You might be thinking, “Do I really need a transportation management system? I don’t feel like our process is necessarily broken. Is it really worth it? Is my company truly ready for one?” Yet, what if you could strategically reduce your overall logistics spend while transforming your team from being reactive and task-oriented to proactive and customer-oriented? What kind of impact would that have on your company’s bottom line? 

That’s exactly what I’m here to help you answer. Here are five signs that I always see when a business is ready to take the next step and invest in a transportation management system. 

Let’s dive in.

SIGN 1: Your Business Meets Any of These Qualifications

There can be some not-so-subtle signs that a business is ready to invest in a transportation management system. If your business

• has a freight spend of $1M or more,
• utilizes a mix of transportation modes,
• has multiple locations that utilize their own mix of broker and asset providers,
• procures a majority of freight via the spot market, or
• manages most of your data via Excel spreadsheets;

then consider yourself qualified!  There can also be some more subtle signs…

SIGN 2: A LACK OF EFFICIENCY

A lack of efficiency in your business directly results from a decentralized and very manual approach. Programs like Outlook and Excel were just never intended to handle a freight spend of $1 million or more. If your freight spend is $1 million or more, you’re probably working with a couple of hundred orders a month, with who knows how many stakeholders to help micromanage quotes, tenders, tracking, and tracing of shipments.

If you’re questioning whether your company has a lack of efficiency, ask yourself:

• How much time is being wasted across your organization with overwhelming manual processes?
• Does this process save you any money when it comes to freight spend?
• Do you know if you are utilizing the right carriers?
• Would contract pricing cost you less than the spot market in the long run? 

The bottom line is this is a reactive strategy focused on individuals’ tasks. To optimize your team and freight, you need a major shift towards being more proactive and customer-focused.

This is where Trinity’s transportation management system (TMS) can help you. All our Managed Transportation features a cloud-based TMS platform that creates a centralized freight command center, replacing your redundant manual processes with automation.

Our TMS helps you manage the entire life cycle of an order and we can even integrate with your order management system to truly optimize your workflow. This means no more phone calls, typing out shipment details, or wondering where your freight is or when it’s going to deliver. Technology is one of the critical aspects of our solutions here at Trinity and also a major catalyst to transforming your supply chain.

SIGN 3: SEEKING IMPROVED PERFORMANCE

Efficiency isn’t just about getting faster; it’s about getting better – creating better team performance, better carrier performance, and ultimately improving your bottom-line company performance.

Is there room for improvement in these areas for you? Are your current strategies effective? Can they be measured? You may have answers to these questions that vary from location to location. You’ll usually find some of your distribution centers are better at procuring freight than others.

While a siloed strategy may have made sense for you at one point, companies grow and change. Considering change is a constant, a more wholistic approach will typically yield a better overall cost and carrier performance for you. This is what we consider to be the process part of our solutions. Data is a key driver for the strategy on this one.

On the surface level, it will appear that you simply are spreading your freight too thin across too many carriers or brokers. At Trinity, our Team of Logistics Consultants can quickly diagnose if you are leveraging your overall volumes to the best of your ability. Through strategic sourcing and customer-specific pricing, you can yield six to ten percent savings, sometimes even more. It can also have a significant effect on improving on-time performance.

Best of all, with Trinity’s Managed Transportation, you’ll always be able to track these metrics. You’ll be able to know exactly how your teams compare to the market and are able to adapt quickly when things change. 

SIGN 4: LACKing VISIBILITY

It’s hard to overstate the importance of real-time visibility in today’s supply chain.

When a customer or sales rep asks for a delivery ETA or if the warehouse needs to know what trucks are scheduled to come in; that can all fall back on your outdated and manual processes. Things like picking up the phone, back and forth emails, creating and sharing spreadsheets, that’s just your day-to-day visibility. 

What about those overall performance metrics and being able to measure your team or your carriers? Unfortunately for many shippers, there can be too many roadblocks for effective communication and a lack of overall supply chain awareness. 

However, with the right strategy and technology, visibility can shift from a challenge to a strength. Having access to a transportation management system takes over a lot of the heavy lifting for you, acting as a virtual control tower for all logistics updates and communication.

With Trinity’s solutions, we included unlimited users who can access updates and data 24/7 via the cloud. We can even create push notifications where your team, your warehouse, and your customers can receive updates for their specific tasks automatically. For most shippers, real-time visibility has fully transitioned from an optional benefit to a business necessity – which is why Trinity brings all of this valuable information right to your fingertips. 

SIGN 5: needing BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE

Data has quickly become one of the world’s most valuable resources. In order to make effective decisions, proper data and analysis are needed, especially for logistics strategy or more enterprise-level decisions that reach far beyond the supply chain.

Now let’s say you do have access to good, tangible data. Even still, most likely your data is spread out among various laptops, email accounts, and carrier portals. Trying to compile complete and accurate information is difficult in itself this way, but the greater challenge is what can you do with this data?

That’s where working with Trinity Logistics comes in hand. We help compile and present a key analysis in a way that is easy for you to understand and collaborate on action steps for your company’s continuous improvement. Our customers are able to successfully leverage their data to lower costs, improve performance, and drive their company forward. There are many types of helpful reports you can expect to see such as carrier scorecards, customer profitability reports, to network analysis, and distribution projects.

take your business From Surviving to Thriving

So, are the your company’s signs pointing in the direction of a transportation management system?

If it’s looking like it may be the right time for your company to invest in solid logistics technology, then it’s time for your next step – finding the right provider. I understand you have a lot of options, but I’d like to recommend checking out Trinity’s Managed Transportation solutions.

Our solutions are completely customizable, but each comes with a cloud-based TMS, offering a wide range of capabilities to take over as your entire logistics toolbox:

• Order entry
• Tracking & notifications
• Reporting
• Load planning
• Document management
• Claims management
• Freight auditing and payment
• System integration
• Rating, tendering, and routing guide

Now, don’t just take my word – here’s what Ben at cfm Distributors Inc. had to say about working with Trinity’s Managed Transportation solution:

The best part of checking out Trinity for your future transportation management system? Your consultation is completely FREE and you’ll walk away with the knowledge about how your business can operate more efficiently and strategically with Trinity Logistics’s support. What do you have to lose?

Not quite ready for a consultation but still interested in learning more about Trinity’s TMS? Register for a brief demo of our TMS.

The time has come to implement a transportation management system (TMS). You’ve prioritized TMS capabilities, analyzed vendors, and sat through several system demos. Finally, everyone has come to an agreement and selected a TMS provider. Now what? 

Next comes the implementation phase of the TMS, which frequently involves integration. For most companies, the integration component consists of integrating with external carrier partners to transmit load tenders, receive tracking messages, and retrieve invoices. But the “heavy lift” with integration usually involves the interaction between your company’s internal systems and the TMS software. 

By following these five steps I’ve outlined for a TMS integration below, you can make what normally is a heavy lift into light work!

1. Assemble the Project Team

This sounds simple, but sometimes, it can be the most challenging part of the process. It can be tricky to gather each Business Process Owner (BPO) into a room or on a call to get their input. 

Involving all key stakeholders from the get-go is essential. Each BPO can help assemble a complete picture of how the TMS software will support each business unit. It also ensures you identify any potential integration touchpoints between systems that may add value to your transportation process. These stakeholders typically will include the following groups:

Upper Management

The most successful TMS integrations include someone that serves as a project sponsor. They emphasize the importance of the project, ensure all engage in discussions, and serve as final decision-makers in prioritizing integration processes.

Logistics

If your organization has a formal logistics department, they must be in the kick-off meetings. If there’s no formal logistics department, then identify those team members that have the most working knowledge of your transportation processes.

Warehouse

Those in the warehouse can communicate any specifics about shipping the product. This may include how orders are communicated to them, what documents are needed to support the shipment, and which systems they interact with (such as a warehouse management system – WMS) to notate information like planned vs. actual shipment details.

Customer Service

When integrating your internal systems with the TMS, the customer service team is usually the best resource to describe their order entry process in your company’s order management system (OMS). Having a thorough understanding of this process ensures all relevant fields needed to create a shipment is captured. Additionally, any nuances surrounding the order entry process must be discussed regarding various order types (sales orders, purchase orders, transfers, etc.).

Accounting/Finance

A big chunk of time saved with a transportation management system is the audit and reconciliation of freight invoices. If the TMS integrates with your company’s OMS or account software, you can drastically reduce the time it takes to process an invoice. Your accounting team will need to share their input on topics like GL coding rules, tolerance limits for auto-approval of invoices, or the application of required vendor codes. All this will help guide the data requirements that support an AP integration of the TMS software.

