Shippers and 3PLs struggle with the complexities in Local Carrier shipping. In fact, 61% believe that the over-the-road (OTR) mode is the most inefficient part of their supply chain, according to a recent report.
The struggle to deliver a quality customer experience is one of the biggest issues requiring a more efficient Local Carrier strategy. Any inefficiencies in delivering shipments to customers can result in customer dissatisfaction, delivery delays, and costly errors, which will negatively impact the bottom line.
With the increased demand for Local Carrier shipping in both B2C and B2B markets, Shippers and 3PLs need to streamline their operations to satisfy customer requirements. To effectively manage the final delivery in the supply chain, we have identified the top challenges and explain the opportunities for resolution below.
Local Carrier delivery costs account for 53% of the total OTR shipping spend. With increased demand for more efficiency and accuracy, Shippers and 3PLs need a cost-effective way to manage timely delivery to maintain customer satisfaction and retention without breaking the bank.
To manage the cost of Local Carrier shipping, many Shippers and 3PLs utilize a digital solution that automates manual tasks and streamlines processes for OTR shipping into a single system. This allows them to choose the best carrier or even the best OTR mode for getting their shipments to customers on time. Beyond shipping costs, they are also saving internally on staffing by automating day-to-day tasks and shifting the focus to more important operational responsibilities.
Cancelled or delayed deliveries can not only effect customers, but also can tarnish the reputation of the Shipper or 3PL. This can cut into profits and slow business growth as customers seek other, more timely and reliable options for Local Carrier delivery.
Timely delivery of freight can only be achieved with an optimized and streamlined Local Carrier delivery solution integrated into shipping operations. Real-time tracking of shipments allows Shippers and 3PLs to respond to delivery issues and challenges, while access to robust reporting capabilities help them analyze Local Carrier performance and cost to determine the best shipping strategy.
For OTR shipping in general, efficiency is key to remaining successful and for satisfying the demands of customers. However, Shippers and 3PLs need to identify all areas of their shipping operations that can be optimized to be successful in their Local Carrier shipping processes.
A good way to combat Local Carrier shipping challenges is for Shippers and 3PLs to enhance the overall efficiency of their shipping operations. A great way to accomplish this is by implementing a digital solution that delivers innovative shipping solutions for all OTR modes. Even better is one that provides access to all modes on one screen to deliver enhanced efficiency and help determine the best mode for all shipments.
Outdated technology limits the ability to respond to the heightened demand for Local Carrier delivery. Manual or outdated methods can delay shipping or result in costly errors. You need an innovative solution that is constantly evolving to enhance efficiency in that space.
Implementing a technology solution that is constantly evolving can help you respond quickly to issues and satisfy increased B2B customer demands in Local Carrier shipping. For tasks such as requesting rates or tracking shipments, automated technology can create operational efficiencies and eliminate manual methods that may lead to human error. A solution that is consistently innovating to meet your needs and those of the supply chain is a valuable asset for managing the everchanging demands of Local Carrier shipping.
A digital solution with Local Carrier capabilities can help you respond quickly to shipping and scheduling issues and satisfy increased B2B customer demands in last, final, first or any mile. Technology can also help automate manual processes providing valuable data and visibility to help make more informed business decisions based on real-time information, ensuring your first/final mile shipping operations run smoothly.
Banyan Technology offers an enhanced, comprehensive Local Carrier Solution for the rating and scheduling of first/final mile, expedited, same-day, two-day, and white glove shipments. We help Shippers and 3PLs manage their freight for all over-the-road (OTR) shipments through access to all modes on a single screen in our LIVE Connect™ platform, in addition to offering powerful business intelligence tools to analyze and act on their shipping data.
Our Local Carrier service offering aligns with our overarching goal to provide a seamless multi-mode solution that allows Shippers and 3PLs to rate and execute local deliveries alongside less-than-truckload (LTL), Truckload and Parcel shipping modes within the Banyan LIVE Connect platform.
Contact Banyan Technology today to learn how we can help you manage the challenges Local Carrier shipping.