As someone who has worked in logistics for many years, I have seen firsthand the changes that have occurred in transportation management. For the most part, changes have been driven by unprecedented disruption, shifts in customer expectations, and the need to support sustainability.
The main goal for any transportation team is to deliver goods on time while paying a fair market price. Unfortunately, it has become more difficult to predict and manage transportation efforts. To be successful, transportation teams need to be open to change, and need to embrace new technology that empowers agility, and quick pivoting as disruption occurs.
I know technology can be intimidating for some people. However, I have found that technology makes my job more enjoyable, and more efficient. By eliminating repetitive tasks, I spend less time on tactical efforts and more time on strategic ones related to customer service and sustainability. Innovation has helped freight procurement advance, and here are some of the many benefits.
Expands Carrier Options
Spending hours negotiating back and forth with freight brokers can be eliminated with automation technology. For example, Sleek Technologies has helped optimize my carrier network by dynamically finding, vetting, and onboarding new carriers. With middlemen eliminated, I have reduced my truckload cost by 15% and strengthened on-time delivery rates to 98%+.
Optimizes Existing Carrier Network
Making decisions based on bias, relationships, or intuition has been replaced with stronger, data-driven ones. With Sleek Technologies, I have gained full visibility on what trucks get paid, which makes it easy to understand true market cost of each load. I now have real proof points that help level-set truckload price and service levels across my entire carrier net.
Supports Transportation Efficiency/ Sustainability
Truckload shipping is a necessary evil, especially when it comes to sustainability. Therefore, any time we can limit miles we do! Sleek’s AI-powered software helps source the right truck at the right time and location, reducing carbon emissions, which aligns with my company’s sustainability goals.
Closing
In conclusion, technological advancements, such as AI and 100% data transparency, have enhanced transportation management by automating repetitive tasks, optimizing carrier networks, providing full visibility, and supporting sustainability efforts. As someone who works in this field, I can attest to the fact that technology has not hindered my job, but instead has made it more efficient and effective.
This guest blog is written by Warren Frank, Transportation Specialist at Milk Specialties Global.