Cheapest Freight Isn’t Best When Delays Cost Millions

When seeking the cheapest shipping option, companies must remember that cost does not always equate to the best solution, particularly when delays could result in millions of dollars in losses. Tom Madine, CEO of ShipStation Global, explains why small and medium-sized shippers need the ability to handle parcel, less-than-truckload (LTL), and truckload shipments through a unified platform.

This approach addresses the workflow gaps that previously forced ShipStation users to switch systems when shipping freight beyond parcel. Customer surveys consistently rank expanding mode options as the most desired feature enhancement. With LTL now integrated, customers can manage inbound inventory and outbound parcel shipments without switching platforms.

Madine stresses that "cheapest is not always best," using the example of engine shipments that can cause multi-million dollar losses if delayed. ShipStation Global manages over 400 connections to parcel carriers worldwide and holds a significant market share in Europe, North America, and other regions. The company's European market focus is currently strongest at the enterprise and micro levels.

The integration of the two parent companies, Auctane and WWEX Group, has been smoother than expected due to their complementary skill sets, allowing little redundancy and minimal organizational conflict. ShipStation Global's pricing intelligence tools are designed to help shippers move beyond rate-chasing and make informed carrier selections based on reliability and estimated outcomes, taking into account freight market cycles that smaller merchants may not track on their own.