The right logistics company is key to full truckload success
If you want your full truckload (FTL) shipments to run smoothly, it’s important to choose a logistics partner that will work with you, and that has the capabilities to grow with you in the future. Choosing the right partner from the start enables you to maintain better control over your supply chain so it runs as efficiently as possible.
4 tips to follow when choosing an FTL provider
Having a provider that understands your needs and delivers on their promises makes it possible for you to deliver quality service for your customers. These tips will help you find a logistics partner that will help you meet your goals:
1. Look for great customer service – communication is key
When choosing an FTL partner, communication is everything. Whether there’s an issue that arises or a change that needs to be made, communication will enable you to run your FTL business smoothly. Having a point person to reach out to when needed is vital. FTL business is not autonomous, and things come up like last-minute shipments, port delays and capacity issues that will make having a responsive transportation representative or broker essential for success. Look for excellent customer service by noting responsiveness, eagerness to help, and open communication.
2. Find a company with a history of being reliable
While it’s important to find a provider that’s reliable in the moment, it’s just as important to find one with a proven history. Although this does not always translate to the chronological age of a logistics company, you want to look for a solid track record of consistency and success through different truckload markets. By finding a logistics company that you trust and believe to have a strong future, you are choosing a dependable FTL partner and bolstering your business.
3. Look for technology that is made available and easy to navigate
After finding a reliable provider with excellent customer service, ask about their technology. Technology is always changing, and the logistics company that you choose to partner with should have technology that’s up to your standards. Do they use a TMS? Do they utilize electronic tracking? Is there a portal to track your shipments if your broker isn’t available? These are questions to ask when interviewing your next FTL provider. By knowing a company’s technological advantages, you can better assess if you are getting what you need for your business.
4. Find a provider that can grow with your business
Think of your business and where it will be in the future. You want your logistics provider to be able to suit your needs in the future just as much as you want them to suit your needs now. If your business is growing, you want to choose a logistics company that can handle your future business. This may mean international capabilities, relationships with container ships and air services, and capacity options in new markets. Even if your business isn’t there yet, you want a logistics partner with capacity options as your business grows.
Choose us as your FTL provider
Making the decision of which transportation company to use for your FTL shipments is one that will impact your business for years to come. At ArcBest, our 100 years of transportation knowledge aids us in providing top-notch full truckload service. Whether through our MoLo® brokerage network or through our owned assets, ArcBest offers reliable and quick service. And our commitment to investing in technology will ensure you have the tools you need for years to come.
New to shipping truckload? Learn about how FTL service works.
