A dedicated fleet means a set of trucks, trailers, and drivers that serve some definite facilities or lanes in a transportation network. You can think of it as a set of resources allocated by a carrier to serve just one client’s logistical needs.

Why Choose A Dedicated Fleet?

Why would you choose a dedicated fleet as other options like OTR, brokerage, and private fleet are available? Let us look at some reasons:

Stable Service:

OTR and brokerage drivers handle the business of multiple shippers. However, they do not know your in-depth operations and needs. Dedicated drivers work solely for your company, so they know all your requirements like you’re expecting on-time delivery, manual loading/unloading, etc. They are familiar with all your policies. They also see if they’ll need backup if something is amiss.

With the same drivers, you will develop a long-term relationship with them. During this time, they will get to know how to work with you. Some drivers may provide you with their cell phone number so you can call them directly instead of dispatch for updates. In this way, you’re saving time and energy because you don’t have to train a new person for every delivery. You can also enjoy a stable operation when working with a dedicated fleet.

An Alternative To A Private Fleet:

Some shippers work with a private fleet. Here, they own the trucks, trailers, and drivers who drive them. You should know that it comes with many additional expenses if you take this route. These include fuel, insurance coverage, employee benefits, and insurance claims.

Choosing to work with a dedicated fleet gives you the benefits of a private fleet without headaches and additional costs.

Protect Against Rate Volatility:

We’re seeing a lot of volatility during these times in the trucking industry. There is a constant ebb and flow of finances between shippers and carriers. There is too much freight at times, and other times there isn’t enough to carry a full truckload. So, finding the perfect middle ground is not easy.

For both the shipper and carrier, it is a difficult time. No one can predict how the market trends will change. Finding yourself at a loss or gain can cost you. If you choose a dedicated fleet, you enter a 1-3 year contract with them, giving you stability irrespective of the economic climate.

To Tackle Higher Volume Deliveries:

Market trends are changing rapidly, sometimes in favor of carriers. If you know that your business has a constant freight volume, you should choose a dedicated fleet. Mainly if you operate under 250 miles, this is your best bet.

Streamlined Communication:

Multiple contacts mean a haphazard communication system. So, if you have a brokerage and multiple carriers working for you, you have to manage communication on various levels. And this is not at all easy.

If you opt for a dedicated fleet, you get the equipment and drivers you need and get their support. This means a single point of contact with a person who is familiar with business and your company. These employees know your expectations and policies in fine detail and make your operations and life much easier.

Improve Ease And Efficiency:

Different freight comes with various specifications and requirements. Some need additional space, several stops, types of equipment, etc. It would help if you had the guarantee that the driver handling your load is ready to take all your needs into consideration.

For a dedicated fleet, this is the case. The driver will be familiar with your expectations as well as your requirements. They will be comfortable doing all that for you because that is just what they do. A dedicated fleet is always ready and prepared.

Conclusion:

A dedicated fleet is a very safe and stable option for shippers. Not only that, it is cost-efficient as well. If you find an ideal partner for your logistics, you will have a streamlined operation for your business.

Also Read: Freight Shipping Acronyms