Category: Blog

With the revenue of the U.S. e-commerce industry passing up $423.3 billion recently, carriers of all kinds (Full truckload, less-than-truckload, or parcel) are having to adjust to the modernization of the industry. According to the president of SJ Consulting Group, Satish Jindel, 23% of all for-hire freight tonnage can be attributed to retail. Thus, the adaptation of the retail industry must extend to the freight industry, and to every freight broker, as about 5.9 million commercial motor vehicle drivers operate in the U.S. This amount of traffic and drivers shows the need for as much efficiency as possible. One piece of freight broker software that is very productive is document management software. Below is a list of reasons why you should use a document management system for your non-asset based freight brokerage company. It is a great form of transportation management software.

It De-clutters Your Warehouses

Many businesses keep their records in a cluttered storage room, taking up a bunch of space that could be used for other purposes. Imagine what could be done if all this space could be used to make your business more efficient. Not only this, but some companies buy or rent huge warehouses for all their records. Invoices, shipping manifests, driver’s logs, vehicle registration forms and tags, pay stubs, employee records and credentials, and many other types of records clutter up these huge warehouses and record rooms. Document management systems can help you de-clutter your warehouses and record rooms by allowing you to scan your documents, store them in folders in your computer. Then, the paper files can be destroyed, and the space can be used for other purposes. If your warehouse is rented, you can stop renting them, save the money, and will be able to use that money for other purposes. Imagine the possibilities!

Accessibility

When your freight broker records are kept in paper form in a bunch of file cabinets and boxes, it can take forever to find what you are looking for. In a large warehouse, you could take several hours rifling through boxes, records, and cabinets before getting anywhere. Once your files are scanned into a document management system, you will simply have to type a few keywords into a search bar to find the document you are looking for. Imagine what you could accomplish with all the extra time you and your employees will have.

File Safety

With traditional file storage methods, files can be stolen or lost. When scanned onto a hard drive, this ceases to be a problem, allowing your security team to do their job: keeping your employees safe.

Document management services are just one of the many services offered by 3PL systems operated out of California. Their Brokerware is very affordable and provides many services for your freight brokerage company. They are dedicated to “Creating a positive user experience for both the broker and their customers” It allows you to track all types of shipments, print all types of documents needed, and dispatch shipments among many other services. If you are a non-asset based freight broker, consider using the Brokerware software, as it does so much for your company, specifically as related to document management. 3PL systems is dedicated to making your life easier and helping your company run more efficiently. They have helped many companies in the past, and they can help yours too.

If you work in the LTL market or drive trucks commercially, then you how demanding this industry can be. At worth around $35 billion dollars, the LTL market is clearly booming, and it is estimated that close to 6 million commercial vehicle drivers are present in the United States alone.

One thing is for certain – organization is a key component for having success in this industry. Close to 15 billion tons of cargo were transported back in 2013, and this number is only predicted to rise in the upcoming years, totaling over 18 billion tons by 2040.

Many customers are now requiring their truck drivers to use MacroPoint, so that they can easily route where their shipments are at. This excellent tool keeps LTL shipments better tracked, and it gives customers the peace of mind they deserve when waiting for important loads to arrive.

Not familiar with software? Learn more now.

What is MacroPoint?

With cargo thefts a prevalent thing in today’s society, tracking shipments is a must for many companies. In just the first three quarters of 2016, over 600 cargo theft-related incidents were reported. Because of this, many companies are looking for ways to keep a closer eye on their shipments and avoid occurrences of this nature.

MacroPoint helps significantly with this. It provides real-time updates, and it gives customers an estimated time of when their shipments should arrive. It also gives customers the ability to request specific delivery times to better suit their operations.

This technology helps immensely when it comes to managing LTL shipments, and it aids the trucking company, too, as customers will not be calling about where their shipments are on a constant basis. It saves everyone involved time, stress, and money.

Benefits of Using MacroPoint

• It’s reliable. MacroPoint is meant to give customers the exact information as to where their shipment is. Striving for accurate ETAs and ensuring the products are where they are meant to be at any given time is a major company goal.
• It’s secure. MacroPoint will never sell a company’s data, and they take privacy and security seriously. All networks are protected, and your information will only be used for tracking purposes.
• It’s easy to use. No more navigating complicated websites. MacroPoint compiles all of the information a customer should need and puts in one easy-to-access location. It is simple, fast, and efficient.

Give Your Customers the Satisfaction They Deserve

For the best transportation management software available, rely on MacroPoint from start to finish. After all, your customers deserve the utmost satisfaction and reliability. It is an investment you will not regret.

