In the bustling world of trucking, finding the best trucking dispatch service is the pivotal step of a successful trucking operation. A good dispatch service can make all the difference in streamlining operations, cutting costs, preventing errors and ensuring timely deliveries. With over 10 years of experience dispatching all types of OTR operators we have seen first hand how a dedicated dispatch team can bridge the gap of success for new and mature trucking companies alike. One of our greatest tools comes from the ability to educate our clients and helping them make the best day-to-day decisions to reach their specific goals. In this article we will use this tool to help you understand the importance of a dispatch team and the factors that you should pay attention to when selecting your dispatcher.
Understanding Your Needs & Identifying Your Business Requirements
Before diving into the sea of dispatch options, it's crucial to pinpoint your business's unique needs. Factors such as fleet size, routes, cargo types, and scheduling demands play a pivotal role. The road to success in all walks of life are determined by the eyes of the beholder and thus will be determined by the stakeholders. For one company success can be earning income while staying in a specific market to give them flexibility to be in and out of their home base multiple times a week, while another company may determine success as being consistently profitable with very little downtime. The important aspect is to understand the road to success is different for every company and because of this it is important that when considering a dispatch company that you make sure that the plan is curated and customized to fit your needs. As well when new information (concerns, ideas, restrictions etc) are communicated the dispatch can effectively take them on and implement them to your companies standard.
Spot Freight Market Knowledge: Why Experience Matters
Navigating the volatile waters of the spot freight market requires seasoned expertise. Understanding market dynamics and rate fluctuations can mean the difference between success and failure. The spot market is a leading indicator of the economy at large and because of this new information that affects the economy and thus for the spot market is constantly changing. The importance of having a dispatch team that have seen multiple rate environments, regulation changes and more can only strengthen your team’s results. While others may still question the market or hesitate to make moves your dispatch can make decisions quickly and decisively to take advantages of contextual opportunities while other dispatchers may still be trying to figure out what is happening.
Key Features to Look for in Trucking Dispatch Services
When scouting for dispatch services, certain features are non-negotiable. Access to multiple load boards and real time data platforms like Sonar from Freightwaves to determine impactful markets. In addition your dispatches availability should be very open so they can correspond with brokers, as well as aid drivers to solutions to a myriad of obstacles that can arise that can hinder a drivers production. Your dispatch is typically the first point of contact for customers, brokers, shippers etc and their lack of availability not only reflects poorly on those stakeholders but it will have a direct impact on time and revenue, two pillars in trucking that must be securely in place.
Red Flags to Avoid: Hidden Costs and Poor Communication
Beware of lurking pitfalls in the dispatch service landscape. Hidden fees, subpar customer service, and opaque communication channels spell trouble. Not only can these red flags lead to a loss in current revenue, platforms such as Carrier 411 & Freightguard keep reports that are universally accessible to brokers and shippers that can block you from the next opportunities for an indefinite period of time. Although it typically points to the issues with a specific dispatcher the responsibility for the report is casted onto the carrier which makes for an easy way for brokers & shippers to eliminate your options when comparing you to other carriers.
Finding the Right Fit: Research, Referrals and Evaluating
Armed with the insights from this article and caution, the quest for the perfect dispatch service begins. Thorough research, seeking referrals from industry peers, and knowing exactly what your company needs are invaluable steps in the selection process. These proactive measures mitigate risks and pave the path to finding the ideal fit. Be aware of any company that seeks to lock you into a long term agreement before you have been able to determine the value they can bring to your company as well as companies with low flat rate one size fits all fees this is typically and indicator of a company that requires a large volume client base to sustain profitability which leads to the inability to focus on a plan that may require a substantial amount of time and effort to achieve the results you want. These companies implore a next up mentality which leads to a revolving door of carriers coming in and out. The more you can align a dispatcher's compensation with the values a carrier needs for profitability the better the results. We have found a percentage of revenue keeps dispatchers aligned with what carriers want themselves, profitable runs that limit wear & tear on the truck to keep the truck maximizing revenue over months and years .
Conclusion
In the intricate tapestry of trucking operations, the role of dispatch services cannot be overstated. By prioritizing diligence and discernment in the selection process, businesses can secure a reliable partner for growth and success. With careful consideration and informed decision-making, new and mature trucking ventures can navigate the terrain with confidence and efficiency.