Logistics is the backbone of a business and key to ensuring customers receive their products safely and securely. Choosing the right partner can have a significant impact on the success of your business so how do you make the right choice?
In this article we will take you on a journey of the things to consider when looking for a logistics solution.
Understand your Business Needs First
Before you start your search for a logistics provider it is important you understand what the needs of your business are. What is currently working and what is not? Note down everything from your volumes, delivery and turnaround times to your geographic reach and storage requirements. Speak to your team on the ground and get their insights into any issues they might be currently facing.
This will give you a good basis to help you look for a logistics partner that meets your needs.
Five Factors to Consider when Choosing a Logistics Partner
1. Additional Services
While the core element of logistics is about moving goods, the additional services offered can vary between providers. Research what other services and value-added extras potential partners offer that would be beneficial to your business. For example, do you need warehouse space, inventory management, e-commerce services or real time tracking? Some logistics providers offer a full-service solution and choosing a logistics partner whose services align with your business will not only be beneficial for your current needs but also for the future aspirations of your business.
2. Coverage and Location
Check out the geographical coverage of potential logistics partners. Do they cover the areas you require? Will their coverage allow for your own business expansion? Also, it is good to check where they are based and where they have hubs located. A strategically based central location, such as the Golden Triangle, will help reduce transit times as well as costs.
3. Reputation and Experience
Research the reputations of potential logistics companies. How long have they been in business? Have they worked with businesses like yours or in the same industry? Look at their websites and read any case studies or client testimonials they might have. This will showcase their capabilities and will give you some insight into their experience and expertise, as well as what their customers say about them. You can then decide based on a company whose experience matches your business needs.
4. Pricing
Price is, of course, a crucial factor to consider. Check that the provider is transparent with their pricing and that there are not going to be any hidden charges. However, remember that the lowest price might not always be the best value. Consider the quality of the service they are offering along with any added value extras such as timed deliveries or additional security. One provider might give a cheaper rate, but will they provide the quality of service that you and your customers require? Consider the quality of service as part of your logistics investment.
5. Customer Service
Employing a logistics company that provide top notch customer service is a prerequisite for anyone. You want the company you choose to be able to efficiently deliver the services they offer but also deal with any issues that may arise. If you have made promises to your own customers, your logistics provider must be able to fulfil these to ensure your own customer service and reputation is not tarnished. Consider communication with your logistics company – will you get your own dedicated account manager or team? Are they easy to get hold of? You can assess this during the tender process – have they responded in a timely manner? Have they done what they said they will in the time they specified?
Conclusion: Driving your Business Forward with the Right Logistics Partner
It can be challenging to find the right logistics partner, but it is also essential to the success of your business. The right partner is not just someone to move your goods from A to B, they will become an extension of your team.
Having a professional logistics partner who is reliable, flexible and tech-savvy can help give you a competitive advantage and grow your business.
Keeping the above factors in mind will help you choose the right logistics partner for your business’ future success.
How NX can help
The NX Group deliver highly secure supply chain solutions that ensure our customers’ products are always safe in our hands.
We offer a flexible suite of secure logistics and warehousing solutions for goods that require an extra level of care, with an emphasis on exceptional service and performance. Our secure warehouse facilities and one-touch distribution solutions deliver peace of mind for our customers, allowing them to focus on growing their business and brands.
We provide an efficient and highly secure solution for the movement and storage of your goods, using our dedicated fleet, drivers, and warehouse team.
To find out how we can help you with a bespoke solution that fits your business requirements, get in touch with our sales team on sales@thenxgroup.com or 01604 217855.
