In the chemical distribution industry, every shipment matters. From meeting delivery deadlines to complying with strict safety standards, even a single delay or damaged load can erode both profit and customer trust.
But as logistics costs rise, you might ask,
How can we cut costs without compromising service?
For many, the answer lies in partnering directly with a carrier, rather than through a broker.
The Hidden Costs of Third-Party Brokers
Chemical distributors often rely on freight brokers to manage transportation. While brokers can fill gaps quickly, they also add a layer of complexity and cost.
Each broker markup and middleman handoff introduces:
- Higher per-load rates that include broker commissions.
- Slower communication when problems arise on the road.
- Reduced visibility into load status and driver performance.
When you’re handling time-sensitive or hazardous materials, those gaps can translate into regulatory risk and unhappy customers.
Why Direct Carriers Deliver More Value
A direct carrier, like Hillcrest Transportation, manages your freight end-to-end. You work directly with the people who own the trucks, train the drivers, and handle compliance. That direct connection delivers measurable savings and peace of mind.
Here’s how:
- Lower Total Freight Costs: With no broker margins to absorb, pricing is transparent. And it’s often 10–15% lower than third-party alternatives.
- Improved Delivery Reliability: Direct carriers maintain their own fleets and driver schedules, resulting in fewer missed windows and improved on-time performance.
- Faster Issue Resolution: When a delay or route change occurs, your operations team communicates directly with dispatch, eliminating the need for a middle layer of communication.
- Enhanced Compliance and Safety: For chemical distributors, DOT and EPA compliance isn’t optional. A dedicated carrier ensures that it has trained drivers, proper documentation, and equipment built specifically for chemical transport.
- Consistent Lane Coverage: Whether you manage regional routes or multiple national lanes, a direct carrier can scale predictably with your distribution needs.
Reducing Risk While Building Long-Term Savings
The shift from brokered freight to a direct carrier model isn’t just about short-term cost reduction. It’s about operational stability. With fewer intermediaries, distributors can streamline scheduling, improve visibility, and strengthen relationships with end customers who depend on just-in-time deliveries.
Over time, that reliability pays off through fewer claims, reduced idle time, and stronger supplier performance scores.
Ready to Reimagine Your Freight Strategy?
If your chemical distribution company is under pressure to lower costs while maintaining service quality, Hillcrest Transportation can help.
We specialize in chemical and bulk liquid freight, offering direct-to-shipper solutions that improve control, compliance, and cost efficiency.
Contact Hillcrest Transportation today to discuss your lanes, pricing goals, and how our direct-carrier approach can help you ship smarter.
