Small fleets have the advantage of offering shippers what brokers cannot: reliability, visibility, communication, service consistency, problem-solving, speed, and trust. Shippers value direct relationships with carriers who can provide real-time updates and personalized service. By stepping up and running like a business, small fleets can secure long-term, profitable freight.

Brokers may deal in transactions, but small fleets excel in execution. By providing direct, fast, and accurate updates, small fleets can meet shippers’ needs without the delays associated with middlemen. Assigning dedicated dispatchers, utilizing real-time tracking tools, and offering proactive communication can help small fleets become integral parts of a shipper’s supply chain.

Small fleets have the opportunity to build strong, human relationships with shippers, unlike brokers who may lack the capacity to customize service. By understanding shipper preferences, offering specialized services, and providing consistent communication, small fleets can win over shippers and secure long-term partnerships. Building trust through reliability, problem-solving, and flexibility can lead to increased margins and load consistency.

Shippers appreciate the predictability and familiarity that small fleets provide. By assigning the same drivers to recurring lanes, small fleets can offer a level of service that brokers cannot match. By demonstrating reliability, control, and problem-solving abilities, small fleets can differentiate themselves and earn the trust of shippers. This trust can lead to longer-term freight commitments and increased margins.

Small fleets can offer shippers a level of transparency and visibility that brokers cannot match. By leveraging fleet management tools to provide data on performance, loading times, and safety scores, small fleets can position themselves as logistics partners rather than just carriers. By emphasizing consistency, trust, communication, and control, small fleets can meet shippers’ needs and secure lasting partnerships.

Brokers may not be disappearing, but small fleets can differentiate themselves by focusing on execution and value. By showcasing their ability to provide reliable, personalized service and meet shippers’ unique needs, small fleets can carve out a niche in the industry. By becoming the carrier shippers can count on, small fleets can secure long-term relationships and steady freight.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: What Shippers Want from Small Fleets That Brokers Can’t Deliver