At STT Logistics Group, we have made it our goal to create strong relationships with our carriers. We provide peace of mind while offering personalized solutions for all our customers’ logistics needs. To be able to do this, we have been able to foster a strong carrier network of nearly 12,000 carriers for services all over the US, Canada, Mexico, and internationally.
But how do you do that?
Well, to put it simply, we know that knowledgeable and experienced carriers that know their way around the heavy haul industry are in high demand. We paid attention to what the market needed; our clients wanted reliable, professional, and knowledgeable solutions. We ensure our drivers can operate the equipment they transport to make things easier for our clients. By having in-depth knowledge of the machines and having transported them multiple times, the pickup and drop off process and lead time gets significantly reduced.
Fair pay
We also ensure carriers get compensation that aligns with their expertise and value in the marketplace. It is very important that you recognize the work behind a smooth transportation service of heavy machinery or materials. We leverage rates above the market average to ensure our drivers are also taken care of and get fair compensation for their services. At the end of the day, would you rather pay less and have all sorts of problems along the way with your very expensive equipment? Don´t think so.
Communication is key!
Positive and clear communication is one of the strongest pillars of maintaining great relationships with carriers as a brokerage. Ensure that you keep a professional demeanor and are at the service of your carriers. Be respectful and kind with all carriers and build strong relationships that will last for a long time. Sometimes, you experience some setbacks, delays, or issues with transportation. A clear, respectful and timely communication is key to keep good relationships with both, carriers and shippers. Be proactive, listen and come up with a plan to solve any issues that arise.
Keep them busy!
Make sure you always reach out to your core carriers before you even post a load on any loadboard. Show your carriers that you care about them and value their service, ask about their schedule and do the best you can to keep them busy. The more you keep them on the road, the more they will see you as a strategic partner and you better believe they will want to stay working with you!
Less paperwork for both parties in the long run!
Broker-carrier agreements, insurance verification, driver´s license, contact numbers, payment options, and many more things are required to set up each carrier. It only makes sense that you make things easier for them and yourself. Working with a carrier, in the long run, will not only improve your customer satisfaction and average service time, but it will also streamline your operations and processes. Your back office team will not have to set up new people every day and instead will simply pull the file for a carrier already set up and dispatch them.
In the transportation industry, creating strong and long-lasting relationships with carriers benefits everybody! We understand that carriers are our main asset and see them as customers as well. We keep them happy and they keep running with us, growing with us, and giving our customers peace of mind.