Let Prospects Quote Themselves — Use a Website Widget

Wouldn’t it be great if your website worked for you, even while you sleep?

A freight quote widget does just that. It lets site visitors get a quote instantly by entering origin, destination, and cargo type — without needing to call or email you.

Benefits include:

  • 24/7 lead generation

  • Less manual workload for your team

  • Better UX and faster time-to-quote

Tools like the Quotiss Widget help you capture and convert leads automatically.

📌 6. Automate Sales Reporting

Most sales managers spend hours compiling weekly reports. Instead, use automation to:

  • Generate real-time dashboards

  • Send daily/weekly reports to stakeholders

  • Track quote volume, win rate, and top routes

This helps you make smarter, faster decisions — and frees up time for actual selling.

📌 7. Use Triggers and Workflows for Follow-Ups

A quote is only as good as its follow-up. But sales reps often forget to chase leads.

Set up simple automation rules:

  • “If quote not accepted in 3 days → send reminder”

  • “If client hasn’t booked in 30 days → add to reactivation list”

With these triggers in place, your system does the remembering for you — and nothing slips through the cracks.

📌 8. Sync Sales and Operations Automatically

Once a deal is won, how fast can you hand it over to the operations team?

With automation:

  • Booking data is sent directly from the quote

  • Customer preferences are pre-filled

  • Documents are attached automatically

This reduces rework, delays, and miscommunication between departments — ensuring a smoother client experience.

✅ Final Thoughts: Automation Isn’t Replacing Sales — It’s Empowering It

Sales automation in freight forwarding isn’t about removing the human touch. It’s about giving your team the tools to do more, faster — without burnout or chaos. When reps spend less time on manual tasks, they spend more time building relationships, winning deals, and growing the business.

In fact, according to a McKinsey study on the future of work in logistics, companies that implemented automation in sales and logistics saw up to 45% improvement in productivity and significantly shorter sales cycles.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade your tech stack, Quotiss makes it easy to automate your freight sales from day one.

📞 Ready to see it in action? Please register for a free trial via this link or contact us directly to schedule a demo.

Freight quote widget

10 Reasons to Add a Freight Quote Widget to Your Website

Instant Freight Quotes / By

In today’s dynamic forwarding business landscape, staying ahead of the competition requires a strategic approach to innovation. Leveraging cutting-edge tools can be the key to success, and one such tool could be the Freight Quote Widget by Quotiss. This simple yet powerful addition to your website can bring lots of benefits that not only increase your sales results but also elevate the customer experience. In this article, we’ll dive into the ten reasons why integrating a Quotiss’ Freight Quote Widget into your website is a strategic move that can propel your forwarding business to new heights.

1. Increase Sales with Instant Quoting

The primary goal of any business is growth, and our Quote Widget can significantly contribute to achieving this objective. By offering instant quoting capabilities on your website, you’re enabling potential customers to take immediate action. This quick and convenient process can lead to a higher conversion rate, ultimately boosting your sales figures.

2. Respond Faster for Customer Satisfaction

In the competitive world of logistics, speed is crucial. With a Quote Widget, swift responses to customer inquiries are automated. No more waiting for manual calculations – the widget automates the process, responds promptly, and enhances customer satisfaction.

3. Provide Exceptional Support 24/7

Exceptional customer support is a hallmark of successful businesses. By incorporating a Quotiss Widget, you empower your customers to access accurate quotes at any time. This self-service approach gives customers the information they need at their convenience.

4. Save Time for the Sales Team

Time is a valuable resource, and the Quote Widget is a time-saver. Instead of manual back-and-forths for quoting, the widget generates instant quotes and collects online leads, freeing up valuable time for your team to focus on other critical tasks.

5. High ROI / Low Cost for Business Growth

Investing in technology often comes with cost concerns, but the ROI of the Widget can be significant. The automation it brings reduces manual effort, allowing your team to handle more tasks efficiently. The cost pales in comparison to the long-term benefits, which can contribute to improved revenue and online lead traffic.

6. Increase Customer Loyalty with Simplicity

Customers value simplicity and efficiency. A user-friendly Quote Widget that provides accurate freight quotes delivers a positive experience and leads to increased customer loyalty, contributing to a higher customer retention rate.

7. Seamless Omni-channel Integration

In the digital age, customers interact with businesses through various channels. A Freight Quote Widget by Quotiss can seamlessly integrate across platforms, providing a consistent quoting experience whether customers are on your website, social media, or other online touchpoints. This integration can enhance your website’s overall authority.

8. Scale Your Sales Operations

Digital Automation has revolutionized logistics, and a Freight Quote Widget can harness its power. All incoming online leads are automatically recorded while the algorithms can fine-tune quotes based on customer margins, ensuring the accuracy and competitiveness of the rates. As your business scales, automated online lead generation and online quotes can scale to changing demands, providing a better user experience and positively influencing the bottom line.

