Leading Hardware and Home Improvement Products Shipper Sets New Standards for Fuel Efficiency Excellence with Breakthrough

A leading provider of hardware and home improvement products, has been a valued partner of Breakthrough for nearly 14 years. In 2010, the shipper began partnering with Breakthrough intending to find a fair and accurate method to calculate fuel reimbursements for their truckload and intermodal freight movements. What they received was not just a fuel cost management solution, but also a series of continuous improvement initiatives that would provide additional value to their network. These initiatives aligned their operations with industry benchmarks and enabled data-driven decision-making.

As a result, they have made significant fuel efficiency improvements, successfully shifted modes based on market dynamics, adopted a zero-base strategy, and pursued other opportunities that provide greater transparency across their transportation network.

Driving Efficiency and Sustainability, Mile by Mile

The leading provider of hardware and home improvement products has achieved remarkable progress in their fuel efficiency journey, improving their fuel efficiency from 5.0 to an impressive 7.8 MPG. Through Breakthrough diligently monitoring industry trends and analyzing carrier data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to identify fuel efficiency benchmarks, they are able to make well-informed decisions regarding their MPG strategy. Their dedication to fuel efficiency has allowed them to closely align with the weighted average industry benchmark of fleet and tractor fuel efficiency for model year 2020 and newer. The shipper has also benchmarked their private fleet internally, which has allowed them to gauge their MPG fuel efficiency accurately. Through continuous fuel efficiency improvements with each RFP, they have driven consistent value for their transportation network.

Their commitment to fuel efficiency has not only helped them save on fuel costs, but it has also significantly reduced their carbon footprint. By utilizing newer, more fuel-efficient tractors and converting to intermodal freight where possible, they reduced their greenhouse gas emissions, embodying their commitment to sustainable practices.

The Value of Data-Driven Mode Selection

In 2016, the leading provider of hardware and home improvement products shipper analyzed the top 15 lanes in their network capable of intermodal transportation by leveraging Breakthrough's data-driven support. With access to reliable industry benchmarks and clear network visibility, Breakthrough recommended the utilization of intermodal transportation over truckload for specific lanes, where it proved to be more cost-effective. This strategic approach empowered them to make well-informed decisions, ensuring their competitiveness in a dynamic market. Breakthrough continues to monitor market conditions to determine the optimal mode choice for the shipper, enabling them to remain agile and responsive to market movements, ultimately strengthening their competitive edge.

The Path to Transparency and Accuracy

In 2017, the shipper introduced a zero-base strategy to enhance transparency and accuracy. This strategic move facilitated better visibility into fuel and freight expenses, enabling them to effectively manage and optimize their spending in these areas, driving improvements across both categories. The zero-base strategy allows them to make data-driven decisions and remain aligned with industry benchmarks.

Enhance Transportation Network Efficiency

The shipper continues to seek opportunities to enhance their transportation network's efficiency, including participating in The Mercury Group, the premier shipper summit exclusive to Breakthrough clients. By leveraging Breakthrough’s expertise and resources, they can identify potential cost savings opportunities, implement best practices, and align with industry benchmarks, all while remaining true to their commitment of providing the highest level of service and satisfaction to their consumers.

Shipper Sets the Standard for Fuel Efficiency in the Transportation Sector

The leading provider of hardware and home improvement products shipper’s partnership with Breakthrough has driven continuous improvement initiatives and set new standards for fuel efficiency excellence across industries. By working collaboratively towards a common goal, they will continue to drive value for both their company and consumers, setting an example of best practices in the transportation sector. As a trusted partner, Breakthrough is committed to supporting their ongoing pursuit of efficiency and transparency, helping them reach new heights of success.