Finding a Good Logistics Partner: 10 Key Qualities to Look For

Note: This article was originally written and published on meltonlogistics.com. Visit our site for more information.

If you don’t ensure your customers aren’t consistently receiving their goods in a safe, timely manner, there could be huge consequences that impact your business’ bottom line. That’s why partnering with a reliable logistics provider is so important. Evaluating potential transportation companies can become intimidating fast, so here are ten key factors to consider as you begin your search for the perfect shipping provider!

Financial Stability

How does the company’s financial history look? A company with control over their expenses is less likely to experience any interruptions that could result in your shipments being delayed or cancelled. If they’re financially successful, they can also afford to invest in better technology and equipment that can help your loads move more efficiently.

Price Transparency

Is the company open with their pricing information? Knowing what you’re getting for the price you pay will assist in informed decision making, and can help you avoid any unnecessary charges or fees.

Positive Customer Feedback

Have other customers had good experiences with this logistics provider? Look online for previous customer testimonials and reviews – if you’re able, speak to another company who’s used their services before. These reviews can give you great, honest insight into the logistics company’s strengths and weaknesses.

Advanced Technology

With the huge developments in logistics within the last 5-10 years, it’s important your logistics provider has access to modern technology, like automated warehouse management and real-time load tracking. This can greatly improve your shipping experience, providing more control and visibility with your loads.

Experience in Your Industry

If you ship a specific type of commodity often, it’s helpful to partner with a logistics business that has experience shipping similar products. They’ll likely already know the equipment, safety regulations, and legal requirements needed to handle your freight, making the process easier with a lower chance of damage and delays.

High Safety Standards

Your shipments are important to you, and the logistics provider you work with should know how to treat your freight with the proper precautions needed to get it to its destination safely. Inquire about the company’s safety record and what certifications they have that can make your shipment go smoothly (ex, CTPAT certification if you’re shipping internationally).

Large Network/Reach

Depending on where you’re shipping, this could be a vital factor in deciding on a transportation partner. If you’re shipping across regions, countries, or continents, working with a provider that already has established routes and global networks can make the shipping experience that much easier.

Wide Range of Services

Working with the fewest logistics companies as possible can help save money and makes arranging complex shipments much simpler. For example, if your shipment requires warehousing, multiple modes of transportation, and customs clearance, letting one company handle each step reduces any chance of error that would come from handing off the load to another business. This also allows you to reach out to a single point of contact if anything goes wrong.

Flexibility

A skilled logistics provider should be able to adapt to external factors to ensure every shipment makes it to your destination. Working around weather conditions, construction, and route restrictions is one part of it; they should also be able to take on additional volume in case of peak shipping seasons and business growth.

Finding a good logistics partner is important, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. At Melton Logistics, our experienced team is able to handle all of your logistics needs with the help of our vetted carrier partners, making us your one-stop shop for transportation and logistics. To learn more about the services we offer, view our logistics service page here.