The freight industry faced many challenges throughout 2022 that required agility, flexibility and resourcefulness. This is set to continue into 2023 as the upcoming year is expected to bring with it brand new challenges and opportunities.
As we enter the New Year, it is important to consider the following key trends set to impact the freight industry when developing your business strategies and plans.
Continue to expect the unexpected
Throughout 2022 we saw unexpected events create huge disruptive effects throughout supply chains. From the rising cost of fuel to driver shortages, not to mention the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the supply chain was continuously tested throughout the year.
As complications regarding staff shortages, capacity issues and inflation (to name a few) seem unlikely to find resolution any time soon, the resilience that was required in 2022 is set to carry over to 2023. Ensuring both domestic and international freight forwarders remain adaptable will allow teams to overcome unexpected challenges seamlessly.
A sustainable future
Sustainability is consistently at the forefront of business agendas across all sectors, with the freight industry being no different. For an industry that accounts for 8% of global CO2 emissions it is paramount that sustainability trends are followed to be in-keeping with government CO2 targets.
It is also becoming increasingly common for potential customers to look into an organisation’s sustainability reputation. Meaning increasing efforts in this area could simultaneously improve customer perception of your organisation.
Rise of the digital
An increasing number of freight forwarders are adopting digital transformations throughout their supply chains and this is set to continue to increase throughout 2023. The rise of new technologies provides many benefits such as simplification of tasks using automation, increased ability to analyse data and opportunities to improve efficiency. Using these technologies would further enhance and improve the coordination and control of the transportation of goods in order to remain competitive throughout the New Year.
If you are seeking effective ways to navigate the challenges that 2023 may present, contact the team at Grace Overseas today for more information on how we can support you moving forward.
