How carriers can build good relationships with shippers

The freight world is a game of chess when it comes to booking the right loads with the right carriers. Third-party logistics (3PLs) companies try to find the magic formula to make sure shippers' goods are making it to the destination on time.

How do the right shippers and carriers connect with one other among the overflow of trucks on the road? Shipwell has an award-winning platform that can simplify the entire process. Here is what carriers can do to build good relationships with shippers for the long run.

Working with the right partner

First, shippers and 3PLs want to work with a carrier who is interested in continuous engagement. Sure, there may occasionally be one-off lanes here and there, but establishing yourself as a go-to carrier can bring in more business down the road.

Additionally, you want to work with a 3PL that has extensive knowledge on the customer portfolio and can manage loads for entire fleets if need be.

Shippers can help out in this process by saying precisely what they are looking for when posting a load. To help with sorting through several carriers before the right one is found, make your post as detailed as possible to speed up the process.

Shipwell's cloud-based TMS platform is built to provide a platform for shippers, 3PLs, and carriers to communicate valuable information on each load. Shippers want to have a tech solution that stays ahead of the curve instead of rapidly becoming obsolete.

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Offer unmatched communication and service

The one thing that still causes problems in the freight world is poor communication between parties.

A very simple benefit that carriers can offer shippers is constantly updating the 3PLs and shippers on the progress of the shipment. In the Shipwell platform, carriers can submit updates and information via the messaging app. Easy as that!

Also, carriers can stand out among the pack by building friendly competition into their dock etiquette. Simply try to outdo the truck next to you in service, friendliness, and professionalism. Manage your loads by leveraging on-time delivery, billing accuracy, and providing detailed information on rates, transit, and more.

Use the right tech

Without the right technology, the freight industry will continue to remain inefficient and fragmented.

Make sure your fleet dispatchers have the tools they need to run the fleet efficiently. Have each driver commit to using smartphones or smart devices for communication and workflow optimization. And of course, use the right apps that provide your fleet with value-added services like tracking and electronic document management.

Shipwell's TMS is designed to manage carrier and shipper transactional information and store this data to optimize future shipments. Give shippers access to real-time visibility to their freight and up your level of service and efficiency.

Be easy to work with

Leverage your personality and professionalism alongside successful metrics of your shipments.

Maintaining a good track record with specific shippers can go a long way, but being a delight to work with in the process makes a lasting impression. Shipwell wants to keep track of the loads you book and boost your credibility with shippers and 3PLs by letting them access freight visibility and communicate with carriers regularly.

Ultimately, the economy is always changing. Shippers and carriers cannot guarantee freight or capacity with full certainty because of market forecasts or where carrier fleets will be at a given time. Be flexible and lock down a lane with each shipper.

Shipwell has public and private load boards available for carriers to bid on shipments or book instantly through the app. Trusted carriers in the Shipwell network get access to these load boards from shippers/3PLs. Being an easy carrier partner can give you access to tons of load boards in Shipwell, making load selections easier than ever for the carrier.

Shipwell is staying ahead of the curve with freight technology to provide shippers, 3PLs, and carriers a pleasant experience. Leave the expertise to us and get freight moving fast.

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