Technology plays a central role in the Less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. While the trucking industry as a whole has been slower to adopt new technology, it’s apparent today that technology solutions are where to turn to optimize freight spend, achieve shipment visibility and streamline transportation planning.

Managing operations for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping involves a complex network of transportation options and decision-making. The bill of lading comes into focus as accuracy helps ensure the best rates and minimizes the potential for unexpected charges. Shipments need to be ready to go when the driver arrives at the dock for pickup. And not all truckload (TL) carriers offer LTL transportation, so shippers need a robust network of carriers at their disposal to keep products moving.

It’s been reported that Mark Twain famously said upon reading his own premature obituary: “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” The same can be said about electronic data interchange (EDI) software—as many in the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry lament its demise because application programming interface (API) has entered the supply chain technosphere.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to finances. How well has your LTL company managed costs? How well have you capitalized on new opportunities in a changing market? These questions define success and failure in the logistics industry.

In the first of four new SMC3 LTL Hybrid Sessions, industry veterans revealed how they charted a path to career success in the less-than-truckload (LTL) market. Joe Kniple, senior vice president of revenue and pricing at Worldwide Express, and Erica Brigance, vice president of data science at ArcBest Technology, provided best practices for others looking to break into the LTL industry and/or advance through the ranks.

The sheer amount of industry knowledge being passed around at Jump Start 2024 has been astounding to behold. From evergreen tips on leadership to concrete strategies for managing volatility, our attendees are leaving with a fuller picture of where the logistics industry stands. On the third and final day, it’s natural to ask: What’s next?