What to Consider When Choosing a Chemical Distribution Partner

ByAlexzandar Stains

There are various factors to consider when choosing a chemical solutions carrier to handle your products. The logistics of bulk chemical transportation are complex, and carrier selection should include a thorough vetting process. This includes using the appropriate equipment during transport, making sure drivers have the proper training, and leveraging advanced technology to simplify order fulfillment. 

To develop a better understanding of these factors as well as ensure that your chemical samples transportation is done safely, efficiently, and following all state and federal regulations, here is a list of the top 4 must-haves when choosing a chemicals distribution solutions partner.

  • Impeccable Safety Standards.

Because your carrier will be transporting highly hazardous chemical solutions, they must follow all federal and state regulatory requirements. Don’t just take a carrier’s word for it; ask for their safety metrics, such as TRIR and FMCSA scores. A safe, responsible carrier will be willing and eager to provide these metrics, as well as have a lot of safety procedures in places, such as rigorous driver training, inward and outward facing dash cams installed on their trucks, enhanced safety technology, and regular safety meetings to review and correct any incidents that occur.

  • Unfailing Reliability.

Unreliable service is unfortunately all too common. This, however, does not have to be the issue.  The key to identifying a dependable Chemicals distribution solutions partner is to look for partners who have 24-hour/365 operations and customer service, teams. When an issue arises, whether at noon or midnight, someone should always be available to troubleshoot and mitigate the situation.

  • Dependable and UP-to-date Equipment.

Your carrier’s equipment is a major factor in determining efficient, and on-time service. It is essential to not only find a carrier with a big fleet and the necessary containers, hoses, fittings, and adapters for the job but also to understand the equipment’s condition. What is the average age of a tractor and trailer? In the last five years, how many new trucks have your distributor added? How many new trucks do they intend to introduce over the next five years? These are important questions to ask because they will help you determine your carrier’s commitment to providing the best service possible to their customers. 

  • Technology.

When vetting bulk chemical samples carriers, inquire about how they use technology in their operations. A skilled carrier that is dedicated to continuous improvement for its consumers will invest in high-quality solutions. Using a Chemicals distribution solutions partner that has an advanced transportation management system, for example, to help streamline dispatch, tracking, reporting, and billing will lead to faster, more precise deliveries. 

Another factor to think about is whether your chemical distribution partner uses a cloud-based solution with geofencing capabilities. This enables real-time load tracking and automatic customer notification upon arrival/departure, ensuring that you, the customer, are always up to date.