MISSISSAUGA, Ont. –Shippers love them; carriers hate them. Freight RFPs or freight bids have become increasingly popular over the last decade as a mechanism to negotiate freight rates and service. Even companies with as little as $50K in annual freight spend are putting their business out for bid.  

Is this a good way to do business? Do shippers supply accurate data on their volumes, traffic lanes, product densities and seasonal requirements? Are they seeking true business partners or simply trying to reduce their freight costs each year? Is this the best way to build trust and dependability? Does the process allow carriers to communicate their value propositions and to secure compensatory rates?

To answer these questions, we have assembled a panel of two large shippers and two leading carriers. All of the panelists have had extensive experience with freight bids. They will share their insights on how to improve the freight procurement process an outline the factors that must be considered in making thoughtful decisions about the largest supply chain expense?

The panelists include:

• Mike Owens,  Vice President of Physical Logistics for Nestlé Canada Inc.;
• Michelle Arseneau,  Managing Partner of GX Transport;
• Grace Tomaszun,  Manager, N.A. Transportation Sourcing for McCormick & Company, Inc;
• Bruce Jantzi is Senior Vice President, Operations, Erb International

The session is one of several sessions at the all-day Surface Transportation Summit.

To register for the Summit, go to: http://www.surfacetransportationsummit