Episode 42: 2024 Unpacked: Looking Back and What Lies Ahead

The shipping industry never stands still, and the year 2024 has been no exception. From evolving carrier strategies to the rapid adoption of AI and the annual challenges of peak season, this year has tested the adaptability and innovation of businesses everywhere.

While some familiar challenges persist, new opportunities have emerged, making it a year of transformation. With changing pricing models, improved tracking, and new solutions focused on streamlining operations and securing data, the landscape is becoming increasingly dynamic. By understanding the significant challenges the shipping industry has faced in 2024, we can better prepare ourselves to navigate the year ahead with success.

In This ParcelCast Episode

Typically, the star running the show behind the scenes, ProShip’s Content Marketing Manager, Katy Schroedl, hosts our final podcast episode of the year. She is joined by two seasoned ProShip experts, Jeff Lukaszewski, Sr. Director of Technology, and Justin Cramer, Co-Founder of ProShip. This episode takes a deep dive into everything that’s affected the supply chain and logistics landscape this past year as well as what we can expect looking forward. Tune into this year’s final episode to discover more about:

• Carrier Landscape Evolution: Justin begins the discussion by stating, “Everything has changed, but very little has changed.” While the four major carriers still handle over 97% of all shipments, the landscape is shifting, with nearly 30% of ProShip customers exploring alternative carriers. The elimination of postal consolidators has reduced shipping options, and carriers are now making pricing and service updates multiple times a year instead of at year-end. To stay competitive, they’re enhancing tracking capabilities to meet Amazon’s real-time standards, including detailed updates and delivery photos.

• Artificial Intelligence in Shipping: AI is revolutionizing shipping by automating key processes like cost algorithms and document production, while also enhancing tasks like pick planning, cart recommendations, and transit day predictions. Though powerful, AI comes with limitations, such as occasional inaccuracies, emphasizing the importance of strategic implementation. The rise of AI agents showcases their expanding role in improving efficiency and decision-making across the industry.

• Peak Season Challenges: Successfully navigating peak season requires careful planning and readiness testing to handle last-minute changes. Avoiding carrier-specific business rules simplifies adding or switching carriers, while having a backup plan ensures flexibility and resilience during high-demand periods.

• Future Security Priorities: Data security is a growing focus for ProShip, with enhancements such as OAUTH authentication, OpenID, and updated APIs and UIs. Our processes now emphasize retaining only necessary data for as long as needed, while changes to our ticketing systems redact files and attachments after closure, reflecting a strong commitment to protecting the sensitive information of our customers.

This Episode’s Cocktail: Guest's Choice

To finish off this year’s run of ProShip ParcelCast Unwined, our expert guests were given free rein to enjoy the cocktail or beverage of their choice. While Jeff and Justin stuck with a glass of their go-to’s – Ardbeg Scotch and Southern Comfort – Katy took the festive route, mixing up a Cranberry Fizz Mocktail to ring in the holiday season.

Katy’s Cranberry Fizz Mocktail:

Ingredients: Cranberry Fizz Poppi Prebiotic Soda, Cranberry Juice, Fresh Cranberries, and a Rosemary Sprig

In a lowball glass, add ice. Pour in equal parts cranberry fizz prebiotic soda and cranberry juice. Garnish your drink with some fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Cheers and happy holidays!

Tune into our next ProShip ParcelCast Unwined episode for more insightful discussions on industry trends and key tips to improve your supply chain strategy. See you in 2025!