IT/Development/TMS Support

Any integration discussions need to include your technical folks. These may consist of your internal resources but can include external vendors or third-party resources that support the processes. Most TMS providers should be able to provide an integration support team. This can consist of a solutions architect, a technical account manager, and a sales support resource. They are vital to understanding the full capabilities and limitations of the TMS software from both an end-user perspective and integration capability standpoint.

2. Map Out Current vs. Future State

Current State

Now, the real work towards a successful TMS integration begins. 

You’ll first want to map out your existing supply chain processes. These could be part of the “order-to-cash” cycle, the manufacturing cycle, or a replenishment cycle. Really, anywhere in your processes you transport things from point A to point B. The key processes for a TMS integration generally happen between an order being entered (which might go into an OMS) and the payment of a carrier’s freight invoice. 

From an integration standpoint, most of your time will be spent on this order entry process. Why? Because most of the data that will be transmitted to your TMS is from the shipment import process. 

On the surface it sounds easy. You just need pickup and delivery addresses, item details, target dates, and maybe a couple of other fields sent to the TMS to create a shipment…right? But it’s not always that simple. 

Every shipper has different nuances when entering this information into their OMS. Also, not all order types get entered in the same way. Some data may live in other tables or a completely different system altogether. Fields may be used differently from one order type to the next, and the data may not be accurate (such as stored items, weights, and dimensions). 

This in-depth process mapping discussion with your assembled project team will help bring these things to the surface. It will also help identify any other potential “touchpoints” that need to occur between systems to make your future transportation management processes more efficient.

Future State

Once you’ve mapped out your current state, you can begin working on what you want your future state to look like. 

Your future state will guide the scope of work, answering the question, “What do we want our transportation process to look like once the TMS is integrated?” Generally, as you discuss your current state, the answer to this question naturally comes into focus. 

With all the notes and takeaways of your current state discussions, your TMS support team should provide most of the input of your anticipated future state. A key output should be a depiction via a process swimlane diagram. This will describe any interaction points between the TMS and your internal systems. The most common integration processes that we see when going through a TMS implementation are:

Shipment Import

Importing order details from your OMS into the TMS to create a shipment. This includes required fields, such as:

• ship-from/ship-to names,
•  pickup and delivery addresses, 
• item details, 
• expected ship and delivery dates, 
• and required accessorial services.

Load Return

The “load return” contains data associated with the load in the TMS that would be beneficial to capture, particularly from a customer service or customer invoicing standpoint. This includes:

• the selected carrier, 
• selected freight rate, 
• transit days, 
• tracking numbers, 
• and load status messages such as pickup or delivery dates/times. 

Shipped Data Import

After the carrier is loaded at the shipping facility, clients often request that the load be updated in the TMS with the resulting shipped date/time, shipped quantities, and loaded weight. This can be useful when generating detailed item reporting in the TMS. This data system of record (SOR) is usually in your WMS but can also live in your OMS.

AP Return

The “AP return” contains approved AP details as freight invoices are audited and approved for payment in your TMS. This includes values such as; 

• the invoice number, 
• invoice date, 
• vendor ID, 
• settlement total, 
• GL codes, 
• and other reference data. 

Clients often consume this data in their accounting software., Most companies use their OMS and accounting systems within the same application.

3. Compile Integration Requirements

It’s time to start getting into the nuts and bolts of the integration processes that your project team has identified. 

The first decision point is whether you will take an “all or nothing” or a phased approach to the TMS integration. The “all or nothing” approach means you’ve decided not to go live with the TMS until all integration processes are ready for deployment. Some companies may have no choice but to take an all or nothing approach. Perhaps they have a deadline to sunset an existing application, limited project support resources, or they feel that buy-in to the new process may be at risk if everything isn’t completed before going live.

I like to recommend that companies take a phased approach to TMS integration when possible. Typically, integrating a TMS takes up most of the time to the overall project. Taking a phased approach significantly reduces that timeline. With a phased approach, users spend a few weeks or months working in the TMS. With that time, they usually have a better idea of which integration processes should take priority in later phases. 

Regardless of which approach you decide to take, it’s important to ask the question, “Will this save us time and add value to our transportation process?” It seems obvious that a company wouldn’t move forward with a TMS integration project unless it adds value. Still, at Trinity, we’ve seen many instances where a company spends time and effort integrating systems only to say later, “We don’t rely on that process to manage our workflow” or “I forgot that we had this process in place.” A phased approach helps prevent that from happening.

Transmitting the Data

Once you’ve identified which integration processes will move forward, you’ll need to determine how the data will be transmitted between systems. The most common methods are via file transfer (using an SFTP or AS2 connection) or using an API. 

File transfer can include .xml, .csv, .json, or EDI X12 formats. Some companies even have their own custom-built formats as well. 

Transmitting data via an API may involve connecting to your TMS’s API to send or retrieve data. Your TMS provider could also be able to connect to your company’s own internal API. Regardless of which method you choose, I like to recommend following the path of least resistance. 

In other words, what existing processes do you already have in place that you can piggyback on to accomplish your stated end goal? For example, if you’re already receiving an EDI 850 (purchase order) from your suppliers, you may also be able to use this same file to send shipment details to your TMS. 

Your BPOs, TMS solution architect, and internal technical resources should be able to decide the best approach.

The EDI vs. API Debate

If you were to Google “EDI vs. API” you may get mixed opinions on the value of each approach in a TMS integration. Some commentators may go so far to say that EDI (X12) is “dead” and APIs are the best option for transmitting data. Others will say that EDI has been around forever and it’s not going away anytime soon. 

The truth is that both approaches have value when integrating TMS software. Now, I don’t want to get too far into the weeds explaining the downsides and advantages of each method. There are plenty of resources online if you’re curious. But I do want to outline a few questions you can ask to help find the best approach for your business:

• What type of data transmission methods do we already have in place? Can we reuse any of these to integrate with the TMS?
• If we have any methods currently in place, how flexible are they? If we need more data down the road, can modifications be made easily?
• What is the volume of the data being transmitted? Will we need to send large volumes of data? Or can we send and receive a select handful of fields?
• What is our requirement on the timing of the data? Is it vital that it gets sent/received as quickly as possible, or can there be a delay of a few minutes (or even a few hours)?
• Does the TMS provider have a preferred method for sending and receiving data that allows us to go-live faster?

The answers to these questions will help guide which approach to take toward your TMS integration. 

4. Prep for Go-Live

Testing

Once the integration requirements and initial development work are done, it’s time to prepare to go live. 

A significant component of this preparation involves thorough testing of any integration processes. Any technical resources involved in the project will need input from the BPOs to help devise a good test plan. Answering some of the questions below will help your team develop a plan for testing.

• What is the approximate volume of records we need to test before we feel the TMS integration is working as expected?
• What are the different order types that we need to test? Are there any nuances specific to our business that we need to account for? 
• Who needs to provide the final sign-off to confirm that everything is working as it should?
• Based on what we uncovered in our current and future state discussions, are we accounting for every possible scenario?

Process testing can be a balancing act. You don’t want to get too bogged down with testing that it delays the implementation of the TMS software, but you also want to make sure that go-live doesn’t end up being a disaster. Maintaining an engaged project team and openly communicating with all resources can help you figure out where that “sweet spot” lies.

Hypercare Plan

In addition to a test plan, you’ll also need a plan for hypercare. “Hypercare” refers to the period after the go-live where project team members must maintain heightened attention towards the process. These are some of the things you’ll need to consider in the hypercare phase of the TMS integration.

• The methods of contact should something go wrong. Who needs to be contacted for a particular issue? 
• What will the communication process entail if an issue arises or if changes need to be made?
• How will issues, requests, or bugs will be triaged?
• What is the process for collecting feedback from BPOs and end-users?

Internal and External Communications

Planning for communication with your internal stakeholders and external partners for the go-live is essential. 

Any internal users affected will need to understand how their day-to-day workflows may be impacted. Have a resource that’s ready should anyone not be receptive to the change or have a lack of understanding. This person can help by providing further training or support to ensure a successful adoption of the TMS. 

Your decision to implement TMS software should also be communicated to your external partners. This can include your vendors, carriers, and customers. They should understand any expectations you have prior to final implementation of the TMS, particularly if it impacts the collection of data needed to support any integration touchpoints. Ensure they know your expected TMS go-live date and provide any training as needed to support a smooth rollout.

