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.