What is the SPOT price API?
The SPOT price integration is a direct connection to Maersk and brings you the most up-to-date pricing from their website. This will appear at the top of the search results page, but you’ll notice that, unlike the other options on the page, you cannot save the rate.
Why can’t I turn this rate into a quote?
In the past, when a search was submitted you would have been able to see all of the options available to turn the rate you see into a quote using the AcceleRate platform. Things have changed with this new integration.
The rate you can see is pulled directly from the Maersk website, which you’re able to book by clicking through to it. This option is for the operations team to use after a quote has been secured.
How to use the SPOT rate pricing
1. Submit a search on our website.
2. If the dynamic rates are available, they will appear at the top of the search results. Secure your quote as you normally would using one of the static quotes below.
3. Once your quote is secured, you can view the dynamic SPOT rates to order to book the space onboard the ship. With the API integration, you can see the cost of shipping, the next available dates and the breakdown of all of the costs.
4. If you’re happy with the price, click through to the website and reserve the shipment there - but make sure you have all of the details to hand!
Here’s an example of what the SPOT rates look like:
When should I use this feature?
Once you’ve closed the deal and are ready to book a shipment with a carrier.
Why should I use this feature?
Think about booking a holiday. It’s common knowledge to book way in advance because prices fluctuate the closer you get to the date, or depending on how many people are looking at the flight or how many seats are left.
It’s the same concept for shipping freight. Prices will fluctuate depending on factors such as date of departure or space aboard the ship. The prices you’re used to seeing in the search results are contracted rates to help you sell better, whereas the dynamic SPOT rates help you book smarter.
When will I be able to book using this rate on the AcceleRate website?
At this point, we are pulling data directly from Maersk’s website in real-time, with the option to book directly from our site not available just yet, but that we’ll have ready soon.
However, like the rest of the freight industry, things are progressing fast - so keep your eyes peeled and get ready to start moving at the speed of freight - oops, I mean light!
Are all available rates through the Maersk website directly available on AcceleRate?
Yes, if the lanes are available the Maersk SPOT rates will be shown on AcceleRate. If you see a SPOT rate for a shipment is available on the Maersk website, but not on the AcceleRate website, please reach out to us.