20 Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Logistics Provider

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The logistics and transportation choices you make can significantly affect your company’s bottom line. Whether you’re shipping products globally or managing local deliveries, the right provider can streamline operations and reduce unnecessary costs. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best fit for your business?

To help you navigate this decision, 20 Forbes Business Council members share tips to ensure your logistics provider supports your long-term growth and profitability.

1. Pick A Provider With A Full Suite Of Capabilities

You should look at a provider’s full suite of capabilities, as some go beyond transportation and logistics. They can assist with navigating complex customs requirements, connect you with key partners and collaborate closely to understand your business needs and support your company’s growth. – Greg HewittDHL Express U.S.

2. Understand Weight And Dimension Requirements

At my company, we ship various products ranging from 5 pounds to 5,000 pounds. Be sure to understand the weight and dimension breakpoints. Also, read the fine print to calculate how seasonal surcharges and additional fees impact your revenue. One pro tip is to partner with a provider that offers a packaging lab to test the durability of your packaging. This will minimize returns and damage to products in transit. – Austin SpeckTitan Brands

3. Look For A Partner Who Offers Evolving Solutions

It’s important to not “fall in love” with a specific product or vendor, not just in logistics, but across all areas. Prioritize adaptability over long-term commitments, and look for a vendor who understands your short-term needs and thinks like your business. A partner who offers solutions that evolve with your business can save time and, ultimately, have a greater impact on your bottom line. – Thai Son NguyenSmartOSC

4. Learn More About Emerging Tech And Data-Management Tools

Understand that emergent decentralized technology and data management can fundamentally change the landscape of transport and logistics in multiple ways. For example, these tools can provide transparency; determine whether there is hidden, unknown or even intended fraud; and lead to reductions in human error and costs. When one understands what is possible, one can cast the net wide enough to include these technologies. – Maryam AyatiWatr Protocol

5. Consider Using A Logistics Broker

Don’t be afraid to utilize logistic brokers, as the cost typically comes out about the same if the broker is doing a large, consistent volume of work. Leverage their contacts and providers to minimize headaches with new transport drivers or hot-shot hires. This will save money and your reputation in the long run. Also, always overcommunicate with your broker so they know exactly what you need and the procedures you expect to be followed. – Blake KennedyHome Pros America

6. Choose A Company With A Proven Track Record

When choosing a transportation and logistics provider, prioritize reliability and flexibility. Look for a company with a proven track record and a commitment to meeting deadlines. Flexibility is also crucial, as your business needs may change over time. A provider that can adapt to your evolving requirements will be a valuable partner. – Reco McCambryNovae

7. Find A Provider That Can Adapt To Changing Needs

The best tip for finding a transportation and logistics provider is to prioritize flexibility and scalability in their services. Look for a provider that not only meets your current needs, but can also adapt to fluctuating volumes, market demands and changing business circumstances. – Oluwatosin OlatujoyeZylus Group International

8. Look For A Service With Daily Pickup And Discounts

The most crucial logistics service for a larger shipping business is one that provides daily pickup and substantial discounts. We ship 400 to 800 packages every day, and this factor can truly change the game for the service providers rallying for our business. – Tammy SonsTn Nursery

9. Use Several Companies At The Start, Then Narrow Down

Often, it is thought that smaller logistics companies can give better deals when it comes to transportation. However, if you are shipping in volume, a larger transport company can also do the trick. It is best to do a cost comparison by having two to three companies on hand as you ramp up logistics and slowly narrow down to one that will do the job well and provide you with competitive pricing based on volume. – Preeya MalikStep Global

10. Prioritize Providers With A Record Of On-Time Performance

My top tip for choosing a transportation and logistics provider is to prioritize reliability and scalability. Look for a provider with a strong track record of on-time performance. Additionally, assess their technology and tracking capabilities to ensure transparency and real-time visibility, which are essential to your bottom line. – Matthew DavisGDI Insurance Agency, Inc.

11. Search For Providers That Can Serve Your Desired Locations

Select a national transporter that can handle most of the locations you need, and try to negotiate a corporate rate that works for you. It may end up being a single provider or a limited number that can service your specific needs. Balance your needs to minimize cost with the provider’s track record. Losing packages with a cheap provider is one way to lose money. – Zain JafferZain Ventures

12. Choose A Partner That Values Relationships

Trust is vital for sustainability and growth. It can be critical in the supply chain as well. Be mindful: Look for a partner that values relational currency and has the financial acumen to help companies keep delivering as promised. It may take a few tries to get it right, but providers that value the intangible factors tend to stand out. – Paul L. Gunn, Jr.KUOG Corporation

13. Ensure Your Provider Can Match Your Business Growth And Seasonal Demands

Look for a provider that offers flexibility and scalability to match your business’ growth and seasonal demands. Ensure they have a strong track record in your industry and offer real-time tracking and data analytics. This helps you make informed decisions, reduces delays and ultimately protects your bottom line by avoiding costly disruptions. – Stephen SokolerJourney

14. Seek A Provider Who Utilizes Technology For Tracking And Predictions

Select a transportation and logistics provider that offers data-driven insights and transparency. Look for a partner that uses technology to provide real-time tracking, predictive analytics and clear communication. This approach minimizes disruptions, optimizes routes and enhances decision making—directly impacting your bottom line by reducing costs and improving service reliability. – Chad AngleReputationDefender

15. Prioritize Flexibility And Scalability

Flexibility and scalability are my top transportation and logistics supplier recommendations. Look for a provider with innovative technology, customizable services or a large network to meet your changing company demands. This guarantees you can handle growth, seasonality and market swings, improving efficiency and lowering long-term expenses. – Kameel GainesRig On Wheels Broker & Recruitment Services

16. Find A Partner That Understands Your Unique Challenges

When selecting a transportation and logistics provider, focus on finding a partner, not just a service. Look for a provider that understands your business’ unique challenges and can adapt to them to ensure seamless operations. A true partner will prioritize your success and anticipate needs before they arise, which ultimately safeguards your bottom line and fosters long-term growth. – Shehar YarSoftware House

17. Seek An Adaptable Provider

When choosing a transportation and logistics provider, prioritize flexibility and scalability. A provider that adapts to your changing needs ensures efficiency during peak times and cost-effectiveness during slower periods. Additionally, focus on their track record in reliability and transparent communication to avoid delays and hidden fees. This proactive approach safeguards your bottom line. – Kranti PonnamKipi.bi

18. Check Their Track Record In Abnormal Situations

When selecting a logistics company, it is important to check the company’s track record when responding to abnormal situations, such as natural disasters. Companies that are well-prepared to maintain the stability of logistics in cases of emergency have many options. For the service industry, logistics is the most basic element of customer service, and it’s especially important in the event of an emergency. – Karita TakahisaUNIFY PLATFORM AG

19. Consider The Supplier’s Reputation

In my view, it’s essential to consider not just the price, but also the supplier’s reputation. When you have confidence in the supplier’s reliability and your own volume of orders, you can negotiate better rates. This approach enables you to receive superior service at more favorable prices. – Jekaterina BeljankovaWALLACE s.r.o

20. Focus On Cultural Alignment And Shared Vision

From my experience, one overlooked factor is cultural alignment. A logistics provider whose values mirror your company’s—especially in the areas of sustainability and customer service—can drive long-term efficiency and innovation, benefiting both sides. The right partnership is more than numbers; it’s a shared vision. – Sarah SaadounExit Advisor – Business Broker

Source: Forbes