As the logistics industry continues its expansion into the ever-changing demands of the market, reliance on technology has become a major piece in strategic planning. One important question remains steadfast among industry professionals: How can freight brokers up their game and provide more value to their clients and partners? The answer lies in the adoption of technologies that help freight brokers boost their operations and bridge the gap between just being “another freight broker” and transitioning to an even more essential “3PL broker”.
To further understand this growing shift, let’s first define the differences between freight brokers and 3PLs. While freight brokers specialize in cargo transport, 3PLs (third-party logistics) take their services one step further; they are more viable, full-service carriers with more control over all aspects of the supply chain. 3PLs provide services for transporting goods, as well as other services such as warehousing, order processing, inventory management, and more.
Bridging the gap to become a 3PL broker; freight brokers must deploy specific technologies to keep up with the demands of both their shipper and carrier partners. The expectation today revolves around a constant flow of accurate information on each load – therefore technologies such as GPS tracking systems, automated notifications, real-time reporting, digital signatures, route optimization, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to gain better visibility into their shipments while driving down operating costs. By leveraging these technologies and other strategies, freight brokers can deliver an even higher level of service to their clients.
In addition to their traditional services such as truckload or LTL shipments, 3PL brokers can now offer blue-chip services for shippers such as IT analytics, data mining, and more. Furthermore, with access to real-time data through tracking devices or sensors on individual shipments such as temperature or location monitoring systems, 3PL providers can make sure that their clients receive the highest levels of accuracy and quality service every time.
All these advancements in technology make it possible for freight brokers to up their game in the logistics industry. By becoming a 3PL broker, freight companies can offer more value to their customers while increasing efficiency in the process – something that everyone in the industry can benefit from.
Implementing Transflo’s Intelligent Automation is a great first step in going from freight broker to 3PL. By automating back-office processes and providing better data intelligence for their businesses, brokers are using our technology today to level up.
For more information on industry-leading software solutions for carriers, brokers, factors, and shippers, please reach out to us today.