Industry expertise · Transportation & Logistics
Transportation & Logistics
Freight markets are tightening again, but the old economics still don't work. We help carriers and shippers redesign networks, cost structures, and technology for the next cycle.
The challenge
Transportation and logistics is exiting a long freight recession in which overcapacity held rates below sustainable levels; capacity is now leaving the market through carrier exits and fleet reductions faster than demand rebounds. Meanwhile tariffs, nearshoring, and trade shifts are forcing networks to be redesigned around new sourcing patterns, adding cost and complexity.
Cost pressure is structural: record per-mile truck operating costs, difficult last-mile economics, insurance and litigation exposure, and a driver shortage projected to deepen. Digitization and AI planning tools promise visibility and productivity, but only where networks, data, and workflows are organized to act on them.
Recent engagement profiles
- Led a network redesign for a regional carrier combining terminal rationalization, linehaul optimization, and revised service commitments.
- Implemented a cost-per-mile program for a trucking operator covering fuel, maintenance, insurance, and driver compensation levers.
- Built a transportation management system selection and implementation plan for a shipper centralizing freight decisions.
- Redesigned last-mile delivery operations for a parcel operator, improving density, first-attempt success, and cost per stop.
- Developed a driver recruitment and retention program addressing pay, home time, and equipment for a fleet facing turnover.
- Supported an S&OP and freight-budgeting redesign for a manufacturer coordinating inbound, outbound, and warehouse decisions.
Functional experience
We have helped our clients with innovative solutions in the following functional areas:
Network and operations
- Terminal, linehaul, and route network design
- Freight planning, load matching, and backhaul optimization
- Warehouse and cross-dock operations improvement
Cost and asset management
- Cost-per-mile and cost-per-stop analytics
- Fleet maintenance strategy and equipment lifecycle
- Insurance, claims, and litigation cost management
Commercial and rates
- Bid and contract rate strategy with spot-versus-contract mix
- Customer profitability and accessorial discipline
- Tender rejection and capacity planning
Workforce and technology
- Driver recruitment, retention, and scheduling programs
- TMS, telematics, and visibility platform selection and adoption
- AI-supported planning, pricing, and exception management