Truckload shipping is the preferred solution for businesses that need to move large quantities of freight. Unlike less-than-truckload options, one organization has the entire trailer for its products, ensuring dedicated service from the driver and optimized timelines for its customers.
While there are many benefits to truckload shipping, it’s not without some challenges. With the right strategies in place, though, companies can overcome these obstacles and create an even stronger, more resilient supply chain. Learn more about five common challenges in truckload shipping and how to overcome them.
Problems of Truckload Shipping (& How to Solve Them)
The challenges of truckload shipping can have a big impact on delivery timelines, costs, customer satisfaction, and your bottom line. Here are some common obstacles to watch for and solutions that can help you mitigate the risks.
Capacity Shortages
Capacity shortages are a frequent issue in the trucking industry. They can be caused by driver shortages, increased seasonal demand, or disruptions from severe weather conditions. Limited trucking capacity can drive up costs and cause shipment delays, leaving your business scrambling to meet delivery commitments.
The Solution:
Good planning can help you overcome many trucking shortages. Forecast demand to the best of your abilities and keep in contact with your shipping providers about your upcoming needs so they are in the loop. You should also build a relationship with a reliable third-party logistics provider (3PL). 3PLs have connections to a wider network of carriers that can help meet shipping demand during peak seasons.
Rate Fluctuations
The cost of truckload shipping can vary — a lot. Factors like fuel prices, seasonal demand, and market changes all play a role in how much you pay for every trailer of goods you send out. While some fluctuation is understandable, it can make budgeting difficult and strain your profit margins.
The Solution:
Explore the possibilities of securing a fixed-rate contract during off-peak seasons. You can also monitor the spot market for competitive pricing options. Some excellent tools and apps can help you analyze market trends and predict rate changes so you can make more informed decisions about when, where, and how much to ship.
Delivery Delays
Delivery delays are more than annoyances. They can disrupt operations and damage customer trust. Unfortunately, delays can occur anywhere at any time. They might be caused by traffic congestion, weather, or inefficient route planning.
The Solution:
With so many factors in play, you might think overcoming delays is an impossible problem to solve. However, real-time tracking systems and route optimization software can do much of the heavy lifting and reduce the likelihood of delays. Work with carriers who invest in these systems and prioritize on-time performance.
Compliance With Regulations
The trucking industry is heavily regulated. Rules about hours of service, environmental standards, and safety protocols must all be followed when shipping goods from point A to point B. Failing to comply with these rules can lead to fines, delays, and damage to your reputation.
The Solution:
Stay up-to-date on federal and state shipping regulations. Better yet, partner with a 3PL who can do that for you. They’ll have electronic logging devices and compliance management systems to streamline the process and ensure your shipments meet all necessary rules.
Poor Freight Handling
Some issues with truckload shipping happen before your items leave the dock. Improper handling during loading, unloading, and while in transit can damage your goods. It can lead to significant financial loss and frustrate customers who receive damaged items.
The Solution:
Staff training on freight handling is crucial. Make sure they know how to optimize the weight distribution and properly secure cargo. Using durable package material will also help. Most importantly, work with experienced carriers who know how to reduce the risk of damage and get your items safely to their next destination.
Overcome Truckload Shipping Issues With Beitler
If you want to overcome the challenges of truckload shipping, you need to take a proactive approach and partner with an industry expert. Beitler Logistics Services has a proven track record of truckload shipping and provides tailored solutions for many different industries. With our support, your business can focus on growth while we focus on getting your shipments moved safely, efficiently, and at a great price.
Contact Beitler Logistics Services today to explore customized solutions that fit your business’s needs.