4 useful tips for logistics managers

Today’s logistics market is highly competitive and changing conditions may not always come with advantages. To ensure that your company’s profits do not decrease, but only increase, that customers and consignees are satisfied with your services, and that your goods are always delivered on time and safely to their intended destination, it is worth paying attention to a few important nuances. An advanced transport management system, analysis of market changes, careful planning and a number of other important factors will help ensure that all parties to the service can enjoy a long-lasting and reliable cooperation. So, let’s look at the steps that can be taken in the logistics market to ensure such conditions.

1. Analysing the goods to be transported and their specific characteristics

To ensure that the quality of your shipment is impeccable, it is advisable to thoroughly analyse the characteristics of your shipment, especially those that may be of critical importance during the transport. It may be that the goods need to be transported at the right temperature, or that the products are fragile and require special care and packaging – you can get all this information from the customer. By analysing the specific needs relating to the goods, you will know which equipment to use and how to properly deliver them to their destination, avoiding conflicts with both the customer and the recipient, and thus maintaining your company’s reputation.

2. Analysing market changes

The competition in the logistics market today is undoubtedly fierce, but it is important to remember that even well-established companies can be affected by the slightest of changes. Take the time to analyse your competitors’ prices, look at their special offers and discounts for bulk orders, and consider offering similar benefits to your customers. Bear in mind that even long-standing customers may choose a new path once they have seen the value for money offered by other players in the market, so don’t fall behind in this competition by simply not taking action.

3. Careful planning of delivery schedules

Timing is a key factor in the whole freight transport and purchasing process. Naturally, the customer also bears a large part of the responsibility in this respect, as they should ensure that bad weather conditions or a late order do not become an obstacle to punctual logistics. However, on your side, you can ensure that you use innovative and modern technology and proven methods to transport your goods. Implement an easy-to-use yet efficient transport management system to help you keep to the schedule, ensure drivers’ working time and rest periods and many other important aspects on the road. An advanced transport management system will also help to ensure efficient transport control: it will reduce fuel consumption, allow easy and fast access to all the necessary documents, making it much more convenient for both the carrier and the customer.

4. Contingency planning

As unforeseen circumstances are unavoidable and occur in more than just logistics, it is best to have a contingency plan in place for freight transport. When something goes wrong or suddenly fails, know exactly what to do, what resources to use and which service provider to contact. For example, bulk goods can be temporarily stored in special containers in designated areas during emergencies until the situation is resolved. Take care of these issues in advance to minimise potential damage to your company, the customer and the recipient.