How to Find a Reliable Shipping Partner: A Guide for Frustrated Businesses

Shipping delays, hidden fees, and poor communication are just a few of the challenges businesses face when working with unreliable carriers. If you're frustrated with your current shipping arrangement and are looking for a logistics broker who can deliver better results, you're not alone. Here's what you need to know to find a shipping partner who meets your expectations.

Common Complaints About Shipping Partners

When businesses work with subpar shipping partners, three key complaints often surface:

1. Price Increases: Unexpected rate hikes can disrupt budgets, especially if businesses aren't regularly reviewing shipping costs or market changes.
2. Service Failures: Late pickups, missed appointments, or unreliable deliveries can tarnish relationships with end customers.
3. Lack of Engagement: Many businesses feel their carriers treat them as just another number, rather than building a partnership that values their specific needs.

Poor service is particularly detrimental for companies shipping to large distribution centers. Missing delivery windows or arriving late can result in significant fines and lost opportunities.

Signs It's Time for a New Shipping Broker

If you’re unsure whether it’s time to switch brokers or carriers, consider these red flags:

• Frequent Service Interruptions: Carriers failing to pick up or deliver on time.
• Rising Costs Without Explanation: Price increases that seem disproportionate to market trends.
• Poor Communication: Not being informed of issues before they escalate, leaving you scrambling for solutions.
• Low Tender Acceptance Rates: When your shipping partner accepts fewer loads than agreed upon, disrupting your supply chain.

How Often Should You Review Your Shipping Strategy?

Regular reviews of shipping arrangements are essential to ensure you’re getting competitive rates and reliable service. Many businesses conduct annual rate reviews, but during times of market volatility, like the COVID-19 pandemic, some have shifted to biannual or even quarterly reviews.

Mini bids between annual pricing events can also help address sudden changes, such as new lanes or shifts in shipping volume. Staying proactive in reviewing rates and service performance ensures you don’t overpay or face unnecessary disruptions.

The Role of Customer Service in Logistics

Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of successful logistics partnerships. Here's how great brokers like Transport USA set themselves apart:

• Tracking and Transparency: Offering real-time tracking for shipments and proactive communication about delays or issues.
• High On-Time Percentage: Consistently meeting KPIs like on-time pickups and deliveries.
• Responsiveness: Using advanced technology to provide timely updates, from load tendering to delivery confirmation.

Best Practices for Building Strong Shipping Partnerships

To attract top carriers and brokers and maintain a strong relationship:

1. Fair Agreements: Ensure contracts are equitable and consider both parties' needs.
2. Respect for Drivers: Minimize driver wait times and provide basic amenities like clean restrooms, water, or snacks.
3. Proactive Communication: Be transparent about shipping patterns and volume changes.

Treating carriers well doesn’t just improve service—it can also reduce costs. Drivers are more likely to prioritize your shipments when they feel valued and supported

Real-Life Success Stories

Transport USA has helped numerous businesses transition to better shipping arrangements. For instance:

• A multibillion-dollar manufacturing company recently named Transport USA one of their top 10 truckload providers just two months into their partnership, thanks to excellent service and competitive pricing.
• For another client, a lane evaluation revealed potential savings of $150,000 annually, highlighting the value of working with a broker who understands the market.

Why Choose Transport USA?

Transport USA goes beyond the basics to ensure clients receive top-tier service. With expertise in both hazmat and general freight shipping, they leverage technology and industry knowledge to provide:

• Reliable tracking and tracing for all shipments.
• A strong network of trustworthy carriers capable of scaling with your business.
• Cost-effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.
• A single-source of contact ensures industry–leading communication

If your current shipping arrangement is falling short, Transport USA is ready to help you achieve better results.

Contact Transport USA today to experience the difference a dedicated logistics partner can make.