WebCargo is set to introduce a new service that will revolutionize the way freight forwarders and shippers interact. This innovative platform will allow forwarders to provide shippers with live rate quotations and real-time capacity, enabling shippers to finalize bookings independently.
With this new service, forwarders can seamlessly send PDF quotes to shippers, containing real-time pricing and capacity information tailored to their specific requests. This streamlined process empowers shippers to choose the most suitable rate and service for their needs, eliminating the back-and-forth communication typically required between forwarders and airlines.
Currently undergoing testing with select freight forwarder customers, the service is slated for a gradual rollout to additional users in the near future. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with forwarders appreciating the time-saving benefits of the dynamic quoting tool.
Incorporating both static and dynamic pricing options, this platform ensures transparency and trust between parties. By pulling live rates and capacity data directly from carriers’ websites through API connections, the system provides real-time pricing information. This eliminates the uncertainty that can arise with static prices, as fluctuating rates from the airline can affect quotations over time.
According to WebCargo’s Chief Marketing Officer Eytan Buchman, the platform offers a middle-ground solution for a transitioning industry. While some airlines and forwarders may continue to rely on static rates, others are embracing digital rates backed by real-time capacity information.
Regarding concerns about the impact on the relationship between shippers and forwarders, Buchman reassured that the platform serves to enhance transparency rather than replace the significant value that forwarders bring to the table. Ultimately, the goal is to help forwarders adapt to changing times and provide shippers with a more efficient and trustworthy booking experience.