9. Enhance the Brand with Professionalism

A professional and intuitive website speaks volumes about your brand. By embedding a Freight Quote Widget, you’re enhancing your brand’s digital presence. The widget’s customization options can ensure it aligns seamlessly with your website’s aesthetics and overall branding, which can lead to better user engagement and improved lead flow.

10. Gain a Competitive Edge

In a competitive market, differentiation is key. A Freight Quote Widget sets you apart by offering a modern, efficient, and customer-centric approach to quoting. It showcases your commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and meeting customer needs, which can reflect positively in search engine algorithms, ultimately improving your SEO performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a Quotiss Freight Quote Widget?

A Freight Quote Widget is a tool integrated into a forwarding company’s website that allows their customers to receive instant and accurate freight quotes online. It automates the quoting process, providing a user-friendly and efficient experience. It also collects leads from online visitors who are not registered yet and sends this info directly to the system.

Q2: How can a Quotiss Freight Quote Widget boost sales?

By offering instant quotes on your website, potential customers are more likely to convert as they can take immediate action. This can lead to a higher conversion rate and increased sales.

Q3: How does a Quotiss Freight Quote Widget save time?

Instead of attending multiple incoming quote requests, the sales team can redirect clients to the widget where they can generate instant quotes, saving valuable time for your sales team. This time-saving aspect can improve operational efficiency and overall customer satisfaction.

Q4: Can a Quotiss Freight Quote Widget enhance brand identity?

Yes, the professional and seamless integration of the widget aligns with your brand’s aesthetics and professionalism. It contributes to a positive user experience, enhancing your brand’s digital presence and authority.

Do you want to know more about the Quote Widget? Please register for a free trial via this link or contact us directly to schedule a demo of the widget.

Freight quoting software

Freight Quoting Software Value Analysis

Automation & Digitalization, Digital Freight, Logistics Software, Sales Automation, Simplicity & Efficiency / By

In the highly competitive logistics industry, freight forwarders understand that price plays a critical role in driving business. To stay ahead, freight forwarders must seize every opportunity to enhance profit margins. One effective way to achieve this is by using technology to optimize internal processes, leading to increased efficiency and profitability. Among various technologies available, freight quoting software stands out as a powerful tool that can significantly impact a freight forwarder’s bottom line.

Let’s try to put a dollar value on the freight quoting software and explore the areas where digitization can bring substantial benefits.

Logistics Software: Enhancing Efficiency and Profitability

Logistics software has the potential to revolutionize the way freight forwarders operate. By automating manual processes and streamlining data management, logistics software can generate tangible dollar value for the business.

1. Transparency in Commercial Data

Traditionally, sales teams in freight forwarding companies had to rely on multiple Excel spreadsheets to handle rates, surcharges, and special conditions when preparing freight quotes manually. However, this manual approach increases the risk of errors, which can have significant financial implications.

With modern quoting software, all commercial data is consolidated on one platform in a structured manner, providing transparency and sanity to the process. Frequent changes in freight rates are no longer a challenge, as up-to-date information is readily available, leading to accurate and reliable quotes.

2. Simplification and Efficiency

Say goodbye to cumbersome Excel freight ratesheets. Freight quoting software simplifies the sales and procurement workflow by offering a centralized platform for commercial data. With just a few clicks, freight tariffs can be uploaded and freight quotes can be generated effortlessly.

Automating these processes not only saves time but also reduces costs. The software allows sales representatives to focus on more value-added tasks, such as building relationships with clients and securing more business.

3. Data Security and Confidentiality

In the age of technology, data security is of utmost importance. Business relationships rely on trust, and freight forwarders need to ensure the confidentiality of their sensitive data.

At Quotiss, we prioritize data security and protection. With the utilization of Azure cloud servers – a technology trusted by major global corporations – clients can rest assured that their data is in safe hands. Regular database backups further guarantee the safety and integrity of the information.

4. Cost Savings and ROI

Integrating technology into the commercial business process leads to substantial cost savings and increased return on investment (ROI). The software’s automation capabilities allow tasks to be completed with exceptional speed and accuracy.

By centralizing the freight rates and client databases, the software simplifies contract management and allows for automated tracking of freight quotes. This reduction in manual effort not only improves quality standards but also opens up new avenues for utilizing sales talent effectively.

Conclusion

The dollar value of freight quoting software is undeniable, especially for larger organizations where a simple Excel file won’t do a trick anymore. From enhancing transparency and efficiency to securing the data and delivering significant cost savings, the freight software offers substantial benefits to freight forwarders. Embracing technology in the logistics industry is no longer an option but a necessity to stay competitive and thrive in a fast-paced market.

So, what are you waiting for? Calculate the potential dollar value of logistics software for your business using our simple online ROI calculator. Embrace the future of logistics and unlock your business’s true potential.

