Cargo Shorts

What does it take to build an exceptional 3PL/LTL relationship? In a recent conversation, Senior Vice President of Operations at Old Dominion Freight Line, Chris Kelley, and Vice President of LTL at TQL, Grant Crawford, discuss how OD and TQL work together to deliver outstanding service and create value for their customers. Find out why they say setting expectations, constant communication, and shared core values are the keys to a winning partnership.   What You'll Hear in This Episode ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="1">How TQL built its LTL division. Six or seven years ago, TQL focused only on full truckload. Then customers started asking for more. Crawford explains how the team is scaling LTL to the same service standard customers expect from its truckload business, with live support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="2">Why LTL service stereotypes are changing. A lot can go wrong in LTL. Crawford shares how the right carrier partnership lets shippers get cost efficiency without giving up service and quality. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="3">What makes a strong 3PL-LTL partnership. Constant communication at every level, from frontline teams to executives, plus a clear understanding of each partner's role in the transaction. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="4">Where AI fits, and where it doesn't. Both leaders see AI as a way to handle time-consuming tasks and free up people to focus on customers. Neither sees it replacing the live person a customer can reach when something needs attention. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="5">Where the industry is headed. Crawford gives his read on the current freight cycle and explains why collaboration among carriers, brokers, and shippers will keep growing. Quotes "There's relationships, there's arranged relationships and there's partnerships."—Grant Crawford "Communication, clearly, it's a really easy word to throw out, but what does that mean? To me, it's communication at all levels."—Grant Crawford "Ultimately, we're sales organizations that represent the carrier."—Grant Crawford "The third parties have figured out that churn is bad for them just like it's bad for the LTL carrier."—Chris Kelley "It sure as heck isn't going to be where the AI is interacting with the customer and the customer doesn't have the ability to get a hold of a live person."—Grant Crawford "I think that our future is what we want it to be."—Grant Crawford Key Takeaways ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="1">Partnerships prove themselves over time. Relationships that hold up in strong and weak freight markets deliver the most value to the shared customer. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="2">Communication has to happen every day. Crawford says TQL and OD teams talk daily by phone, email, or text. That steady contact is what keeps problems small. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="3">Each partner should play to its strengths. Carriers focus on operational excellence and moving freight efficiently from A to B. A 3PL handles work behind the scenes that supports the customer. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="4">Technology should support people, not replace them. The best use of AI is to give teams more time for the work that protects the customer experience. ol]:!pt-0 [&>ol]:!pb-0 [&>ul]:!pt-0 [&>ul]:!pb-0" value="5">Frontline teams make the difference customers notice. Drivers, dock associates, and customer service staff are the ones who keep the promises a company makes.

In this episode of Cargo Shorts, Chris Kelley, Senior Vice President of Operations, and Chip Overbey, Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning at Old Dominion Freight Line, discuss what premium service means in practice. From investing ahead of customer demand to empowering employees to solve problems, they explain how OD connects long-term strategy with the daily work of keeping your promises. Key Takeaways Consider your total transportation cost. Chargebacks, rework, replacement shipments, and administrative time all affect the value of your carrier relationship. Plan capacity around customer needs. Preparing for growth and shipping surges helps businesses meet demand at critical times. Your carrier represents your brand. Delivery performance influences how customers experience your business and whether they trust your promises. Let shipper feedback guide improvement. Mastio & Company's research helps OD focus its efforts on the service attributes customers value. Give people ownership of the solution. Empowered local teams can respond to challenges and address special handling requirements proactively. Earn trust through consistent execution. Dependable service and personal relationships give shippers confidence and reduce time spent following up on freight. Shareable Quotes 05:17: "If you're going to say you're premium, you better operate like you're premium." 08:48: "Not what your price is. What's it costing you to do business?" 13:46: "We'll probably never get to perfection, but we've caught excellence along the way." 21:41: "We don't wait for a problem to come up with a solution." Learn more at ODFL.com, and explore more episodes of Cargo Shorts.

