“In a carrier’s market, if you don’t navigate correctly, you could be left spiraling at the end of Q4.” – Caleb Nelson
We’ve never experienced a year in shipping like this before. And with an unprecedented peak season just around the corner, you need to be open to change.
What makes this year so unique?
The pandemic was undoubtedly a catalyst for the eCommerce boom that has created a new industry standard for shippers. In addition to the ”Amazon Effect” driving consumer expectations for faster delivery times, plus free shipping and returns, we’re in for quite a unique peak season.
If you’re looking to help your business survive and thrive this last mile of the year, we’ve got you covered.
What’s In Store this Peak Season?
In a carrier’s market, you can expect limited capacity and higher rates left and right. And if you weren’t already feeling challenged, without a solid strategy in place, these impacts could leave your team spiraling at the end of Q4.
When Does Peak Season Start?
Has it already begun? The pandemic was more than just a spark for the e-commerce boom. Surcharges that accompanied such incredible demand created a peak of its own.
As we continue to recognize that you cannot strategize this peak season in the same way as before, it’s also clear that we’ve been experiencing a peak atop a peak. We call it ”peak season plus” and there’s little time left to get out in front of it.
But you can still act!
How Can You Get Ahead of the Storm?
By planning smartly and quickly! If we only had five tips to give for weathering the peak season storm, these would be at the top of our list:
1. Plan Early
This step is the most crucial component for a successful strategy, and you’re never going to be too early.
This year is more complex than others, and your processes need to be adjusted accordingly. But more importantly, you need to set realistic goals for your team.
One step you can take today is familiarizing yourself with the latest carrier announcements regarding peak season surcharges.
2. Be Open to Change
Adaptability is a powerful asset. And your ability to implement it strategically is what will set your operations apart this year.
Open your doors to regional carriers and do it now before they close theirs on you! Unfortunately, many regional carriers won’t take on new customers in the last quarter of the year.
3. Have up to Date Data
“You can’t fix what you don’t know is broken.” – Caleb Nelson
Bad data will only hurt your efforts. You need dependable data for high-quality results to understand the story your data is telling you.
To ensure your data is reliable, run an analysis on your data, or find someone who can help!
4. Know What to do With Your Data
It’s time to get focused.
Your data needs context. And when you don’t know the story your data is telling, you can’t control the narrative.
To better prioritize, you can do more than just analyze your data. You can weigh the pros and cons, model your data to calculate future impact, and so much more. With the right system!
5. Get Your Systems in Order
There are systems that can help you plan and make changes faster! When you optimize your processes with logistics intelligence, your operations run smoother. And that’s where Sifted comes in.
Do You Think You’re Ready?
This is just a peek into what you should be doing to get your shipping operations in order!
Check out our Peak Season Prep Class with shipping expert Caleb Nelson, who breaks down all of these steps and more! And don’t forget the Peak Season Quiz to test if your shipping procedures are at maximum efficiency! Because are you sure you’re getting the best possible shipping rates from your carriers?
Ready to tackle the peak season storm? Tune in right here!
Are podcasts more your thing? Check out the Sifted secrets to peak season success on What The Truck?!?
