When moving cargo domestically, it is essential to understand the most common supply chain disruptions in trucking. A supply chain is a complex system of numerous parts coordinating the movement of goods to a final destination. Due to the components involved, things can go wrong during the process. When disturbances do happen, no matter the size, they can potentially impact the entire supply chain. For example, situations like congestion can disrupt cargo transportation. In turn, the receiver may receive their shipment later than expected, which looks unfavorable to the shipper. While shippers typically associate supply chain disruptions with international shipping, they can directly impact moving freight domestically.
What are the Most Common Supply Chain Disruptions In Trucking?
Despite the significant amount of scenarios that can impact domestic shipping, some of the most common disruptions include:
- Driver Shortages – Over the last decade, the number of truckers in the industry has declined by a notable amount. The ATA (American Trucking Association) reports that the industry could be short 160,000 drivers by 2030. A shortage of drivers can result in supply chain shortages and delays since carriers are not available to move cargo.
- Equipment Availability – The coronavirus pandemic created a shortage of trucks, which the industry still feels today. As the demand to move cargo domestically increased, the number of available carriers became increasingly scarce to meet the surge. Fewer carriers can result in inefficiencies in operation and increase shipping costs.
- Global Events – Global events outside the U.S. can directly disrupt supply chains that require domestic shipping. For example, the coronavirus pandemic created driver shortages, raised operation costs, and caused delays. Conflicts like the Iseral-Hamas crisis raised international shipping costs, which truckers in the U.S. felt. Natural disasters like hurricanes can create infrastructure challenges and halt cargo transport.
- Rising Fuel Costs – Trucking companies usually experience higher operational costs when fuel costs rise. To compensate, they increase freight rates to avoid monetary loss. This means that shippers will typically have to pay more to ship domestically, which can be costly for supply chains.
How Can You Avoid These Disruptions?
Knowing how to avoid disruptions is essential for the entire supply chain when moving cargo domestically. Shippers must be aware of any events that may impact their shipping process. They can do this by constantly checking news sources like websites or TV channels. Planning to mitigate disruptions like hurricanes and other natural disasters is also vital. This can include shipping before schedule or rerouting the shipment to different locations. Using alternate fuel vehicles can be beneficial for rising costs and also be environmentally friendlier. Trucking companies should also offer incentives like ideal working conditions and adequate pay to retain drivers.
While these disruptions may seem stressful, they should not stop you from moving your goods domestically. The shipper should, however, take the appropriate actions to navigate any situations that may impact the supply chain. Speaking to a freight broker regarding your cargo’s movement is an ideal way to get started. Brokers act as intermediaries between the shipper and carrier and coordinate the transport of goods. Some solutions they offer include negotiating rates, finding carriers, managing shipping logistics, handling documentation for the shipper, etc. They also have experience in navigating potential supply chain disruptions. Contact A1 Freight Solutions at 786-375-9420 or info@a1fsinc.com to ensure the success of your shipment.