Amidst an extended season of volatility, supply chain professionals have had to make crucial decisions at a moment’s notice. Port disruptions, market fluctuations, traffic delays, and unforeseen consumer demand shifts can drastically change a load’s direction and a person’s perspective on the day. While it can be very easy to react to sudden changes, airfreight forwarders must know how to quickly and intentionally respond to unexpected changes that impact their lead time to get their freight moving.
While air, rail, and ocean dominate the freight industry regarding long-distance transport, all three primary transportation methods rely on trucking services to get items to their destination. Shippers might even require trucking services at a load’s start. For instance, transporting raw material travels via truck to a manufacturing plant before being trucked off to the train station or airport to export outside the country. When choosing to forward airfreight trucking to a third party, location and tech matter most as the two components provide forwarders with the final mile customization required to keep freight moving on an expedited timeline.
While experience in sales might draw in customers, retention requires more than sales tactics. When retailers and shipping companies choose airfreight, they expect more than just getting their freight from Point A to Point B. Some of the driving forces behind providing consistently positive customer experience include:
Allied Market Research found that “Although airfreight accounts for approximately 1% of the total freight activities by weight, and it is quite expensive to ship products via aircraft, it is quite a valuable mode to transport jewelry, perishable items, pharmaceuticals, costly electronic items, and others.” Given the small, lightweight nature of most items transported via airfreight, airfreight forwarders don’t often need an FT truck waiting at the terminal for the shipment. By deciding to forward airfreight trucking to LTL and cargo van providers, airfreight forwarders can expand their available capacity through various options and partners for air cargo trucking. By opting to forward airfreight trucking to an LTL or smaller trucking service, airfreight forwarders can also cut operating costs and lower emissions. In short, this is a cost-effective, eco-friendly airfreight road transport option.
This extended time of transportation and logistics disruption has left many professionals running on fumes. Without the right tech and team, it can be very challenging for airfreight forwarders to maintain a consistent customer experience that drives retention and satisfaction. If you’re a forwarder considering solutions to airfreight pickup and shipping, look no further. Carrier911 is ready for all your emerging air cargo needs with services that can please even the most demanding customers. Request a demo today to learn more.