Suryakiran Bhumireddy, Author at Audintel

Minimize shipping operation costs with data analytics

As the trend to shop online is increasing among customers, it is essential to have a robust shipping operation. Towards this end, shipping data analytics enable businesses to make better decisions and improve shipping performance.

Optimize the shipping operations of a company by keeping track of shipping orders and inventory. This blog will try to understand the steps involved in optimizing shipping processes. In addition, we will explore the different ways businesses save money by utilizing shipping analytics.

Optimization of shipping operations

Shipping costs make a massive impact on a company’s budget. Optimizing shipping operations helps in cutting shipping costs for companies. A few vital steps are involved in optimizing shipping operations and boosting profit margins. These steps include:

Use of historical data to track shipping performance
Analyzing real-time data for seamless operations
Utilizing automated, easy-to-use dashboards
Reducing hidden costs with shipping analytics and
Partnering with parcel audit services to diagnose pain points

Improving shipping operations

Enhance shipping operations with proper planning and cost-effective use of resources. Shipping processes like packing parcels will affect shipping costs. Moreover, choosing the best shipping option will affect the shipping budget. An efficient transportation management system (TMS) aids companies in optimizing their shipping operations. TMS creates transparency as companies can track shipments in real time. In addition, shippers can take advantage of aggregating multiple shipments into one order, thus saving money. Further, companies expand their businesses with different shipping routes and modes of transportation. Automated software systems and data security enhance the shipping operations of a company.

Optimization of Freight

Freight optimization involves reviewing possible modes of transport for a shipment. Diversifying vendors and carrier networks is an efficient way to secure competitive freight rates. Further, freight shippers can explore multiple routes for better markets with a freight management system. Companies can leverage the right software to stay ahead of the competition. In addition, shipping data analytics will affect the growing freight management systems.

Role of shipping data analytics

Shipping logistics management is possible with the help of automated software. With cost modeling tools and predictive rate simulation, shippers can understand their shipping expenses. In addition, a better review of delivery routes allows companies to leverage the dynamic rerouting of parcels. It prevents shipment delays so that time-sensitive and urgent shipments reach on time. Further, customer satisfaction increases with more information about the updated delivery status of shipments.

Predictive rate simulation allows shippers to visualize the shipping spend on package weights, zones, service levels, etc. Predictive analytics is to understand to determine where delays will likely occur. In addition, it helps to boost customer service levels. Moreover, Big Data in the shipping industry provides valuable insights to minimize late deliveries.

Big Data in Shipping

Big Data enables shippers to predict and address problems, prevent shipment delays, and gain a competitive edge. The different ways in which businesses can make use of Big Data in optimizing shipping operations include:

Reduce shipping costs with actionable insights into carrier contracts: with big data and shipping analytics, shippers understand shipping expenses.
Make strategic decisions: real-time Big Data analysis helps to recommend the best decisions for companies.
Recognize potential frauds: Shipping analytics solutions identify shipping patterns and detect multiple payments

Big Data in maritime analytics affords efficient bunkering, crew management, efficient cargo handling, tracking goods, fleet tracking, detecting anomalies, and more Predictive analytics is transforming the shipping industry by enhancing the safety of ships and environmental protection.Big Data controls parcel expenses with actionable intelligence. It offers valuable insights to shippers about shipping costs.

Optimizing Business Intelligence

Business Intelligence tools consider special handling and accessorial fees in calculating shipping rates. Further, business intelligence offers insights to companies on past and recent shipment movements. It provides information about how the competition behaves and knowledge about emerging markets. BI tools help to analyze massive amounts of data quickly. Audintel‘s state-of-the-art BI platform helps track shipments, refunds on late deliveries, and more.

Optimize shipping operations with Audintel

Shipping operations are improved with proper planning and by adopting the best practices. Parcel invoice audits identify errors in shipping operations, such as fuel surcharges, total spending on shipping, etc. Audintel offers parcel invoice audits to shippers for their shipping operations and helps save money. Our Transportation management system (TMS) services guide shippers on the different aspects of shipping parcels. We provide insights into carrier contract negotiations with shipping data analytics. Our team helps shippers cut shipping costs and optimize their shipping operations.

Conclusion

Operational efficiency is essential for a business to be more profitable. Optimizing shipping operations with accurate planning and bagging the best deals is vital for shippers. A robust auditing system with BI tools increases a company’s shipping efficiency and lowers operation costs. Audintel has a wide range of BI tools and state-of-the-art dashboards that transform the shipping operations of companies. We provide the competitive edge to operate efficiently in the marketplace. To know more about our services and BI platform, contact us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Audintel website.

UPS shipping invoice audit: why use a third-party auditor?

Companies shipping large volumes of parcels during the holiday season don’t have time for parcel audits. In addition, it is hard to oversee mistakes and overcharges made by shipping carriers like UPS and FedEx. So, many companies are moving towards automated audit solutions to save time and resources. This article will discuss the need for auditing UPS shipping invoices. Also, we will highlight the benefits of using a third-party auditor.

But first, we need to understand-

UPS audit-what is it?

UPS offers businesses various incentives for shipping parcels through their company. Shippers also enter into contracts with UPS for their different shipping services. However, checking each UPS shipping invoice for incorrect surcharges and late deliveries is tedious. A UPS audit thoroughly examines each UPS shipping invoice for potential errors. It helps shippers claim refunds from UPS and understand their shipping spend.

UPS shipping invoices

The contents of UPS shipping invoices require information like

Shippers’ name and contact address, contact number
Shipment details like a tracking number, shipment ID, date of shipping, invoice number, purchase order, etc.
Recipient’s name and contact address, contact number
Quantity of goods
Description of goods
Value of goods
Declaration statement

Further, shippers provide information about the discount, insurance, total weight, and the total number of packages. For further details, check UPS’ site, https://www.ups.com/media/en/Commercial_Invoice_Guide.pdf. UPS will charge the shipper more if inaccurate and incomplete shipment information is on the shipping document. UPS has the right to audit any package to check its weight and dimensions. If there are any discrepancies, UPS will charge more to the shippers.