In our increasingly globalized world, shipping is an absolutely prolific industry. The timely and consistent movement of services is the lifeblood of our economy. For many companies, shipping can be one of the most essential, yet also the most complex, issues to tackle. Factors to consider include whether the order is a TL or an LTL shipment or intermodal, the budget and deadline for the shipment, the shipment’s durability or fragility, and more. When companies inevitably turn to third-party logistics, or 3PL, to handle these nuanced challenges, the freight broker must now track the plethora of shipping details. As many brokers know, these details can accumulate fast—it is no wonder, as trucks alone transported nearly 15 billion tons of cargo in 2013. Estimates by the Bureau of Labor Statistics place that number at 18.79 billion tons by 2040. Factor in rail, air, and maritime transport, and the matter becomes hugely complex. Fortunately, the development of broker systems software makes freight management easier than ever. Here are the top 6 reasons why acquiring transportation broker software in 2019 is essential.

1. Ability to track and manage various shipping types

   The brokerware by 3PL Systems can manage everything from LTL, TL, intermodal shipments, and more.

2. System automates services with customers

   Brokers can use the software for everything from generating quotes for clients, booking and dispatching shipments, creating invoices, producing customized reports, etc.

3. Constant updates

   The developers at 3PL Systems work tirelessly to make their product as elegant and efficient as possible. With a newly simplified dashboard, improved functionality, and integration of the latest technology stack, they have created a product that is truly competitive, and improving all the time.

4. Provides control over experience from customer end

   The broker system gives customers a branded portal, through which they can track and rate shipments based on custom tariffs.

5. Greater efficiency through elimination of redundancies

   The software easily prevents double entry by automatically syncing with the most popular accounting apps.

6. Faster selection of carriers

   Find the perfect carriers faster than ever by removing unqualified ones from the search results.

According to a report by Transport Topics, the top freight brokerage of 2018 pulled in a net revenue over 10 billion. Increase your share of this massive industry, and invest in a digital broker system today. The quicker responsiveness and greater network that the software enables will soon pay for itself.

Transporting items around the United States is a big and growing industry. Today, there are about 12 million rail cars, locomotives, vessels of different kinds, and trucks in the American transportation network. Many people who manage companies that handle shipment tracking integrations use freight broker software to keep everything running smoothly. Here are some of the benefits of using the right transportation broker software:

1. The right freight broker software can make sure the right carrier for the goods being moved. Good software applications can look at all of the carrier rates that have been entered into your system. This can make it easy for you to move your products in the most cost-effective way possible.
2. You can create custom reports. When you are looking to qualify the efficiency and efficacy of your plans to move your products around the nation and even the world, it is helpful to compile the pertinent data into easy to read reports. The right software packages will allow you to do just that.
3. The right software package can help you determine and alter your rates. Carrier rates can be increased by a percentage or by a set amount. The right software package will allow you to important new rates into your system. The right freight broker software will allow you to take care of this quickly and easily.
4. The software should allow you to link your warehouses with your client software. This can make it possible to see, in real time, where each of your shipments is. This can also let your clients do the same thing. People are often put at ease when they can see the progress being made by their products.
5. Your software should allow you to reconcile all of your accounts. Many business owners and managers rely on their eyes to spot any discrepancies in pricing. In addition to this being a very labor-intensive process, it is also not, by far, the most efficient or effective way to handle this kind of work. Using freight broker software to put red flags on problematic billing issues, you will get a far more accurate picture of what is going on than if you try to accomplish this all by hand.
6. Your software package can compare the proposals from prospective carriers with the ones you already use. It can take a lot of time to review and conduct an analysis on the carriers you are using currently with any proposals you receive from carriers that want to do business with you. Your software can take in the details of the new proposals and compare the prices and consignments to the carriers you use already. This can help you determine the best carriers for your shipping needs.
7. Your software produces updates for your clients. If your clients provide you with their cell phone number or email address, you can have your freight broker software send them updates on their shipments as progress is made. These can go out at multiple steps along the way. When orders are dispatched, a carrier is selected, and as the shipment makes its way to its destination, your system can keep your clients updated.
8. The right freight broker software with the software used by your carriers. Compatibility is crucial when it comes to labeling shipments and dealing with manifests. The right package will allow you to work with your carriers to take care of these tasks efficiently and in a timely manner.
9. The software package you select need to come with decent customer support. No matter what software package you use and what its purpose is, you need to have someone you can call if you have issues with it. This principle applies to packages such as Microsoft Office and the software you use for your freight business. Having a good customer service team working with you can give you a lot more peace of mind and makes using the software a lot easier.

