frequently asked questions logistics

1. How does Connected Planning improve transport & warehouse capacity planning?

By modelling network constraints, lanes and warehouse slots together for scenario trade-offs. You can test rerouting, cross-dock options, and dynamic storage rules to reduce transit costs and balance service levels across the network.

 2. Can Anaplan help lower freight costs and optimise carrier selection? 

Yes — by combining cost-to-serve, volume forecasts and contract terms to run scenario-based planning that include capacity constraints and carrier performance metrics.

3. How do you connect Anaplan to TMS, WMS and trackers (telemetry)?

Through scheduled API/ETL feeds and event-driven updates for inventory and shipment status.

4. What KPIs to track first in logistics transformations?

On-time delivery, transportation cost per unit, dwell time, and fill rate. Dashboards showing cost per lane, exception volumes and capacity utilisation give quick operational levers for procurement and network teams.

 5. How can we build resilience for disruption (port congestion, strikes)? 

Scenario templates for rerouting, buffer inventory and alternate sourcing let teams pre-evaluate impacts and implement playbooks when disruptions occur.

6. Is it feasible to centralise network planning while keeping local execution autonomy?

Centralised constraints and KPIs maintain alignment, while local planners retain the ability to adjust tactical allocations and implement operational fixes.

7. Can Anaplan support cost-allocation and contract accounting for logistics?

Yes — cost allocation modules can map freight & handling costs to products, customers and business units. Accurate cost-to-serve modelling supports pricing decisions, margin analysis and supplier negotiations, feeding finance and commercial planning.

8. How quickly can we get a logistics Minimum Viable Model (MVM) running? 

In short: A focused MVM (a single region or core lane set) can be delivered in 9-12 weeks.