5. Time to Flip the Switch!

Congratulations! You’ve finally reached the exciting part – flipping the ON switch to your new transportation management system. With your new TMS fully integrated, get ready to see your transportation processes become more efficient and streamlined. Expect improved visibility, better data insights, and enhanced coordination across your supply chain. This implementation means less manual work, fewer errors, and more time to focus on strategic tasks. 

Welcome to a new era of logistics management, where everything runs smoother, faster, and smarter. Your logistics operations just got a whole lot more exciting! 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chris McAvoy

Director of Managed Services

With 22 years of experience at Trinity Logistics, Chris McAvoy has grown from a Logistics Specialist to his current role as Director of Managed Transportation. Along the way, he’s honed his expertise in various positions, including National Accounts Manager, Pricing Manager, and Solutions Architect.

Chris holds several certifications including Certified Transportations Broker (CTB), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Project Management Professional (PMP).

In his role, he leads system integration projects, onboards new Managed Transportation clients, and drives supply chain improvement initiatives. Chris thrives on working closely with customers, uncovering innovative solutions to elevate their logistics operations.

Do you dream of breaking up with your current logistics management processes? You’re not the only one!

Managing logistics effectively is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Yet, sometimes, the process can feel more like a complex puzzle than a seamless operation.

Many growing companies face headaches with logistics management, and for good reason. The systems they rely on often may not be up to the task. Thus, they find that their logistics are holding the business back, creating obstacles rather than opportunities.

Let’s uncover the exact challenges many businesses face and learn how to transform them into a smooth and efficient operation you’ll love.

Why Many Companies Struggle with Logistics Management

Logistics Management Challenge #1: Inefficient Tools and Systems

Far too many businesses rely on outdated and inefficient tools like spreadsheets and email for their logistics. Let’s face it: spreadsheets are like flip phones – great in the early days but wildly outdated now. While spreadsheets and email might work for smaller operations, they can be ineffective for companies spending $1 million or more on freight. Performing tasks like tracking and optimizing shipments manually have become more than just a headache; they’ve become a timewaster.

Logistics Management Challenge #2: Inefficient Processes

When your day-to-day operations involve hundreds of orders, manual processes can cause chaos. Juggling carriers, shipments, and invoices can cause delays, missed opportunities, and demand way too much time. Time that could instead be spent on strategic tasks to drive the business forward.

Logistics Management Challenge #3: Lack of Visibility

Have you ever tried driving at night without headlights? (By the way, we DO NOT recommend ever doing this!) You can’t see anything. There’s no way to predict what may be coming toward you. Making informed decisions or addressing potential issues can be nearly impossible. That’s what it’s like not having any visibility into your supply chain. Unfortunately, this is a common problem for many businesses.

Logistics Management Challenge #4: Absence of Performance Metrics

Trying to improve performance without metrics is more guessing than it is strategizing. This makes measuring the success of your logistics difficult! How do you know if your carriers are reliable? Or whether your shipping costs are hurting or helping your revenue? Without precise data, it’s almost futile to identify the areas you can improve upon.

Logistics Management Challenge #5: Limited Support and Guidance

Managing logistics without the support you need can feel like running an uphill marathon. It can wear you down quickly! Perhaps you manage it solo, have a small logistics team, or lack expertise. Even those who invest in logistics technology can find they’re missing the guidance they need to succeed. Whatever the case, you may be desperate for some help!

Logistics Management Challenge #6: Overcomplicated or Costly Technology

Some logistics technology can make it feel like you’re solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded. They are too complicated to use. Others can be too expensive to justify investing in or don’t offer just what you need. If it feels like the technology is working against you instead of for you, if it’s frustrating your team, or is simply draining your wallet, then it may be time for a simpler solution.

Does This Sound Like Your Logistics Operations?

If any of these struggles resonate with you, then it’s time to rethink your approach to logistics management. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Just check out these stats:

As you can see, many businesses are moving toward improving their operations. Why not join them? Don’t stay stuck and settle for frustration when you can fall in love with your logistics again! Trinity Logistics is here and ready to help you reignite that spark.

You Deserve Better. You Deserve Trinity Logistics.

Logistics management shouldn’t be a burden—it should be your secret weapon! It should be something your proud of! You deserve better than being held back by inefficiencies.

We’re here to help you thrive with our customizable Managed Transportation Solutions. We can help you turn logistics into a strategic advantage to propel your business forward.

Here’s why Trinity Logistics is the perfect match for your logistics operations!

Trinity’s Transportation Management System (TMS)

Trinity’s TMS offers a wide range of capabilities to take over as your entire toolbox.

• Order entry
• Tracking & notifications
• Reporting
• Load planning
• Document management
• Claims management
• Freight auditing and payment
• System integration
• Rating, tendering, and routing guide

Made-Just-For-You Solutions

From our experience, just like people, each company is unique, so we offer a customizable TMS solution. You can get precisely what you need, nothing less, nothing more.

Extra Operational Support

Go beyond account management and offload some (or all) of your day-to-day tasks to our Expert Team. We’re here to support you at every step.

Optimized Workload

Free up your team to focus on core business activities. In the meantime, enjoy optimized shipping routes, better carrier relationships, and savings.

Business Intelligence

Make smarter decisions with detailed reporting and data analysis. Our technology empowers you to measure performance, optimize operations, and reduce risks.

Enhanced Visibility

Track everything you need, all in one place.

Automation & Integration

Eliminate manual processes for seamless operations.

Whatever Else You Need

Whether you need help with freight optimization or transportation cost reduction or want quarterly business reviews, let us know, and we can tailor your plan to suit your business.

It’s the Perfect Time to Renew Your Logistics Love

Who said logistics management has to be a thorn in your side? With Trinity Logistics, we can help turn those logistical nightmares into a love story for the ages. We’ll help you take your operations from complicated to easy, boost visibility, and unlock your supply chain’s full potential.

Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what Ben at cfm Distributors Inc. had to say about working with Trinity’s Managed Transportation solution:

Ready to fire up your logistics passion? Explore our Managed Transportation solutions and take the first step toward transforming your operations.

While many of us are soaking up the last of summer’s sun and fun, food manufacturing supply chains are readying for the upcoming holiday food rush.

Have you ever noticed a lot of our favorite memories are surrounded by food? When we go to celebrate something like a birthday, anniversary, or special achievement, it usually involves food. It’s no surprise then that over the holiday season, nearly 165 million consumers across the U.S. purchase food and beverages to celebrate, according to a study from Cornell. As the holidays soon approach, food consumption surges, with the average American indulging up to an extra 440 calories per serving!

The increased demand and tight holiday deadlines can present challenges for many food and beverage companies with their logistics. This is in addition to already facing a competitive peak shipping season! However, by understanding the dynamics of this unique period of time, shippers can ensure success is ahead of them. First, let’s dive into some fascinating facts and insights about food during the holiday season. Then, we’ll follow that with some essential tips so your company can be prepared for the holiday food rush!

Holiday Food Supply Timeline & Stats

The Holiday Food Surge Begins with Fall

The holiday food rush first begins with the arrival of fall flavors. Pumpkin spice, now seen as the quintessential flavor of fall, has seen a 47 percent increase in sales, as reported by The Guardian, within the past five years. In 2023 alone, Datassential reported 144 new limited-time offers that featured pumpkin on major restaurant menus. From the infamous Pumpkin Spice Lattes (PSLs) to pumpkin soups and ravioli, this flavor dominates the season. But we can’t forget another fall favorite – apple. Food and beverage items with caramel apple were one of the highest-indexing flavors last fall.

Halloween Signals Significant Holiday Food Consumption Increase

Halloween is a major milestone in the holiday food timeline, with 65 percent of consumers participating in the festivities. In fact, of all 172 million that celebrate the spooky season, 95 percent of them purchase candy. Even more staggering is that a quarter of all the candy sold annually comes from Halloween sales. It’s not all about the sweets, though! Pizza is the most popular dinner staple on All Hallow’s Eve, according to Grubhub. There’s also the annual tradition of carving a pumpkin, with Statista reporting roughly 154 million Americans partaking in the activity in 2023.

Dia de Los Muertos Celebrations Begin to Trend

Datassential reports that 10 percent of consumers in the U.S. report celebrating Dia de Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. This holiday is gaining popularity, which means so are the celebratory foods associated with it! Pan de Muerto is one traditional sweet bread that’s essential to the celebration.

Thanksgiving Continues to Drive Food Supply Chain Demand

Thanksgiving remains the most popular fall holiday, with 83 percent of Americans celebrating the tradition. A whopping 46 million turkeys are consumed each year, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Other top holiday staples include cranberry sauce, stuffing, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin and apple pies. That’s a lot of food to prepare for a meal, so 23 percent of consumers will buy a full, ready-made meal from a restaurant. Another 22 percent will supplement with some food from restaurants for part of their feasts.