FAQs

  1. How can Quotiss software benefit my freight forwarding business? Quotiss software can boost your sales, bring transparency, simplify processes, enhance data security, and result in substantial cost savings.
  2. Is Quotiss software suitable for small freight forwarding companies? Yes, Quotiss software can benefit both small and large freight forwarding companies by streamlining sales activities and driving efficiency.
  3. What makes Quotiss a reliable logistics software provider? Quotiss prioritizes data security, utilizing trusted Azure cloud servers and ensuring daily database backups for maximum safety.
  4. Can quoting software help in generating more profit? Yes, quoting software reduces manual efforts, allowing sales teams to focus on revenue-generating activities, thus increasing profit potential.
  5. How can I calculate the ROI of implementing logistics software? Use our simple online ROI calculator to estimate the dollar value Quotiss software can bring to your business.
Online Quote Widget

Boosting Freight Sales with Online Quote Widget

Automation & Digitalization, Digital Freight, Online Freight, Sales Automation / By

In the digital era of logistics, freight forwarders are constantly seeking innovative ways to attract and engage clients. One powerful tool is Quotiss’ online quote widget. This product seamlessly integrates into forwarders’ websites, enabling importers and exporters to generate quotes themselves while forwarders automatically collect valuable lead details. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of the online quote widget and its ability to accelerate client engagement, complementing the AI tools discussed in our previous post on revolutionizing freight sales.

 

Empowering Client Self-Service

 

The online quote widget from Quotiss empowers clients with a self-service quoting experience. By embedding this user-friendly widget into their website, forwarders allow clients to access an intuitive interface and effortlessly create quotes in a few simple steps. Clients can input shipment details, select preferences, and instantly receive accurate quotes tailored to their specific needs. This seamless self-service functionality not only enhances the client experience but also saves time for both clients and forwarders.

Quotiss online quote widget offers the flexibility to ensure that the right rates are automatically applied on a customer/product level. This customization allows forwarders to cater to the unique pricing agreements they have with individual clients. By configuring the margins per customer, Quotiss can guarantee that the correct rates and pricing rules are automatically factored into the generated quotes. This level of customization not only saves time for both forwarders and clients but also minimizes the risk of errors or discrepancies in pricing. With the ability to provide accurate and tailored quotes, forwarders can further strengthen their client relationships and establish themselves as trusted partners in the freight industry.

 

Seamless Integration and Brand Consistency

 

Quotiss’ online quote widget can be seamlessly integrated into a forwarder’s website, ensuring a consistent brand experience for clients. The widget can be customized to align with the forwarder’s branding and professional appearance. By offering a unified and branded interface, forwarders can strengthen their brand identity, foster trust with clients, and create a seamless transition from their website to the quoting process.

Moreover, Quotiss’ online quote widget seamlessly integrates with existing online customer portals, further enhancing the client experience and streamlining the quoting process. By integrating the widget into their customer portals, forwarders can provide existing clients with a convenient and centralized platform to create quotes. This efficient workflow enables clients to seamlessly transition from the customer portal to the quoting process without any disruptions. By offering this level of integration, Quotiss empowers forwarders to deliver a comprehensive and user-friendly experience to their clients, fostering long-term relationships and strengthening customer loyalty.

 

Lead Generation via Online Widget

 

The online quote widget serves as a powerful lead-generation tool for forwarders. As clients register online to create quotes, the widget collects valuable lead information, including contact details, shipment requirements, and preferences. This information is automatically stored in a client database, building a comprehensive and actionable list of potential clients. Leveraging this database, forwarders can implement targeted marketing campaigns via personalized outreach functionality, and tailored follow-ups to convert leads into loyal customers.

 

Enhanced Data Insights and Analytics

 

The online quote widget generates valuable data insights and analytics for forwarders. By tracking client interactions, quote requests, and conversions, forwarders gain a deeper understanding of client preferences and market trends. This data-driven approach enables forwarders to refine their pricing strategies, identify emerging opportunities, and improve their overall sales performance. Quotiss’ analytics and reporting capabilities provide forwarders with comprehensive metrics, empowering them to make data-backed decisions and drive growth.

Quotiss’ online quote widget is a win-win for freight forwarders seeking to accelerate client engagement and boost their sales efforts. By empowering clients with self-quoting service, ensuring brand consistency, collecting valuable leads, and providing data-driven insights, forwarders can enhance the client experience, expand their customer base, and stay ahead in a competitive market. When combined with the AI tools discussed in our previous post, forwarders can leverage technology to streamline their operations, optimize sales processes, and deliver exceptional value to clients in the ever-evolving logistics landscape.

AI tools in freight sales

AI Tools Revolutionizing Freight Sales

Automation & Digitalization, Digital Freight, Sales Automation / By

As the freight industry continues to evolve, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) tools is set to reshape the landscape of freight sales. These innovative technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for logistics companies to streamline their operations, optimize processes, and achieve higher levels of efficiency. In the previous blog post, we analyzed the impact of Blockchain technology on the logistics industry and why its biggest Blockchain project called Tradelens (led by Maersk and IBM) was shut down in 2022. In this blog post, we will delve into the role of AI tools in the future of freight sales and explore the transformative impact they could have on the logistics industry. Without a doubt, both Maersk and IBM are already looking closely at this technology.

