This commentary appeared in the print edition of the Jan. 6, 2020, Journal of Commerce Annual Review and Outlook.
As we look back over this past year, it appears that 2019 was the year that allowed shippers the opportunity to exhale. As shippers recovered from the previous year’s market volatility, many of them took a step back to review and reconsider their transportation processes and practices. One of the primary lessons learned after a tumultuous 2018 is the importance of shippers becoming more strategic in their approach to transportation.
Realizing that business as usual would not work, many of our members developed programs to help them become strategic shippers. Working with their carriers, they found ways to improve dwell time, provide a more congenial environment for drivers, and improve communication between the shipper and carrier. Internally, transportation professionals became more adept at selling the value of transportation to their C-level, earning a seat at the table and becoming an integral part of their organizations’ supply chain. No longer were they sitting at the bottom of the hill when it all came rolling down. Kudos also go to those organizations who recognized the value of an engaged supply chain and included transportation in their strategic planning.
Additionally, technology is rapidly transforming the supply chain. Transportation professionals must embrace new ideas and find ways to incorporate technology into their network by increasing visibility, improving key performance metrics, and evaluating various transportation options. Embracing technology while retaining the human relationships that sustain our industry will provide shippers with a winning combination.
Regardless of how 2020 rolls out, folks that took the time to review the past, learn from it, and make appropriate changes will be in the best position to handle whatever may come their way in the new year.