Shippers and 3PLs are learning to embrace the changes in the supply chain by relying on technology solutions that keep them agile and positioned for success. To mitigate issues with carrier capacity and protect profits while managing costs, they are seeking providers that have solutions for all over-the-road (OTR) shipping modes, including Parcel.
More and more Shippers and 3PLs are turning to technology to help manage their freight and ensure consistency in their over-the-road (OTR) shipping operations. These leading companies have a competitive advantage and can access data easily to make important, cost-saving business decisions, whereas companies utilizing outdated technology or manual processes have not maximized their shipping potential.
It is widely known that outdated systems and manual processes negatively impact productivity and profitability for Shippers and 3PLs. About 50% of logistics and transportation companies say they weren’t just unlucky in their businesses -- outdated technology caused them to lose customers. Consider updated technology solutions for remaining competitive in the supply chain.
Shippers and 3PLs must remain agile to adjust for fluctuations in the supply chain. The ever-changing shipping environment continues to experience significant disruptions affecting shipping in the U.S. with no end to the constraints and issues in sight. To remain competitive and profitable, you need a solid freight exception management plan and technology solution to help you work through current and future issues in the supply chain.
Disruptions to the supply chain aren’t new, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, shippers and 3PLs have had to adjust their operations to accommodate frequent changes. The most-recent issue to impact shipping, specifically for over-the-road (OTR) transport, is the “Freedom Convoy” protest in Canada. In addition to capacity issues, rate increases, and shipping delays, the blockade, created in protest of vaccine mandates and restrictions, has proven to be another hurdle for 3PLs and shippers in providing timely deliveries for OTR shipping in the U.S.
If you take a moment, you can still smell the flowers and a hint of chocolate as the Valentine’s Day holiday winds down. While the love is palpable, many shippers and 3PLs aren’t experiencing the same warm and fuzzy feelings with the current state of the supply chain and some are desperately seeking a solution.
Increased transparency throughout the supply chain is essential for all modes of shipping, but it is particularly critical in final mile. Customers want more insight into the shipping process to track where their shipments are and when they will arrive at their doorsteps.
Due to their complexity and high incidence of mistakes, inaccurate freight bills are much more common than you may realize and can result in significant losses for your company. About 1 in 4 freight bills contain an error, causing shippers to overpay by 13% annually. In a $1.06 trillion over-the-road (OTR) transportation market, that is equal to about $138 billion in overpayments every year!
Shippers and 3PLs know the advantages of using less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping – cost effectiveness, more delivery options, the ability to ship smaller loads without needing to fill an entire truckload, etc. However, when carrier capacity tightens, quicker shipping options are in higher demand, or the supply chain experiences disruptions, it can be difficult to get the LTL pickups and deliveries you need when you need them. To ensure your LTL shipments are getting to their final destinations without delays or breaking your budget, you have another option – LTL load consolidation.