Intelligent Lead Generation and Qualification

 

In the world of freight sales, AI tools are reshaping the way logistics companies generate and qualify leads, bringing a wave of revolution. These incredible technologies have the power to analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing logistics companies with a higher level of precision in identifying potential customers. By harnessing the capabilities of machine learning algorithms, AI-powered lead generation tools can effortlessly navigate through extensive databases and online platforms, establishing connections and offering valuable insights on potential leads based on specific criteria.

AI tools also streamline the lead qualification process by analyzing data patterns and customer behavior. They have the ability to evaluate lead quality, assess the likelihood of conversion, and prioritize prospects accordingly. With the automation of lead generation and qualification, freight sales teams can concentrate their efforts on the most promising opportunities, resulting in improved overall conversion rates and enhanced sales effectiveness.

 

Dynamic Pricing Optimization

 

Pricing optimization is a crucial aspect of freight sales, and AI plays a significant role in revolutionizing this process. By analyzing real-time market data, historical trends, and customer behavior, AI-powered pricing tools can generate dynamic and competitive pricing strategies.

These tools consider factors such as fuel costs, capacity availability, market demand, and shipping routes to provide optimal pricing recommendations. By leveraging AI algorithms, freight sales teams can respond rapidly to market fluctuations, make informed pricing decisions, and remain competitive while maintaining healthy profit margins.

Intelligent Route Planning and Optimization

 

Efficient route planning is a vital component of freight sales, and AI tools are transforming this aspect of the industry. By integrating machine learning algorithms, these tools can analyze a plethora of data, including traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and historical shipping patterns, to generate optimized routes.

AI-powered route planning tools provide real-time visibility into the most efficient routes, allowing logistics companies to minimize fuel consumption, reduce transit times, and optimize resource allocation. This not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances customer satisfaction by ensuring timely deliveries.

Predictive Analytics for Demand Forecasting


AI tools with predictive analytics capabilities play a pivotal role in freight sales by enabling accurate demand forecasting. By analyzing historical shipping data, market trends, and external variables, these tools can generate precise predictions regarding future demand.

With these insights, logistics companies can optimize their inventory management, plan capacity requirements, and allocate resources accordingly. By accurately forecasting demand, freight sales teams can ensure they have the necessary infrastructure and resources to meet customer needs, reducing costly inefficiencies and improving customer satisfaction.

Additionally, it’s important to emphasize the vital role that data collection plays in the effectiveness of AI-powered tools. Without gathering thorough and precise data, the analytics carried out by these tools would be undermined. In other words, the quality of insights and decisions derived from these tools heavily relies on the availability of reliable data. Therefore, logistics companies should prioritize the collection of high-quality data from various sources to fuel their AI tools. By doing so, they can ensure the tools deliver accurate and valuable insights, enabling them to make well-informed decisions and drive success in their operations.

 

Instead of Conclusion:

 

The future of freight sales is tied to the integration of AI tools. These transformative technologies revolutionize lead generation and qualification, pricing optimization, route planning, and demand forecasting. By leveraging AI algorithms, logistics companies can enhance operational efficiency, minimize costs, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. As the freight industry continues to evolve, embracing AI will be paramount to staying competitive, driving growth, and reaping the myriad benefits they bring to the table.

P.S. This article was written, spell-checked and posted by AI tools 🙂

Blockchain in container shipping

What Happened to Blockchain in Container Shipping?

Instant Freight Quotes / By

Do you remember when Blockchain was on the first page of every digital newspaper? It was not so long ago – in 2018-2020 everyone was talking about the digital revolution and many different ways in which blockchain will transform the traditional and conservative container shipping industry. Various experts on numerous forums created a lot of hustle around this subject, and it was fueled up to the maximum when Maersk announced a blockchain project TradeLens together with IBM.

Then we all got distracted by COVID-19, and the blockchain got slightly out of the radar. Recently, at the end of 2022, Maersk announced the closure of the TradeLens. If you go to the TradeLens website, you will see a farewell message right at the top of the page that reads:

“TradeLens was founded on a bold vision for global supply chain digitization as an open and neutral industry platform. This vision centered on the ability to enable true information sharing and collaboration across a highly fragmented industry globally. 
Unfortunately, such a level of cooperation and support has not been possible to achieve at this point in time and A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) and IBM have announced the discontinuation of the TradeLens platform.
We would like to express our sincere thanks for those that interacted with TradeLens since 2018. We are honored to have been part of your digitization journey.”

So what did happen to TradeLens and the whole Blockchain technology initiative? Can we call it a failure or is there more to come?

 

The Blockchain

 

Blockchain technology has matured and moved beyond the initial hype, entering a phase where its real-world applications are being explored and developed. As with any other technology, initial excitement often gives way to a more measured and focused approach. The focus now is to identify practical use cases that provide genuine value and solve real-world problems. This shift has led to more targeted discussions and implementations rather than broad generalizations about blockchain. Many organizations are exploring how blockchain can enhance their operations, but the integration process often happens behind the scenes and is not always widely publicized.

