Almost the entire world has been hit by the Covid-19 pandemic and there has been a significant impact on every aspect of life, including how people live, do business and shop in the new normal. Many business owners around the world are affected by this unexpected black swan event and are facing new challenges to transform their business model. The trucking and shipping industry has not been spared by this event. However, due to the importance of these industries, they were able to continue with their operations. In fact, in order to keep up with high demand, many companies looked to driver recruiting software to find new employees. These new hires had to learn their role quickly, in order to keep up with demand, but it was also so important that existing drivers were still focused on their jobs throughout the pandemic. To make sure they were all driving safely, some trucking companies decided to use software from Lytx so that they could see whether their drivers were distracted by mobile phones and other items. That ensured that drivers were fully focused on meeting deadlines throughout the pandemic.
Whether you are an owner of a fleet or work for one and are looking for ways to find delivery work to stay afloat in this difficult pandemic period, your best strategy is to use every tactic available to book freight. Here are 4 ways to find more loads.
1. Prospecting
This method will take a little work at the start. Freight companies, like Plexus Freight, find their contracts through prospecting by doing some research on the prospective clients in their area, what they ship, and where they ship to. Then they make contact either by cold calling or seeking an appointment to meet the person in charge of shipping. The shipper may not require your service now but you never know, new opportunities might come up at a later date. The more prospective clients you need, the more opportunities you have for striking a deal.
2. Networking
Networking is a crucial part of most small businesses, including freight companies. Start by getting involved with industry associations and going to events that your shippers are attending. There’s lots of information from the internet on the type of associations that you can join.
3. Engage Freight Brokers
For independent truckers looking for delivery jobs, a freight broker can help. Freight brokers connect prospective shippers to truckers, and this is a good option if you’re new in this business. Freight brokers help find truck loads for owner operators and fleet owners. Most freight brokers do most of the legwork for you, including negotiating the rates with clients. Brokers make it easier for independent truck drivers looking for quality loads because they usually have a relationship with the shippers but it can be costly. Check for hidden fees associated with this service.
4. Best Load Boards for Owner Operators
A load board is the most common platform where you can find loads. It is an online matching system where shippers and freight agents post jobs. At the load boards, the shippers and carriers can find each other and sign agreements for moving freight. Both shippers and carriers can find loads according to their respective requirements.
The best load board for owner operators and trucking fleets of all sizes will offer free trials, have user-friendly mobile apps so you can search for jobs to haul on the go and send you notifications so you never miss a high-paying load. Some sites like Shiply have free load board, meaning you are free to browse loads to haul and a fee will be charged only on top of the price you quote when you successfully bid on and win a job.
Try out the different options listed here to find out what works best for your company. With a specific strategy and persistence in your effort, you will surely be successful in finding quality truck loads to help your business grow and stay afloat in this difficult time.