Load Planning is the hidden hero of successful LTL shipping.   In the LTL industry, Load Planning is the difference between a high-performing supply chain and a costly logistical nightmare. When executed with clarity and precision, it ensures freight moves efficiently through the carrier's network to arrive intact and on schedule.   Host Samantha Jones talks with Skip Velardo (VP of Transportation, Old Dominion Freight Line) about how data accuracy and proactive communication enable carriers to achieve load planning success by co-mingling freight, optimizing trailer density, and guaranteeing capacity and cost stability for shippers.   Key Takeaways:   LTL carrier load planning essentials. [2:07] Accurate data offers peak efficiencies when co-mingling freight loads. [5:59] Clear communication and a comprehensive data exchange benefit shippers. [8:57] The transformative role of AI within the shipping industry. [11:37] Shipping success demands proactive communication and coordination. [18:26]   Shareables:   "Usually, whoever has the fastest service wins." — Skip Velardo, Vice President of Transportation, ODFL   "We are on the doorsteps of getting more AI into our networks." — Skip Velardo, Vice President of Transportation, ODFL   "There are so many different points between origin and destination that we have to be mindful of and we have to be planning around." — Skip Velardo, Vice President of Transportation, ODFL   "If we get good information from the customer on the front end, it will help them out with pricing, claims, and hidden costs." — Skip Velardo, Vice President of Transportation, ODFL   Resources:   Connect with Samantha Jones   Skip Velardo on LinkedIn   OD Outlook   ODFL.com   Cargo Shorts Podcast   Shippers Can Direct Freight Related Questions to [email protected]

Achieving robust data integrity across your logistics platform does far more than just maximize on-time, in-full (OTIF) performance and minimize claims and invoicing discrepancies. The effects generate quantifiable value across the entire enterprise ecosystem, crucially optimizing carrier partnership collaboration and enhancing client satisfaction.   Host Samantha Jones talks with Greg Plemmons (COO, Old Dominion Freight Line) and Brian Walton (Logistics Manager, Douglas Dynamics) about how data accuracy drives superior client experience and strengthens relationships across the supply chain. They cover best practices for making accurate data actionable and explore its surprising strategic impact across the enterprise.   Key Takeaways:   How has the increase in data changed the transportation industry for both shippers and carriers? [2:50] How does accurate data streamline packaging? [9:39] What best practices prioritize data accuracy? [17:10] How the customer experience is impacted by accurate or inaccurate data. [26:18]   Shareables:   "We need the data to make good business decisions." — Brian Walton, Logistics Manager at Douglas Dynamics   "We've improved our packaging based on the feedback from Old Dominion and other carriers in the industry that are asking for things to be stacked, fully crated, and more protected." — Brian Walton, Logistics Manager at Douglas Dynamics   "You can manually measure your pallets, or you can integrate it into your processing system." — Brian Walton, Logistics Manager at Douglas Dynamics   "At Old Dominion, we rely on data to make quality pricing decisions upfront and to give the quality service our customers have come to expect." — Greg Plemmons, Chief Operating Officer, ODFL   "We encourage our customers to visit our facilities to see what exactly goes on, on an LTL dock." — Greg Plemmons, Chief Operating Officer, ODFL   Resources:   Douglas Dynamics   Connect with Samantha Jones   OD Outlook   ODFL.com   Cargo Shorts Podcast   Shippers Can Direct Freight Related Questions to [email protected]