Blockchain faces certain scalability and technical challenges, especially when it comes to processing large volumes of transactions quickly and cost-effectively. While progress has been made in addressing these issues through various scaling solutions, they remain ongoing areas of research and development. The technical nature of these discussions may make them less prominent in mainstream conversations. In simple words, it’s getting overcomplicated for the general public.

While the hype around blockchain had gone back to the IT community, the technology continues to evolve, and its potential impact remains significant. Ongoing research, development, and real-world implementations are shaping the future of blockchain.

 

TradeLens

 

TradeLens is a blockchain-based platform for supply chain management developed by IBM and Maersk. It aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and security in global trade by digitizing and automating various processes. Since its launch in 2018, TradeLens has gained support from several major shipping companies and port operators, indicating its potential for success. These include companies like Pacific International Lines (PIL), CMA CGM, Hamburg Süd, and PSA International.

However, implementing blockchain technology in complex industries like global trade and supply chain management presented lots of challenges. Some potential obstacles that could affect the closure of the TradeLens project or any blockchain experiment in the field may include:

  1. Adoption: Achieving widespread adoption of new technology can be challenging, especially in industries with multiple stakeholders such as container shipping. Encouraging all relevant parties to join the platform and integrate their systems can be a time-consuming process.
  2. Interoperability: Ensuring seamless data sharing and interoperability among different participants’ systems can be a complex task. Integrating legacy systems with a new blockchain platform may require significant effort and technical expertise.
  3. Regulatory and legal considerations: The regulatory landscape surrounding blockchain technology and global trade may vary across jurisdictions. Compliance with existing laws and regulations and addressing potential legal barriers can be a complex process.
  4. Scalability and performance: Blockchain technology, while offering advantages in terms of security and transparency, can face challenges related to scalability and performance when dealing with large volumes of transactions and data.
  5. Return on Investment: 

Last but not least, there is a financial aspect that is extremely significant for any project of such scale. All of the above obstacles have to be heavily funded to be resolved. But it seems that the companies were not looking forward to investing in it for an indefinite period of time. As formulated by Rotem Hershko, Head of Business Platforms at A.P. Moller-Maersk, “TradeLens was founded on the bold vision to make a leap in global supply chain digitization as an open and neutral industry platform. Unfortunately, while we successfully developed a viable platform, the need for full global industry collaboration has not been achieved. As a result, TradeLens has not reached the level of commercial viability necessary to continue work and meet the financial expectations as an independent business.”

It’s essential to consider that the success or failure of an experiment like TradeLens may depend on various factors, including industry dynamics, market conditions, and technological advancements.

There are still numerous logistics startups working on innovative solutions with blockchain technologies. Areas such as supply chain visibility, operations optimization, and digital freight platforms continue to attract startup activity and consequently, venture and corporate investors. The logistics industry is vast and ever-evolving, and there is a chance we will see the re-birth of TradeLens in a new form. Will definitely watch this space.

Freight forwarding simplification

Why Freight Forwarding is Complicated (and How to Simplify It)

Instant Freight Quotes / By

Freight forwarding is a complex business that involves many different factors, each of which can add to the overall complexity of freight sales. There are multiple parties involved, including shippers, carriers, customs agents, and other logistics providers. Each of these parties may have their own processes and procedures that need to be followed, which can make the overall process more complicated. Regulations and compliance with a variety of regulations, including customs regulations, trade regulations, and safety regulations require constant attention as non-compliance can result in fines, delays, and other issues.  Factors like distance, mode of transportation, and customs requirements can all affect the overall process and make it more difficult to manage. Add variability and unpredictability (factors like weather, port congestion, and unexpected delays) and it will be a perfect recipe for a nightmare. Is there a way to radically simplify it?

The Quotiss philosophy is based on the Pareto and KISS principles since the very beginning of the ‘idea stage’. Even the name “Quotiss” stands for “Quote It Smart and Simple” as an allusion to the KISS principle. The Pareto and KISS principles align with Quotiss’ goal of providing a simple, efficient, and automated platform for freight forwarding companies to streamline their sales process and improve customer satisfaction.

Let’s see how these principles and the overall simplicity approach can help freight forwarders with their business process.

 

Pareto Principle in Freight Forwarding

 

The Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, suggests that roughly 80% of effects come from 20% of causes. This principle can be applied to the sales process in freight forwarding to simplify and prioritize sales efforts. Here are some ways to apply the Pareto Principle:

  1. Identify the top 20% of customers that generate 80% of your revenue. These customers should be the focus of your sales efforts as they provide the most significant impact on your business.
  2. Analyze the shipping patterns and needs of these top customers. This analysis can help you identify common trends and needs that can be addressed with value-added services, such as warehousing, distribution, or customs clearance.
  3. Develop a customized sales approach for each of these top customers. This approach should address their specific needs and preferences, making it easier for them to do business with you.
  4. Use technology to automate the sales process for these top customers. Implement an online portal that provides easy access to quotes, shipment status updates, and other information relevant to their shipping needs.
  5. Continuously monitor and analyze the performance of these top customers to identify areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.

