Shipper's Guide to Freight Management
This guide provides shippers with a comprehensive framework for understanding and managing freight in today's increasingly complex supply chain environment. It covers the three primary freight management approaches — in-house, partially outsourced, and fully outsourced — along with the critical role of technology, particularly Transportation Management Systems (TMS). Shippers are guided through identifying standard and hidden freight costs, evaluating technology integration expenses, and building a reliable cost baseline. The guide also helps companies recognize when outsourcing makes sense and how to choose the right logistics partner to drive efficiency, visibility, and bottom-line value.
In this guide, you'll explore
- Three freight management options explained: in-house, partially outsourced, and fully outsourced — helping shippers choose the best fit for their organization.
- Transportation Management Systems (TMS) deliver network visibility, data analysis, and supply chain flow optimization to reduce costs and improve service.
- Contingency planning is essential — companies with action plans and crisis-response testing experience the least disruption when supply chain issues arise.
- Standard freight cost worksheets cover transportation charges, modes, and accessorial costs to help shippers achieve full visibility into their total spend.
- Technology integration costs — including licensing, hardware, IT security, training, and maintenance — must be evaluated when assessing freight management solutions.