Behind Every On-Time Feed Delivery Is a Well-Coordinated Supply Chain

Key Takeaways

• Feed delivery depends on a coordinated supply chain, not just transportation. Reliable deliveries require planning, communication, and experienced logistics coordination.

• Order feed as early as possible. Scheduling deliveries at least two weeks in advance increases carrier availability, secures preferred pickup times, and reduces the risk of delays.

• Accurate shipment details prevent costly disruptions. Providing loading hours, receiving hours, equipment requirements, and product specifications helps ensure the right trailer arrives the first time.

• The right equipment matters. Using incorrect trailers or specialized equipment can delay deliveries and interrupt your operation.

• Supply chain disruptions are inevitable. Weather events, equipment shortages, and transportation challenges can impact delivery schedules, making flexibility essential.

• Choose a broker with multiple supply points. A diversified supply network allows brokers to source feed from alternate locations when disruptions occur.

• Communication is just as important as planning. A logistics partner who proactively communicates delays and solutions helps farms and feed mills minimize downtime.

• Treat your feed delivery provider as a strategic partner. The strongest supply chains are built on preparation, responsiveness, and long-term collaboration.

Building a More Resilient Feed Supply Chain Starts With the Right Partner

Anyone who has worked closely with a supply chain knows: successful delivery is more complicated than simply moving a product from Point A to Point B. Especially when an operation’s livelihood depends on the product - like feed to a farm - end-users are particularly invested in finding a reliable partner. While no partner can control the weather (hello, hurricane season), there is benefit to having a partner that helps coordinate and communicate when hiccups in the supply chain inevitably occur.

Plan Ahead (As Best You Can) 

How Far in Advance Should You Order Feed?

If possible, ordering feed two weeks in advance is ideal. Early scheduling helps in several ways:

• More carrier availability 

• Locks in pickup times 

• Reduction in delivery risk 

Proactive planning supports both the end user with more options and potentially better rates, as well as the feed mill. 

Success is in the Details 

What Information Do You Need Before Scheduling Feed Delivery?

There are several details that will help all involved in finding the right carriers to facilitate delivery of feed. Knowing this information before coordinating delivery is key to a smooth process:

• Loading and receiving hours

• Required equipment for the product

• Product specifications

Accurate and complete information obviously minimizes errors, but it also minimizes delays. If the wrong type of equipment is used, for example, a grain trailer shows up to haul feed-grade limestone, the supply chain halts until the correct equipment (a pneumatic trailer) is brought on-site. 

Building a Supply Chain for the Real World

Disruptions in a supply chain can occur from any number of unforeseen events. These disruptions require the resources to adapt and a team that is flexible to those changes. 

One of the most powerful resources to limit supply chain disruptions includes multiple supply points within a broker network. When a broker is able to pull feed from another supply point - as well as navigate the process - your operation isn’t waiting days (or longer) for outside events to normalize themselves. 

What to Look for in a Feed and Grain Logistics Partner 

Choosing a Reliable Feed Transportation Partner

Your delivery schedule doesn’t need to be built on a “cross our fingers that this hurricane season is quiet” approach. Preparation, precision, and partnership within the industry allows you to plan - when you can - and adjust when you need to.

The farms and mills that treat their feed delivery partner as a true extension of their team — not just a vendor — are the ones best positioned to weather any disruption, hurricane season or not.

If we can help you find solutions for your feed delivery, contact our team today by calling 800-732-7755. We’re here to help.

The Harris Crane Process 

We know the importance of reliable, trusted relationships, especially when you can’t plan for every scenario that may impact product delivery. With multiple supply points and carriers and a team that is personally accessible, we serve our clients with the highest standards. 

If you need support in finding a strategic sourcing partner in today’s feed and agriculture market, we’re here to help. Call us at 1-800-432-7755 or email us at jclarck@harriscrane.com. 

Harris-Crane, Inc. offers feed brokerages and feed distribution as part of our core services. Learn more here.