Shipping logistics is no longer just about getting products from Point A to Point B—it’s about doing it faster, cheaper, and smarter. With the right data analytics tools in place, your business can identify bottlenecks, reduce costs, and elevate the customer experience. Whether you’re shipping from a single location or managing multiple fulfillment centers, data analytics can help turn routine operations into a competitive edge.
What Shipping Data Should You Track?
Key shipping metrics to monitor include:
- Order processing time: How long it takes from order receipt to shipment
- Shipping cost per order: Total spend on packaging, labor, and carriers per order
- On-time delivery rate: Percentage of packages arriving by promised dates
- Carrier performance: Delivery speed, lost package frequency, and error rate
- Return reasons: Identifying trends in customer returns can signal packaging or product issues
Tracking these KPIs allows you to pinpoint weak spots and make targeted improvements. Many of these metrics can be pulled directly from shipping platforms like ShipStation, ShipHero, or Easyship.
Best Tools for Shipping Analytics
- Tableau – Powerful data visualization software for building interactive shipping and fulfillment dashboards.
- Looker – Google’s business intelligence platform that integrates seamlessly with data warehouses.
- Inventory Planner – Forecasts demand and connects with your shipping data for inventory-aware logistics decisions.
- Zoho Analytics – Affordable option for small businesses needing custom reporting and shipping KPIs.
Many shipping platforms also include built-in reporting features. For example, ShipBob provides real-time insights on fulfillment speed, order accuracy, and transit performance across their nationwide warehouse network.
Identify Trends to Optimize Carrier Selection
Data can help you choose the best carrier for specific routes or zones. If your analytics reveal a high late-delivery rate from a particular provider, switching to a regional carrier or adjusting service levels could reduce delays. Use carrier-specific reporting from UPS, FedEx, or DHL to evaluate options side-by-side.
Use Data to Forecast and Streamline Packing
By analyzing historical order data, you can forecast seasonal demand and adjust packaging stock levels. Reducing overstock or rush ordering saves money and warehouse space. Cashback tools like Fluz also support savings on packing supplies—for example, earn cashback with an Office Depot gift card or get rewards with a Staples gift card when you restock during high-volume periods via Fluz.
Combine Analytics with Automation
Integrating analytics with automation tools enhances accuracy and responsiveness. Set triggers to flag abnormal shipping costs or fulfillment times. Use barcode scanning and pick/pack accuracy metrics to catch errors before they become customer complaints.
Final Thoughts
Data is the key to smarter shipping. With real-time analytics, you can improve decision-making, fine-tune carrier strategy, and uncover hidden cost-saving opportunities. When paired with cashback tools and supply chain automation, data analytics becomes one of the most valuable assets in your logistics toolkit.
