Beyond Traditional Procurement
Article Summary (TLDR): Learn how TLI’s strategic truckload and LTL sourcing approach delivers custom
transportation RFPs, optimized mode selection, and long-term motor carrier partnerships. Discover how rate transparency, lane data, and performance KPIs build stronger data-driven freight programs.
Most shippers use a procurement driven process where low bids are the focus and carrier relationships are superficial. TLI takes a different path.
We combine powerful analytics with strategic sourcing tools to:
- Analyze your historical shipper data and KPI trends
- Optimize lanes with rating calculators and scenario modeling
- Build custom carrier pricing structures and accessorial rules
- Tailor cargo liability requirements to exactly what you need and weight breaks
- Engage carriers with transparent expectations and long-term volume
This process creates RFP results that actually result in better base rates, measurable service level improvement, and more predictable service outcomes.
Why Do Custom RFPs Outperform Generic Bid Events?
Strong base rates come from three things: carrier fit, data accuracy, and aligned volume.
We start with your actual shipment history, lanes, weights, and performance trends. We put that data through advanced rating tools, compare scenarios, and share refined volume forecasts with carriers. When carriers see a reliable volume profile and a clear set of expectations, they compete more effectively for your business. Generic bid events look for the lowest numbers, not the right partners.
Transportation RFPs give Shippers:
Volatility in freight spend often stems from ad hoc pricing and unstable contracts, which can make budgeting and planning a constant challenge. By establishing consistent base rates and well-negotiated FTL and LTL contracts, you gain steady pricing even during capacity crunches, reliable access to freight capacity, and predictable cost forecasts that support smarter operational decisions. When carriers are part of a trusted program, they prioritize your loads instead of chasing sporadic spot freight, giving your business stability and confidence.
At TLI, we build carrier contracts that are true win-wins. Through detailed RFP events and performance-driven KPIs, you can understand true freight costs per mile and per pound, manage accessorials to avoid unexpected charges, and align carrier service expectations with your operational reality. Rather than reacting to surprises, your shipping team remains proactive and in control of the freight program.
A strong program also demands accountability, and TLI helps you define and track the metrics that matter most. These include on-time pickup and delivery percentages, tender acceptance rates, accessorial accuracy, detention and dwell trends, and cost per lane performance. With this approach, carriers understand exactly what success looks like, and you gain the ability to measure it objectively, ensuring both transparency and long-term program reliability.
When to Consider Outsourcing Freight Contracting
Carrier and Shipper Questions for Better Conversations
Good sourcing strategy comes from good questions. Shippers should be asking:
Are we giving carriers the volume we promised?
Are our docks and operations creating good conditions for carriers?
Is our cargo liability requirement adequate?
Do we have transparent $/mile and $/pound pricing visibility?
Are we tracking carrier performance in a way that matters?
Are we communicating expectations clearly before the load is tendered?
Carriers should be asking:
Are we delivering the service levels we committed to?
Are service failures communicated quickly and accurately?
Do we have clear operating ratio expectations?
Is the volume forecast reliable and backed with data?
Are accessorial rules and liability expectations clearly defined? Are we billing accurately?
Can we offer long term stability rather than sporadic loads?
Freight sourcing is too important to skip formal bid events and outdated procurement methods. It is extremely important to partner with TLI as they have the technology, and relationships to get the best carriers awarded on the most appropriate lanes. With TLI’s custom RFP process, you get stronger base rates, more reliable capacity, and freight programs that truly move your business forward. Go with the best, ship with TLI.
