Road transport can be arranged in a variety of ways, the main objective being to connect a charterer with a carrier.

Traditional methods of direct contact

Although less efficient, this traditional approach involves the charterer directly contacting the necessary carriers via means such as telephone, email, or fax, often using Excel spreadsheets or Word documents. The charterer can contact local trucking companies or their professional network. However, this method is often time-consuming and less effective compared to current modern solutions.

Freight exchange platforms

This system is beneficial for everyone: shippers can compare prices and offers from different providers, making it easier to find a transport provider that meets their needs, whether domestic or international. Carriers, for their part, use these platforms to easily find customers, reducing the risk of empty runs.

Transport brokers

Freight forwarders are professionals specialized in freight management. Companies rely on them to delegate the management of freight transport, particularly when logistics processes are complex, as is often the case with import and export. International transport requires in-depth knowledge of local regulations and the various modes of transport available. Freight forwarders optimize freight for their clients, whether by road, air, rail, or river.

Road cabotage: a complementary method

Road cabotage is a practice in which a foreign transport company carries out loading and unloading operations between two points within the same country. This method can optimize vehicle utilization by reducing empty runs and improving overall logistics efficiency.

Use of transportation management software (TMS)

Many transport logistics companies rely on transportation management software, known as TMS . These technological solutions centralize information, facilitate data exchange with carriers, and significantly simplify supply chain management. For example, with a TMS, it is easier to plan partial or full truckload shipments, centralize and quickly report information, thus enabling more efficient management of transport operations.

For example, at Shiptify we offer a TMS solution to centralize and simplify all transport operations. With this platform, you can charter efficiently with all your carriers, request quotes quickly and benefit from automated tracking. Shipment monitoring is possible, regardless of the carrier, and you can easily share tracking with your customers. The intuitive dashboard , updated in real time, offers a clear view of your activities, supplemented by automated reports and exportable data, allowing you to manage your transport activities with complete peace of mind and efficiency.

How to select the right carrier for freight?

To avoid any hassle, it’s essential to choose your carrier carefully. First, make sure the carrier handles the freight itself. The more intermediaries involved, the greater the risks for the goods. Next, consider several points that depend on your specific logistics needs:

What is the level of customer satisfaction?

Finally, regardless of the carrier, chartering requires guarantees. Basic insurance is often limited per kilogram and per package, but it may be wise to purchase ad valorem insurance for high-value goods.