In today’s world, success in any kind of business can be only achieved when the right computer software is used. This is even truer when it comes to getting a freight broker software package. These systems can help you run a more efficient business and make your clients happier with your services.

Transporting livestock and cattle is one of the most challenging jobs for long haul truck drivers, but it’s even harder for farmers looking for the proper freight. Even if you rely on a great transportation broker and a TMS with load board integration to monitor the status of your animals, countless transport issues may arise.

If you’re looking to transport cattle, here are some of the most important tips to get the job done right.

The basics of cattle and livestock transport

Thousands of animals and livestock are transported every day. Whether these animals are being moved as pets, food, or for farm work, transporting these animals must be done with care.

After all, the end buyer won’t appreciate damaged livestock, even if they’re simply going to be used for food. Rough handling can decrease the quality of meat while breeding animals need to stay in peak condition during the transition from seller to buyer.

Start the journey right by choosing a reliable freight via a freight visibility platform. After all, you want to assure the size and design of the freight vehicle is compatible with the number and needs of the animals being shipped. Before every journey, the trucker should check that the freight truck is in good working condition, otherwise your shipment might be stranded on the side of the road. Keep in mind that stock crates should be designed to minimize bruising and trailers should be able to accommodate heavy winds. Rely on a TMS with load board integration to identify reliable transportation and make the proper carrier selection.

Dangers associated with livestock transport

There are a number of hazardous events that could take place during transportation. Here are some of the hazards to monitor with a TMS system when your shipment is on the road:

• Long periods without movement that could suggest an accident
• Watching that the driver meets the necessary destination points on schedule
• Shipment deadlines that are not met

Even though the length of the average long haul has decreased by 4%, any one of these issues could put the driver, livestock, and companies involved at risk. As such, you should rely on the best freight management software to locate reliable transportation businesses with experience moving animals.

Transport laws differ from country to country…

…And even state to state. If you want to ensure your livestock is being transported properly, be sure to obtain a certificate of veterinary inspection, also known as a CVI. This is a document you will need when you arrive at your destination and if the authorities stop you along the way. Be sure you utilize TMS with load board integration to keep track of your livestock shipments and monitor this important paperwork via a reliable freight broker system, like 3PL Systems.

U.S. e-commerce revenue is about $423.3 billion and is steadily climbing. Whether it’s full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), or parcel, carriers are being forced to adjust to changes in the retail industry. That being said, many carriers are taking advantage of transportation management software (TMS) to stay on top of freight and shipping and maximize efficiency. If you’re wondering whether or not you need one for your own freight brokerage needs, you should know that there are several signs that indicate the need for this type of software. Keep an eye out for these problems — if you have them, it may be time to consider a new TMS system.

You’re spending too much time on paperwork.

Nearly 12 million trucks, rail cars, locomotives, and vessels move goods over the transportation network, and it should come as no surprise that there is a lot of paperwork involved with carrying freight. From orders to schedules to payments and more, it can be nearly impossible to stay on top of without a reliable TMS system to automate and expedite these essential processes.

You’re having trouble accurately managing your inventory.

According to Satish Jindel, president of SJ Consulting Group, length of haul has declined. Public truckload carriers report that the average length of haul has decreased by 4% between 2011 and 2016. But regardless of your typical length of haul, it’s not uncommon to experience issues when it comes to accurately managing your inventory. If so, invest in a TMS system to help you stay organized.

You’re struggling with cash flow.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, approximately 5.9 million commercial motor vehicle drivers operate in the United States, and even though demand is rising, so is competition. If you’re struggling to stay on top of cash flow, a TMS system can automate essential processes and give you the time you need to grow your business.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the value of freight moved is expected to increase from $882 per ton in 2007 to $1,377 per ton in 2040. Knowing whether or not you could benefit from a TMS is the key to maximizing efficiency. For more information about transportation broker systems, contact 3PL Systems.

U.S. e-commerce revenue is about $423.3 billion and is steadily climbing. Whether it’s full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), or parcel, carriers are being forced to adjust to changes in the retail industry. Load boards and load board integrations are just one recent example of freight broker innovation. But if you truly want to take advantage of all the benefits that load boards have to offer, its vital to know the best practices for using them. Here are just a few of the best practices to keep in mind when using load boards and load board integrations.

Have a bottom dollar rate.

