3 Ways a Freight Exchange Helps Hauliers Achieve Growth

Joining a freight exchange benefits haulage companies in more ways than merely attracting potential deals or clients. Depending on the functionalities of such an online exchange, businesses can quickly power ahead of the pack if they carefully analyse the specific angle from which they approach new clients.

Best Driver Training

Research and statistics data regarding the haulage industry indicate that many road accidents could have been avoided had the driver received proper defensive or safety-oriented training. Being an active member of a freight exchange system places a company in a position to get helpful and timely leads to where to get the best driver training, cost-effectively. The networking effects (the same effects social media is known for) are far-reaching and rapid. A manager or haulage company owner can also get innovative ideas from other companies (including competitors) on how to deal with safety issues. Some ideas include using tools that show when drivers exceed speed limits, or the installation of rear cameras to avoid accidentally backing into things.

Opportunity to Network with Potential Partners and Customers

As one common adage among members of a good online freight exchange goes: "People can gain from my experience, and I can also learn from them." This is because such an exchange is, above all, a gathering of people working in the same industry. It’s not only about getting customers and making money, but also about creating bridges and forging links. If you’re a member of such an exchange, you should ensure you provide clear information regarding your contact details, as well as a track record of past satisfied clients. If the exchange has a star rating system, make sure your star rating is justifiable, verifiable and represents your latest accomplishments and client feedback. The opportunity to connect with others in the industry works even with competitors or rivals; sometimes a competitor may offer a sub-service that complements yours, and working with them may actually be a sound business strategy.

Access to the Latest Industry Information

A good freight exchange will not only focus on helping freight forwarders get customers, but also keep them well informed on all the latest information pertinent to the industry - such as changes in local road regulations, licensing, compliance, even information on where and how to have vehicles inspected and maintained. Moreover, it’s not all about staid industry-related data; online exchanges may also provide access to industry news or insider rumours, especially the kind that may affect (either positive or negative, depending on which side of the haulage industry fence you’re on) haulage companies. An example of such news would be impending mergers or partnerships.

The bottom line is that online exchanges can help companies grow in many ways, and it’s up to the member companies to take full advantages of what the exchange has to offer.

Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Haulage Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for haulage work in the express freight exchange industry. Over 4,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.