Need for audits of UPS shipping invoices

Parcel and freight auditing gives shippers better insights into their shipping needs. Companies can renegotiate better shipping rates with UPS based on the shipping data. An audit of UPS shipping invoices will unravel duplicate charges and other overlooked errors. UPS audits are to be quick and accurate as the window for recovering UPS refunds is time-bound. Companies can recover refunds for UPS late deliveries within fifteen days from the date of shipment. Audits retrieve money owed to companies from shipping carriers like UPS.

Benefits of parcel auditing

The growth of small parcel shipping has caused a rise in small parcel costs. With the demand for faster parcel deliveries, shippers deal with monitoring surcharges and shipping rates. As part of cost-saving strategies, companies are cutting down on excess packaging of goods. In addition, they are investing in parcel auditing services for a detailed understanding of their shipping spend.

How a third-party auditor helps companies reduce their transportation spend?

Parcel audit services by third-party auditors conduct audits on UPS shipping invoices. Their proprietary parcel audit software runs a complete audit checklist on UPS shipping invoices. The refund process is automated, and the refund amount gets credited to the shippers’ accounts directly. The auditor accesses all the shipping data and provides in-depth reports to the shippers on their shipping expenses. Some of the audit checklists of UPS shipping invoices include

Late deliveries
Lost packages
Duplicate Billing
Address correction charges
Residential charges
Incorrect Dimensional weight charges
Missed discounts as specified in service contracts and many more

Third-party auditors provide customized reports to companies regarding their UPS shipping invoices. It allows shippers to renegotiate with UPS regarding certain services and reduce their transportation spend.

Parcel invoice audit software

Many parcel auditors have specialized AI-driven UPS invoice audit software. The AI platform automatically audits UPS invoices every week and uncovers any hidden errors instantly. Further, the data analytics reveals UPS late delivery refunds uncompensated and other billing errors. The real-time shipping data helps shippers improve their delivery efficiency and recover lost profits. In addition, effective parcel audit software guides shippers in addressing last-mile delivery issues and optimizes shipping methods.

Partner with us for the Audintel advantage

It is difficult understanding the complexities of UPS shipping rates, surcharges, and refund processes. Audintel has experts who have worked with shipping carriers like UPS and FedEx and have a thorough knowledge of these charges. We have an AI-powered platform that automatically checks UPS shipping invoices. Line-auditing of every invoice ensures that shippers recover their shipping costs. In addition, we have a team that pursues the billing mistakes with UPS so that clients do not lose even a single dollar due to unfair billing. Our customized shipping reports provide insights into shipping data. It also provides visibility of any hidden surcharges levied by UPS after the delivery of packages. By partnering with Audintel, shippers can cut shipping costs by making smarter shipping decisions.

Final thoughts

Parcel auditing is a time-consuming process. Companies do not have the time or the resources to manually audit shipping invoices. So, auditing UPS shipping invoices for individual packages is a big task, especially for a company shipping large volumes of parcels. Outsourcing parcel auditing to experts like Audintel helps companies claim refunds for UPS late deliveries. In addition, parcel audits provide greater visibility to shippers to reduce their shipping expenses. For more information about Audintel and our services, contact us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Audintel website.

Efficient parcel auditing services save more with refunds

Shipping services will be at their peak in the upcoming holiday season. Businesses need to track whether their packages reach on time to their customers. Due to the heavy rush, there will be a delay in shipments.

Many shippers are unaware of recovering refunds from carriers for late deliveries. With the help of parcel audit services, shippers realize the errors made by carriers during shipment. This blog explores parcel audit services recovering refunds from shipping carriers. In addition, learn more about billing overcharges.

Parcel audit services and shipping refunds

Parcel audit services check and verify invoices from different shipping carriers worldwide. They conduct a comprehensive audit to ensure an accurate assessment of each shipment. Shippers face service failures from their chosen parcel carriers. For example, shipping carriers give duplicate invoices to shippers for a single package. Sometimes errors are made by shippers that directly impact shipments. For instance, the wrong address shipping label on the parcel is the cause for a delay in shipments. Mistakes made by carriers or shippers harm customer service. Parcel auditing is essential for shippers to recover refunds to avoid negative customer feedback.

Shipping refunds

An audit team addresses service failures of shipping carriers. Refund requests are sent to the shipping carriers immediately for quick resolution. Further, companies shipping large volumes of shipments have contracts with shipping carriers. The contracts entitle shippers to money-back guarantees from parcel carriers for late deliveries and other service charges. However, requesting refunds from shipping carriers is a complicated process. Each shipment has to be checked and verified to claim a refund from the parcel carrier. Most companies end up paying carriers for promised services that are unfulfilled. Outsourcing parcel audit services help companies receive refunds for late deliveries, overcharges, etc.

What are the kinds of refunds identified by Parcel auditing?

Parcel audits recover shipping refunds for companies and improve their operational efficiencies. Parcel auditing identifies refunds caused due to

Duplicate invoicing- More than one invoice with different parameters like invoice date and amount for the same parcel.

Billing overcharges- Unforeseen charges are added to the invoice when there is a delay in shipment due to an incorrect shipping label on parcels.

Late deliveries- Packages delivered late due to carriers’ network disruptions or other reasons are eligible for a refund.

Lost and damaged deliveries- Packages lost or damaged during transit are eligible for a refund.

Invalid surcharges- Parcel carriers charge shippers additional fees for the wrong dimensional weight of packages, errors in addresses, incorrect delivery areas, and improper fuel surcharges.

Companies find it an uphill task to dispute the additional fees levied by carriers. Manual auditing is time-consuming and requires resources. Reliable parcel audit services can help companies in challenging charges and getting refunds. In addition, it can help companies simplify the refund process.

Refund process

Shippers are eligible for refunds for service failures and incorrect invoicing by shipping carriers. The refund process for a shipment begins with a request to the concerned shipping carrier. Further, filing a refund claim must be within fifteen days of the quoted delivery date on the invoice. Shipping carriers like FedEx and UPS have dedicated channels for claiming refunds. In addition, UPS and FedEx promise on-time delivery of packages in their contracts with shippers. So, shippers are eligible for a refund for late deliveries from UPS and FedEx (discussed in detail in our earlier blogs). Getting a refund for late deliveries is time-consuming, but outsourcing parcel audit services makes life simpler for companies.