Sweets, Candy & Chocolate Build Holiday Food Demand at Christmas & New Year’s

Leading up to Christmas, many enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and other treats. 1.76 billion candy canes, a holiday staple, are made annually for this joyous time of the year. 70 percent of Americans make Christmas desserts, with frosted sugar cookies being the top ones consumed annually. Don’t forget the eggnog! 122 million pounds of it is poured and drunk each year.

When it comes to Christmas dinner, pork dishes are the most popular globally, but turkey still trumps all for the U.S. Other winter feast staples include roasted or mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, gravy, stuffing, shrimp, and lots of Christmas pudding, cookies, and pies. Sweet tooths rejoice as 83 percent of consumers fill stockings with treats like candy and chocolate.

Christmas and New Year’s are among the busiest holidays for restaurants. Both holidays also see a spike in alcohol consumption, with New Year’s Eve being the second most alcohol-associated holiday behind Mardi Gras. Champagne is the fan favorite for those ringing in the New Year.

Logistics & SHipping Tips for Holiday Food Shipping

The holiday season often brings those in logistics the gift of increased demand and decreased capacity. Like most Americans, truck drivers aim to be home for the holidays, trimming the number of available carriers down. Freight of all kinds can increase during the period, further cutting the number of trucks available. Shippers with more specialized requirements, like temperature control, can find even less capacity. Shippers also have tighter deadlines to meet at this time to make the most of the seasonal business.

Overall, the holiday season can be a time of heightened stress and disruption. Given these unique challenges, it’s crucial for food and beverage shippers to prepare thoroughly to appease customers.

Five Tips for the Best Holiday Food Shipping Logistics Outcomes

Tip 1: Keep Inventory Stocked

Running out of stock during the holiday season is a surefire way to lose customers. Track your inventory levels closely and replenish supplies early to ensure you’re well-stocked. By keeping orders moving consistently, you’ll be able to meet consumer demand and avoid causing any disappointment.

Tip 2: Have Backup Shipping Plans Ready

The chances of any disruptions or delays happening during this season are increased. Having backup shipping plans already prepared is essential to keep your goods moving.

Build relationships with multiple carriers and suppliers, or even a third-party logistics provider (3PL). This way, you’ll have known contacts ready in case you need any help. 

Look at alternate modes of transportation and be prepared to quickly shift plans should something happen. Exploring multimodal options can be a great way to diversify risk, add capacity, and protect your freight budget. Having this flexibility available and ready can help you stay on track and your supply chain running smoothly.

Tip 3: Real-Time Visibility is Needed for Success

In today’s supply chains, having access to the visibility you need is crucial. You should either work with a provider that offers it or invest in your own technology, like a Transportation Management System (TMS).

A TMS can be very helpful during the holiday season. It can help you with routing decisions by matching your freight with the best carriers, lanes, and rates. In addition, it will allow you to optimize the in-house processes of your transportation network – which can be helpful during busy and slow seasons. By selecting the best carriers and optimizing your routes, you’ll not only increase your service but reduce your risk.

Using a TMS also gives you data-driven insights to better manage disruptions, reduce downtime, and budget your logistics spend. Data analytics can help you recognize which carriers are most likely to have the capacity, saving you time arranging your shipments.

Tip 4: Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication is key to a successful holiday season. Regularly communicate with all stakeholders, including suppliers, carriers, and customers. Collaborating with your partners during the seasonal planning phase can provide valuable insights and help you identify potential issues before they arise.

Tip 5: Partner with a 3PL

Working with a 3PL can be a game-changer during the holiday season. A 3PL offers access to a larger network of carriers, advanced technology, and expertise in managing complex logistics challenges. With their support, you can ensure your supply chain remains resilient, even in the face of unexpected disruptions.

Treat Yourself with Easier Logistics This Holiday Season

Navigating the holiday food rush can be overwhelming, and that’s why Trinity Logistics is here to be your guide. Like Santa, we’ve been around a while, with 45 years of experience handling logistics during holiday seasons.

Right away, you’ll gain access to our large network of vetted, quality carrier relationships to cover your shipments. But that’s just the start! There are many more benefits to working with Trinity, including:

• Multiple modes of transportation to find the best bang for your buck, support your business growth, or just have a backup plan ready
• Best-in-class technology and customized Managed Transportation solutions available, giving you the exact visibility and data you want
• 24/7/365 support, so no matter what day or time it is, you’ll have the help you need

One benefit that tends to shine above all else? Our exceptional People-Centric service. It’s the trait that makes Trinity different from other 3PLs and keeps our customers returning time and time again. It’s truly our care, compassion, and communication that you’ll notice and appreciate.

Everyone wants to enjoy the holiday season. Why not let Trinity focus on the logistics for your business, so you can go back to doing what you enjoy – helping consumers savor holiday treats and create memorable moments with your product.

Are you a Freight Agent that stumbled across this article?

If you’ve worked in the LTL industry for any bit of time, then you know that it’s always changing. Yes, sometimes that means it gets a bit more complicated. Rates adjust. Rules and processes are modified. Despite all this, there is usually one constant – the core LTL carriers we work with. Yet, in 2023, that changed; we saw the departure of the legacy LTL carrier known as Yellow Corporation. 

The closing of such a large and well-established LTL carrier is very rare. The industry hadn’t felt the void of such a large company since Consolidated Freightways closed 20 years prior. So, what happened? Considering Yellow Corporation was the third largest LTL carrier, what happened to all the freight they handled? 

As someone with a career in LTL, I saw this happen in real-time and have directly seen its ripple effects. I can answer some of those questions and share with you my thoughts, experiences, and observations of this impactful event in LTL history. 

The Fall of Yellow Corporation

Yellow Corporation (commonly referred to as YRC) was no stranger to financial turmoil. The company was laden with debt that was worsened with the Great Recession. It almost put them into filing for bankruptcy in 2009. 

A stint of other factors after that didn’t put them in a better position when COVID-19 rolled around in 2020. YRC was granted a $700 million COVID-relief loan by the U.S. government, which it used nearly half of to cover past due payments to healthcare and pensions, payments on equipment and properties, and interest accrued by its other debts. Fast forward to 2023, and that’s where their final chapter began. 

A few months into 2023, YRC and the Teamsters Union engaged in back-and-forth negotiations. YRC wanted to change operational procedures and sought extra funding to help it pay off its debts. Teamsters disagreed with the proposed changes. We saw news articles and hit pieces about the conflict, week after week. It was nearly impossible for the industry to ignore it. 

In July, whispers began of a possible union strike that would effectively halt YRC’s freight network. This was the writing on the wall for many shippers and third-party logistics (3PL) companies. At this point, the hull had been punctured, and water pouring in. Do you stay or do you go? 

YRC and its subsidiaries were promptly disabled from countless TMS platforms. No customer wanted their freight stuck in limbo if Teamsters were to go on strike against YRC. Because of this, YRC saw a sharp decline in freight volume and tonnage. A company that was in financial disarray was now losing its primary source of revenue. 

On July 30^th, Yellow Corporation ceased all operations. The Teamsters had not agreed to the negotiations, and the 11^th hour came and went. So, what now? 

The Aftermath of YRC’s Closing

YRC’s exit affected two parties: shippers using LTL and other LTL carriers. 

For shippers using LTL, they were two buckets: those who had already begun shifting their freight to other carriers in their pricing roster and those unfortunate enough to still have most or all freight with YRC. The latter had a more difficult situation to overcome as they now had to find an LTL carrier to move their freight without paying an arm and a leg. 

For LTL carriers, YRC’s existing freight had to go somewhere, so they had to figure out how to absorb it. Carriers such as Estes, FedEx, and XPO and their capabilities were pushed to their limit, now drinking from a firehose of incoming freight. Volumes increased drastically, and with such a rapid rise came decreased capacity. 

LTL carriers were making the difficult decision to exclude certain shippers in favor of others just to service accounts and keep their networks moving without bottlenecking. This left many smaller shippers stranded with a shorter list of available LTL carriers. 

As carriers became inundated with freight, their operating ratios took a hit, and something had to be done to regain control. A season of atypical general rate increases (GRI) began. LTL carriers needed to remain profitable lest they succumb to a fate like Yellow. 

3PLs and shippers alike started getting notifications from their carrier representatives about rates going up. Shipping LTL got more expensive now that the carriers had to pick and choose who they serviced with their finite capacity. The increased rate structures also priced out shippers that were used to YRC’s competitively priced tariffs or couldn’t stomach the increases.

