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RizzitGo: Forecasting Shipping Costs with Historical Spreadsheet Data

2026-01-27

In the competitive world of logistics, unpredictable shipping expenses can erode profit margins and complicate budgeting. RizzitGo

The Foundation: Your Historical Spreadsheet Data

Every past shipment holds valuable information. A typical historical spreadsheet for shipping might contain:

  • Parcel Dimensions:
  • Route Details:
  • Performance Metrics:
  • Cost Data:
  • Date & Carrier:

This dataset forms the training ground

The RizzitGo Forecasting Methodology: A Two-Pillar Approach

1. Analyzing Historical Parcel Weights & Dimensional Data

Weight is the primary, but not the sole, driver of cost. We analyze weight distributions to:

  • Identify typical weight brackets
  • Spot trends, like a gradual increase in average package weight over time.
  • Calculate dimensional weight

This analysis establishes a baseline "what you ship" profile, critical for applying carrier rate cards accurately.

2. Evaluating Historical Route Performance

Not all routes cost the same, even for the same weight. Route analysis uncovers patterns in:

  • Zone-Based Costing:
  • Service Level Efficiency:
  • Surcharge Hotspots:
  • Carrier Performance by Route:

Building the Predictive Model

By combining the two pillars, RizzitGo helps you create a forecasting framework:

  1. Data Cleansing:
  2. Variable Identification:Weight, Destination Zone, Service Level, Carrier.
  3. Correlation Analysis:
  4. Model Creation:Predicted Cost = Base Rate(Weight Bracket, Zone) + Avg. Surcharge(Zone) + Carrier Adjustment.
  5. Testing & Refinement:

Operational & Financial Benefits

Accurate Budgeting

Transform shipping from a variable expense into a well-predicted line item, improving financial planning.

Informed Negotiation

Approach carriers with concrete data on your shipping profile and typical lane costs to secure better rates.

Cost Avoidance

Identify and mitigate high-cost factors (e.g., frequent oversize charges, inefficient route choices) before they occur.

Strategic Decision-Making

Simulate the cost impact of new sales markets, product lines, or different carrier mixes before committing.

Implementing RizzitGo's Approach

Start with a focused analysis of your last 6-12 months of shipping data. Use pivot tables to summarize costs by weight, zone, and carrier. Even basic trend lines on weight-over-time charts can reveal valuable insights. For more advanced forecasting, consider integrating spreadsheet data with BI tools or dedicated logistics analytics platforms that automate much of this analysis.

In logistics, history is not just a record—it's the most reliable blueprint for the future. RizzitGo empowers you to use that blueprint to build a more predictable, profitable shipping strategy.