The transportation, logistics and trucking sectors are some of the most in-demand services around the world. This is contributed by new technology, the rapid growth in eCommerce, new market entrants, new customer expectations and new business models. Almost every type of business, small or big requires transportation services at one point or another in their business model, whether as part of supply chain, production or distribution of the products they sell. For example: a manufacturer of rubber gloves will require trucking service to transport the gloves to local retailers within the country and to shipping companies for shipping to international importers. A small restaurant owner needs transportation to deliver meals ordered by his customers via mobile app.
Competition for transportation contracts is very stiff as the trucking and logistics services are in high demand. However, there are resources and techniques that those in the logistics and transportation business can use to gain a foothold in the industry or to expand their business with new contracts and customers in both the private and public sectors.
Whether you are an owner of a fleet or work for one and are looking for ways to find more delivery work, here are 4 ways to get more transportation contracts to help your business thrive, even in the face of fierce competition.
- Contact shippers.
To grow your database of clients, contact businesses that have high volume of shipping and pitch your services. For example: manufacturers and distributors of food stuff and other essential items. We know that cold calling can be tough when competition is stiff, but if you put in tenable effort and grit, you will get clients.
- Networking
Networking is an integral part of most small businesses, including freight companies. Start by getting involved with industry associations and attending events that your shippers are attending. There’s lots of information from the internet on the type of associations that you can join.
- Look for government sector contracts
Try pitching for contracts from state, local or federal government agencies as these contracts are stable, well-defined in their scope and can pay well.
- Use load boards
A load board is the most common platform where you can find shipping work. It is an online matching system where shippers and freight agents post jobs. At the load boards, the shippers and carriers can find each other and sign agreements for moving freight. Both shippers and carriers can find loads according to their respective requirements.
Some sites like Shiply offer free load board service, meaning you are free to browse delivery work and a fee will be charged only on top of the price you quote when you successfully bid on and win a job. A delivery request gets posted by Shiply’s customers every 30 seconds, and if you are a delivery driver looking for shipments you can take advantage of Shiply’s load board by browsing and fulfilling jobs.
If you decide to become a member of a load board, make sure that the company is reputable and experienced in the transportation sector so that you’re sure to get value for your investment.
Good luck!