By applying the Pareto Principle to the freight sales process, you can simplify your sales efforts and prioritize your resources to focus on the most significant revenue-generating customers. This approach can help you improve customer satisfaction and retention, resulting in long-term business growth and success.

 

KISS Principle in Freight Forwarding

 

The KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) principle is a design philosophy that suggests that simplicity should be a key goal in design and functionality. Here are some ways to apply the KISS principle to simplify the sales process in freight forwarding:

  1. Streamline the quotation process: Simplify the quotation process by offering standardized pricing for common routes and shipments. Use an online quotation system that is easy to use and provides customers with a clear breakdown of costs.
  2. Automate the booking process: Automate the booking process as much as possible, using an online booking system that is easy to navigate and understand.
  3. Use technology to simplify processes: Use technology to simplify processes and improve efficiency. For example, implement an electronic billing and payment system that is easy to use and understand.
  4. Provide clear communication: Use simple and straightforward language in all communication with customers. Provide customers with clear and concise communication throughout the sales process. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be confusing or intimidating to customers.

By applying the KISS principle to your sales process, you can simplify the shipping experience for customers, making it easier for them to do business with you. This approach can help you improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, resulting in long-term business growth and success.

 

Constant Improvement

 

The Pareto and KISS Principles are continuous improvement tools that should be applied regularly to identify areas for improvement and optimize business processes. The frequency of application will depend on the specific business process and the organization’s goals and objectives.

  1. Regularly review performance: freight forwarders should regularly review their performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. This can be done on a monthly or quarterly basis to track progress over time.
  2. Analyze data: Data analysis should be an ongoing process to identify trends and patterns that can help improve business processes. This can be done using tools such as Quotiss software.
  3. Process improvement: Whenever a company is looking to improve a business process, the KISS principle should be applied. By simplifying processes, companies can reduce errors, improve efficiency, and save time and money.
  4. Focus on high-impact areas: The Pareto Principle should be applied to high-impact areas of the business, such as the top 20% of customers that generate 80% of revenue. This analysis can be done as often as needed to identify new opportunities or changes in customer behavior.
  5. Continuously monitor and adjust: Business processes are dynamic and may need to be adjusted over time. The Pareto Principle should be applied continuously to monitor performance and make adjustments as needed.

By implementing these strategies, you can simplify the sales process in freight forwarding, making it easier for customers to do business with you and improving overall customer satisfaction. We believe that the right freight sales automation software can help to simplify the process and ensure that sales deals are handled efficiently and effectively.

Quotiss is a software company that provides a cloud-based platform for freight forwarding companies to simplify and automate their sales process.

Fill in this form to register for a free trial of Quotiss software. It only takes a few seconds!

QUOTISS CRM software

The Underestimated Value of CRM Software for Freight Forwarders

Automation & Digitalization, Sales Automation / By

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is essential for businesses that want to manage and maintain healthy customer relationships. But when it comes to freight forwarding, CRM software is not so commonly used – for several reasons including resistance to change, lack of awareness, cost concerns, complexity, and lack of customization. However, as the benefits of CRM software become more apparent, more and more freight forwarders are likely to adopt this technology to improve their operations, increase efficiency, and enhance customer relationships.

 

What if there is a perfect CRM for freight?

 

At Quotiss, we aim to achieve simplicity and efficiency in any sales process. With that in mind, we designed a simple, easy-to-use CRM software with only the most essential features. By keeping the software as simple as possible, businesses can maximize the benefits of CRM technology and improve their operations.

Quotiss CRM software provides a centralized platform for managing customer data, including communication history, transactional data, and quote details. This makes it easier for freight forwarders to manage customer relationships, provide personalized service, and improve customer satisfaction.

Freight forwarders should consider using Quotiss CRM software for several reasons:

1. User adoption & satisfaction:

Complex CRM software can be difficult for users to learn and navigate. Users may be hesitant to use a system that is too complex or time-consuming to learn, which can limit the effectiveness of the software. Simple CRM software can lead to greater user satisfaction, as users are more likely to enjoy using a system. This can improve overall morale and job satisfaction, which can have a positive impact on the business as a whole.

2. Efficiency:

Simple CRM software can improve efficiency by reducing the time and effort required to perform tasks. Users can quickly and easily access the information they need, which can streamline workflows and increase productivity.

3. Customization:

A simple CRM software can be more easily customized to meet the specific needs of a business. Quotiss CRM software is a scalable and flexible solution that can be customized to meet the specific needs of freight forwarders. The software can be easily integrated with mailing systems and applications, making it a versatile and powerful tool for managing sales and customer relationships.

4. Cost:

Simple CRM software can be less expensive to implement and maintain than a more complex system. This can be particularly beneficial for small or medium-sized forwarders that may have limited budgets for software.

Quotiss CRM software provides freight forwarders a range of benefits, including improved efficiency, better sales performance, enhanced customer relationships, and real-time access to commercial data. It is a powerful tool that can help freight forwarders to compete more effectively in the global logistics market.

