Updated January 10, 2024

A logistics RFP allows you to quantify total cost, evaluate trade-offs between price and service quality, and find the best freight forwarder for your company’s specific needs. But it’s not as easy to design a logistics RFP as you might think—RFPs often encourage thousands of forwarders to compete for your business by offering low rates, sometimes in exchange for poor, low-quality services.

This year, getting a head start on your RFP planning process is more important than ever. With the recent drone and missile attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea and Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, global trade flows are facing significant impacts in the form of vessel re-routes and halts. Whether you're experienced with RFP processes or running one for the first time, you'll want a partner who helps you prepare for unexpected supply chain situations like these and strategically pivot as soon as they happen.

The key takeaways in this blog are from our updated guide, How to Run a Value-Driven RFP, which arms you with the tools needed to run a successful RFP and choose the right logistics partner. Download your copy using the form on the right of this page for more in-depth insights, including what exactly to look for in a provider and key questions to ask throughout the entire process.

Key Takeaways From the Guide

1. Prepare for the RFP

• Be selective and intentional about who you invite to the bid
• Look for areas of improvement
• Know your trade lanes, suppliers, and volumes in detail
• Allow active communication during the RFP process

2. Seek out transparent pricing

Pricing is what many forwarders will try to sell you on. But quoted prices are not always as they seem; vendors tend to present unreliable services that will show you a good price, so clarify what the provided rates are getting you.

3. Look for an easy-to-use platform

Consider what software capabilities each freight forwarder has to offer, and what would be most beneficial for your business.

4. Look for high-quality service

Your freight forwarder will be a partner to your business, so you want to find a reliable and accommodating provider.

Kick Off RFP Season

To get more details on how to handle RFP season, check out Flexport's 2024 RFP Preparation Hub or consult with our supply chain specialists.

Want even more insights? Watch our on-demand webinars packed with content to help you navigate the 2024 RFP season:

• A Beginner’s Guide to a Successful RFP
• An Advanced Guide to Upscaling Your RFP

The contents of this blog are made available for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for any legal, business, or financial decisions. We do not guarantee, represent, or warrant the accuracy or reliability of any of the contents of this blog because they are based on Flexport’s current beliefs, expectations, and assumptions, about which there can be no assurance due to various anticipated and unanticipated events that may occur. This blog has been prepared to the best of Flexport’s knowledge and research; however, the information presented in this blog herein may not reflect the most current regulatory or industry developments. Neither Flexport nor its advisors or affiliates shall be liable for any losses that arise in any way due to the reliance on the contents contained in this blog.