With the upcoming National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system changes — Docket 2025-1 — poised to boost carrier efficiency and potentially lower shipping costs, this discussion examines past classification challenges and outlines the future benefits, along with crucial preparation resources for shippers.   Host Samantha Jones of SJ Consulting is joined by Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services at Old Dominion Freight Line, and Keith Peterson, Director of Operations for the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).   Key Takeaways: ·       Why did the NMFTA change to density-based pricing? [5:54] ·       How will updates to the National Motor Freight Classification system impact shippers? [8:48] ·       Benefits and challenges of the NMFC Docket 2025-1 changes. [17:11] ·       Resources and tools that help shippers prepare for the upcoming changes to the NMFC system. [20:31]    Shareables: ·       "Freight today, a lot of it is on pallets so it makes sense to look at it from a density-base. You need the dimensions and the weight. It just keeps it nice and simple and uniform across the board." — Keith Peterson, Director of Operations, NMFTA ·       "From a classification standpoint, simplification is going to be great. And it's going to create a better experience for the customer." — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL ·       "We want a pallet that is composed well. It's never been incumbent on the shipper in the past to make sure they are stacking their pallets so they are filling all the spaces." — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL ·       "I don't know any carrier that doesn't appreciate getting the dimensions so they know what to plan for as far as picking up." — Keith Peterson, Director of Operations, NMFTA ·       "From a carrier perspective, the best resource we have is the Solutions Specialist." — Seth Bauer, Director of Traffic Services, ODFL   Resources ·       Connect with Samantha Jones ·       OD's NMFTA Resource Page ·       OD Outlook ·       ODFL.com ·       NMFCChanges.com ·       Cargo Shorts podcast ·       Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].

Must Arrive By Date (MABD) shipping has become a cornerstone for retailers and supply chains alike. Born out of the need for efficiency and precision, MABD's mandate that freight must be delivered within highly specific date and time windows. There are strict penalties for non-compliance, presenting challenges for shippers. Understanding and navigating these requirements is essential for those involved in the movement of goods.   Host Samantha Jones of SJ Consulting, is joined by Greg Plemmons, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and Chris Kelley, Senior Vice President of Operations at Old Dominion Freight Line to discuss best practices for shippers and carriers to ensure scorecard compliance.   Key Takeaways: ·       What is Must Arrive By Date (MABD), and are requirements different from LTL shipments? [2:10] ·       How can carriers ensure external challenges do not inhibit MABD shipments? [11:05] ·       Scorecards and penalties prompt shippers to engage with trusted partners. [13:28] ·       Identifying which shipments require an MABD level of attention. [20:55]   Shareables: ·       "Make digital connections with your carrier to streamline the flow of communication." — Greg Plemmons, COO, ODFL ·       "As the economy picks back up, warehouse space at the DC's will get more constrained and that will continue to push more MABD." — Greg Plemmons, COO, ODFL ·       "We have conversations with customers every day about the improvement in their scorecards after signing on with our MABD program." — Chris Kelley, Senior Vice President of Operations, ODFL ·       "It's important for these retailers to be careful with what type of inventory they are holding, and how fast they are turning products." — Samantha Jones, Host of Cargo Shorts Podcast, ODFL ·       "Communicate with your carrier early and often and we will do the same." — Greg Plemmons, COO, ODFL ·       "It's more critical than ever to get the product out there." — Chris Kelley, Senior Vice President of Operations, ODFL   Resources: ·       Connect with Samantha Jones ·       Learn about OD's MABD services ·       OD Outlook ·       ODFL.com ·       Cargo Shorts podcast ·       Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].

The domestic supply chain has changed in ways few could predict. It has rebuilt itself in new, dynamic ways, with a stronger version of Just-in-Time shipping emerging. It is called "Just-in-Time 2.0." This new model keeps the best parts of the old system while focusing on shorter, resilient lines of transport with greater redundancy.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Dr. Thomas Goldsby, the Professor of Supply Chain Management at Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, and Greg Plemmons, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Old Dominion Freight Line.   Their conversation explores the advantages and challenges of Just-in-Time 2.0, near-shoring options, and the new AI tools companies can access when planning for future demands.   Key Takeaways:   Did Just-in-Case shipping solve Just-in-Time 1.0 supply chain issues? [1:41]   Advantages and challenges of Just-in-Time 2.0 shipping. [8:53]   Current geo-political business challenges and near-shoring opportunities. [12:26]   Has near-shoring improved supply chain resilience and can companies bear the cost? [17:30]   Does 3D printing or Additive Manufacturing lessen dependence on distant suppliers? [22:41]   The data analytics companies can use to predict demand accurately. [24:28]   Resources: OD Outlook ODFL.com Cargo Shorts podcast Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].  

