HOW SHIPPERS CAN PREP FOR PEAK SEASON

Peak season tests supply chain efficiencies across the industry every year. Shippers need to study the market to understand what to look out for and how to prepare. While a knowledgeable 3PL can provide insight to its partners and customers, there are measures that shippers can take to ensure they are well prepared for peak season.

Proactive, Not Reactive

For shippers, staying on top of trends and supply chain news is important in adapting to potential disruptions. Being proactive is better than being reactive, and some peak season issues, such as limited or delayed availability of capacity, require more advanced planning than usual. Lengthening lead times and looking at alternative ports are some ways that companies can shift their strategies to maintain expected timelines and avoid congestion.

Leverage Partnerships

If supply chain disruptions occur during peak season, a time when they could cause real chaos, it’s a good idea to have partnerships in place that can help you work through the increased strain on your network. Shippers can utilize a 3PL partner’s vast carrier network to access the right equipment for their freight, ensuring that lingering disruptions do not cause further delays. One such disruption could be when shippers must pivot to a different carrier at the last minute. 3PLs have quick access to thousands of carriers from coast to coast who are ready to haul at a moment’s notice. This exclusive partnership advantage allows shippers to handle a surge of freight with ease when shipping strategies do not go according to plan.

Prioritize Freight Based on Deadline

Another tip for shippers is to prioritize freight to meet each load’s delivery deadline. With increased demand and tight capacity, sending shipments out earlier than usual or on alternative routes may be necessary to meet customers’ expectations. Shippers can utilize warehousing services or drop trailer solutions that can store products for an extended period during peak season. Such advanced preparation will help shippers handle increased volumes from an expected demand surge and allow for managing of disruptions far easier than otherwise.

From prioritizing shipments and leveraging partnerships to simply staying up to date with current industry news, NTG helps thousands of shippers stay well prepared for every coming peak season. Reach out today to get your next quote from NTG.