For many shippers and 3PLs, the immediate aftermath of the Yellow Corporation bankruptcy was unlike any they had previously experienced. 

Now, that’s the long and short of it, but how are things today? Surely, the disappearance of a significant LTL carrier like that would have lasting, irreversible affects. 

Well, yes, but also no. 

The Current Impact of YRC’s Closing

Today the LTL industry has mostly stabilized. YRC’s freight volume has dispersed, and the dust has settled. The LTL carriers have course-corrected their capacity concerns. 

After the YRC bankruptcy, there were also new questions to answer, one of which was “What happens to their assets?” Those went through the bankruptcy courts, but the LTL carriers were eager to get a piece of it. 

The purchased terminals and trailers meant increased footprint and capacity, which can be the difference between being the best and the biggest for LTL carriers. Several carriers bid to acquire the terminals left behind by Yellow Corporation.

Estes Express, a prominent national LTL carrier, was one of the larger victors in the bidding war. As one of Trinity’s carrier relationships, I asked Estes if they could share the impact YRC’s exit had on their company. Here’s what President and COO Webb Estes had to say: 

While LTL carriers, larger shippers, and 3PLs came out in the black or relatively unscathed, others did not. Smaller shippers with all their freight lanes with YRC had no backup plans except to pay increased, non-discounted LTL rates with other carriers or risk their business operations. 

How Did Trinity Logistics Fare?

At Trinity, those first few months after the bankruptcy were interesting! We saw many new shippers start a relationship with us and saw some complications in LTL carrier transit lanes that bottlenecked. Don’t worry, they were quickly resolved. Since Trinity has a broad roster of national and regional LTL carrier contracts in place, our shipper relationships were able to use our rates to course correct from the YRC closure and effectively avoid any critical disruption. 

Is the last time we’ll see an industry-shaking event in the LTL space? Likely not. For now, the industry is stable, and many LTL carriers are growing and reporting profitable earnings. 

In my 10+ years working in the LTL industry at a 3PL, the Yellow Corporation was always a top LTL carrier for us. Seeing them fade into the wind after decades of LTL service was surreal, and I felt sad for the many YRC employees I’ve grown to know. 

Despite such an impactful event, now written in the history books, it’s a year later, and the LTL landscape is still thriving (and volatile), even with one less player at the table. 

Final Thoughts

Considering the size of Yellow and the steady decline until evaporation from the industry, I actually expected more disarray from it. Sure, the first weeks after the bankruptcy had the GRIs, shipment delays, and new shipper partnerships for Trinity to handle, but after a month or two, it was relatively smooth sailing back to normal. 

I think that speaks volumes to the age we live in. The amount of technology and time-saving efficiencies that LTL carriers invest in year after year. It allowed the industry to absorb the freight volume of one of the largest LTL carriers in the world and it did so in less than 60 days! It’s kind of crazy and a testament to the LTL industry and its controlled chaos. 

Working with Yellow for so many years, I grew familiar with some of the names worked there. People we would see at conferences, have calls with or see on emails. People who had been in the industry much longer than I have, had extensive backgrounds, and grew their roots at Yellow. 

The bankruptcy landed them in the middle of it all, but many of them went on to other LTL carriers and took their experience, adding value there. I think that’s a silver lining here. Despite the financial decision of Yellow as a company, it had people on its roster that brought purpose to LTL and now these people are creating an impact for other carriers and customers alike. For how vast it is, the LTL industry can be closeknit, so to see those former Yellow employees succeed at other LTL carriers is a bright spot in this saga. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Curt Kouts holds the Director of LTL position at Trinity Logistics. Kouts has been with Trinity and in the logistics industry for 14 years, having held several titles among carrier vetting, account management, and within the LTL Team itself. His main responsibilities as Director focus on elevating Trinity’s LTL customers’ experience, helping the LTL Team support in operations and billing, and aiding the company in overall LTL sales and success. Kouts finds the LTL industry incredibly challenging, presenting him and his Team a ton of problems that they have a passion for solving. He enjoys learning more about LTL whenever possible and overall, making LTL an experience that keeps all his customers, both internal and external, coming back.

Do you feel like you could be spending less on your less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping rates? Most likely, you’re right. LTL shipping rates are affected by many different factors, so it can be pretty easy to make these simple changes and see your shipping costs decrease. While these tips may not be possible for everyone or every shipment, hopefully, you’ll find one you can start implementing to reduce your freight costs.

HOW LTL SHIPPING RATES ARE CALCULATED

Compared to truckload rates, LTL shipping rates can be very confusing. To make it simpler, here’s what goes into your LTL costs.

Absolute Minimum Charge

This is the lowest rate a carrier will charge.

Accessorials

These are extra charges for any services provided by the carrier that are beyond simply shipping from one point to another. Examples of common accessorials include:

• Inside pickup or delivery
• Lift gate service
• Residential delivery
• Detention storage

Base Rates

Each LTL carrier sets its own base rate, often quoted per 100 lbs., and based on the freight classification, weight of the shipment, distance traveled, and the origin and destination zip codes.

Lane

The lane plays a role in the base rate. The further the distance traveled in the lane, the more costly the LTL shipping rate can be.

Freight Classification

The product you ship has its own classification based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC). Freight that is dense and difficult to break is in a lower class, making it the least expensive. Lighter and more fragile freight is at a higher freight class and thus, costs more.

Weight

LTL shipping rates are based on the total weight and number of pallets. The heavier a shipment, the less it costs per hundred pounds, as factored by the base rate calculation.

HOW TO SAVE ON YOUR LTL SHIPPING RATES

Maximize Density

LTL carriers make a profit by fitting as many different LTL shipments into their trailers as safely as possible. So, which do you think they prefer – a shipment that takes up 25 percent of their trailer or a shipment that takes up 10 percent? The less space your shipment can take up, the less it could cost to ship it.

While the weight of your shipment may be out of your control, the density is not. Increasing density starts with how you pack your LTL freight. Experienced shippers know that doing everything they can to compactly pack their freight on pallets will reduce their LTL shipping rates.

So, do everything you can to make your shipment take up less space. If your current pallets are not stackable, find a way to make them, if possible. Reduce any empty space between cases or products on the pallet. If possible, stack an extra row on top of each pallet to eliminate using an extra pallet. Brainstorm all the ways to make your shipment take up less space, and you’ll likely see savings.

*It’s important to note that you should never negate safety or product quality to reduce your shipping rates! 

Aim to Avoid Peak Shipping When Possible

While this may not always be possible, avoiding peak shipping times is an easy way to reduce your LTL shipping costs. When you can, plan and ship early or after peak times.

Evaluate Packaging and Product Design for Logistics

Now this tip is more of a hefty task, but it’s certainly one to consider. When in the early stages of product and packaging design, or even when re-evaluating, it’s ideal to get one of your logistics professionals involved. This will help your product and package designers consider details that can make your product easy to ship, stack, and organize. There’s nothing worse than having a great product only to end up with it being too cost-prohibitive to transport.

Consider “Economy Class” LTL Carriers

If your shipment isn’t time-sensitive, using “economy class” LTL carriers is an easy way to reduce your LTL shipping rates. Their rates are often cheaper but their transit times are longer, so you’re trading off higher costs for more time. If you have time to spare, this is a great option for savings. 

Ship Larger Loads Less Often

As you likely know, it’s cheaper to ship several pallets at once than one at a time over a few weeks. However, to use this strategy, you’ll have to convince your customers to take on larger orders. You can offer them a price break or agree to share some of the savings you see in shipping to do so.

Consolidate to One Truckload

Eliminating a shipment altogether is a surefire way to reduce your freight costs.

Have you ever considered consolidating your LTL shipments into a multi-stop truckload shipment? Shipping a full truckload of freight is often far less expensive than shipping multiple LTL shipments.

Of course, it depends on where your shipments are delivering. For example, a multi-stop truckload picking up in Maine and delivering in Florida, Minnesota, and California might not make financial sense compared to shipping LTL. But if your delivery points are close to each other, or if they form a line across the country (at least vaguely), getting a quote on a consolidated truckload shipment would be very wise

If you don’t have enough for a full truckload, you could still consolidate and combine two or more LTL shipments into one. It’s worth it to see if any sort of consolidation can reduce your LTL shipping rates.

Negotiate with LTL Carriers

It never hurts to ask or negotiate for a discounted rate with your LTL carrier. Perhaps you can have an accessorial fee waived or reduced based on shipment frequency.

