As supply chains evolve and adapt to the challenges of a fast-paced economic environment, freight procurement professionals find themselves at the crossroads of transformation. Emerging technologies and fluctuating customer demands are propelling unprecedented shifts within the freight industry. This shift was noted in a recent Supply & Demand Chain Executive article, stating that technology and digitalization drive significant changes. Similarly, a FreightWaves report suggests adaptability is essential in managing the flow of goods, particularly amidst oscillating ocean container imports.

With all the changes happening in the market, freight procurement professionals need to stay up to date on the latest trends and adapt their strategies accordingly. Here are a few key trends to watch: 

1. New Capacity Through New Equipment Manufacturing Will Complicate Procurement

As new equipment facilitates the production of finished goods, procurement professionals must grapple with added complexities. Integrating these new capacity opportunities into existing procurement processes can ensure a seamless transition toward enhanced productivity.

2. Shippers Will Open More RFPs to Source Capacity

Sourcing capacity, which is the ultimate goal of freight procurement, proves increasingly challenging due to freight market volatility. Opening more RFPs emerges as an effective strategy, guaranteeing access to a broad range of transport services and bolstering the security of supply chains.

3. Increased Visibility and Compliance in All Operations Will Drive All New RFPs

In the realm of supply chain procurement, heightened visibility and compliance become primary drivers for new RFPs. This highlights the importance of selecting reliable trucking brokers to ensure the smooth transportation of procured goods.

4. More Shippers Will Leverage Spot Market Rate Reductions

Spot market rate reductions offer shippers an opportunity to optimize costs, ultimately enhancing their bottom line. By collaborating with proficient logistics brokers, shippers can exploit these financial benefits.

5. Customer Buying Habits Will Force Rebalancing of Network Partnerships

Altering customer buying habits, influenced by the growth of e-commerce, necessitate the rebalancing of network partnerships. This may involve re-evaluating trucking procurement processes and partnerships with wholesale warehouses and suppliers, ultimately affecting supply chain functions.

6. Tracking Automation and Its Limitations Will Grow More Important

The advent of tracking automation in digital freight promises significant benefits, but recognizing its limitations remains crucial. A balance between automation and human expertise can help mitigate potential issues in logistics operations, particularly with semi-brokers.

7. Service Will Replace Costs as the Core Differentiator in Freight Procurement

In light of an inventory glut reported by The Wall Street Journal, the focus shifts from cost to service in the freight industry. Shippers now prioritize elements like reliability, speed, and customer service when selecting partners to deliver raw materials and finished products.

8. Trucking Procurement Process Validation and Retooling Will Become More Commonplace

To ensure the efficiency and competitiveness of supply chain management (SCM), procurement professionals are increasingly validating and retooling their procurement processes. The use of advanced procurement software can facilitate this evolution, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient freight procurement process.

9. Shippers Will Demand Real-Time Rate Visibility in Trucking Procurement

Shippers are seeking real-time rate visibility to make more informed and timely decisions. This demand underlines the importance of understanding international roadcheck requirements and their impact on transport services.

10. Emissions Returns to a Principle Focus for Shippers' Trucking Procurement Processes

Sustainability becomes a vital component in procurement and supply, with a renewed focus on emissions reduction. When procuring goods, shippers must balance environmental considerations with traditional factors like cost and service.

11. Actionable Data Will Restore JIT Without the Risk of Reactionary Process Management

According to a Yahoo! Finance report, data analytics can enhance supply chain processes. By harnessing actionable data, shippers can restore just-in-time (JIT) operations without succumbing to reactionary process management. This facilitates precise forecasting and improves operational efficiency.

Align Your Brand With the Top Freight Procurement Trends With GEODIS

In an evolving freight procurement landscape, acknowledging and integrating these trends can secure a successful future. To ensure competitiveness and capitalize on opportunities, consider aligning your brand with a leader in the field - GEODIS.