Every inch counts when it comes to shipping, and accurate dimensioning can tip the scales in your favor. When weighing options, precise pallet dimensioning can make shipping faster and more efficient while reducing surprises on the final bill.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Todd Polen, Vice President of Pricing Systems at Old Dominion, and Glenn Zalusky, the Vice President of Strategic Business at Rice Lake Weighing Systems to discuss the benefits of accurate measurements.   Their conversation explores how accurate pallet dimensioning is a game changer for the LTL industry, the downstream benefits to shippers, including improved speed, accuracy, and more predictable pricing, and how this cutting-edge technology is changing the industry by streamlining shipping and boosting the bottom line.   Key Takeaways:   Dimensional freight and LTL carrier considerations. [1:02]   How technology increases the accuracy and speed of measurements. [4:50]   Pallet dimensioner: Pros and cons. [7:53]   Dimensioners and the challenges of irregular freight. [12:43]   How dimensional weights affect a carrier's bottom line. [14:55] Resources: OD Outlook ODFL.com Rice Lake Weighing Systems Cargo Shorts podcast Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].

Whether you are shipping across the country or around the world, the right packaging makes all the difference. As the emphasis on sustainability intensifies, the industry is rapidly evolving, with data playing a vital role. But cost and fragility of freight are factors that need to be considered.   Host Jonathan Betz is joined by Dr. Greg Batt, an Associate Professor of Packaging Sciences at Clemson University, and the director of the Sunoco Package Testing Laboratory in the Food, Nutrition, and Packaging Sciences Department. Dr. Batt holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.S. in Packaging Science. Also joining the conversation is Geoff Stephany, the Director of Cargo Claims and Security at Old Dominion.   The conversation explores the principles that underpin product packaging and protection. Tune in to learn more about the intricate design hurdles faced by packaging professionals, making data useful, and efforts toward more sustainable packaging solutions.   Key Takeaways:   A glimpse into the opportunities that exist in proper packaging. [1:08]   Why should packaging be a priority for shippers? [2:21]   Clemson's Package Dynamics Lab. [4:58]   The changing and complex landscape of packaging and distribution. [8:02]   Tips for carriers on balancing packaging requirements and cost. [15:49]   The future of data analytics in packaging design. [18:53]   Government mandates and company commitments. [25:04]   Resources: OD Outlook ODFL.com Clemson Packaging Dynamics Lab Cargo Shorts podcast Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected].  

Automation and digitization are rapidly transforming the LTL industry, enabling greater transparency and visibility. Seamless technology fosters improved planning, pricing, service, and relationships among carriers and shippers.   Host Jonathan Betz speaks with Barry Craver, VP of Technology at Old Dominion, who served OD on the business side for twenty years and took responsibility for IT in 2023, and Paul Dugent, Executive Director of the Digital LTL Council under the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. Paul is responsible for bringing together LTL motor carriers, technology providers, and shippers to standardize and digitize the data stream of an LTL shipment.   Key Takeaways:   What tech trends and breakthroughs are reshaping LTL shipping? [1:23]   Looking forward, opportunities in automation and API standardization are promising. [4:42]   Why will standardizing APIs transform the relationship between carriers, shippers, and 3PLs? [5:33]   The biggest challenges for shippers when it comes to adopting the standardized APIs. [7:40]   How has the industry adopted and implemented the single standard eBOLs and other technological changes? [10:12]   Is the National Motor Freight Classification system being reimagined? [14:18]   From a technology standpoint, what will the LTL industry look like in 10 years? [20:20] Resources: OD Outlook ODFL.com National Motor Freight Traffic Association Cargo Shorts podcast Shippers can direct freight-related questions to [email protected]