Relationships require constant communication and commitment to last. A partnership with a freight broker, a relationship that can be critical to business success, is no different.
The Perfect Partner: Building Effective Operations Starts with the Right Transportation Provider
The freight broker acts as a middleman between shippers and carriers and arranges to get goods from point A to point B through tasks that can include rate negotiation, load booking, hiring a carrier for freight pickup, shipment tracking, and ensuring on-time load delivery.
That middleman has to be a good communicator to avoid any misunderstandings between partners. The freight broker also has to work collaboratively to build trust. According to a 2023 article posted on LinkedIn, freight brokers can build trust by “honoring commitments, following through on promises, and showing reliability and dependability in all aspects of the business.”
Another article, “The Power of Collaboration: Strengthening Partnerships in Freight Brokerage,” said that “trust is the cornerstone of every successful partnership. Establishing strong relationships with both shippers and carriers is essential for long-term success. By actively investing in building trust, freight brokers can foster a sense of reliability, credibility, and transparency. This trust creates a solid foundation for collaboration and opens the doors to mutually beneficial partnerships.”
Three Strategies to Make the Most of Your Freight Broker Partnership
From the very outset, the freight broker partnership can be set up for success by establishing
clear communication channels, collaboratively setting goals, and readying for exceptions.
Strategy 1: Clear Communication Channels
Clear and open communication is essential in any partnership. It is particularly vital when a valuable shipment of goods is on the line. A freight broker must be able to respond to load queries immediately and provide shipment statuses instantly.
“By embracing open dialogue, fostering transparency, and leveraging technology, brokers can create a collaborative environment that drives efficiency, reduces costs, and enhances customer satisfaction,” an article, “The Unspoken Language of Success: The Importance of Streamlined Communication in Freight Brokerage,” said. “In the ever-evolving landscape of supply chain management, streamlined communication remains the cornerstone of success, paving the way for seamless freight movement and a thriving logistics industry.”
Strategy 2: Collaborative Goal Setting
Working together to put goals and expectations in writing is a valuable tool for maintaining and growing the partnership with a freight broker. Together look for ways to align your objectives and foster collaboration to the benefit of both partners.
Working collaboratively on a shared vision for the business can help “drive innovation, optimize supply chains, and deliver exceptional results for shippers, carriers, and brokers alike,” according to “The Power of Collaboration.”
Strategy 3: Exception Readiness
The freight broker partner must be prepared for unexpected challenges and disruptions. A successful partnership includes developing contingency plans before the unexpected happens.
A true and trusted partner levels with you. A freight broker partner must be able to truthfully and proactively work with you when unfortunate and unforeseen events do occur. An article, “How to Build Strong and Lasting Business Partnerships,” advised being proactive in day-to-day business dealings.
“Not everything will be unicorns and rainbows. Rough patches, misunderstandings, and disagreements are to be expected. If something is not working out, don’t be afraid to offer suggestions and make improvements. Actively seek out new information that can help you build a stronger relationship,” it said.
Transparency Also Key in Freight Broker Partnership
“Honesty and transparency are vital when it comes to establishing fruitful partnerships,” a Breezy blog said. “Promote a mutual feeling of open communication, both personal and professional. This way, you will have trust in your partner, and your partner will have trust in you. Inevitably this will ensure the partnership is as successful as it possibly can be.
“When meeting your partner, you should converse about things like your goals and strengths, as well as (sometimes) awkward topics like challenges and shortcomings. By initially establishing this open communication, your partner will be more likely to be transparent with you too.”
At RJ Logistics, our customers are our partners. We always have your back. We are invested in your success and always work together to come up with the best solutions to every problem.
We provide simple solutions to complex problems with state-of-the-art technology. We are experts at truckload, flatbed/specialized, cross-border, and expedited transportation solutions throughout North America. Schedule a call today.
