Freight tracking: Why ETAs matter
As more e-commerce stores promise lightning quick delivery times, the burden often falls on the carriers to fulfill strict timelines.
Being able to offer reliable, yet speedy service is paramount to the freight industry. "Fast-paced excellence" is even one of Shipwell's core behaviors.
We understand the requirements the industry demands of logistics professionals and innovators of freight tech.
It's no surprise we are all familiar with the phrase "ETA."An "estimated time of arrival" helps people know what to expect and when so people can adjust their schedules. In the freight world, providing an accurate ETA can mean saving money and time for shippers, 3PLs, and carriers.
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The economy is moving
More than 10 years ago, Domino's released its "Pizza Tracker" app that changed the game in delivery tracking. Online orders could see what step the pizza was in from being made to getting delivered. While the app might not be as visible as it claims, it raises questions about tracking.
If Domino's can track a $5 pepperoni pizza, we should be tracking our high-value freight with ease.
Freight trucks, trains, and ships are literally moving our economy. We should never have to wonder where our freight is in the world. That's why Shipwell provides updated tracking information in real-time so our customers can see genuine tracking data -- unlike the pizza tracker.
Delays mean wasted money
Telling a receiving terminal that a truck will be there at 4:00 p.m. and then not have it show up until 8:00 p.m. means that the next morning is going to be a challenge. In fact, if several trucks operate this way, facilities could be delayed for hours.
Forecasting an ETA is good for a general timeframe, but when it gets down to the wire, loaders want to know exactly when they will be working.
Connecting carriers with Shipwell eliminates the cumbersome questioning of freight location. Carriers can:
- Connect their ELDs with Shipwell
- Download our native iOS or Android mobile app
- Receive automated check calls powered by AI for easy ETA updates
Facilities can use the Shipwell platform to monitor freight location and plan for dock management and unloading accordingly.
Forecasting and updating
Similar to weather news, forecasting an ETA is a good starting place. Funny enough, things like weather and traffic affect a forecast. The more detailed an arrival time can be the better the facility can prepare for docking.
Shipwell's freight tracking capabilities give real-time benefits and access to freight status. If that's not enough, carriers can send messages within the app to update shippers and brokers on unforeseen issues to allow for better time management.
In short, connecting with Shipwell and providing real-time freight visibility to shippers can significantly increase your workflow efficiency and ease the woes of the world of freight.
Shipwell is a value-added service for everyone involved in freight. From the award-winning platform to our customer-lauded Managed Services team, Shipwell is making an impact on the bottom line across the world of freight!
Want to learn more?
Seamlessly schedule your shipping and receiving appointments directly on our online carrier & dock worker portal. Our strategic automation is designed to optimize dock availability, tailored tonavigate your facility's constraints and understand the unique nature of each of your shipments.