Role of parcel audit services

Efficient parcel auditing services take care of identifying service failures and incorrect surcharges. Further, automated parcel auditing services recover refunds for carrier inefficiencies. Finally, refunds are directly transferred into the companies’ accounts effortlessly. In addition, audit companies aid companies in parcel contract negotiations, so they do not miss the money-back guarantees for late deliveries from shipping carriers. Parcel auditors maximize revenue for companies with their shipment tracking tools and state-of-the-art software.

Audintel’s parcel auditing services to recover your refunds

Receiving refunds from UPS, FedEx, and DHL is easier said than done. A team of parcel auditors at Audintel recover refunds for late deliveries, incorrect invoices, invalid surcharges, and more. Our intuitive software easily tracks shipments and identifies service failures instantly. Audintel Technology Development and Customer Service Call Center effectively request refunds from shipping carriers for service failures. We don’t just rely on automated software, but our dedicated and experienced team at the Call Center follow-up with the shipping carriers for quick refunds. Our clients can expect the most reliable parcel audit services from Audintel. Choose Audintel for recovering refunds instantly without hassles.

Summary

In the current economic situation companies need to spend less and save more. So, recovering refunds with the help of efficient parcel audit services is the best way forward. Companies need parcel audit services that understand their shipping costs and save undue expenses. Audintel fits the bill for businesses looking to increase their operational efficiencies. Receive refunds directly into your accounts with Audintel’s services. Contact us for more details about our services at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Audintel website.

Parcel auditing services: transforming businesses intelligently

Small parcel audits in the U.S. are vital for all businesses. Parcel audits ensure that companies are not paying more to shipping carriers. Further, timely audits can unlock savings for companies.

Parcel auditing services are necessary for shippers in the U.S. It questions businesses about optimum usage of their shipping data for business growth. Our earlier blogs were on affordable parcel auditing services. The focus was on reducing shipping costs and identifying service failures with software. This article discusses the way parcel auditors use shipping data to help shippers. In addition, we will learn about the advanced technology that aids parcel auditing services save money for companies.

Parcel auditing services and data analytics

Parcel audits involve the process of studying the shipping invoices in detail. It also requires a review of carrier contracts and discovering unclaimed refunds. Technology in the form of data analytics helps shippers save money. As companies are aware, small parcel shipping generates lots of data. Analysis of the data helps in eliminating inefficiencies and errors. Parcel auditing services use the analysed data to control small parcel expenses.

What kind of Parcel data is important?

Understanding a company’s shipping profile is essential for parcel audits. Analyzing the following data on parcels helps shippers improve their bottom line. Data covering

the shipping weights of packages
the dimensional weight calculation of parcels
the shipping zones for shipments
the parcel delivery time
accuracy of shipping invoices
various surcharges of different carriers
minimum charges of lightweight packages

Further, knowing about the shipper’s data in carrier agreements is necessary. It helps shippers during carrier contract negotiations to save money.

KPI dashboards in Parcel auditing

Similarly, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are necessary to check a business’ progress. In addition, it helps companies identify problems and make quick, timely decisions. The KPIs include:

Number of orders shipped
Tracking the delivery time of shipments
Identifying potential shipping issues
Shipping costs during transit
Warehouse expenses

and more.

With this in mind, KPI dashboards are vital tools for parcel auditing services. The dashboards provide a complete view of the shipping data of businesses. For instance, KPI dashboards give information about the total shipping costs of different parcel carriers. Further, the dashboards provide an overview of shipping activity, late shipments, refunds, etc. Thus, KPI dashboards provide shippers with customizable data visualization with performance indicators.

Importance of Business Intelligence in parcel auditing

Business Intelligence (BI) plays a crucial role in parcel auditing. It provides shippers with shipping reports and dashboards for managing their shipments. So, let’s understand-

What is Business Intelligence?

Business Intelligence (BI) is software that utilizes business data and makes it user-friendly. BI uses data analytics, text mining, and machine language processes. BI tools collect, store and analyze data from businesses. The data presented to users is through graphs, dashboards, charts, and reports. Further, shippers utilize the information to understand trends and variances. Thus, they can take appropriate action.

Benefits of using BI in parcel auditing services

Shippers need detailed information about their shipping operations at their fingertips. Parcel auditing services use BI tools to collect and analyze data in real-time. Shippers receive the information in the form of reports and dashboards. Customized dashboards help in tracking shipping performance by benchmarking. Thus, shippers visualize their data and make informed decisions.

Parcel auditing services optimize the parcel shipping network with the help of BI. In addition, parcel audits help in consolidating shipping data. Further, it provides insights into critical KPIs. Parcel auditing services like Audintel help companies optimize their shipping needs.

How does Audintel deal with the shipping data of businesses?

Our data intelligence services include best-in-class cloud hosting. We have robust optimization tools and intuitive and customizable dashboards. In addition, we provide graphical visualization of KPIs. Audintel’s platform integrates seamlessly with legacy systems and processes. Our decision-making analytics helps shippers. Further, we compare multiple carrier contracts to give clients the best deals.

Audintel as a parcel auditing service provider

Our AACE (Audit Advantage Cloud Ecosystem) platform uses BI to identify billing errors. Audintel uses AACE technology integrated with machine language (ML), saving shipping costs for companies. We spot all invalid, inaccurate, or unwarranted charges in shipping invoices. Audintel’s state-of-the-art technology platform manages complex supply chain challenges. Our dashboards are easy to use and allow shippers visual feedback on their business performance. In addition, our auditing services help shippers receive refunds directly in their accounts.

Final thoughts

Many parcel auditing services are available in the U.S. market. But choosing the right one for your business makes all the difference. As a shipper, it is vital to partner with parcel auditing services that increase your company’s revenues. Audintel uses cloud-based business intelligence tools to understand complex shipping data. We help businesses grow and manage their shipping costs in real-time. With Audintel, you can be sure that all your data is encrypted and secure. For information about our parcel auditing services, contact us on +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Au dintel website.

