Final Reflection on Interning at Uber Freight

Introduction and Personal Learning Objectives

My internship journey at Uber Freight has been an amazing opportunity that has helped me grow personally and professionally. My internship was focused on supply chain operations, specifically on the Clorox account. Day-to-day operations consisted of tracking and tracing shipments, managing inboxes while people were out of the office, attending regularly scheduled meetings, and jumping in to help others when the team needed it.

Growing my experience level and learning as much as I could about different supply chain areas and the business environment was one of my main goals going into this internship. Additionally, I wanted to enhance and gain technical skills in different systems and applications such as Excel, Tableau, PowerPoint, TMS, etc. I also set a goal to grow in my critical thinking skills, problem-solving, analytical skills, and more. Through my responsibilities and working on various projects, I was able to learn valuable skills, and lessons, and complete the goals I had set.

Background Review

Uber Freight’s mission is “leading the pace of logistics to move the world's goods.” The goal is to connect shippers and carriers efficiently, leveraging advanced technology and data-driven strategies to optimize the transportation of goods. To achieve this, Uber Freight utilizes a combination of advanced technology, real-time data, and predictive analytics to match freight loads with available carriers. This ensures that shipments are delivered on time and at the best possible cost. The collaborative environment at Uber Freight encourages team members to work closely together to solve complex logistical challenges. As an intern, I was initially overwhelmed by the advanced technology and the fast-paced nature of the logistics industry, which required me to ask many questions and seek guidance frequently. However, this supportive atmosphere allowed me to quickly adapt and learn.

My Project/Assignments/Duties Details

My internship was a mix of working on day-to-day operations as well as working on the following three projects:

Returned Shipments Project

One of my initial projects involved analyzing returned shipments for the Clorox account. I compiled data from returns so far in 2024, identifying patterns and root causes to improve operational efficiency. I created pivot tables and charts to visualize the data, which helped me understand the drivers behind these returns. I shared my findings to my team at Uber Freight and leadership at Clorox, highlighting potential areas for improvement.

Accessorial Project

My main project focused on analyzing accessorial charge savings for twenty different sites on the Clorox account. This involved managing the entire process, from organizing weekly charge requests to creating bi-weekly and monthly reports. The project aimed at cost efficiency by tracking detention, layover, and truck order not used (TONU) charges. I developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for this project so it can continue after my internship.

Supplier Compliance Project

Towards the end of my internship, I worked on increasing supplier compliance on the L’Oreal account for OMS usage. Collaborating with a fellow intern, we aimed to achieve 100% OMS utilization for releasing POs. This project involved establishing a baseline performance for each supplier, communicating expectations, tracking KPIs over four weeks, and creating an SOP. At the end of the four-week course of the project, we presented our recommendations on how to increase supplier compliance to Uber Freight leadership.

Analysis/Implications for the Company

I can confidently say that these projects and the daily tasks I accomplished added value to the company. My projects were heavily focused on utilizing my analysis skills and I was able to identify opportunities for substantial cost savings and process improvements. This data-driven approach to problem-solving not only addresses immediate operational challenges but also lays the groundwork for long-term strategic improvements. Furthermore, these projects have significant future implications for Uber Freight. The data analysis and process improvements recommended during my internship can serve as models for similar initiatives across other accounts. The SOPs I developed will ensure consistent application of best practices, potentially leading to increased operational efficiency and cost savings across the company. Furthermore, the insights gained from these projects can guide Uber Freight's strategic decisions, helping the company to continually refine its services and strengthen relationships with key clients like Clorox and L'Oréal.

Conclusion and Personal Evaluation

My internship at Uber Freight has been a transformative experience. It has exceeded my expectations and provided a foundation for my future in supply chain management. Throughout this journey, I have significantly developed my communication, adaptability, and leadership skills while collaborating on diverse projects and networking across different departments. The fast-paced environment refined my time management and prioritization abilities, enabling me to thrive under pressure. Presenting to executive leadership helped me develop a strong professional presence. Interacting with various teams broadened my career perspectives and allowed me to appreciate the collaborative culture at Uber Freight. Additionally, utilizing innovative technologies like Insights AI and witnessing the impact of AI on operations was such a unique experience. Overall, my experience at Uber Freight has equipped me with practical skills, interpersonal skills, and industry knowledge that will enhance my learning in my supply chain courses, which will undoubtedly benefit my future career in supply chain management.