How can you best work with your 3PL provider? We’re here to work with you!
Finding a third-party trucking company that is organized, moral, consistent, and capable is one matter. You need to get business referrals, perform online research, and contact each candidate about their services, process, record, and pricing. You need to determine if that company has the creative problem-solving powers to deal with unforeseen situations. Communication is key before and after you choose your 3PL company. Here are a few tips on communicating with a 3PL company for a professional and successful relationship.
Make Your Needs Crystal Clear
You can’t be unclear for the sake of politeness in business. While you should be courteous, of course, you should also be clear in what you’re looking for. Explain your truck shipping and storage needs to the company contact, and learn about whether and how the 3PL provider can deliver those results to you.
Define Your Challenges or Concerns
If you have any particular challenges or concerns about freight transportation, make a list and bring them up in a call, email, or in-person meeting. The 3PL company should be aware of any potential issues before taking on your deliveries so they can prepare and address them promptly. For example, if you have fragile equipment, the trucking company should be able to help you ship and store it safely.
Determine a Point of Contact
Having one clear point of contact with the company and multiple means of communication will simplify and strengthen the relationship even more. The less confusion, the better. In-person meetings, email, phone, and text all have their place in business communications today for in-depth and quick discussions.
Understand the Contract Thoroughly
Before you sign the contract, read it carefully and ask questions if you are unclear about anything, even if it feels like a stupid question. It is better to have a firm grasp on the agreement than to get an unpleasant surprise later on.
Maintain Regular, Open Communication
As the work progresses, regular, open communication sustains a healthy business relationship. You should get updates on the freight’s journey and have any documents at hand, such as the bill of lading, if applicable. In any relationship, regular communication keeps the relationship going. If you’re ready to talk to a Mid-Atlantic trucking company, contact Evan Transportation!
For All Your Trucking Needs
Follow us here at Evan Transportation to get more updates on driving tips and the trucking industry. Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries and benefits and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.