Competitive parcel auditing services: essential for shippers

With rising inflation and skyrocketing fuel prices, businesses need to economize and improve profitability. Shipping small packages to customers needs scrutiny as service failures lead to higher expenses for shippers.

Affordable patent auditing services are essential to monitoring shipping expenses. Our earlier blog focused on affordable parcel auditing services that reduce shipping costs. This article focuses on the various aspects of parcel auditing services, such as package shipping spend, services offered, and their software.

Affordable parcel auditing services

Parcel auditing analyzes the shipping data of companies and unearths any invoice errors. Parcel auditing services of parcel auditing companies work to fix the invoice errors and get refunds from the shipping carriers. Web-based technology used by parcel auditors spares shippers from purchasing hardware, thus saving money. In addition, parcel auditing services do not involve set-up fees or up-gradation in current technology resulting in cost savings.

Parcel shipping spend

According to the latest reports in business wire, US parcel volume will grow exponentially by 2027. It is due to increasing demand for internet retail. Small parcel shipping is a critical component of shipping systems. An audit on small parcel shipping spend allows companies to save money. Shippers are eligible for a refund from shipping carriers for service failures like late deliveries, invalid surcharges, billing errors, and more. Parcel auditors like Audintel have a real-time dashboard that monitors small packages’ shipping spend while controlling shipping costs.

Outsourcing parcel auditing

Manual parcel auditing is time-consuming and is prone to human errors. So, by outsourcing parcel audit work to a third party, shippers save time as they do not need to track each shipment and file refund claims. Further, the parcel auditors secure refunds for service failures with direct credit to shippers’ accounts. Parcel auditing services provided by a third party give companies valuable insights into their shipping process.

Services offered by a parcel auditing company

Small parcel auditing is a complex process that requires data evaluation at each stage of the shipping process. Parcel auditing companies analyze the parcel invoices from the shipping carriers. In addition, tracking parcel delivery to customers and information about any shortcomings is conveyed to the business owner. Some of the common service failures made by parcel carriers include:

Late deliveries: Parcel delivery to the customer beyond the scheduled delivery time

Surcharge errors: Parcel invoices with incorrect address correction charges, delivery area surcharge, and other surcharge errors

Dimensional weight errors: Shipping carriers levy wrong dimensional weight charges on packages

Duplicate charges: Double invoicing for a single parcel shipment

Manifested not shipped parcels: Shipping carriers like UPS charge for a package manifested but not sent to its destination

Deviation from negotiated shipping rates and discounts: Parcel shipment with different shipping rates and discounts.

Parcel auditing services offered by parcel auditing companies provide effective solutions for service failures. They inform business owners about billing errors, changes in shipping rates, additional surcharges, etc. Parcel auditors use intuitive auditing software that automatically notifies any discrepancies in the shipping process.

Small parcel auditing software

The tracking and monitoring of each small parcel shipment use cloud-based shipping software. The data analysis improves shipping spend management and curbs excessive expenses. In addition, the software monitors the performance of shipping carriers, identifies invoice errors, and files for unclaimed refunds. Shippers reduce their parcel shipping spend and improve their shipping operations with ease.

Freight audit software

Freight audit software minimizes complex freight auditing processes. Due to the automation of the freight audit process, labor decreases, and cost-efficiency increases. The shippers get greater clarity of their shipping expenses. Also, there is streamlining of the shipping process. Further, automatic uploading of the shipping documents into the system helps track invoices efficiently. Freight audit software benefits many industries such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, construction, electronics, etc.

The software used by parcel auditors improves customer satisfaction and increases brand loyalty, which benefits shippers’ businesses.

Benefits of using Audintel’s services

Parcel auditing services of Audintel are economical and customized to cater to our client’s needs. We provide greater transparency to our clients by using their shipping data. Audintel has more than forty customized dashboards and shipping reports for our clients. Our team uses updated, secure technology to track and monitor the shipping data of our clients. We assist business owners in negotiating the best carrier contracts and saving money. Companies benefit tremendously by partnering with Audintel as it honors their parcel delivery commitments to customers. We help shippers receive refunds promptly from shipping carriers for service failures and increase their profits.

Final thoughts

Small parcel delivery services like FedEx and UPS do not always stick to their delivery commitments. It impacts the shippers as they have to deal with angry customers. Companies offer extra credit or special offers to keep customers happy, thus involving double expenses. Audintel’s parcel auditing services give companies a helping hand in receiving all the refund credits from shipping carriers. To know better about the full extent of our parcel auditing services, contact us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Audintel website.

Affordable parcel audit services for reducing shipping costs

Are you confused about the calculation of shipping rates during small parcel shipping? Find it difficult to track small parcels. Further, claiming refunds for late deliveries of packages is full of hassles. Then, it is time to partner with parcel audit services. This article will explore why parcel audit services are necessary for reducing shipping costs.

Why do businesses need parcel audit services?

The destination, type of parcel carrier, and weight of parcels control the shipping costs of companies. Shippers need cost-effective solutions to ship small packages internationally. Moreover, custom clearances of international shipments require proper documentation. Keeping track of refunds from parcel carriers is a tedious task if done manually. Also, shippers seek discounts when negotiating with shipping carriers. The above factors make it essential for businesses to partner with parcel audit services. It gives peace of mind and reduces shipping costs for businesses.

How do parcel audit services save money?

Manual in-house audits require time and engage the resources of companies. So partnering with parcel audit services helps companies save money on administrative costs and time. A comprehensive review of shipping invoices aids companies in identifying any service failures by parcel carriers. In addition, it allows shippers to claim refunds from the parcel carriers for overcharging, late deliveries, or incorrect shipping fees. The weight and dimensions of packages contribute to a rise in shipping costs. The innovative solutions provided by parcel audit services help in lowering shipping costs. Our earlier article gives more information regarding the benefits of parcel audit services.

