Purpose
Smart routing helps planners compare viable paths for a shipment or lane before booking. Input origin, destination, cargo details, and constraints; Orbex Data returns ranked options with estimated transit time, reliability score, and optional cost comparison when rate data is connected.
Planning, not execution
Smart routing recommends options. Booking still occurs in your TMS or carrier portal unless you use a connected booking integration.
Routing inputs
- Origin and destination (door, port, or airport)
- Cargo: weight, volume, equipment type, hazmat flag
- Date window: earliest departure, required delivery
- Constraints: max transshipments, excluded carriers, Incoterms
- Optional: target cost ceiling from rate database
| Constraint | Effect |
|---|---|
| Direct only | Excludes transshipment routings |
| Carrier allowlist | Limits to contracted partners |
| Max transit days | Filters options exceeding threshold |
| Temperature controlled | Air and reefer-capable ocean only |
Scoring model
Each routing option receives a composite score from transit time, historical on-time performance on the lane, port congestion indicators, and cost where available. Adjust weight sliders to prioritize speed vs. cost vs. reliability.
Data sources
- Your workspace historical shipments on the lane
- Carrier schedule feeds and blank sailing notices
- Port dwell benchmarks from Shipment intelligence
- Imported contract rates or spot indices
Scenario comparison
Save routing scenarios side by side for customer quotes or internal approval. Scenarios attach to shipment records as planning notes, creating an audit trail when the actual booked routing differs from recommendation.
Disruption mode
During port strikes or canal delays, run what-if scenarios with excluded ports to present alternatives to affected shippers quickly.
TMS handoff
Export selected routing as structured JSON or push to supported TMS integrations. Fields include recommended carrier, vessel or flight, ETD window, and transshipment legs for booking clerks.