With the growth of e-commerce and the densification of LTL (Less Than Truckload) networks and couriers in Brazil, these modes of transport have become an increasingly common strategy to improve the level of service offered to low volume customers, especially those with a lower frequency of service, such as biweekly or monthly. At the same time, it is not uncommon for these operating models to reduce the costs associated with own distribution, which becomes particularly advantageous for shipping companies that directly serve customers with these characteristics.
This trend is driven by a series of factors that are reshaping the logistics scenario in the country, such as the consolidation of large marketplaces. The expansion and improvement of breakbulk freight transport networks enable broader and more efficient coverage, reaching regions previously considered difficult to access or unprofitable for distribution. This means that even customers with less frequent demand can be served quickly and reliably whenever necessary.
Furthermore, the use of couriers and companies specialized in light express deliveries complements this trend, providing shorter and more flexible delivery times. This means that, even for low-volume customers who are only served bi-weekly or monthly, the option to have their needs met more promptly is available, which becomes a competitive differentiator in today's market.
Therefore, shipping companies need to be attentive and periodically reevaluate their delivery operations, considering the constant evolution of the fractional freight network in the country. By closely monitoring these changes and adjusting their distribution strategies as necessary, companies can not only optimize their operating costs, but also ensure they are offering the best possible service to their customers, regardless of order volume or frequency. This proactive and adaptive approach is essential to remain competitive in a constantly evolving logistics market.
Reference
- Supply Chain Digest (17/02/2022) – Six Ways Supply Chains Can Transform Packaging
Leonardo Julianelli
https://ilos.com.brExecutive Partner of ILOS. Graduated in Production Engineering from EE/UFRJ, Master in Business Administration from COPPEAD/UFRJ with extension at EM Lyon, France, and PhD in Production Engineering from COPPE/UFRJ. He has several articles published in periodicals and specialized magazines, being one of the authors of the book: “Sales Forecast: Organizational Processes & Qualitative and Quantitative Methods”. His research areas are: Demand Planning, Customer Service in the Logistics Process and Operations Planning. He worked for 8 years at CEL-COPPEAD / UFRJ, helping to organize the Logistics Teaching area. In consultancy, he carried out several projects in the logistics area, such as Diagnosis and Master Plan, Sales Forecast, Inventory Management, Demand Planning and Training Plan in companies such as Abbott, Braskem, Nitriflex, Petrobras, Promon IP, Vale, Natura, Jequití, among others. As a professor, he taught classes at companies such as Coca-Cola, Souza Cruz, ThyssenKrupp, Votorantim, Carrefour, Petrobras, Vale, Via Varejo, Furukawa, Monsanto, Natura, Ambev, BR Distribuidora, ABM, International Paper, Pepsico, Boehringer, Metrô Rio , Novelis, Sony, GVT, SBF, Silimed, Bettanin, Caramuru, CSN, Libra, Schlumberger, Schneider, FCA, Boticário, Usiminas, Bayer, ESG, Kimberly Clark and Transpetro, among others.