If you ship all kinds of freight, you may be able to negotiate freight of all kinds (FAK) for reduced LTL shipping rates. Rather than getting a rate for different classes of freight (which can be time-consuming and complicated), you negotiate to have all your LTL freight rated in the same class, with FAK, which not only saves you time but money.

You could also negotiate for Customer Specific Pricing (CSP). This is contracted pricing, which could include a FAK structure if needed. LTL CSP allows carriers to have a better picture of your freight which not only results in more efficient, but often cheaper, pricing since the rate contracts are ONLY based on your shipments. 

Interested in LTL CSP? Let Trinity negotiate with LTL carriers on your behalf.

Avoid Accessorials When Possible

Accessorials in LTL shipping are common and some may be unavoidable, but many can be avoided when planning ahead. To avoid these extra charges, make sure to educate yourself on your LTL carrier’s guidelines and accessorial fees, aim to avoid weight, dimension, and oversizing adjustments, and ensure your bill of lading (BOL) is accurate. Taking these extra steps will ensure you don’t get hit with unexpected charges and keep your LTL shipping rates low. 

Provide Accurate Information

 Most shippers are aware that the rate for shipping their LTL freight is highly dependent on the size and weight. For this reason, some people are tempted to slightly underestimate the dimensions or weight of their shipment in the hopes it will result in a slightly lower shipping cost and the LTL carrier will be none the wiser.

Whatever you do, don’t do this! Rather than saving money, you may be opening yourself up to extra charges. Most carriers will double-check that the dimensions and weight of your shipment match what’s on the BOL. If it doesn’t match, you’ll be faced with extra, unexpected charges. Your shipment cost will be raised accordingly, but you’ll also be charged with an inspection or reweigh fee, and it’s possible the carrier will red flag your freight to be inspected every single time you ship with them, meaning you just caused increased LTL shipping rates for the future – the opposite of what you wanted.

Use a TMS for Efficiencies

Controlling your shipping costs can be difficult without having full visibility of your freight spend. So, if you’re really looking to take control of your freight costs, a transportation management system (TMS) is what you need. A TMS can give you clear insight into your logistics with comprehensive reporting so you can find more ways to save on your LTL shipping rates while also finding efficiencies in your operations.  

WORK WITH A 3PL

Probably the quickest and easiest way to save on your LTL shipping rates and your time is working with a third-party logistics company (3PL), like Trinity Logistics.

Because of the high volume of freight that 3PLs arrange for all their customers, means we have lower contracted rates (aka deeper discounts) available that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to access. This will result in significant cost savings, especially over time.

Working with Trinity Logistics also gives you the benefit of working with logistics experts who can help you not only with your LTL shipping but any other modes you may need or be interested in. We’ll help you determine what other modes make sense and what other benefits or savings they could offer your business. We also have a dedicated Team to assist you with Managed Transportation or implementing a TMS if that’s something you may need now, or in the future as you grow.

Whether you simply need help saving on your LTL shipping rates or would like a valuable logistics partner on your side for all your logistics needs, our Team is ready to help you and your business succeed.

Consumers want more fruits and vegetables in their diets but produce shippers must face these common logistics challenges to keep up with their demand.

It’s hard to deny the nutritional value fruits and vegetables bring to our diets. It’s likely why there’s been substantial growth in consumer demand for produce over the past decade. While that’s great for businesses based in produce, there’s also greater pressure for produce shippers to deliver.

The journey from farm to table can be surprisingly complex for fruits and vegetables. Produce shippers face several hurdles that they need to overcome for their products to deliver fresh and meet the growing consumer demand. Let’s explore the intricacies of these difficulties and how they all can be taken care of by working with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, like Trinity Logistics. 

CHALLENGE 1: CHOOSING BEST TRANSPORTATION MODE

Produce shippers first face the challenge of determining what transportation mode to use for their shipments. With produce, half of its shelf life is spent in transit. It’s also reported that roughly 33 percent of produce is lost or wasted during its journey, according to the Logistics Bureau.

This is why produce shippers must ask themselves these questions to help determine the right transportation mode for their shipment.

What’s best for your product?

What can you afford?

How much time does your produce have?

Air is great for foods that have a very short shelf life and may need expedited shipping. However, air is often the most expensive of your options. Rail can offer you cost savings but requires more travel time, often two to three days. This option is often saved for produce with a longer shelf life. Lastly, there’s truckload shipping, which offers several shipping options and costs, depending on factors like whether you need a full truck, expedited shipping, or freight consolidation.

CHALLENGE 2: SELECTING THE RIGHT CARRIER PARTNER

The next challenge produce shippers need to tackle is choosing the right carrier to pick up and deliver their shipment. This may be the most crucial task of all because the carrier you choose can make or break your shipment. You need to trust the carrier you choose has experience in handling your specific cargo and meeting food safety regulations, especially for those that need temperature control.

CHALLENGE 3: MAINTAINING FRESHNESS/QUALITY

Maintaining freshness is one of the primary logistics challenges for produce shippers. Millions of dollars are wasted each year on produce that didn’t maintain freshness by delivery.

Produce begins to deteriorate the moment it’s harvested, so the risk of decomposition is equal to, or perhaps even greater, to produce shippers than those of theft or delay. Fresh or frozen produce needs to be stored and transported at specific temperatures to ensure its quality when bought and eaten by the consumer. Even the amount of humidity, light, or kind of packaging can affect a produce product, so produce shippers face this challenge in every segment of their shipping.

Every kind of produce also has different needs. Some need very specific environments to maintain freshness. Others can stay at room temperature or take on more handling. Shelf life is also something to consider. Produce with short shelf lives will need quick transit from farm to store. This also means several kinds of produce often can’t ship together. Since there is no one-size-fits-all process for produce, it’s important for produce shippers and their logistics partners to understand what’s needed for the specific product to deliver at peak quality.

CHALLENGE 4: SHIPMENT VISIBILITY

Tracking and shipment visibility is essential for produce shippers to be able to reduce risk. Without a clear look into your shipments, you’re left in the dark and uncertain whether your product will arrive on time or in acceptable condition.

This can challenge more than just produce shippers, but all stakeholders in a company’s supply chain. Miscommunication can happen between retailers and sellers as well, causing miscalculations in capacity planning or undependable forecasts. Real-time visibility and data are absolutely needed for produce shippers to enhance transparency with their business partners and gain more control over their supply chains.

CHALLENGE 5: REGULATIONS

Navigating regulations is a huge challenge for produce shippers. Failure to meet those regulations can lead to severe and often costly consequences. For example, in the U.S., produce shippers must comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which entails specific guidelines for food safety.

There are also quality standards and labeling requirements to be met. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has a strict grading system to determine the quality of produce, considering its size, shape, color, and defects.

CHALLENGE 6: HANDLING ANY CLAIMS

There’s always a risk for claims in shipping, but claims can happen more often for produce shippers compared to other industries, due to its shorter shelf life. The majority of claims we see in produce shipping are the result of spoilage, which can happen for many different reasons. 

Handling claims for produce is slightly more difficult due to the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA). When handling produce claims, it’s important you and your transportation provider understand and follow PACA. 

HOW TRINITY LOGISTICS HELPS PRODUCE SHIPPERS OVERCOME THEIR CHALLENGES

All those challenges listed above that you may face – we know how and are prepared to handle them.

After 45 years of serving shippers in the food and beverage industry, we’re experts in its logistics requirements and regulations. We also take part in industry organizations, like the International Fresh Produce Association, so we stay knowledgeable about what may affect produce shippers. 

When it comes to choosing your transportation mode, we have a multitude of options available to support you, whether you’re looking for help with one shipment or a fully outsourced logistics solution.

Additionally, we work with trusted carrier relationships that have been fully vetted to ensure your product travels safely and delivers on time. This includes vetting that reefer equipment is not older than 2012 and a temp-reading or download can be made readily available for any refrigerated or frozen produce shipments.

No matter where your freight is in its journey, we provide you with several real-time tracking options to stay fully informed. Through our Managed Transportation service and the use of a transportation management system (TMS), you can find more visibility and data to improve your supply chain processes and communication.

And then there are claims. While we wish every situation could go smoothly, there can still be mishaps. Even so, we’re proud to share that less than one percent of all shipments coordinated with Trinity Logistics end up in a claim. That’s likely because we work with shippers and receivers to monitor load and unload times, checking to ensure trailer doors are not left open, causing temperatures to fluctuate outside of any required ranges.

Now, fear not, because if something does happen, we’re able to help with that too. We have an in-house expert Claims Team to help negotiate any produce claims on your behalf, with an average rate of 60 days in resolving cargo claims.

