The number of apps an asset is required to use, in order to provide tracking data to broker customers varies. Brokers are increasingly insisting that assets use their apps to guarantee business. It is debatable whether a broker should demand such visibility and, if so, whether this should be a direct cost charged to the broker, considering they only require proof of delivery. Thoughts?

Has anyone ever been turned away for not being certified in Sanitary Transportation practices when dealing with food and beverage customers?

3 years ago I pulled the plug on our LTL TMS “Rate Shop” Service. This is where our clients had access through our TMS to our carriers and rates and our clients could pick their carrier, service and price. We pivoted to a Managed Freight Service only. Our clients utilize our portal to get a service and price for their LTL shipment and Gateway decides how it moves. These LTL shipments then move either on our own trucks, move in our partial load network or get brokered out to an LTL carrier that our professional agents choose, not the shipper. Although we lost a few system users, we picked up a lot of business from our current client base as well as other shippers looking for a better managed distribution system. When most brokers concentrate on large volume low margin accounts, we like to fill the needs of those shippers looking for the most optimum distribution needs, not necessarily the cheapest. Being a participate myself in the “Rate Shop” TMS world for many years, I can truly say I am glad I made this change 3 years ago. More reward, less headache and just better clientele.

Is it common to hear of shippers becoming brokers due to the lack of support they feel they’re receiving? I recently spoke to a company who employed their logistics manager to become a broker so they can have better service.

If you are a student of personal development you understand the importance of habit tracking. This process seems difficult in the beginning, but comes second nature as you continue to implement it in your daily regimen. You can start with something as simple as setting reminders to track loads and send follow ups to clients. How have you used habit tracking in your logistics operations and how has that helped you stand out from the crowd?