New Duties on Mexican and Chinese Van Trailers Raise Procurement Costs
Importers must begin posting cash deposits on imported van trailers as new preliminary duties take effect
Transport Asset Sourcing
Carrier Procurement
Identifying and contracting the vehicles or vessels needed to move goods across a supply chain ensures that products reach their destination on time. The process of transport asset sourcing involves evaluating the capacity and reliability of various trucking companies or shipping lines. Logistics managers seek a balance between long term stable contracts and the flexibility of the spot market.
Capability Assessment
Evaluation of potential partners includes checking their safety records and the age of their equipment. During transport asset sourcing the ability of a carrier to handle specialized cargo like temperature sensitive chemicals or oversized machinery is a major factor. Proof of insurance and regulatory compliance is mandatory before any agreement is signed.
The documentation provided by the vendor is reviewed against historical performance data to verify reliability. Verification of environmental certifications also occurs during this phase to ensure alignment with corporate sustainability targets.
Market Strategy
Shippers monitor fuel prices and carrier availability to negotiate the best possible rates for their freight. Successful transport asset sourcing creates a network of reliable partners that can scale their services to meet seasonal peaks in demand. Data from past shipments is used to refine the selection process and improve the efficiency of the entire transport network.