Archive for the “Education” Category

Two-part series: Developing a Story with Data to Optimize LTL Decision-Making and the best practices to simplify the LTL RFP process
Authored by SMC³ on November 30, 2023
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that the supply chain and logistics industry churns through mountains of data to move products from the point of origin to the final destination. According to the American Trucking Association, there were 11.46 billion tons of freight transported by trucks in 2022 and you can imagine the volume of data generated […]

Activity-Based Costing Drives Better Business Decisions
Authored by SMC³ on November 16, 2023
The trucking industry has a significant challenge—knowing which customers and accounts are most and least profitable. Having this information can empower carriers to move freight more efficiently and cost effectively, which thereby improves the bottom line. This challenge took center stage at a recent TCA webinar where participants from SMC3 and XTL Transportation Inc. discussed how to make better business decisions through activity-based costing. When asked how carriers do costing today, the vast majority of the attendees said they rely on team member experience and knowledge.

The logistics industry has a talent problem. Here’s how to fix it.
Authored by SMC³ on November 7, 2023
Of all the macroeconomic issues that have plagued the business world over the past few years, the persistent shortage of skilled labor has been a uniquely painful thorn in the side of industry. This trend is especially distressing in the realm of supply chain management, where expert analysis, bold leadership, and hard-won industry know-how are key in keeping companies (and the economy at large) functioning efficiently.

Navigating Compliance in the Modern Supply Chain
Authored by SMC³ on November 2, 2023
Contracts are the heart of supplier/carrier relationships. They spell out in clear terms what is expected of both parties and therefore serve as an expression of trust that holds a given job together. Contracts can also be a source of major headaches if they are not properly negotiated or if they fail to address key provisions.

Navigating Compliance in the Modern Supply Chain
Authored by SMC³ on November 2, 2023
As in every industry, safety is paramount to the effective functioning of LTL shipping. But while this safety mandate may be common sense, staying compliant with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) standards is a complicated undertaking for any carrier looking to keep their trucks on the road.

Inside the Washington Beltway—Critical Regulatory Matters Impacting LTL
Authored by SMC³ on September 28, 2023
Sometimes it feels like the only regulatory certainty is the uncertainty for the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. The first workshop in the fourth series of SMC3’s LTL Online Education focused on all things regulatory, and Washington D.C. insiders and transportation regulation experts explored today’s landscape impacting LTL and the next steps to prepare for potential regulatory impacts.