It’s no secret that the shipping industry is changing rapidly. With new technologies and changes in consumer behavior, freighting professionals like Michael Bilokonsky of Fort Thomas, Kentucky, say companies in the freight industry have to keep up or risk being left behind. In this article, read about some of the most significant changes that have taken place in the shipping industry recently and how freight operators are adapting. Also, explore how technology affected freight operations and what the future of shipping looks like.
The Rise and Impact of E-Commerce
The internet revolutionized the way society shops. No longer is one limited to the stores in the local area. Instead, one chooses from a virtually limitless selection of goods and services, all just a few clicks away. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Shipping goods from one side of the world to the other is no easy feat. Fortunately, the shipping industry has risen to meet the challenge, and e-commerce has flourished.
Michael Bilokonsky says the rise of e-commerce profoundly impacted the shipping industry. Perhaps the most noticeable change is the sheer volume of shipments that now need to be processed. Online shopping increased the demand for transportation services, and shipping companies responded by expanding their operations. In addition, e-commerce also changed the way goods are shipped. Smaller items are often sent via courier or parcel service, while more oversized items are typically transported by truck or train. As a result, the shipping industry is now more complex and diverse than ever.
E-commerce shows no signs of slowing down, and the shipping industry will continue to evolve in response. Companies adapting to this ever-changing landscape will be well positioned to succeed in future years.
How Freight Forwarding Adapted to Meet the Needs of Online Shoppers
The freight forwarding industry also underwent a significant transformation in recent years. In the past, freight forwarders primarily focused on large shipments that needed to be transported by ocean vessel. However, with the rise of e-commerce, there has been a shift towards smaller loads that need to be delivered quickly and efficiently. As a result, many freight forwarders had to adapt their operations to meet the needs of online shoppers.
One of the most significant changes for freight forwarders has been the need to provide more tracking and visibility for shipments. Customers want to know where their goods are at all times, and they expect companies to provide updates if there are any delays. As a result, freight forwarders invested heavily in tracking technology and real-time data. This allows them to provide their customers with up-to-the-minute information on the status of their shipments.
Another change freight forwarders made is to offer more flexible shipping options. With so many different types of goods being shipped worldwide, companies need to provide a variety of shipping methods that can meet each customer’s unique needs. This might include express shipping for time-sensitive items or economy shipping for larger orders. Freight forwarders offering a range of shipping options will be better positioned to win business in the years ahead.
What to Expect from the Shipping Industry in the Years Ahead
Industry expert Michael Bilokonsky claims the shipping industry is undergoing a period of unprecedented change. This is likely to continue in the years ahead. Companies adapting to the ever-changing landscape will be well-positioned to succeed. Some of the biggest trends that are shaping the future of shipping include:
The Continued Rise of E-Commerce
This is one trend that is unlikely to change anytime soon. E-commerce continues to grow in popularity, likely impacting the shipping industry significantly. Companies must find ways to ship goods more efficiently and offer tracking and visibility for shipments.
Flexible Shipping Options
Customers who become more accustomed to shopping online will expect companies to offer various shipping options. This might include express shipping for time-sensitive items or economy shipping for larger orders. Therefore, freight forwarders providing a range of shipping options will be better positioned to win business in the years ahead.
An Increase in Automation
Automation is already starting to impact the shipping industry, which will likely continue in the years ahead. Companies invest in technology that can help to automate various aspects of the shipping process, from tracking shipments to booking transport. This will help to improve efficiency and reduce costs for companies.
The Importance of Choosing a Reliable and Experienced Freight Forwarder
Michael Bilokonsky says with so many changes in the shipping industry, it is more important than ever to choose a reliable and experienced freight forwarder. Therefore, a good freight forwarder will have a deep understanding of the industry and will be able to adapt their operations to meet your specific needs. They should also have a strong network of contacts that can help ship your goods quickly and efficiently.
Final Thoughts
The shipping industry is undergoing a period of significant change, and this is likely to continue in the years ahead. Companies adapting to the changing landscape will be well positioned to succeed. A good freight forwarder plays a vital role in helping your business navigate the ever-changing world of shipping.
