Periods of slower economic activity can feel challenging, but they also create opportunities. When demand eases and networks are under less pressure, businesses have the breathing room to review how their freight is performing. Rather than waiting until things are busy again, using this time to optimise your freight approach can deliver lasting benefits.
Here are some of the reasons why now is a smart time to review your freight setup.
When volumes are high, it can be difficult to see exactly where costs are coming from. Quieter periods give you space to review invoices, surcharges and carrier rates in more detail. This clarity can highlight opportunities to consolidate freight, shift volume to more suitable modes, or adjust service levels to reduce costs without compromising reliability.
Busy seasons often mask issues like inconsistent delivery windows, missed tracking updates or recurring delays. Slower periods are ideal for reviewing performance reports and identifying which carriers or service levels are meeting expectations and which may need attention. This helps you have informed discussions with providers and set clearer benchmarks for the months ahead.
Trying a new carrier, service level or mode of transport can feel risky during peak demand. During quieter periods, you have more flexibility to test different approaches. This could mean trialling rail for bulk movements, adjusting linehaul schedules, or introducing air as a contingency option. Small-scale trials now give you valuable insights without disrupting critical freight flows.
Your own internal freight workflows can make as much difference as the carrier you choose. Quieter times give your team the chance to review booking processes, packaging standards and customer communication. Simple improvements, like clearer labelling or more accurate data entry, can reduce delays and save money once activity increases again.
The best time to prepare for busy periods is when things are calm. Reviewing now allows you to refine your freight strategy, secure better pricing or capacity, and ensure your processes are ready to handle higher demand. This proactive approach means fewer surprises and smoother operations when volumes rise.
A slowdown doesn’t have to mean standing still. By reviewing your freight setup now, you can uncover savings, strengthen relationships with carriers and improve your internal processes. Most importantly, you’ll be ready to move with confidence when activity peaks.
Ready to optimise your freight strategy? Connect with our team to review your current freight setup and explore how we can support your goals for the year ahead.