How to Avoid Common Logistics Blunders

What can go wrong?

Well, let’s think about it.

We’ve got bad weather–hurricanes, tornados, floods, snowstorms, avalanches . . .

Or perhaps a worldwide pandemic and the shutdowns, illnesses, driver, worker, warehouse shortages . . .

Heck, even wars across the world can affect your ability to get the products you need or to deliver the products your customers need.

The truth is we could do this for hours. If the last three years have taught us anything it’s that supply chain disruption is always around the corner. Even when things are running smoothly, there are a multitude of problems that can create havoc in your ability to serve your customers.

Your reputation is always on the line. And while there’s not much you can do about pandemics or hurricanes, there are a few steps you can take to avoid some common logistics blunders.

Moving freight is a risky business.

First of all, your customers are counting on you to ensure they receive their orders on-time and in good shape. But you don’t have trucks or drivers, so you have to depend on trucking companies or freight brokers to get your products to their destination. Sometimes it’s just a crap shoot. You end up working with a freight broker or carrier without the experience or know-how to get ahead of problems.

What kind of problems are we talking about?

Loads given back late in the day put you in a pickle.

We’re sure this has happened to you once or twice. Here’s how it goes down. You’re working with a broker and you think everything is on track, your freight is set to move, when suddenly you get a call–the load’s been given back. This is unacceptable–this load must go out. Production lines are counting on this part. You don’t have time to search a different option.

Listen, there are times when problems do occur late in the day–but it’s a rarity. If your provider accepts a load tender from you, they should have a truck to take care of your load, and if they don’t, early notification is not only essential, it’s the only way a good broker does business.

Failure to contact shippers and/or consignees ahead of time can leave you in the cold.

If your broker or carrier fails to contact shippers and consignees to confirm pickup or delivery, you’re in for trouble. Without that confirmation, anything can happen. Things like closings for inventory, holidays, and maintenance can upend “regular” shipping or receiving hours and put you in the dreaded position of receiving a returned load. Facilities change their hours and their receiving processes all the time. You NEED that confirmation.

Bad communication can leave you in a lurch.

Communication is the heart of any good logistics business. You should be able to reach your broker 24/7 by phone or email. If you can’t, you should look elsewhere.

Shortages and damages cost money and respect.

If shortages and damages are something you’re dealing with on a regular basis, the cost to move your freight and the ultimate cost to your reputation and your business are trending in the wrong direction.

Your reputation matters too much. Stop playing catch up for logistics blunders.

If you’re experiencing any or all of these problems, it’s simple. You’re working with the wrong folks. You deserve happy customers, so you need a logistics partner committed to your success.

Here at AMT, we’ve been in the logistics business for 33 years. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your supply chain runs as efficiently and smoothly as possible by providing you access to the best carriers in the business.

Don’t let logistics blunders get in the way of your success, give us a call today.