Data-Driven Negotiation: How to Rate Your Logistics Partners

You work with multiple transporters, suppliers, and third-party logistics providers (3PLs).
But do you know who your best performer is? Often, we rely on “gut feeling” or relationships.
“Transporter A is good guys, they’ve been with us for years.” But are they actually the most efficient?

The Scorecard Approach

A comprehensive logistics platform gathers data on every trip. You can turn this data into a
“Vendor Scorecard.”

  • On-Time Performance: What percentage of their trucks arrived within the promised window?
  • Placement Efficiency: When you request a vehicle, how fast do they provide one?
  • Safety & Compliance: Do their drivers consistently follow safety protocols at your gate?

Negotiating with Power

When it’s time to renew contracts, you don’t just argue about price. You bring the data.
“We can’t increase your rates because your on-time performance dropped by 15% this quarter.”
Alternatively, you can reward high performers with more volume.

Conclusion

Move from subjective relationships to objective partnerships. Using data to rate your vendors
ensures you are working with the best in the business and getting true value for your logistics spend.

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