 

CRM software is only a part of sales automation

 

Apart from the CRM module, sales managers can enjoy other Quotiss software features and automate their business processes to the maximum:

Streamlined Quoting Process:

Quotiss software streamlines the quoting process by automating repetitive tasks, eliminating errors, and enabling faster response times. With Quotiss, freight forwarders can create and send quotes to customers in real time, reducing the time and effort required to manage sales inquiries.

Improved Sales Performance:

Quotiss provides sales analytics and reporting features that enable freight forwarders to track their sales performance, identify trends, and optimize their sales strategies. The software also provides insights into customer preferences and behavior, helping freight forwarders to tailor their offerings and increase their conversion rates.

 

Give it a try!

 

Quotiss is a cloud-based sales management and quoting software explicitly designed for freight forwarders. The software streamlines the process of creating and sending quotes to customers, enabling freight forwarders to respond to inquiries quickly and accurately.

The best (the fastest and simplest) solution for freight forwarders to go through the digital transformation is to implement the right software designed for freight forwarding companies.

Fill in this form to register for a free trial of Quotiss software. It only takes a few seconds!

Quotiss CPQ logistics software

CPQ Logistics Software Explained

Automation & Digitalization, Logistics Software, Sales Automation / By

Recently, we get quite a lot of questions from forwarders asking to explain different terms and acronyms related to logistics software. So many, that we even put it in a separate blog post, which you can find under this link.

But most surprisingly, more and more people start to use the term CPQ. A few years back, I have written this piece about CPQ software. At that time, it was very unpopular 🙂 So I have decided to give it a second chance since it’s getting so trendy now.

 

What is CPQ Software?

 

  • What does CPQ mean?

CPQ stands for Configure, Price, Quote. Sometimes it is referred to as QMS software, where QMS stands for Quote Management System (do not confuse with the Quality Management System, which also exists out there).

  • What is the purpose of CPQ (QMS)?

It is typically used to produce accurate quotes for complex and configurable products, much like the freight quotes. The overall purpose of the CPQ system is to make your sales process efficient, productive, and successful. QMS is a limited version of a CPQ, where the ‘Configure’ part is missing and the ‘Price’ part may not be automated as a result.

  • Do I, as a freight forwarder, need CPQ software?

Yes, of course! By the way, Quotiss is a typical CPQ software.

 

Why Configure – Price – Quote?

 

The majority of logistics companies still use Excel spreadsheets to manage their freight rates. Which is fine, until it’s not. There will come a time when relying on a simple Excel file can lead to disaster. When your business starts to grow, you’re going to face the limitations of it: a confusing multitude of files with freight rates together with the errors in the formulas can lead to a dramatic loss of revenues.

The right logistics software can bring structure to chaos and mess. For the sales team in a freight forwarding company, there are several essential business processes that should be digitized and automated:

  • One reliable source for freight rates
  • Instant freight quotes
  • Follow up on deals
  • Internal collaboration

 

How to Configure – Price – Quote?

 

Configure:
  • Import your freight contracts and local charges and set default margins
  • Import your customers and set default margins
  • Connect directly to your online freight contracts and spot rates
Price:
  • Upload contract and spot rates automatically (No outsourcing!)
  • Get one transparent database of contract and spot rates (No more bulky Excel ratesheets!)
  • Get an easy-to-search archive of historic rates and quotes
Quote:
  • Create professional personalized freight quotes in seconds;
  • Put your quote widget online
  • Improve invoicing accuracy

 

The danger of skipping the “Configure – Price” part

 

When you made a decision to upgrade your sales process, remember to stick to this exact order: 1) configure; 2) price; 3) quote. And here is why.

Freight forwarders get access to more and more digital tools each year. There is a big interest in digitizing the customer interface: offer online freight quotes, online bookings, online tracking, etc. All these customer-facing digital initiatives are very necessary, but hardly possible without digitizing the commercial back office of the freight forwarder.

It is necessary to start from the basics – digitize and automate your freight rates, and after that put your freight quote widget online.

You can’t skip the “Configure – Price” steps and digitize just the “Quote” part. If your pricing is based on Excel ratesheets, the data quality will never live up to any decent standard. Especially, if your goal is giving a possibility of online quotes to your customers.

 

Get a Quick Start with Quotiss CPQ!

 

At the core of Quotiss, there is a powerful engine, secure servers, and an excellent team of professionals. Our main differentiator – the simplicity. Quotiss is inspired by Pareto Rule and KISS Principle. Thanks to that, Quotiss removes 99% of the complexity of the commercial process and structures the freight rate management in a smart and simple way.

Looking for the best freight forwarding software? Quotiss software is the best-fit solution for your business. Register for a free trial today and in 14 days we can prove this to you.

Digital Freight Forwarder Quotiss

Being Digital Freight Forwarder

Automation & Digitalization, Digital Freight / By

Do you believe in Digital Freight Forwarders? Or do you think they are mystical creatures, like unicorns? Oh, wait… Flexport is both a digital freight forwarder and a unicorn!

