How Top Exporters Can Improve On-Time Delivery Performance by 20%

In his latest article, Kevin Cordeiro, our VP of Product, dives into the everyday challenges exporters face and how we're is tackling them head-on. From real-time visibility to proactive exception management, Kevin outlines how our platform empowers exporters to address bottlenecks and transform their operations.

Kevin Cordeiro
VP of Product
January 22, 2025

The Everyday Challenges of Export Operations

Let’s face it: Exporting goods often feels like a constant battle against fragmented information and last-minute surprises. 

From incomplete shipment details and delayed terminal updates to lost container visibility, exporters face an uphill struggle every day.

Some of the most common obstacles include:

  • Incomplete shipment data from booking to vessel departure.
  • Limited access to order-level shipment details.
  • Missing or delayed terminal updates, such as early receiving dates (ERDs) and vessel cut-off dates.
  • Difficulty tracking containers moving by rail accurately.
  • Ineffective exception management tools to address delays before they escalate.
  • Limited integration capabilities for seamless data sharing.
  • Decentralized document management, causing delays in compliance and operations.

Without easy access to critical data—like cargo-ready dates, terminal ERDs, and vessel cut-offs—ensuring shipments make it to the vessel on time becomes nearly impossible. Throw in unpredictable container rolls and split bookings, and smooth operations turn into a logistical nightmare.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. 

In my previous roles, I’ve seen these challenges derail even the best-laid plans. Maybe you’ve scrambled to rebook containers after missing a vessel cut-off date or had to pull containers early because of shifting port windows, only to rack up detention fees while they sit outside the terminal. These headaches don’t just cost time and money—they damage customer trust and team morale, too.

Why Choose Unity?

This is exactly why I was so excited to join Unity SCM. 

Unity SCM was designed to make life easier for exporters. It’s a platform we have built specifically to tackle these challenges head-on, delivering the insights and tools you need to stay ahead.

Here’s how:

  • Comprehensive Visibility: When you know exactly where your shipments are, you can act faster. Unity SCM provides real-time updates on bookings, containers, rail movements, and terminal schedules, ensuring you never miss critical deadlines like ERDs or vessel cut-off dates. With fewer surprises, you can prevent missed vessel departures and reduce costly rebookings.
  • Order-Level Precision: Linking shipments to specific orders with SKUs, batch numbers, or HS codes eliminates confusion and allows logistics teams to prioritize high-value or time-sensitive cargo. Improved order accuracy reduces delays caused by mismatched or incomplete shipment information.
  • Proactive Exception Management: Unity SCM sends real-time alerts and tailored reports to flag potential risks before they escalate. For example, if a container is at risk of missing its vessel, you’ll know early enough to rebook or adjust. Addressing exceptions proactively avoids delays and keeps operations running smoothly.
  • Frequent ETA Updates: Accurate ETAs at key milestones let you plan ahead and make data-driven decisions. Predictive insights help you anticipate delays, such as rail disruptions or terminal congestion, and adjust schedules accordingly. Timely adjustments improve overall efficiency and on-time delivery performance.
  • Streamlined Document Management: With Unity SCM, you can upload, tag, and share critical documents in one place. No more scrambling for paperwork or delays caused by missing compliance documents. Faster document processing ensures shipments move forward without administrative holdups.
  • Flexible Integration and Data Sharing: Unity supports data exchange through API, EDI, and even spreadsheets, so it fits seamlessly into your existing systems. This means no lost time waiting for systems to “talk” to each other. Faster data exchange keeps all stakeholders informed and aligned.

Real Results: A 20% Improvement in On-Time Delivery Performance

By combining granular shipment data with actionable insights, Unity SCM empowers exporters to address bottlenecks and take back control of their supply chains. The result? A measurable 20% improvement in on-time delivery performance.

Here’s why:

  • Fewer Missed Milestones: Real-time updates on ERDs, vessel cut-off dates, and container locations let you stay ahead of critical deadlines.
  • Faster Response to Risks: Proactive exception management tools empower teams to resolve issues before they impact delivery timelines.
  • Improved Coordination: With centralized data and document-sharing capabilities, everyone—logistics teams, freight forwarders, and carriers—is on the same page.
  • Optimized Planning: Predictive ETAs enable better resource allocation and scheduling, reducing inefficiencies across the board.

When we talk about improving on-time delivery performance by 20%, it’s important to put that into context. Think of it like starting a fitness program.

If you’ve never worked out before, your initial gains are dramatic—fixing long-standing inefficiencies like poor form or bad habits leads to rapid improvement. For exporters struggling with fragmented data, manual processes, or missed deadlines, the same principle applies. By implementing centralized visibility, proactive exception management, and streamlined communication with partners, you can unlock massive gains—sometimes even exceeding 40%.

For exporters with more mature operations, the improvements might be smaller but no less valuable. Just like a seasoned athlete fine-tunes their performance for consistency, Unity SCM helps optimize workflows, refine processes, and deliver consistent, reliable results in an increasingly competitive market.

Unity SCM: Built for Exporters, Designed for Results

Unlike generic tracking platforms, Unity SCM delivers actionable insights and unparalleled granularity for exporters. You’ll have real-time updates on rail movements, terminal ERDs, vessel cut-offs, and dynamic receiving windows—all in one place.

Our predictive insights, proactive exception management, and centralized tools empower you to anticipate risks before they escalate, helping you stay ahead of challenges rather than reacting to them.

With Unity SCM, exporters can move beyond playing defense. You’ll have the visibility, precision, and collaboration tools to ensure cargo reaches its destination on time—every time.

Want to Learn More? 

If you’re ready to see how UnitySCM can help to improve your on-time delivery, schedule a demo today. Our team will walk you through how the service works and how it’s already driving results for other exporters.