MIAMI-based startup SkySpace Cargo has launched a neutral air cargo trading platform to enable forwarders to compare prices and book shipments directly from the carrier in minutes online.
The company partners with 100 airlines to offer 50,000 flight options to their customers. Pricing is updated daily, enabling instant quotes for a given route. Forwarders can use the platform to upload customs documents to avoid unexpected delays and certify the condition of goods at origin in case of damage, reported MENAFN.com.
Such technology levels the playing field for small- and medium-sized freight forwarders to compete in an industry long ruled by a few big players. Smaller companies lack the bargaining power of multinational competitors, so they often face higher prices and lower levels of service.
While technology has certainly touched every industry, freight transport lags behind as one of the last bastions of old-school commerce. It still depends heavily on offline communication, manual spreadsheets and opaque price quotes.
Freight forwarders are responsible for arranging shipments from the manufacturer to the final point of distribution. Each shipment traditionally requires several days to obtain a quote from an overseas agent, negotiate a contract and book a carrier, contending with obstacles like time zones, language barriers and last-minute price hikes.
The company partners with 100 airlines to offer 50,000 flight options to their customers. Pricing is updated daily, enabling instant quotes for a given route. Forwarders can use the platform to upload customs documents to avoid unexpected delays and certify the condition of goods at origin in case of damage, reported MENAFN.com.
Such technology levels the playing field for small- and medium-sized freight forwarders to compete in an industry long ruled by a few big players. Smaller companies lack the bargaining power of multinational competitors, so they often face higher prices and lower levels of service.
While technology has certainly touched every industry, freight transport lags behind as one of the last bastions of old-school commerce. It still depends heavily on offline communication, manual spreadsheets and opaque price quotes.
Freight forwarders are responsible for arranging shipments from the manufacturer to the final point of distribution. Each shipment traditionally requires several days to obtain a quote from an overseas agent, negotiate a contract and book a carrier, contending with obstacles like time zones, language barriers and last-minute price hikes.
It works. It’s great !!
If this platform indeed works, then is truly a “game changer” for small forwarders, shippers, and importers.