CargoSphere releases rate network update

   The cloud-based global ocean and air rate management provider CargoSphere on Tuesday released version 4.0 of its CargoSphere Rate Network (CRN).
   The new release is intended to provide a more intuitive, clearly defined and easy-to-use rate network for non-vessel-operating common carriers and freight forwarders seeking to collaborate with global agents.
   The network now includes what CargoSphere calls a “Guest Sponsor” program designed to accelerate collaboration between CargoSphere system users and their agents to allow rates to be shared in minutes.
   CargoSphere started in 2000 to provide rate management systems to the NVO community. The network provides functions in a Facebook-style manner, with companies designating the companies with whom they would like to collaborate through a process of mutual authorization, president and co-founder Neil Barni told American Shipper in 2011.
   Other CRN 4.0 improvements include new rate networking functionality based on geographical parameters, expanded options for agent partners, and easy-to-use block features which allow users to manage and limit what contract and rate information is available for viewing.
   “Overall, this system has truly transformed our global NVO business,” said Reynir Gislason, executive president and owner of International Freight Shipping S.A.C. “Managing service contracts and client quotations is fast, easy, accurate, and very professional. Additionally, implementation has been a great success for our organization with the help of CargoSphere’s webinar training sessions for our staff.”
   “We have recognized a significant void in the available technology underlying critical agent relationships,” Barni said. “With CRN version 4.0, we are offering a quantum leap from current email and spreadsheet methods to a cloud-based rate collaboration platform. We are also eliminating the ‘black-hole’ resulting from time zone differences by creating a window to real-time rates. This release vastly accelerates response time for agents who need to quote customers based on a more comprehensive repository of up to the minute rates from authorized partners.” – Eric Johnson