Hurricane season in the Atlantic is a critical time for U.S. trucking and freight. The most intense hurricanes occur during peak season, between mid-August and late October, and can quickly upend an already unpredictable supply chain with sudden shutdowns, delays, road closures, flooding, and power outages. 

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We can’t predict exactly when or how storms will impact supply chains, but we know disruptions are highly likely. Many companies continue operating as usual, relying on carrier updates that may be unreliable or even unrelated to the weather, only adjusting shipments at the last minute and with limited information. This reactive approach often increases the likelihood of significant disruptions. 

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Plan ahead with technology and data so you and your teams can rapidly respond to changing conditions and minimize the impact on your operations. Our data shows that operations halt for a day and gradually resume with limited shipments and drivers over the next 48-72 hours until backlogs clear. Instead of reacting, embrace flexibility and create a plan with these tips to keep your shipments running smoothly:

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1. Real-time Routing with Technology 

Incorporating hurricane weather considerations into routing decisions is crucial yet surprisingly often overlooked. Flooding, downed power lines and trees, and impassable roads can affect local shipments and LTL lanes, leading to rerouting and delays. LTL carriers may impose freight embargoes on affected areas, halting all shipments and pickups until conditions improve. In such cases, carriers might need to hold shipments overnight or return them to the shipper for future delivery.

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Real-time routing provides the ​​the ability to adapt and route around known issues, decreasing delays. To improve delivery accuracy and reliability, stay informed about weather developments and their potential impacts on logistics routes. Using real-time weather data in routing algorithms can make a significant difference.

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2. Optimize Recovery with Data Analytics‍

Power outages and flooding can delay carrier pickups, creating significant backlogs. Once conditions improve, our data shows that normal operations typically resume within 48 hours, as carriers work aggressively to clear these backlogs and fulfill delayed deliveries.

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To manage this effectively, leverage data analytics to analyze shipment volumes, routes, delays, and weather conditions. By identifying patterns, predicting delays, and planning resources accordingly while monitoring shipments in real time, you can reduce backlogs and ensure a smooth return to normal operations. 

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3. Minimize Disruption with Proactive Communication

‍Storms' minute-by-minute changes and impacts—like power outages, flooding, and embargoes—demand rapid decision-making and communication with numerous stakeholders.

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Maintain open communication with carriers and customers for timely updates on shipment status and adjustments. Use technology such as automated alerts and real-time tracking systems to stay proactive. This enables quick decisions, effective rerouting, adjusted delivery schedules, and informed customers. Leveraging technology ensures seamless communication and provides critical insights, minimizing disruptions and enhancing efficiency during severe weather.

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4. Safeguard Shipments‍

During hurricane season, it’s crucial to ensure your shipments are protected against storm-related damages. 

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Start by reviewing your insurance policies to confirm adequate coverage. Keep detailed shipments, routes, and communications records for efficient claims processing. Proper documentation and comprehensive insurance coverage are essential for maintaining business continuity, minimizing losses, and ensuring a smoother recovery.

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By following these best practices, shipping companies and carriers can handle hurricane season more effectively. Stay flexible, use technology for routing, rely on data analytics to manage recovery, communicate proactively, and ensure your shipments are adequately insured. These steps will help minimize disruptions and quickly restore operations to normal after a storm. Have your plan ready to go, stay sharp, and you’ll weather the storms just fine.

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