Reduce international shipping costs with parcel audit services

International shipping has become expensive due to various reasons beyond anybody’s control. Due to a rise in shipping costs, customers abandon shopping carts leading to businesses losing money. By partnering with parcel audit services, companies reduce shipping costs seamlessly using different methods such as:

Negotiating with a fulfillment center

Companies negotiate with a fulfillment center for discounts according to their business requirements. Shippers can spread their inventory across many warehouses across a country due to fruitful negotiations with a fulfillment partner. These negotiations help in lowering shipping costs to a large extent.

Optimizing packaging of goods

Heavy and oversized packages are expensive for shippers. Shippers need to have better alternatives for overweight and oversize parcels. And so, innovative packaging helps shippers reduce the weight and dimensions of packages. For instance, poly mailers instead of boxes help in reducing packaging costs.

Switching parcel carriers

Shippers can save money by switching parcel carriers according to the suggestions given by parcel audit services. Hence, choosing regional parcel carriers that offer cheaper shipping rates with quality delivery service is more beneficial for shippers. Negotiating with several shipping carriers helps shippers get a better bargain for their shipping needs. In addition, hybrid services are gaining momentum among shippers.

Proper documentation

International shipments to different destinations need a lot of paperwork. Generally, most countries need documents like purchase order, invoice, packing list, bill of lading, Certificate of Origin, Letter of credit, export license, and insurance certificate accompanying the shipment. Lack of proper documents leads to late delivery of goods, thus leading to loss of revenue.

Prepaid shipping

Businesses that usually ship the same weight packages can opt for prepaid shipping. Prepaid shipping allows shippers to buy shipping labels in advance instead of paying for an individual one at the time of shipping. It provides a discount of up to 20 percent to businesses.

Parcel carrier contract negotiations

Parcel audit services negotiate with shipping carriers for better shipping rates and discounts. Shipping information that includes shipping history, volumes, and accessorial fees is a part of the negotiations. Having shipping data at the fingertips helps in parcel rate negotiations to a great extent. Parcel audit services have experts well versed in carrier contract negotiations and recommend different parcel carriers for particular services. Small parcel negotiations are essential for companies to get the maximum benefits without loss of revenue.

Parcel audit services help lower a company’s overall shipping costs without any hassles. Learn more about reducing shipping costs in our blog.

Reliable, affordable parcel audit services of Audintel

At Audintel, we reduce the shipping costs of businesses seamlessly. Our intuitive dashboards and comprehensive shipping reports are the best in the market. We have the expertise to handle the shipping data of our clients and negotiate the best deals with the parcel carriers. Our team of experts tracks each shipment and claims refunds for any damages or late deliveries from the parcel carriers. We offer insights into the future and identify conditions that can be prevented or need improvement. Our audits cover shipping invoices so that clients don’t get overcharged unnecessarily. Audintel provides intelligent, reliable, and affordable parcel audit services to clients.

To summarize

There are more than forty audit checkpoints, so shippers need help solving the various complex aspects of parcel auditing. Parcel auditing services have the requisite automated technology, data analysis skills, and experience to empower shippers to make informed decisions. In short, Audintel handles small parcel audit services for our clients, giving them the necessary peace of mind. Discover our entire range of parcel audit services by contacting us today or you can call us at +1 (619) 354 8539. Visit our Audintel website to know more about parcel auditing.

Shipping trends of 2022 that redefine the way we ship

The supply chain industry has faced many challenges in 2020 and 2021. This year appears to be difficult for small and mid-sized businesses. In addition to the pandemic resurgence in some countries, the Ukraine conflict has posed many challenges.

Shipping costs have risen as FedEx has hiked its peak surcharges for international parcel and freight shipments. Many areas of the shipping industry have also seen disruptions. This article will explore the shipping trends of 2022, focusing on small packages.

Shipping trends of 2022

Online buying has put tremendous pressure on the supply chain industry. E-commerce customers are expecting faster delivery and returns of items. Small and mid-sized businesses are looking for opportunities to mitigate late parcel deliveries. With this in mind, here are ten shipping trends of 2022 that will change the way we ship parcels.

A rise in shipping costs

Parcel carriers have hiked annual general rate increases (GRI) and surcharges leading to a rise in the shipping costs. Unprecedented consumer demand for same-day delivery has led to increased shipping volumes. In addition, inflation is surging upward due to supply chain issues. Shippers need to evaluate the services they need to spend on to offset the rise in shipping costs. Further, businesses are advised not to change their parcel carriers or renegotiate their carrier contracts. It is because parcel carriers offer less attractive terms than their existing agreements.

Congestion at warehouses, port terminals

Due to the pandemic restrictions in countries, the waiting time to load and unload goods has risen. As a result, there is congestion at warehouses and port terminals, causing shipment delays. There is a backlog that is hampering shipping operations. Opening new fulfillment centers or physical stores in heavily populated areas brings products closer to the public. It allows shippers to provide quick parcel shipping to their customers.

Digitalization

The pandemic caused a shortage of professional workers such as logistic operators. Digitalization of shipping processes like warehouse operations is improving supply chain efficiency. Shippers can avoid several manual steps during order fulfillment by using shipping software solutions. Digital solutions are reducing shipping costs and enhancing shipping processes.

Personalized delivery experience

Customer experience is essential for recurring shipping business engagement. It is necessary to provide a personalized delivery experience with reliable, on-time delivery of packages. Clear and transparent communication regarding delivery and tracking of parcels helps customers. Further, adopting new technology to limit package theft and enhance the delivery process are other factors to increase customer satisfaction.

Sustainability

An increasing number of consumers are trying to reduce the carbon footprint of parcel deliveries. Re-cyclable biodegradable material is in use for packaging and shipping goods. Further, shippers use ground services to reduce overall transportation routes. Shipping businesses keep sustainability in mind by using eco-friendly boxes and mailers. Parcel carriers are using electric vehicles for shipping parcels to customers. Moreover, shipping carriers meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards by using electric-powered delivery vehicles.

Optimization of supply chain management

The “just-in-time” supply chain has become unpopular during the pandemic time. Shippers have shifted to holding a large buffer stock for any surges in demand and a decrease in the supply of goods. Shippers are examing their logistics and inventory data to optimize supply chain management. Inventory and e-commerce data help shippers optimize their shipping processes while reducing shipping costs.

