Shippers Face Challenges in Today’s Logistics Market

Frustrated Shipper

Here at Pyramid Transport, we pride ourselves on knowing our customers and the unique challenges they face. We invest the necessary time into studying shippers’ needs so we can customize solutions.

So what sort of challenges do shippers face today?


Capacity is tight!

  • There’s a driver shortage that won’t quit. The ATA (American Trucking Association) reports that a whopping 70% of US goods need to be transported by trucks and the industry was short 50,000 drivers by the end of 2017 and could swell to 174,000 shortage by 2026.
    We’ve been reporting on the driver shortage and how it affects carriers, but the truth is driver shortage affects shippers too.

  • The ELD Mandate which went into soft effect in December, will be fully realized on April 1, and this means roadside inspectors will be assigning CSA points, as well as, out-of-service citations. Lack of compliance will be taking more trucks off the road!

  • Consumer demand is up! While this is good news, it becomes a problem when there aren’t enough drivers or trucks to transport goods.


Rising Shipping Rates!

The driver shortage, the ELD Mandate, and rising consumer demand along with the severe weather patterns of the last six months have combined to create a market where shipping rates are rising at unprecedented rates. A recent Reuters article explains how top manufacturers are planning price hikes on products for 2018 due to increased freight costs.

And while the most recent DAT report shows rates remaining relatively steady the past three weeks, they predict that the Easter rush and the final implementation of the ELD Mandate will force rates up again.

Solutions for Smart Shippers

We understand that a good shipping partner can be a shipper’s best defense in a volatile market.

What does a smart shipping partner offer shippers?

  • Communication 
    A good shipping partner gets to know their customers, so they can create customized solutions for unique shipping needs.

  • Information and Consistency
    Shippers need upfront and honest rate costs, and they need partners who will stand behind their rates even during market fluctuations.

  • Transparency
    Where’s your freight? All shippers need to know where their freight is at all times. If a logistics provider doesn’t offer tracking and visibility, you need a new provider.

Here at Pyramid Transport, we offer great communication, information, consistency and transparency. We get to know our customers, so we can offer the best possible shipping solutions for their unique needs. We have nearly 25 years of experience as a freight broker and have relationships with over 5000 approved carriers. With a specialization in refrigerated/frozen Less-than-Truckload (LTL) and Full Truck Load (FTL) shipments, we provide access to the small percentage of carriers who offer temperature-controlled equipment. And, of course, that’s not all we do! We are a full-service broker committed to customer service!

Give us a call today and find out why Pyramid Transport is a shipper’s best friend!

Steve Swain