Trucks carry the largest share of freight by value, tons, and ton-miles for shipments moving 750 or fewer miles. Rail, on the other hand, is the dominant mode by tons and ton-miles for shipments moved from 750 to 2,000 miles. That being said, it’s important to keep costs in mind when browsing load boards. While many load boards do require users to pay a fee, there are just as many that offer their services for free. Of course, load boards come with many different features as well, so take the time you need to determine which features you need most and how much you’re willing to pay.

Work only with trusted 3PLs (third-party logistics).

Again, it can be difficult to determine which load boards are reliable, but when it comes to transportation broker software, reputation matters. A provider that has spent years building rapport with clients, for example, is likely to provide better services than a load board that just hit the market.

Be patient and check back often.

Finally, make sure to be patient and check back often, regardless of the load board integrations you use. New loads are posted constantly, and you never know when the perfect opportunity will pop up.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the value of freight moved is expected to increase from $882 per ton in 2007 to $1,377 per ton in 2040. Knowing how to effectively make the best possible use of load boards can help you achieve ongoing freight broker success. For more information about the types of load boards and TMS systems intended to make day to day operations easier, contact 3PL Systems.

U.S. e-commerce revenue is about $423.3 billion and is steadily climbing. Whether it’s full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), or parcel, carriers are being forced to adjust to changes in the retail industry. However, the LTL market is estimated at approximately $35 billion, and without proper management as well as knowledge of the facts, your LTL shipments could become delayed or suffer from other serious consequences. With that in mind, here are just a few of the most common myths and misconceptions about LTL shipments.

Your LTL class won’t ever change.

First, it’s important to recognize that contrary to popular belief, your LTL class can certainly fluctuate. While trucks carry the largest share of freight by value, tons, and ton-miles for shipments moving 750 or fewer miles, rail, on the other hand, is the dominant mode by tons and ton-miles for shipments moved from 750 to 2,000 miles. As your business continues to grow and evolve, you may take on new challenges or use new resources that cause your shipping class to change. But this doesn’t mean that it can’t change back. Overall, experts say that a change in classification can have major effects on freight costs, so plan carefully.

With LTL shipping, delivery times are guaranteed.

Experts say this may actually be the top misconception when it comes to LTL shipping. Believing this outdated myth can also mean spending more money in the long run and misleading customers. The truth is, LTL carriers just cannot guarantee pickup and delivery times. While freight visibility platforms can help, they’re not necessarily a one size fits all solution.

LTL shipping is complicated to schedule properly.

Finally, this myth may have been true before the implementation of freight management software. There are countless providers to choose from that offer innovative software solutions designed to maximize freight efficiency. According to Satish Jindel, president of SJ Consulting Group, length of haul has declined. Public truckload carriers report that the average length of haul has decreased 4% between 2011 and 2016, but freight management software can help shippers of varying kinds and distances.

Ultimately, freight visibility platforms can help maintain proper LTL shipments and schedules. For more information about freight management software, contact 3PL Systems.

U.S. e-commerce revenue is about $423.3 billion and is steadily climbing. Whether it’s full truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), or parcel, carriers are being forced to adjust to changes in the retail industry. One major change involves the incorporation of TMS systems and technologies into everyday operations. TMS systems have countless benefits for retailers, but e-commerce businesses as a whole can take astounding advantage of all the innovative technology has to offer. Here are just a few important benefits of TMS systems for e-commerce businesses.

Customer Transparency

Customer transparency is a major selling point for many businesses. The fact is customers love to be able to understand the processes and motives of any company they’re giving their money to. Investing in a TMS for your business ensures that customers can check in on the status of their shipments at any time, improving efficiency and overall customer satisfaction.

Streamlined Shipping Process

Investing in a TMS is particularly beneficial for e-commerce businesses because virtually 100% of sales rely on a quick and efficient shipping process. Fortunately, a TMS can help make sure each and every package is accounted for and gets to the receiving party on time. The bottom line is that these systems are designed to do the legwork, allowing your e-commerce business to focus on other essential aspects of growth, e.g., marketing, budgeting, and more.

Overall Brand Awareness

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that investing in a TMS system helps customers feel more connected and satisfied with your business as a whole. A business that prioritizes reliability enough to use such an advanced system is one that resonates with its customers. Plus, customers are more likely to become returning or long-term customers after a first time satisfactory purchase.

According to Satish Jindel, president of SJ Consulting Group, length of haul has declined. Public truckload carriers report that the average length of haul has decreased by 4% between 2011 and 2016. But regardless of how transportation industry trends continue to evolve, it’s safe to say that the convenience of transportation management software is here to stay. For more information about LTL shipments, contact 3PL Systems.