Looking to scale? Start with the right shipping solution
Congratulations on your booming business! New markets are rapidly ordering your product, and it’s time to figure out how to scale efficiently to meet increasing demand. But the risks of rising shipping costs and potential delivery delays can make it hard to keep up.
You’re left wondering: What logistics solutions will support your growth without compromising your bottom line or customer experience?
Enter less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping — a strategic, cost-effective way to streamline your operation, expand your reach and better serve your customers. Discover how the right LTL shipping strategy can be a key to driving sustainable growth.
6 strategic advantages of LTL
LTL shipping can be a good fit for growing businesses because it offers:
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Scalability — Adjust your shipment size based on fluctuating demand without investing in full truckload
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Cost optimization — Only pay for the truck space you use, so you can free up funds and staff to focus on other critical areas of your business
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Greater access — Test new markets for growth opportunities without overstocking inventory
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Reduced warehousing costs — LTL allows businesses to implement a just-in-time inventory strategy, which helps lower storage expenses and improve cash flow
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A strategic transportation framework — LTL carriers can leverage extensive networks and optimized routes to ensure capacity is available when you need it, even for shipments with unique requirements
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Expert guidance — LTL carriers can serve as trusted advisers for small- and medium-sized businesses that may not have their own shipping departments
Developing a growth-oriented LTL strategy
Getting the most out of LTL shipping begins with making informed decisions that align with your business goals. Consider taking the following steps to help create an effective strategy.
Evaluate freight trends
Effective planning is essential for managing peak shipping periods and ensuring prompt deliveries. Whenever possible, schedule shipments in advance to secure capacity and avoid delays. Review your shipping data and look for opportunities to consolidate shipments to lower costs and boost efficiency.
Refine your packaging processes
A recent study revealed that LTL shippers pay millions in expenses from damaged and lost goods each year. In 2023, one out of every 51 shipments resulted in a damage or loss claim.
Save money and build customer loyalty by following best practices for proper packaging to minimize the risk of damage. Check out this helpful LTL packaging guide for expert tips on protecting your freight in transit.
Monitor performance
Having data-driven insights can help you make informed decisions about logistics strategies so your business can adapt, grow and gain a competitive edge in the market. Analyzing metrics like shipment timeliness, order accuracy and order fulfillment cycle time allows you to streamline operations for greater efficiency and better response to customer needs.
Choose a flexible supply chain partner
Having the ability to adapt and pivot is critical, especially during peak seasons and unexpected surges. An experienced transportation partner who understands your needs — and has the technology and resources to deliver effective solutions — can give your business a competitive edge.
Eliminate growing pains with ArcBest’s LTL solutions
Want to scale wisely and sustainably? Explore strategic LTL solutions from ArcBest. Solving logistics challenges is our mission and passion; we’ve done it successfully for over a century. Let’s work together to create a winning growth strategy for your business.
