In our previous article, we explored why the traditional once-a-year RFQ model is losing effectiveness in today’s volatile bulk transportation market. We discussed how annual bids often become outdated within months, how carriers may struggle to honor fixed rates when market conditions shift, and why smarter shippers in 2026 are moving toward shorter bid cycles, performance scorecards, real-time data, and relationship-based procurement. The takeaway: RFQs still matter — but only as part of a more flexible, continuous sourcing strategy.
Now, let’s look at 10 things shippers should be doing after the RFQ is complete.
1. Turn Your RFQ Into a Living Document
Every January, many bulk shippers issue RFQs to establish a baseline for rates and capacity. But in 2026, an RFQ is simply the starting point.
Treat it as a living, evolving framework rather than a fixed 12-month contract.
2. Review quarterly
Even without running quarterly mini-bids, shippers should:
- Reassess awarded lanes
- Compare contracted vs. live-market rates
- Track transportation partner tender acceptance
- Identify capacity risks early
Staying proactive keeps service disruptions from becoming budget breakers.
3. Flag outlier lanes
Recurring underperformance or limited carrier interest signals that a lane may require:
- Re-bidding
- A dedicated solution
- Or shifting to a 3PL like Bulk Connection with a national network for broader coverage
4. Strengthen Carrier & 3PL Relationships Every Month
In bulk transportation, relationships matter as much as rates — especially if we have a year marked by rising driver costs, insurance pressures, and hazmat equipment shortages.
5. Improve communication
Share upcoming changes in demand, shutdowns, new products, or tank wash requirements. Your transportation partner(s) perform more effectively when they can plan better.
6. Use mutual scorecards
Two-way transparency improves accountability and strengthens trust.
7. Lean on your 3PL for real-time insights
Bulk Connection talks to hundreds of carriers weekly, giving you visibility into:
- Regional capacity
- Wash constraints
- Rate trends
- Equipment pockets
This intelligence is often more valuable than bid pricing itself.
8. Monitor Key Market Indicators — Not Just Rates
Many shippers stop watching the market after the RFQ. In 2026, that’s a risk. Keep an eye on:
- Diesel and fuel surcharge trends
- Insurance rates and driver turnover
- Tank wash availability and delays
- Regional hotspot volatility
A 3PL offering continuous market intelligence can help shippers adapt before challenges hit.
9. Build a Mid-Year Procurement Safety Valve
Even well-crafted RFQs need mid-cycle support.
Create a built-in “pressure release” plan that includes:
- Backup partners
- Pre-arranged surge pricing
- Thresholds for re-bidding lanes
- Monthly or quarterly check-ins with Bulk Connection
This gives you the flexibility to adjust without restarting the entire RFQ process.
10. Leverage Your 3PL to Turn Intelligence Into Action
Bulk Connection provides far more than load coverage. Between RFQs, Bulk Connection helps shippers:
- Source the right specialized carriers from one of the largest networks of bulk transportation providers in North America
- Identify equipment, or compatibility issues early
- Respond to market swings quickly
- Keep freight moving even when one lane’s capacity tightens
- Handle emergency projects like rail interruptions
Bottom Line: Winning 2026 Will Happen Between the Bids
Issuing an RFQ sets the strategy — but your actions between RFQs determine whether that strategy succeeds.
The bulk shippers who excel in 2026 will follow most if not all of the above guidelines. By turning procurement into a continuous cycle, you protect both service levels and transportation spend — all year long.
Contact Bulk Connection today to put our experience to work for you in 2026 and beyond.
