As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on a year of growth, challenges, and opportunities that helped shape the future of Red River Freight. From expanding our storage and small order fulfillment capabilities, to strengthening our expertise in reverse logistics, we’ve focused on evolving to meet the unique needs of our clients.
This year wasn’t without its hurdles. Market uncertainties and industry-wide shifts tested our adaptability. Yet, with the trust of our partners, the dedication of our team, and key investments in technology, we’ve turned challenges into stepping stones.
Whether it’s onboarding new clients, implementing systems to streamline operations, or building stronger relationships with long-standing partners, 2024 has been a year of learning and progress. These efforts have positioned us to offer even more tailored, reliable logistics solutions as we move into 2025.
Let’s take a closer look at the milestones that defined our year and how they reflect our commitment to serving your business better.
Streamlining 3PL Operations and Client Services
In early 2024, Red River Freight took a significant step forward by implementing Extensiv, a CRM designed specifically for warehouses and 3PL providers.
While rolling out new systems always comes with its challenges, Extensiv quickly proved to be a game-changer, helping us deliver better, faster and more reliable service for our clients.
This cutting-edge technology has redefined how we handle inventory management, small order fulfillment, and reverse logistics. Here are just three ways its improved our service:
- Time Savings: By automating repetitive tasks like manual data entry and label generation, our team can focus on delivering top-notch service.
- Transparency: Our clients now have real-time access to their inventory, shipment tracking, and detailed activity reports, all through an intuitive platform.
- Seamless Integration: Extensiv connects with UPS for automatic label generation and integrates with QuickBooks to streamline billing, ensuring that every aspect of our logistics process is accurate and efficient.
One of our clients, previously working with us only for their returns, has been so impressed with the efficiency Extensiv enables that they’re now interested in expanding to full order fulfillment services with us. This is just one example of how the system has enhanced both client satisfaction and operational capabilities.
Adapting to Change: Teamwork at the Heart of Our Success
Change is inevitable in any business, and this year, we experienced it firsthand when a key team member, Tobi, moved on to begin an exciting new chapter—getting married and relocating. While we were thrilled for Tobi and this wonderful milestone, her presence in the warehouse will certainly be missed.
At Red River Freight, our strength has always been our people, and this moment was no exception. We were incredibly fortunate to have Saydie, another core member of our team, step in and take over Tobi’s duties. Saydie’s dedication and adaptability have been instrumental in ensuring that everything stays on track.
With teamwork at the heart of our family-owned business, we’ve pulled together to not only maintain our operations but continue growing. Saydie’s seamless transition and leadership reflect the resilience and collaboration that define our company culture. In supporting each other, we’ve kept our focus on delivering the exceptional service our clients count on.
This experience has reinforced the importance of a strong, cohesive team and the systems that allow us to navigate change with confidence. As we look ahead, we’re more committed than ever to fostering the kind of teamwork and adaptability that keep us– and your business –moving forward.
New Partnerships: Supporting Business Growth with Tailored 3PL Solutions
2024 brought new opportunities and partnerships to Red River Freight, reinforcing our commitment to helping businesses grow through customised logistics and storage solutions.
These collaborations highlight how we’re delivering value by streamlining supply chains, managing inventory, and providing services that directly impact our clients’ success.
Onboarding Success
In the fourth quarter, we proudly partnered with Instatraction, a family-owned Canadian company designing traction devices for vehicles to tackle snow, mud, and ice.
With their growing manufacturing business in Canada and a large customer base in the U.S., Instatraction needed a reliable 3PL provider to serve as their U.S. warehouse and fulfillment center.
Our team worked closely with Instatraction for a seamless onboarding process, managing their inventory and ensuring fast, reliable deliveries across the U.S. By taking care of their logistics, we’re proud to support this Canadian business in expanding its footprint and growing its market in America.
Expanding Services
We’ve also been working on an exciting expansion with New Flyer, a trusted partner of more than 25 years. For decades, we’ve provided just-in-time (JIT) delivery services—a method where inventory is delivered exactly when needed, reducing storage costs and improving production efficiency.
This year, New Flyer entrusted us with additional responsibilities, including storing more parts for their coaches. By consolidating multiple components in our facility, we’re helping free up space in their manufacturing plant while streamlining their operations. This ensures their team can focus on production while we handle the logistics.
High-Value Goods Storage
Another exciting partnership is in progress with a new client transitioning to 3PL services at Red River Freight. Storing their high-value goods in our warehouse will allow them to improve their customer service and operational efficiency.
At Red River Freight, our storage capabilities are built to handle a wide range of needs – from envelopes and boxes to rock trucks and tractors and everything in between! We focus heavily on commercial shipments but also serve individuals.
Our facilities include:
- Two loading docks and over 10,000 square feet of heated storage, plus cold storage areas.
- An unmanned site in Minnesota with an open dock setup for flatbeds and step deck trailers.
- Open property blocks for storing vehicles and equipment, as well as limited indoor storage.
What sets us apart in the industry is our insurance protection, which ensures that all goods in our care are fully covered. We treat every product as if it were our own, providing peace of mind to our clients as they trust us with their valuable inventory.
The trust this new client placed in us after touring our facility is a testament to the strength of our infrastructure, personalized service, and commitment to excellence.
Moving Forward Together
As we reflect on 2024, we’re proud to celebrate a year of growth and success. Our 3PL division saw significant progress this year, with new clients, increased sales, and improved performance driving strong results.
These milestones are a testament to our focus on delivering tailored, reliable logistics solutions that help our clients achieve their goals.
From welcoming new partnerships to enhancing our technology and expanding our services, this year has been all about building the foundations for an even stronger future. We’re grateful to our clients, partners, and team for making it all possible.
As we move into 2025, we’re excited to continue growing together, helping businesses thrive with seamless small order fulfilment services, efficient storage solutions and trusted e-commerce inventory management.
If you’d like to see how our 3PL solutions can make a difference for your business in 2025, reach out to our team today.
