The freight transportation industry has undergone a revolutionary change during the last decade. As deregulation spread to all modes of transport, the number of surviving companies declined. Carriers unprotected by regulation discovered they could not differentiate themselves from the competition on price alone. Successful transportation companies must provide prompt pickup, excellent customer service, and swift, complete and damage-free delivery. The motor carrier industry forges a critical link in a multimodal logistics system and must compete against time and service to stay in business.
Shippers move cargo over whatever mode provides the best service.
Parcel carriers constantly increase their maximum shipment weight while truck load carriers now accept partial trailer loads as small as 10,000 pounds. Shorter cycle times means better service. Customers' needs have also changed. Manufacturers, distributors, and some carriers effectively use information technology to reduce cycle times and improve the quality of freight handling. Package handlers use the technology to great competitive advantage.