2022 has been an unpredictable and challenging year for the trucking industry. There is talk of a recession, and according to the chief economist with the American Trucking Associations (ATA), Bob Costello, “It should be relatively short, it should be relatively mild.”

Economic downturns can be tough, but they can also be a chance to uncover opportunities that improve shipping. Here are 3 major opportunities a trusted 3PL can provide to shippers during an economic slowdown.

1. Solutions to shippers’ biggest pain points

A trusted 3PL will always try to provide as much value as possible, and that starts with finding solutions for shippers’ toughest lanes. Here at Route, we get to know our shippers, their business, and transportation needs first and foremost. Our account managers focus on building long-term relationships with transportation managers by learning their biggest pain points and asking the question, “How can Route help?”

By getting to know our shippers and genuinely wanting to provide as much value as we can, Route has grown consistently for the past 11 years. We have the experience, carrier network, and team to help shippers with their toughest transportation challenges through any economic fluctuations.

2. Cost relief

The 2nd opportunity a trusted 3PL can help shippers achieve during economic slowdown is cost relief. This can be accomplished in two big ways:

• Relying on a trusted 3PL saves shippers money by reducing the need to hire additional people to manage the transportation budget

• A 3PL can often provide more competitive rates due to their large network of trusted carriers and dedicated team

When shippers find cost relief on transportation, those savings are transferred to their customers as well. This directly affects the profitability of all involved!

3. Time

Finally, by working with a trusted 3PL like Route, shippers can save time. This opportunity is most important because transportation managers will feel confident in knowing that their shipments will be picked up and delivered consistently with little expenditure of their time. Shippers can then focus more of their time on the challenges and opportunities a slowing economy may present.

If you’re ready to see how Route can help make shipping easier, click the button below to request a quote.