By working with Trinity Logistics for your produce shipments, you’ll also gain an extra benefit – experiencing our acclaimed People-Centric service. It’s what our customers praise the most about our services and keeps them returning to Trinity Logistics for their logistics needs.

If you’re tired of tackling these produce shipping challenges alone, it may be time to get connected and join the thousands of shippers that choose to make their logistics easy with Trinity Logistics. You won’t be-leaf our exceptional service until you try it!  

Get Out of Your Produce Shipping Pickle

In recent years, the transportation industry has seen a concerning rise in cargo theft and fraud, and the culprits behind it are becoming increasingly sophisticated with their tactics. According to Land Line, cargo theft increased by 49 percent in the first quarter of 2020, with an average cargo loss value exceeding $105,000 per incident. In a recent report in July 2023 by CargoNet, it was found that supply chain risk events increased 57 percent year-over-year (YoY), accounting for 44 million in stolen shipments in quarter two of the calendar year.  

With such alarming statistics, it’s essential to be proactive against cargo theft and freight fraud. So that you can be fully prepared, here are some of the most common methods used by criminals in cargo theft and fraud, along with proven strategies to prevent these issues from happening in the first place.

Common Cargo Theft and Fraud Scenarios

Dealing with cargo theft or fraud when shipping freight is far from ideal. It’s even more frustrating when you realize there are many ways for individuals to commit those crimes.

1.    Identity Theft

Identity theft is currently one of the top methods scammers use to carry out fraudulent activities in the transportation industry. Scammers will impersonate legitimate trucking companies by using their stolen identities. Once they’ve acquired a stolen identity, scammers have several ways in which they use it. Some will pose as the trucking companies, show up to pick up the freight, and then disappear with the cargo. Others will request fuel advances, take the money, and vanish. Then you have others that will take it a step further and double broker.

2.    Double Brokering

Double brokering is the unethical practice when a shipper or broker books a carrier for a shipment, and the carrier then brokers or tenders the shipment to a third party without the shipper’s or broker’s knowledge or approval. Double brokering not only raises liability concerns, such as a potential lack of insurance or approved contract with the actual carrier handling your freight, but it also results in a loss of control. If double brokering occurs, it can lead to billing and liability issues for you as the shipper or the freight broker.

3.    Hook-Up-And-Go

This method of theft is precisely what it sounds like. Thieves connect tractors to trailers and simply drive away with them. These incidents typically occur at truck stops or drop yards when drivers are distracted. Although this method is less common today thanks to advanced technology and tracking systems in trailers, it’s still crucial to remain vigilant.

Combatting Cargo Theft and Fraud

When it comes to combating cargo theft and fraud, it can be challenging to know where to start. While securing trustworthy carriers is a solid initial step, several proven methods can help prevent fraud.

1.    Communicate with the Drivers

Truck drivers are your first line of defense against cargo theft. Whenever possible, ensure that the drivers you work with have undergone proper screening to minimize the risk of fraud. It’s also important to keep your driver relationships informed about any cargo theft activities so they can stay vigilant against potential threats. Keep them aware of any hijacking hotspots and encourage them to report any suspicious incidents promptly. Additionally, if you employ drivers, ensure that they have received adequate training.

2.    Verify Employment

Before finalizing any arrangements, always verify that the person you’re talking to is authorized from the logistics company they claim to work for. Use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to obtain the company’s contact information and speak to them directly to confirm their identity. If the company has no knowledge of the individual, it’s a red flag, and you’ve successfully avoided a potential scam.

3.    Check Truck Identification

Legally, every motor carrier must display their company name and USDOT or MC number on the side of their truck, found on the door of the cab. If the name on the side of the truck doesn’t match the name of the company you’ve hired or that your freight broker has arranged on your behalf, it should raise immediate concerns with your dock workers. We strongly recommend implementing a procedure that requires your loaders to inspect the door and confirm a match. If there’s any discrepancy, the truck shouldn’t be loaded until the issue is resolved. 

4.    Leverage Technology

Technology can be a powerful ally when it comes to combatting cargo theft and fraud. GPS tracking can help locate a stolen vehicle, while geofencing applications can notify you if your freight deviates from its intended route. Making use of these kinds of technology can significantly reduce the risk of any cargo theft.

“Recently, Trinity Logistics had the opportunity to attend TIA’s Policy Forum in Washington, D.C. where we met with some of our elected state officials and staff,” said Kristin Deno, Director of Operational Risk. “We discussed the spike in fraud and impacts of cargo theft to the economy, which is estimated to have a cost of 800 million per year. Ultimately, these unsightly costs trickle down to the consumer, increasing the cost of goods for all. Because many double brokered or stolen loads begin with fake identity, verifying that you are communicating with the entity you think you are, is crucial. Newly created web domains and email addresses are being used to impersonate established carriers and even shipper businesses.”

Trust Trinity Logistics to Safeguard Your Shipments

Taking a proactive stance in fighting cargo theft and freight fraud is essential to ensure the safety of your shipments.

However, handling this task on your own can be burdensome. By partnering with a reliable 3PL like Trinity Logistics, you can save valuable time that would otherwise be spent on vetting carriers.

At Trinity, we meticulously verify all carrier relationships that we work with, not just during the initial setup, but for every shipment. Additionally, our strong relationships built with trusted carriers can further strengthen your confidence that your freight will arrive safe. Our Carrier Compliance and Carrier Development Teams are testaments to our focus on carrier verification and relationship building. We also offer cutting-edge tracking technology upon request, so you’ll know exactly where your freight is located at every step of the way.

Further, we take cases of cargo theft or fraud seriously. Situations where carriers are caught engaging in double brokering or identity theft are researched and offenders may be immediately placed on our Do-Not-Load (DNL) list.

Now, we understand that no matter what you do, things still sometimes happen. Even so, we’re proud to share that less than one percent of all shipments coordinated with Trinity Logistics end up in a claim. When that does happen, we’re just as prepared to tackle it. We have a Cargo Claims Department at the ready to assist you in navigating issues that may arise from your shipment with an average rate of 60 days in resolving cargo claims.

If the possibility of cargo theft and freight fraud is keeping you up at night, then consider working with Trinity Logistics so you can gain peace of mind over your freight shipments.

Whether your product is coming straight from the farm, is moving between processing, or heading off to the consumer, the dairy industry needs first-rate cold chain solutions to meet their complex supply chains.

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and butter are household staples and essential in many people’s diets. It’s no surprise that the dairy industry is considered one of the fastest-growing industries, almost doubling in value every five years. To keep up with consumer demand, the dairy industry needs exceptional cold chain solutions to keep their products cold and safe for consumption.

Why the Dairy Industry Needs Cold Chain Solutions

Dairy products all start with milk, and it has a short shelf life. After the cows have been milked, it immediately transports to cooling storage tanks or a chilled trailer. To ensure the milk doesn’t spoil, it must be stored at a temperature no higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s then transported to a processing facility, pasteurized, and transported again to consumers.

Usually, this process alone, from cow to store, takes place in about two days. Now, milk is often a starting point for the many diverse dairy products available. Depending on the final product, dairy supply chains have more steps and complexities added.

Common Issues Requiring Cold Chain Solutions

• Temperature Control Needed for Most Dairy Products
• Capacity During Peak Shipping Seasons
• Managing Milk Production with Dairy Demand
• Supply Chain Disruptions
• Dairy is Highly Regulated 
• Supply Chain Visibility 
• Potential High Value Dairy Products

Temperature Control Needed for Most Dairy Products

Most dairy products need storage at specific temperatures to keep from spoiling. Dairy products need strict attention because of the risk posed to consumers if the cold chain is broken. If not consistently kept cold and free of humidity, bacteria in the dairy can cultivate and dairy products can become harmful.

Capacity During Peak Shipping Seasons

While some dairy products can seek out alternative transportation modes, most find shipping truckload is the most viable option. It’s usually the fastest and cheapest way to move the product because of its weight. It’s also the most viable due to freight security and nature of the product, and because it reduces the risk of claims due to temperature fluctuations or shifting. Since most dairy products need refrigerated trucks for their shipments this can make capacity an issue at times, such as produce season, when reefer capacity can be tighter. It can not only be more difficult to secure a refrigerated truck, but more expensive to do so.

Managing Milk Production with Dairy Demand

Dairy product demand can fluctuate. Yet, even when consumers want fewer dairy products, the cows don’t stop making milk. They can’t be turned on and off like machines, giving the dairy industry a unique balancing act to handle.

Additionally, when it comes to shipping milk, most of that is kept regional given the short shelf life and cost to ship, making dairy demand management even trickier.

