On-Demand Quoting & Reverse Auction: Answers to Your FAQs
On-demand quoting and reverse auctions are two useful tools for controlling shipping costs in the spot market. But shippers sometimes struggle with these scenarios because they’re used to working exclusively with contract carriers. If you find yourself fielding spot market quotes for a one-off shipment, consider using these tools to secure the best possible rate from a non-contract shipper. [...]
Automated Bidding and Spot Auction Tools Essential as Prices Rise
The media’s buzzword of the moment is “inflation.” Materials shortages, rising prices, and consistent demand all indicate that we’re on the cusp of an inflationary period. The outcome remains to be seen, but now is the time for companies to practice smart spending. For a simple way to spend smarter, take advantage of volatility in the spot market to [...]
How Can Benchmarking Help Shippers in a Rising Rate Environment?
How do you know if you’re overpaying for freight? Or working with a competitive pool of transport partners? Both answers can be found with benchmarking. When you take the time to track and balance industry highs, lows, and averages for freight, you’re taking the time to ensure your company the best rates — no matter what you’re shipping. This [...]
Six Tips for Cultivating a Strong Pool of Hot Shot Freight Drivers
Hot shot trucking is a valuable part of the freight industry. It provides LTL service and rapid-response transport for sensitive freight. Relying on the spot market for this type of haulage can get expensive fast, which is why it’s in the best interest of shippers to maintain a vetted and well-cultivated pool of hot shot truck drivers. But this [...]
Freight Claims: How to Handle Damage, Service Failure, and Overcharges
Freight claims are an inevitable part of shipping. Even in the most careful hands, there’s always the chance of damage. Claims offer a way to recoup loss — if shippers are diligent about filing them. A claim isn’t a sure thing until it’s processed, and it’s not processed unless the reporting is accurate, clear, and complete. Companies must be [...]
TMS Machine Learning Generates Accurate Comps After Recent Disruption
The chaos of 2020 wreaked unprecedented havoc on the freight transport industry. A true Black Swan event, the COVID-19 pandemic derailed every phase of the supply chain and created backlogs some shippers are still working through today. As the ripples continue to affect global trade, a new problem is emerging: the challenge of pulling accurate comps for future data [...]