Last-mile innovation

Last-mile delivery of packages is an integral part of customer satisfaction for businesses. Shortage of drivers can cause a delay in last-mile deliveries of parcels. Innovation in the form of robotics, drone, and self-driven vehicles will prevent poor last-mile delivery experiences. Some shipping businesses are already using drones to drop off medicines. However, using a drone for parcel delivery is difficult for communities. They require special permission to receive such deliveries. Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning have the potential to make logistic processes more simple.

Reverse logistics

A drawback to the increase in online shipping is the rise in returned packages. Shipping businesses have to pay for the returns processing fee with the increased shipping rates of parcel carriers. It eats into the profit margins of shipping companies. As a result, some big businesses offer refunds and keep the product in the customer’s hands. Alternatively, some shipping companies are mitigating returns costs with a multi-carrier strategy. Therefore, shippers use artificial intelligence to calculate whether it is economical to process a return.

Local pop-up e-commerce distribution centers

Shipping companies respond to local shipping demands by operating local pop-up distribution centers. Shipping parcels from long distances costs more. Lessening the delivery time by renting out warehouses allows customers to receive orders sooner. Expect gig economy carriers to rise in 2022. Shippers are planning to use the services of gig economy carriers to deliver packages within a few hours to customers.

Partnering with parcel shipping audit company

2022 will be a challenging year for shipping businesses. But, partnering with the right parcel shipping audit company can save money for businesses. In addition to negotiating the best shipping rates, Audintel helps businesses receive discounts for services from parcel carriers. Audintel helps shippers analyze their shipping data for inaccuracies, accessorial charges, refunds, etc.

Finally, the Shipping industry has to change with the times. What was popular two years back is not feasible now. Shippers have to make critical decisions and adapt to the ever-changing consumer demands. Data-driven innovation will have an impact on package deliveries in 2022. Partnering with Audintel will be beneficial for shipping businesses. You can reach us for further discussions or you can call us at +1 (619) 354 8539. Further, you can also learn about our services on Audintel.com.

Our top ten reasons for delays in UPS and FedEx shipments

Online shopping has both been a boon and a bane for retailers. There is a rising demand for on-time delivery of goods in a day. Shippers and parcel carriers are racing against time to meet customers’ expectations. But even so, UPS and FedEx shipments are delivered late.

Delayed shipments negatively impact customer experience, thus causing loss of revenue. Why are UPS and FedEx shipments delayed? In this blog, let us study the top ten reasons for shipping delays.

Top ten reasons for delays in UPS and FedEx shipments

There are many reasons for UPS and FedEx shipping delays. FedEx and UPS shipping locations play a vital role in delayed shipments. In addition, UPS and FedEx delivery times vary depending on the service chosen by shippers. So, selecting the correct parcel carrier is essential for order fulfillment. Listed below are the top ten reasons:

Weather-related delays

Bad weather conditions are one of the causes of shipment delays. Inclement weather, such as blizzards, tornadoes, rainstorms, etc., makes it difficult for FedEx and UPS drivers to make deliveries on time. These delays are not eligible for a money-back guarantee by UPS/FedEx. Shippers need to inform their customers in advance of weather-related delays to show commitment to customers.

Disasters

UPS and FedEx shipment delays are due to natural and human disasters. Recently, pandemics, wars, social and political unrest, famine, floods, fires caused many shipping delays. Restrictions on the movement of goods and people have adverse effects on transportation. Hence, the delay in UPS and FedEx shipments.

Wrong documents

Several documents accompany UPS and FedEx packages. A delivery exception occurs when a parcel’s label is wrong. A commercial invoice containing the items expected by the customer is to be a part of the package. Improper documents need to be rectified, thus delaying the shipments.

Illegal or Hazardous materials in a package

UPS and FedEx label some goods as prohibited and restricted items. These goods include:

Alcoholic beverages
Ammunition
Firearms and weapons
Live animals
Precious metals
Fresh food and more

The entire list of prohibited and restricted items is available at UPS and FedEx sites. Shippers need to provide a declaration regarding the goods before they can be delivered. As a result, delivery delays occur.

Missing custom clearance documents

It is necessary to have custom clearance documents for international UPS and FedEx shipments. The documents include a commercial invoice, certificate of Origin, North American Free Trade Agreement Certificate of Origin, Electronic export information, and shipping label. The package is held at a customs facility or the carrier’s distribution facility when any documents are missing.

Incorrect address

Packages need correct addresses for on-time delivery. Wrong addresses on packages cause delays in FedEx and UPS shipments. For instance, customers having several delivery addresses may give the wrong address to shippers. Or shippers’ systems may enter the incorrect address for the package. Further, a delivery executive may deliver the parcel to the wrong apartment by misreading the label. Whatever may be the reason, the parcel carrier has to pick up the package from the incorrect address and deliver it to the correct address, thus causing a delay.

Holiday surge

Thanks giving, Christmas, or any National Holiday benefits businesses. However, due to the increase in shipping volumes, customers are advised to shop early. Ideally, parcel carriers offer holiday deadline dates, so customers get their packages in time. But, holiday shipments may overwhelm parcel carriers’ capacities, thus causing delays.

Unavailability of the recipient for package

For package delivery, FedEx requires a recipient’s signature to deliver parcels. Sometimes, at the time of delivery of packages, recipients are unavailable at the address. But, if the recipient is a business, and a parcel arrives outside business hours, FedEx attempts delivery another day. Failed delivery attempts by parcel carriers are the reason for the return of shipments by parcel carriers.

Poor performance of shipping carriers

Shipping carriers may suspect illegal items in packages and therefore delay shipments. Further, UPS and FedEx have different delivery times and schedules for various packages. Alternatively, prioritized parcels may get preference over others. Shipping carriers’ performance is poorly rated even if a package arrives late at a fulfillment center. All these factors cause delays in shipment.

