How to Handle Freight Disruptions Due to Dangerous Weather
As the impacts of Hurricane Milton and Helene, as well as the California fires, continue to be felt across the United States, dangerous weather conditions have been pushed to the front of the minds of freight agents, carriers, and shippers. Handling freight disruptions due to hazardous weather can be a delicate and difficult process as communities rebuild and relief efforts are organized. Preparing for future freight disruptions can help you respond quickly in an emergency and have the tools to provide vital information to the shippers and carriers you work with.
Understand Seasonal Risks
One of the best ways to prepare for freight disruptions due to dangerous weather is to understand the weather patterns for the current season. For example, September through November is a unique time for weather disruptions due to peak shipping season, the end of hurricane season, and the beginning of winter all occurring simultaneously. In the worst case, freight agents may have to respond to disruptions caused by hurricanes and winter storms in different parts of the country during the busiest time of the year. To minimize potential delays and prepare your clients for seasonal risks, it is vital to remain aware of current storm warnings as they develop.
Each season comes with its own risks and weather patterns. Some of the most important ones to note are:
Winter (December-February)
Spring (March-May)
Summer (June-August)
Fall (September-November)
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All of these dangerous conditions can impact important infrastructure, drivers’ health and safety, and the viability of your client’s loads. Having a plan for weather-based disruptions can help reduce the effects of these conditions.
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Develop a Disaster Response Plan
Creating and sharing a disaster response plan with your clients can help you build trust and reduce stress during freight disruptions. When developing your plan, keep in mind what actions you will take before, during, and after a severe weather event. Assessing the risk to your clients and strategizing before a storm can help you redirect or rescue freight that could end up heavily delayed or damaged. Preventative steps are essential as it is challenging to implement a new plan during a disaster.
Keeping open communication with your clients and alerting them to potential disruptions as they develop will help you protect loads in transit and create a more resilient supply chain. Identifying alternative delivery solutions and being transparent about projected delays allows your clients to make informed decisions about their business. Even if a storm does not impact their shipments, they may experience disruptions due to increased demand for capacity to deliver essential supplies.
Resources
England Logistics Authorized Agents receive regular updates about severe weather conditions and alerts before, during, and after a disaster. These updates include information about known conditions and impacts on drivers in an area as well as additional resources specific to the region affected. Utilizing additional resources such as the?National Weather Service,?NOAA, and local weather alerts can help to give you a complete picture of dangerous weather conditions.
By understanding seasonal risks, developing a disaster plan, and utilizing resources to stay current on weather conditions, freight agents can be prepared to handle freight disruptions due to dangerous weather. Preparation can help you avoid lost or damaged freight and build trust with your clients as you work with them to find the best way to manage the disruption.
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The England Logistics?Freight Agent Program?provides companies with information and tools to expand and allow them to manage their business. Backed by the England Logistics brand, participating agents enjoy increased market visibility and established business connections. Our dedicated team also delivers consistent support for day-to-day operations. This allows freight agents to expand their portfolios while being reinforced by a reliable team.