We can argue if being a digital freight forwarder is actually a thing or not, but without a doubt, it’s cool to be a “digital forwarder” these days. At Quotiss, we wish that every forwarder becomes “digital”. In this article, we explain how you can maximize the benefits of freight digitalization in a fast and simple way.

 

Who is a Digital Freight Forwarder?

 

Flexport is by far the most famous and the most funded “Digital Freight Forwarder”. Flexport.com has a user-friendly interface: their clients can get quotes online, place bookings and track their shipments. But what is behind the counter of that beautiful shop-front?

Behind the counter, there is a freight forwarding company, with the ‘same old’ business model of a middle man between the carrier and the customer. Their source of income as a forwarder comes from charging a premium for their service of arranging transport of goods from A to B. This also means that they face exactly the same commercial and operational constraints as any other freight forwarder. So, what is the difference, then?

 

The difference between a Digital and Traditional Freight Forwarder

 

Obviously, the difference is in the “Digital” component. It is assumed that the “traditional forwarder” relies on Excel as a main tool for the business, and the “digital forwarder” has a smart digital platform that connects and integrates all aspects of their business. The obvious benefits of the digital setup are 1) speed, 2) automation, 3) cost-efficiency, 4) transparency.

But there is a problem with this definition. First of all, there is a limit to connecting and integrating things into one system. As they say, “you can only be as digital as your supplier”. Some suppliers, like Maersk, are more advanced in the digital field. But the majority of the carriers allow limited connectivity if any. Until this changes, all forwarders have to deal with bulky Excel ratesheets and manual rate requests. Secondly, in 2021, 99.99% of freight forwarding companies stopped using faxes, telexes, pagers, hand-written notes and invested in some kind of software solutions for their business. So, are they all digital forwarders now?

 

How to become a Digital Freight Forwarder?

 

The term “Digital Freight Forwarder” has become the synonym of Freight Digitalization.

Flexport raises the awareness for freight digitalization in the industry. The news of them securing new financial rounds could be a worrying sign to those forwarders who do not have a digital strategy yet. Treat it as a threat, or take it as an opportunity and use this sign to upgrade your own tech.

The majority of freight forwarding companies today use some kind of software to manage their business processes. So, are they all digital forwarders? Well, no.

Some software solutions (like Excel, Salesforce, SAP) are not made for freight. There is a certain level of customization offered for these tools, but integrating them into one smooth forwarding software ecosystem can be extremely challenging (time, cost, complexity). This is a very big limitation for the SMB forwarding companies if they want to rely on such software solutions.

The best (fast and simple) solution for the traditional freight forwarders to transform into “Digital” is to implement the right software designed for freight forwarding companies.

 

Trends in Digital Freight

 

Remember, that in technology, one has to run to stand still (said The Red Queen). With the modern pace, certain trends go out of fashion fast. What looked like a technology of the future 5, 10, 15 years ago – now is collecting digital dust on the shelf in a virtual closet.

Some time back, ‘Booking.com for freight’ was a hit and we witnessed the number of freight marketplaces growing like mushrooms after the rain. Later, the ‘Blockchain for freight’ became hot, and we followed the news on the collaboration of Maersk and IBM. Now there is a trend for an ‘Online freight shop’.

These trends come and go for one main reason: customers want to get great service at a great price.

“Online freight marketplace powered by blockchain” does not equal a great forwarding service, and it definitely doesn’t guarantee a good price to a client. And we are getting to the most important point: it’s the market expertise & professionalism that matter the most to the customers. Digitalization is not a self-sufficient product you can sell. It can give great support, but it is not enough for running a successful business.

Freight software can help to highlight your professionalism but will never replace it.

 

Being Digital Freight Forwarder

 

Where to start with freight digitalization?

The ultimate goal of freight digitalization is to automate business processes and improve experiences for the people who matter the most for the business growth: your team and your customers.

A good idea would be to start with sales process automation, as this has a direct impact on sales performance in the company. Sales automation means digitization of manual, time-consuming sales tasks using software, artificial intelligence (AI), data analysis, and other digital tools. It aims to simplify the daily sales workflow and bring transparency to the commercial aspects of the business.

Freight software solutions on the market are very different in terms of their features, functionality, price, and many other factors. Beware that using freight software that isn’t a great fit for your company can actually do more harm than good. Use this guide to pick the best-fit freight software solution for your business.

 

Being Digital Freight Forwarder. Powered by Quotiss

 

Quotiss is a sales automation software for freight forwarders. With Quotiss, you can digitize the following internal business processes:

  • Rate management
  • Customer Relationship Management
  • Quoting freight + Online Quote Widget
  • Sales Follow-ups
  • Sales Analytics

With Quotiss, your team will no longer have to maintain bulky Excel ratesheets, create quotes manually, waste time on searching quotes in the mailbox.

Process Automation and Efficiency are the key benefits of Freight Digitalization. Fill in this form to register for a free trial of Quotiss software. It only takes a few seconds!