Both Newell Brands and J.B. Hunt were looking for ways to expedite less-than-truckload (LTL) analysis of rates and bids. Both companies selected the powerful SMC³ BatchMark® XL LTL rapid rating tool to drive greater efficiency in LTL bids and analytics.

The U.S. truckload market has been through a prolonged period of historic instability, caused by the convergence of a multitude of factors. While there are many positive signs moving forward, the truckload market is inherently volatile and cyclical.

As spot market rates decrease, carriers must prepare to reassess profitability on every lane. In a recent Truckload Carriers Association webinar, SMC³ joined TCA to explain the best cost accounting practices to determine which hauls are most efficient for your operations.

Nate Fouch is the strategic account manager for SMC³. He recently took time out to discuss his new role, how he got started in the LTL industry, and what he thinks is key for maintaining a strong business relationship with customers. Get to know more about Nate in this behind the scenes interview.

Supply chain education is one of the core goals of SMC³. Since virtual education is the name of the game these days, SMC³ is now providing a weekly bit of bite-sized supply chain education. “Quick Takes” is at the midpoint of its initial run of episodes. This week, Joel Ringer, chairman of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association’s commodity classifications standards board, stops by to explain LTL classification.

In the current environment, freight transportation providers are paying very close attention to the market because their capabilities are fluctuating drastically each day. The supply and demand equation is swinging back and forth, and lane balance has shifted with little warning. Truckload carriers can gain an accurate measure of freight profitability by relying on SMC³’s Cost Intelligence System.