Supply Chain Disruptions

As we’ve learned in recent years, there’s always the chance for supply chain disruption to happen. Whether that’s a truck breaking down, a roadblock, or some other instance that would cause delays. With several dairy products (like milk) having a short shelf life, any delays can risk product spoiling and going to waste. Companies in the dairy industry need to be able to act quickly if any disruption happens. 

Dairy is Highly Regulated 

Dairy products are associated with foodborne illnesses, so it’s no surprise that they’re highly regulated. Right from the start, milk is tested to ensure it’s of safe quality to consume and make other products from. There’s also the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which places strict requirements on sanitary transportation and the handling of dairy products.

Supply Chain Visibility 

Because of so many factors mentioned above, it’s important for dairy companies to have full, real-time visibility of their supply chains. Additionally, many wholesale food distributors and grocery warehouses hold very strict requirements for appointments with very strict product quality inspections to be accepted into their inventory. Without it, dairy companies are at risk of losing products and money due to spoilage, disruptions, delays, or regulation requirements. 

Potential High Value Products

Certain dairy products can be high value, like some cheeses for example. This can make the overall value of the load to be costly should there be any potential claims. It’s best for shippers to work with expert providers who have the experience and knowledge to handle any high value dairy products.

Leading Cold Chain Solutions from Trinity Logistics

Shippers in the dairy industry looking for first-rate cold chain solutions can find all they need with Trinity Logistics. We’re a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider with over 40 years of experience serving logistics solutions to some of the top-known brands in the food and beverage sector.

Standard Operating Procedures for Temperature-Controlled Shipments

One of the reasons we excel in cold chain solutions is our standard operating procedures in place for every temperature-controlled shipment we arrange. This includes:

• Only working with carrier relationships that have downloadable reefer units
• Requiring carriers to pre-cool trailers a minimum of one to two hours before pickup
• Requiring carriers to run their reefer units on continuous
• If necessary, requiring carriers to pulp product before loading
• Requiring carriers to use one of our tracking and tracing partners for real-time shipment visibility
• Only using carriers that have refrigerated trailers that are 2015 or newer

We understand just how critical it is that your product stays at its required temperature. That’s why we work with our trusted, experienced carrier relationships to ensure your product arrives fresh.

Multi-Modal Cold Chain Solutions

No matter what transportation mode you need your product to ship, we have the logistics solutions to support your business now and in the future, including;

• Truckload
• Expedited
• International
• Cross-broder
• Air or ocean shipping
• Drayage
• Less-than-truckload 
• Managed Transportation

This enables your business to seamlessly run regardless of what change or growth you experience.

In-Depth Transportation Management

Whether you need a transportation management system (TMS), to fully outsource your logistics, or your own customized managed transportation solution, we can help. We know each business is unique, which is why our system is highly configurable so we can meet your exact needs. Our Trinity experts will work as part of your business, offering in-depth reporting and data to help get you ahead of your competitors.

No Need to Worry About Disruptions

Did I mention that Trinity has been serving cold chains for over 40 years? We’ve seen it all when it comes to supply chain disruptions and delays. We know how to quickly adapt plans to keep your freight moving. While you’ll have your sole Trinity relationship to lean on for updates, we also have a 24/7 Team in case we need any additional support. You can learn to rest easy whenever your shipment is in our care.

Experts in Temp-Controlled Logistics and Dairy

Trinity Logistics has been serving cold chains for 40-plus years, in addition to our parent company, Burris Logistics, that was built on its expertise of handling temperature-controlled commodities.

There’s also Honor Foods, another Burris Logistics company you can lean on for food redistribution if needed. Honor Foods is a leading foodservice redistributor with locations throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast regions of the U.S. They specialize in frozen, refrigerated, dairy, and dry products with over 3,000 stocked items from 300+ trusted suppliers.

Our People-Centric Service

What makes Trinity unique from other 3PLs and what our customers praise the most is our exceptional People-Centric service. We’re a company built on a culture of family and servant leadership, and that culture shines through in our service to you. It’s our care, compassion, and communication that you’ll notice and appreciate.

Motor carriers aren’t the only ones affected by deadheading.

While every mile driven takes a toll on the environment, research shows that deadhead miles account for over a third of carbon emissions in trucking. In fact, 36 percent of trucks travel empty in the U.S. every day, averaging roughly 61 billion miles deadheading every year.

Simply put, deadheading is an inefficiency problem within the logistics industry, one that we all know we need to improve. According to a survey by Convoy, 69 percent of respondents said reducing deadhead miles is important to them. By reducing deadhead miles, both shippers and carriers can slash their supply chain costs while also making an environmental impact.

WHAT IS DEADHEADING IN TRUCKING?

Deadheading, deadhead miles, or empty miles – they all mean the same thing – that a truck is driving empty. Usually, this happens once a driver has made a delivery to the receiver, and they don’t have freight to pick up until their next destination. This means they drive empty back to the original shipping point or to their next pickup location. Empty miles waste time for a carrier by failing to generate revenue. It also causes them to incur extra operating costs and contribute more emissions into our atmosphere.

Ideally, the most efficient use of a carrier’s time is finding a backhaul shipment. This is a nearby shipment that needs to be picked up and delivered close to or at their next destination, so either their pickup origin or next pickup.

HOW DEADHEADING POSES PROBLEMS

We’ve already discussed how deadheading contributes to C02 emissions and how carriers lose money running deadhead miles, but what about shippers? How are they affected?

Well, those carriers need to make up the money and time they lost deadheading somehow. They’re likely to charge a higher rate on their following shipments to do so.

Also, driving empty miles can be dangerous when severe weather occurs. A truck can weigh about half its weight empty than when it’s full, making it more susceptible to accidents. While truck drivers are trained in managing high winds and road safety, that’s often with a full truck and not an empty one. The same winds that shake a passenger car have been known to flip an empty truck.

WHY IS DEADHEADING SO COMMON?

It’s often difficult for a carrier to find their own backhauls, nor do shippers have the time to focus and invest their time in them. They need the truck to pick up and deliver and return to pick up the next shipment, not thinking of the in-between. Other carrier relationships and contracted shipments can get in the way, making it difficult to arrange or find backhauls.

HOW TO REDUCE DEADHEADING

It’s possible for shippers to keep backhauls for carriers in mind to both help keep carrier relationships moving and make headway on sustainability initiatives.

Make Use of Technology

Technology makes it much easier to match a truck with an available shipment. You can make use of digital freight matching (DFM) tools like Trucker Tools or DAT, which give shippers and carriers an easier way to find each other and match up based on suitable capacity for a shipment. Automation and machine learning in those applications help quickly find and create those matches.

A transportation management system (TMS) can also be helpful here. A TMS brings together information on all shipments and digital freight networks to help make sure trailers are utilized fully and backhauls gain the coverage they need. A TMS also gives you the opportunity to optimize your routes to reduce any deadheading.

Consider Consolidating Your Freight

Combining your partial shipments into a full truckload to one distribution point to then be delivered by a regional carrier or vice versa can allow for fewer empty miles and trucks on the road, saving you money and reducing your emissions.

Consider Continuous Move Planning

This plan involves stringing loads together to make the most of fleet utilization and driver time by bundling low-volume and high-volume lanes together. Carriers will add lanes across many customers, creating closed-loop routes to keep freight moving constantly. As a benefit, shippers often receive per-mile rates since they are making use of a carrier’s empty miles. This can be a bit more complex, but with a TMS and proper communication, can be an effective way to reduce deadheading.

TRINITY CAN HELP YOU REDUCE DEADHEAD MILES

Deadheading is an industry-wide problem that we all need to work on together to resolve. Carriers need to dedicate time for searching and finding backhauls, just as shippers need to work with carriers to reduce their empty miles. That’s one way an intermediary, a 3PL like Trinity Logistics, can step in and help. We can work with both parties to arrange shipments so that each company has its unique needs met.

We have over 40 years of experience arranging shipments between shippers and carriers. Our Team of experts can help shippers plan and organize their shipments and recommend freight consolidation strategies when it’s suitable. We also have a Carrier Development Team dedicated to growing our carrier relationships by learning their wants and needs. We reach out and gather their preferred lanes and capacity to better match them to available shipments to keep them moving and generating revenue.

Trinity Logistics is also recognized as a Green Supply Chain partner for its sustainability initiatives and solutions available to offer shippers more options for their logistics that can reduce their carbon emissions.

If you’d like to talk to one of our experts about your shipping needs and find more sustainable options, click the button below so we can get started.