Auto Hauler Exchange founder and CEO, Royce Neubauer, recently shared insights on a Car Dealership Guy podcast into how we are transforming vehicle shipping, addressing challenges, and adapting to industry trends.
Watch the full interview below, or continue reading for an overview of the conversation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHTXyDVm8Gk
The Power of Market Dynamics
Auto Hauler Exchange enables shippers to receive cars much faster than the traditional broker model. This is because of our shipper direct pricing strategies that can significantly impact vehicle shipping speeds. Royce explained that when dealers market their vehicles at higher prices, carriers are more likely to respond quickly due to the increased potential for profit. Conversely, vehicles marketed at lower prices tend to linger longer in The Exchange. The Auto Hauler Exchange system is designed to adjust pricing dynamically, raising it incrementally to enhance efficiency for carriers and cost savings for shippers.
When onboarding shippers, the Auto Hauler Exchange ensures that all logistical details are preloaded into the system, minimizing mistakes and reducing the need for constant communication. Once established, consistent shipping lanes facilitate a smoother experience, allowing drivers to become familiar with specific protocols.
Current Market Trends
The conversation shifted to current shipping rates amidst economic fluctuations. While rates are seeing a slight uptick, Royce noted that this is primarily driven by supply and demand dynamics. As OEMs ramp up production, there's a corresponding increase in shipping volume. Seasonal trends also play a significant role, as fluctuations can lead to varying shipping costs based on time of year and regional demand.
Carrier Advantages
Royce explained why carriers prefer working with the Auto Hauler Exchange. By providing direct access to shippers, carriers no longer need to rely on brokers, which streamlines the process and allows them greater control over their operations. With over 3,500 carriers signed up (at the time of the recording), the platform fosters trust and direct communication between shippers and carriers, enhancing operational efficiency.
The Rise of Direct-to-Consumer Shipping
An emerging trend is the increase in direct-to-consumer shipping. As consumer behavior shifts towards convenience, the Auto Hauler Exchange has seen a rise in individuals seeking to ship their vehicles directly. Royce believes this trend will continue, especially as the platform develops tools to simplify the process for consumers.
The Impact of Electric Vehicles
Royce shared an interesting insight regarding the shipping of electric vehicles (EVs). Due to the substantial weight of EV batteries, fewer vehicles can be transported at once, leading to increased demand for shipping trucks. This logistical challenge adds another layer to the evolving landscape of vehicle shipping, particularly as more dealerships shift towards acquiring EVs, largely driven by tax incentives making them more affordable for consumers.
Looking Ahead
As for the future of the Auto Hauler Exchange, Royce expressed a commitment to problem-solving and continuous improvement. The team is focused on developing intuitive technology that will make the shipping process more efficient and appealing to both shippers and carriers. With the ongoing retirement of experienced drivers and a declining workforce, enhancing the driver experience is critical.
Royce’s insights shed light on the innovative approaches being adopted by the Auto Hauler Exchange to tackle the complexities of vehicle logistics. As the industry continues to evolve, the emphasis on technology, communication, and adaptability will be crucial for success.