Staff shortage

UPS and FedEx face labor shortages for many reasons, including pay and benefits. For the past two years, shipping carriers finding it difficult to retain employees. It is mainly due to people opting for working from home and not wanting the stress of blue-collar jobs. Thus, causing an impact on UPS and FedEx delivery times.

How to prevent UPS and FedEx delivery delays?

Shippers need to address the areas where the delays are occurring. Our tips for preventing UPS and FedEx shipping delays include:

Cross-checking shipping information for incorrect addresses and shipping labels
Open communication with customers regarding delays due to bad weather and disasters
Automating the custom clearance documents and other necessary documents
Order in advance to beat the holiday surge

Partnering with Audintel helps shipping businesses keep track of each shipment. Our clients benefit immensely from our customized dashboards and shipping reports. Shippers receive refunds for delayed shipments from parcel carriers with ease. Audintel‘s team helps shipping businesses to negotiate good carrier contracts and save money.

Conclusion

Delivering packages on time is easier said than done. There are lots of variables involved when UPS and FedEx deliver packages. Our top ten reasons for delays in shipments and ways to prevent delays give a brief insight regarding delayed shipments. However, keeping track of delivery expectations is best left in the hands of experts, like Audintel. We help shipping businesses deal with UPS and FedEx shipping delays. Still unsure about what to do in case of shipping delays, call us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or contact us by clicking here or visiting the Audintel website.

Our top reasons for FedEx and UPS return shipments

Since early 2020, there has been an increase in online shopping worldwide. Online shippers want same-day shipping. Shipping companies and parcel carriers are scrambling to meet customers’ expectations. Nonetheless, some shipments do not reach the customers on time. Also, FedEx and UPS may return the parcels due to numerous reasons. This article will explore our top reasons for FedEx and UPS returns.

Cause for return shipments

Customers will have no use for holiday gifts after the holiday season is over. In short, your customer would like to return these parcels to the senders. Sometimes, parcel carriers return packages. Shipping carriers cite many reasons for return shipments. We, at Audintel, found these top reasons for UPS and FedEx returns.

Our top reasons for UPS and FedEx returns

Incorrect address

A misspelled customer’s address or a wrong apartment number is the cause of most return shipments. In addition, if the recipient of the package has moved to another location, the address needs an update. FedEx and UPS both levy a hefty surcharge for address correction. The software solutions offered by Audintel identify these address corrections for our clients.

Package delivery refused or unclaimed

A cause of return shipment is when the recipient refuses to accept the package. Also, the recipient reschedules the delivery of packages and does not pick them up within five business days. The parcel is termed unclaimed and returned to the sender. At times, customers cancel packages and refuse the delivery. As a consequence, shippers lose shipping costs.

Improper documentation

For domestic US shipments, documents like commercial invoices, shipping labels, and tracking labels are necessary. An error in the documentation is a cause for return shipment by FedEx and UPS carriers. Until the documents are verified and error-free, the packages will be held at the carriers’ distribution centers.

Customs clearance documentation for international shipments

For FedEx and UPS international shipments, documents such as certificate of origin, commercial invoice, electronic export information, shipping labels, packing list are necessary. If shippers miss any documents or provide unverified documents, the package is on hold at the customs. Improper paperwork is a cause for UPS as well as FedEx return shipments.

Lack of valid proof of identification

FedEx and UPS return happen due to invalid proof of identification of the recipient. A driver’s license or a passport can give valid proof of identification. Even if someone else is authorized to receive the packages, the recipient should have valid photo ID proof.

Delivery delay by parcel carriers

FedEx and UPS have to refund money to the shippers when there is a delay in delivering packages. The delay could be due to various reasons. The parcel carriers face many service failures. The request for a refund from the parcel carriers is a long process. Audintel can help shippers in this regard. We had discussed this topic in our earlier blogs.

Non-delivery of restricted items

Hazardous materials like lithium-ion batteries, chemicals, fresh food, uncut gems, ammunition, etc., are restricted items according to FedEx and Ups policies. These items will face returns from FedEx and UPS to the senders.

Closure of businesses

Many businesses have shut down or temporarily closed in the past two years. In such a situation, FedEx and UPS have faced many return shipments.

Processing error

If there is labeling or a scanning error by FedEx or UPS, it is known as a processing error. The packages are redirected to the sender due to processing errors by parcel carriers. Shippers can contact FedEx customer service or UPS customer service for further details.

Weather-related delays

Severe weather conditions cause a delay in shipments. There is a rescheduling of the shipment delays for the next business day delivery. Customers may cancel the order, and return shipments occur. It leads to loss for shippers. In addition, shippers are not eligible for Money-Back Guarantee (MBG) or Guaranteed Service Refund (GSR) due to weather-related delays.

What are FedEx and UPS return shipping solutions?

UPS Return shipping solutions

UPS offers several options to its customers to simplify return shipments. They offer the convenience of a pre-printed return label, which accompanies the package. UPS also gives UPS Electronic Return Label directly by email to the recipient. In addition, UPS drivers will collect the return shipment from the recipient’s address. UPS allows recipients to drop off return shipments at a UPS store without a label or a box.

FedEx Return shipping solutions

Just like UPS, FedEx has options to return a package. If the recipient has a label for the return shipment, they can drop off the packages at FedEx retail and contactless FedEx Drop Box locations. Even a QR code return label is sufficient to return the package at a FedEx drop off location nearby. Recipients can also create a return label on fedex.com for returning the parcels. In addition, FedEx’s global returns solutions help shippers improve customer loyalty and monitor their supply chain expenses.

How does Audintel help?

Audintel helps shipping companies by providing visibility of the return packages along with the reasons. Audintel reports help the shippers to analyze the return packages and take corrective measures for future shipments by avoiding the cost incurred on the return packages. Our dashboards provide the details of return packages based on the services also.

Final Remarks

Shipping companies need to make the return process as easy as the order process. Customers will prefer a company that gave a positive shopping experience, even returning a package. In addition, shippers will opt for the parcel carriers that make the return process easy for them and their customers. So, do you have a return shipment that needs our expertise, then contact us on how to go about it? For further advice and services, call us at +1 (619) 354 8539 or visit our Audintel website.

