How we helped a plastics’ manufacturer enhance freight carrier utilization and reduce cost of shipping services by demonstrating the true manageability of their freight through detailed data and visual evidence.
In the dynamic world of logistics, perceptions about freight, whether a full truckload (FTL) or less-than-truckload (LTL) shipment, can lead to significant inefficiencies and missed opportunities. We’ve seen it happen time and again, especially around the topic of freight classification for LTL. This situation file highlights how IL2000's strategic approach and data-driven insights transformed a carrier’s willingness to handle a client's bulky freight, leading to improved service and reduced costs. The result? A win-win for everyone involved.
The upshot
- Demonstrated the true manageability of the client’s bulky freight.
- Improved carrier service levels by reducing delays in tender acceptance.
- Reduced client transportation costs while improving carrier utilization.
- Strengthened relationships with key carriers for future collaboration.
The sitch
A plastics’ manufacturer client faced significant challenges in finding a carrier willing to handle their bulky freight shipment. The carrier, despite being a top performer, perceived the freight as difficult to manage and potentially disruptive to their operations. Remember that carriers have the power to accept or reject a load. Unfortunately, freight company data–the data carriers use in making a decision whether to accept or reject a tender–can be outdated or inaccurate, and that’s precisely where problems started to arise between this client and a potential carrier. This perception–based on the conundrum of FTL versus LTL and its nuance, the freight's classification and assumed handling difficulties–led to inefficiencies and limited transportation options for the client.
What was going wrong?
- The carrier perceived the freight as challenging to handle, which would have led to higher costs in the transportation of goods as a trucking company.
- There was a lack of clear, visual evidence to demonstrate the freight’s manageability and freight class documentation.
- Misunderstandings about the freight’s characteristics led to missed opportunities for efficient transport.
The solve
The IL2000 response was a comprehensive and strategic presentation to address the carrier’s concerns. Tim Gavronski, Sr. Director of Logistics Engineering at IL2000, and his team organized a meeting with the carrier’s representatives, presenting detailed data and visual evidence to illustrate the true manageability of the freight. The presentation included:
- Photographs: Visuals showing the freight properly loaded in trailers, illustrating its stackability and efficient use of space.
- Measurements: Exact dimensions and weight details to show that the freight fit within the carrier's operational parameters and shipping rate schedule.
- Loading Strategies: Effective loading techniques that minimized handling challenges and optimized trailer space made the load even more attractive to FTL and LTL carriers.
This clear and strategic presentation successfully convinced the carrier to reconsider their stance on the bulky freight–a clear value-add in managed transportation for not only clients but our vendors as well.
What went right?
- Provided detailed visual evidence and strategic insights to demonstrate the freight’s manageability across all truckload shipping modes.
- Improved service levels by 4% as the carrier agreed to handle the freight at select terminals.
- Reduced transportation costs for the client by 5.5% through better space utilization.
- Strengthened the relationship between IL2000 and the carrier, paving the way for future cooperation and efficiency improvements.
The take home
This situation file underscores IL2000’s commitment to providing tailored, data-driven solutions that go beyond mere logistics management. By partnering with our clients and understanding their unique challenges, IL2000 delivers sustainable improvements and drives long-term success for world-class freight services. Our approach not only addresses immediate issues but also sets the foundation for continued growth and efficiency.
With IL2000, you gain a strategic partner dedicated to transforming your supply chain into a streamlined, cost-effective powerhouse. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures that we don’t just solve problems—we create lasting opportunities for success.
Learn more about how IL2000 can transform your supply chain by speaking with a consulting engagement executive today.
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