Mini tenders: that final piece to your freight procurement puzzle

An agile, responsive and ultra-efficient procurement solution for shippers—perfect for managing temporary projects, seasonal spikes and unforeseen demands.

In the world of freight logistics, selecting the right procurement strategy is crucial for optimising costs and efficiency. From strategic tenders that focus on long-term partnerships to spot tenders for quick, ad-hoc needs, and mini tenders that offer flexibility without a long contract, each approach has its own, unique advantages. Read on to find out why mini tenders could be the best option for you.

 

Understanding the different event types to meet your transport needs

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Strategic Tenders

Spot Tenders

Mini Tenders

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5 benefits of mini tenders for shippers

  1. Flexibility: Mini tenders allow shippers to adjust to market changes and shipping needs more frequently than annual contracts.

  2. Cost savings: By frequently bidding, shippers can take advantage of current market rates and potentially secure lower costs compared to long-term contracts.

  3. Improved service: Regularly evaluating carrier performance through mini tenders can lead to improved service levels as carriers strive to win business.

  4. Risk mitigation: Mini tenders reduce the risk of being locked into unfavourable rates or service agreements for extended periods, allowing for quicker adjustments.

  5. Carrier diversity: Mini tenders encourage shippers to engage with a broader range of carriers, fostering competition and potentially discovering new, reliable partners.

     

5 situations where mini tenders are ideal for shippers

  1. Emergence of new lanes: When new shipping lanes emerge that were not included in the original RFQ, mini tenders allow shippers to align their transportation needs accordingly.

  2. Increase in volume: When there is an increase in shipping volume that outpaces the supply provided through the initial RFQ, conducting mini tenders can help meet the growing demand.

  3. Service failures: If there are service failures on a particular lane, mini tenders enable shippers to explore alternative providers and improve service reliability.

  4. High tender rejection rates: When the tender rejection rate is excessively high on specific freight lanes, conducting mini tenders becomes crucial to reduce the reliance on the spot market and secure more reliable options.

  5. Changing market conditions: When overall freight market conditions change, in terms of pricing and capacity availability, mini tenders allow shippers to reassess the market and secure the best possible rates and services.

5 tips to secure the best rates for mini tenders 

  1. Make use of historical data: Analyse your historical shipping data to understand market trends and set realistic expectations for rates. This will help you identify and negotiate the best possible rates.

  2. Build strong relationships: Establish and maintain good relationships with multiple carriers. A strong partnership can lead to more competitive rates and better service.

  3. Communicate clearly: Clearly communicate your requirements, including volume, frequency and special needs, to ensure carriers can provide accurate and competitive rates.

  4. Optimise timing: Conduct mini tenders during periods of lower demand when carriers are more likely to offer better rates to secure business.

  5. Evaluate the total cost: Consider the total cost of shipping, including service quality and reliability, rather than just the rate. Sometimes a slightly higher rate can result in savings through better service and fewer issues.

     

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How Freight Marketplace can help you with Mini Tenders?

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Agility is key to staying ahead

Watch this video featuring Mark Mirsky - Vice President, Global Business Development at Transporeon to discover how the Freight Marketplace provides the flexibility you need to quickly find the right partners and adapt to market shifts in real time.

Ready to make your strategy more efficient and agile?

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Agility is key to staying ahead

Watch this video featuring Mark Mirsky - Vice President, Global Business Development at Transporeon to discover how the Freight Marketplace provides the flexibility you need to quickly find the right partners and adapt to market shifts in real time.

Ready to make your strategy more efficient and agile?

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Network of pre-vetted carriers and shippers ensures the perfect fit

In today’s dynamic freight environment, success hinges on precision and collaboration. Our Freight Marketplace ensures both; it streamlines operations while effortlessly connecting the right carriers with the right shippers.

Discover the future of freight with Francisco Suris, Head of Market Intelligence & Freight Marketplace at Transporeon.

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Data-driven insights create smarter strategies

With the right tools, you’re not just getting standard pricing data—you’re gaining a competitive edge for your logistics needs.

Check out our video featuring our Head of Business Development, Anna Reuttner, and discover how this comprehensive approach can transform the way you move goods across the globe.

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