Is your small parcel audit service securing refunds promptly?

What do you do if there are shipping invoice errors? Who do you turn to when faced with late deliveries of packages? We hope it is your parcel audit service provider. If not, you face the uphill task of asking for refunds from parcel carriers.

This blog deals with the audit services provided by parcel audit companies such as Audintel. In addition, we will discuss how auditing helps companies save money.

Parcel audit services

Parcel auditing services help businesses overcome manual time-consuming refund claims. The parcel shipment of each shipper is monitored and tracked by automatic parcel auditing software. Shippers can receive refunds from shipping carriers for late deliveries, damaged packages, and more. Further, Parcel audit services identify shipping inaccuracies and recover money for their clients.

Types of parcel audit impacting businesses

Initially, we will discuss the different audit points that impact businesses. Audintel identifies various audit points that need checking. These audit points are categorized further into three types of audits.

Service Audits

These audits are for deficiency in services provided by the shipping carriers. Small parcel auditors target the below audit points:

Late Delivery (Air, Ground and International)

Shippers are entitled to a refund from parcel carriers for late deliveries. Small parcel auditing services monitor the delay in package deliveries.

Voids

Shipping carriers generate labels for packages that are not shipped. At times, delivery of packages does not occur, and the shippers pay for such non-deliveries. Audintel helps shippers identify such shipments and recover money.

Duplicate Invoices

Shipping carriers may give shippers duplicate invoices for a shipment. Audintel identifies such errors and requests refunds.

Duplicate Tracking Number

Parcel carriers give duplicate tracking numbers by mistake. Audintel monitors duplicate tracking numbers.

Lost Claims

Audintel makes claims to the shipping carriers for lost packages. These claims include refunds for businesses.

Damage Claims

Packages damaged during transit are subject to claims. Audintel claims declared value or insurance for packages on behalf of the client.

Saturday Pick-Up and Delivery Validation

Shipping carriers pick up packages on Saturday and charge more for such shipments. Audintel verifies Saturday pick-up by parcel carriers, and if any errors occur, we file refunds for clients.

Invoice Audits

Errors in invoices are subject to audit by parcel auditors. The audit points that monitor inaccurate invoices include:

Incorrect Rate

Shipping carriers will publish shipping rates every year. Every package shipped is charged according to the decided rate during carrier negotiations. However, the parcel carriers may charge more than the negotiated rate. It leads to billing with inaccurate rates. Audintel files claims on behalf of shippers for refunds.

Incorrect Discount

During contract negotiations, shippers and service providers decide on discounts based on the shipping needs. A mistake in providing the correct discounts by carriers leads to refunds.

Incorrect Accessorial

Audintel requests refunds for shippers if accessorial fees and surcharges such as fuel surcharges are incorrect.

Commercial/Residential Adjustments

Packages to be delivered to commercial establishments may incorrectly charge residential location prices. Parcel audit services identify these inaccuracies made by shipping carriers.

Address Corrections Air and Ground

Shipped Packages by air or ground transport may not require address corrections. Nonetheless, shippers may charge incorrectly for address changes.

Delivery Area Surcharge

Shipping carriers charge businesses a surcharge if the delivery area is in remote locations. Audintel identifies any errors in DAS and requests refunds wherever possible.

Hundredweight Shipments

Multiple shipments going to one location will get discounts from shipping carriers. Audintel consults shippers to opt for these kinds of alternatives given by carriers so that they save money.

DAS Extended

Shipping carriers may charge more to shippers for shipments that have delivery areas beyond the remote areas. Audintel checks whether the delivery areas are beyond the distant locations and requests refunds where necessary.

DAS Rural

This surcharge is for rural areas. Parcel auditors check such DAS Rural for verification.

International Import and Export

Packages shipped to and from the US will have duties and taxes. Audintel ensures that shippers do not pay extra taxes.

Weight Accuracy

Parcel auditing helps in paying the right amount for package weights. For example, a package weighing 5 pounds may be charged incorrectly as a 7-pound package.

Additional Handling Charges

Our team verifies if the shippers are paying more for additional handling charges and helps how to reduce them.

Fuel Surcharge

Fuel surcharge changes frequently. Audintel verifies the fuel surcharge.

Hazmat Materials

Packages with hazardous materials have higher prices. Audintel checks the invoices to determine if the shippers get the correct bills.

Compliance Audits

Audits conducted by third parties are compliance audits. It is to check if both the shippers and parcel carriers are following their negotiated terms of the contract agreement. The audit points that are a part of these audits are:

Contract Rate and Tier Audits

Audintel has expert negotiators who have in-depth knowledge of carrier contracts. Additionally, we help shippers perfect their contract agreements with the shipping carriers to get the best deal.

Contract Negotiations

FedEx and UPS carrier Contracts/Agreements are very complicated and very difficult to negotiate with them. Our negotiating team ensures that the shippers’ contract agreements with parcel carriers are correct and there are no discrepancies.

Invalid Account Number Usage

Parcel auditors identify packages having invalid account numbers.

Incorrectly billed 3rd Party Shipments, who’s using your account number

Packages shipped are billed to a third party using account numbers that are not existing. Audintel identifies incorrect third-party account numbers.

Special Contract Consideration

Audintel checks contract negotiations made by shippers for inaccuracies and mistakes.

Small Parcel audits by Audintel: refunds and saving

Audintel identifies mistakes made by parcel carriers and requests refunds from them. We ensure our clients receive money in their accounts from FedEx, UPS, or other carriers. Audintel is a small parcel auditing company whose services do not end with just providing software solutions. But also with ensuring refunds for their customers. We help our clients save money by negotiating for discounts with shipping carriers.

Final Remarks Parcel audit services help businesses by requesting refunds for mistakes of parcel carriers. Several eligible refunds are unclaimed by shippers. Small parcel audit services claim refunds for businesses thus, saving money. The expert team at Audintel helps shippers to cut shipping costs. Reach out to us for a demo and benefit from our top-notch services. Visit the Audintel website or call us at +1 (619) 354 8539 to know more about us.