1. Develop Accurate Forecasts. Approach end of month forecasts with solid understanding of CPU conversion.

2. Consider Intermodal. If you are not currently shipping intermodal, investigate its viability as a long-haul solution.

3. Maximize Payloads. It sounds simple, but confirming loads are at or near capacity can yield immediate bottom line savings.

4. Revisit Lead Times. Confirm your lead time planning is in line with current market conditions: 2-3 days for truck loads, 5-8 days for tank trucks.

5. Add Flexibility for Truck Reloads. Ship “off peak” and consider delivery windows instead of appointments to accommodate variability in reload times.

6. Don’t Over-Require Unnecessary Equipment. Check that customer order literals are up to date and accurate.

7. Get in and Get Out. Utilize trailer drop and hook at high volume locations.

8. Get Back on the Road. Make loading and unloading quickly a priority, especially at peak times and busy locations.

9. Be Carrier Friendly. Allow shipping facilities to have as wide as possible truck loading/unloading hours.

10. Carrier Invoice Management. Check with your carriers about early pay discounts and pay on time to avoid service disruptions.