The transportation and logistics industry is in a constant state of flux as the market shifts and the Great Freight Recession comes to an end. Shippers should expect a more expensive pricing environment over the next several months. 

Despite these changing conditions, companies can remain competitive by embracing flexibility, efficiency and innovation. When the cost of doing business increases, making moves toward more efficient operating structures becomes more important than ever. 

No two companies are the same, and neither are their freight needs. This is especially true in today’s competitive supply chain landscape. Flexibility, cost-effectiveness and reliability are no longer just nice-to-haves – they’re critical to staying ahead. And multi-modal solutions are often the answer. 

From intermodal and Mexico to final mile and premium services, multi-modal solutions provide a strategic advantage and the flexibility needed to meet any supply chain challenge head on.

Multi-modal solutions will become critical for shippers looking to move freight efficiently and cost-effectively in 2025, with flexible routes and multiple modes to choose from to help meet changing requirements. There are risks associated with not embracing this approach, including:

• Increased costs: Shippers may see higher costs to move their freight without the flexibility to shift transportation modes based on needs or unexpected external factors. Flexible routes and multiple modes to choose from help meet changing requirements.

• Supply chain disruptions: Natural disasters, geopolitical events or road closures can cause shipments to be delayed or hinder them from ever reaching their final destination. With multi-modal solutions, shippers can pivot and look for options to deliver their goods on time and safely.

• Lack of visibility: Tracking is a must for shipping, and partnering with a carrier that offers multi-modal solutions provides more visibility and real-time tracking data across all shipments. 

• Inconsistent service: There are unique challenges with each mode of transportation. The learning curve for each can be steep and challenging to overcome for those who don’t have experience. Selecting an experienced carrier can be the right path to success. 

Fortunately, Werner’s power lies in providing multi-modal supply chain solutions to help its customers thrive, no matter what the market is doing.

“We can integrate different transportation methods to provide the most efficient and cost-effective solution for your business while keeping sustainability in mind,” Werner Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Eric Downing said. “We tailor the right plan for your business by leveraging our comprehensive suite of solutions.”

Whether shippers need to optimize costs, ramp up efficiency or meet the highest service standards, it’s important they have a carrier partner with the tools to make it happen. That’s where Werner comes in. It offers the following tailored solutions to help shippers shift transportation modes based on needs or unexpected external factors:

Dedicated private fleet: Customized solutions for unmatched control

When consistency and control are non-negotiable, Werner’s Dedicated Private Fleet services give shippers the power to stay ahead. Werner handles everything from fleet management to coordinating drivers and ensuring freight arrives on time. 

As an extension of your team, our cutting-edge tracking and real-time reporting tools give you full visibility into your shipments, allowing you to stay one step ahead and keep your supply chain running seamlessly. 

“At Werner, your success is our success, and we go all-in to make sure it happens,” Downing said.

Final mile: Precision delivery that exceeds expectations

Werner’s Final Mile solutions are designed to deliver the ultimate customer experience, ensuring goods arrive at their final destination with absolute precision. Whether residential deliveries, retail shipments or specialized locations, Werner brings unmatched expertise to complex, last-leg logistics. Its nationwide network boasts more than 400 trucks, nearly 30 Werner locations and 180 additional network locations. 

Companies can trust Werner for a seamless, end-to-end solution from when a product leaves the manufacturing floor to the instant it arrives at the end customer’s doorstep.

Intermodal: A smart and sustainable piece to the puzzle

For businesses looking to make a smart and sustainable choice, Werner’s Intermodal services offer the perfect solution. By combining the power of truck and rail transport, the company maximizes fuel efficiency, minimizes emissions and guarantees timely deliveries. With strong partnerships with top-tier rail providers and access to a vast national network, the company can provide flexible scheduling and reliable long-haul solutions that meet shippers’ financial and environmental objectives without compromise.

Mexico: Cross-border logistics simplified

With more than 25 years of experience in cross-border transportation, Werner is the leader in simplifying the complexities of shipping to and from Mexico. Werner streamlines customs, paperwork and transit requirements, ensuring goods move seamlessly across international borders. As the top carrier for cross-border freight between the U.S. and Mexico, Werner transports more goods than any other provider, contributing nearly $400M in annual revenue. 

“Werner’s approach ensures efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness across borders, making us your go-to partner for cross-border logistics,” Downing said.

Premium services: Speed and precision when every second counts

When time is critical, Premium Services from Werner provides expedited solutions that meet the most demanding schedules. Whether it’s team driving, dedicated hot-shot services or guaranteed deliveries, the company’s premium offerings ensure critical shipments take priority and arrive on time, every time. 

“With nearly 70 years of expertise in handling complex freight challenges, our Premium Services are designed to mitigate risks and deliver your shipments with the utmost precision and care—ensuring no deadlines are ever missed,” Downing said.

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