Freight Logistics Company: 5 Questions You Must Ask

Is your freight partner really working for you? As your business grows, so does your logistics needs. Ensuring your freight provider can deliver consistent, cost-effective, and responsive service across Queensland is critical to long-term success.

At ECFD, we get that every business has unique logistics needs—and sometimes it’s worth checking if your current freight provider is still ticking all the boxes. That’s why we’ve put together a simple checklist with five key questions to ask. Even better, we’ll show you exactly how we answer each one—with real value, local know-how, and a commitment to getting it right every time.

1. What does your network and coverage look like?

A dependable freight partner must have a robust, flexible network with coverage across your key regions. Ask whether their service spans metro, regional, and remote areas, and whether they provide local transport solutions that align with your business footprint.

Ask your provider:

• Do you operate in my required regions?
• Can you ensure delivery with consistency?
• Do you offer specialised or regional solutions?

Why ECFD? As a local freight logistics company in Queensland, we offer comprehensive coverage across Southeast Queensland, from Brisbane to Caboolture, Sunshine Coast, and the Gympie region—positioning us among the trusted freight companies on the Sunshine Coast. Our logistics network is built for responsiveness and reach. With mobile forklift transport, general freight delivery, permanent hire and regional transport solutions, we ensure your freight arrives securely and on time—no matter the location.

2. How much experience do you have with my type of cargo?

Different goods require different handling—from perishable items and bulky pallets to hazardous materials to fragile or oversized goods. Your freight provider should understand your cargo’s specific requirements and have processes in place to minimise risk and damage.

Why ECFD? With decades of transport expertise, our team handle a diverse range of freight, as well as offer specialised freight distribution services designed to minimise risk and maximise delivery performance.

3. What Services Do You Offer Beyond Basic Freight Transport?

Transport is just one part of the logistics puzzle. A modern logistics partner should offer value-added services like warehousing, permanent hire solutions, delivery tracking, and customer reporting. These services enhance your supply chain and offer long-term efficiency. Can your provider assist with:

• Inventory management?
• Long-term freight planning?
• Permanent hire transport arrangements?

Why ECFD? We offer more than just basic deliveries. Our freight services on the Sunshine Coast are enhanced by value-added logistics such as contracted hire, forklift-assisted transport, and secure freight handling—perfect for growing businesses seeking a reliable logistics partner. With tailored solutions like permanent hire transport, real-time tracking, and flexible delivery scheduling, we provide seamless support from local freight logistics in Brisbane to cost-effective freight delivery across Queensland, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every step.

4. What’s your customer service and communication approach?

Your logistics provider should be responsive, proactive, and easy to reach. Ask about communication channels, response times, and how they handle delivery changes, delays, or issues that arise unexpectedly.

Ask:

• Do I have a dedicated account manager?
• How quickly do you respond to issues?
• How transparent is your communication?

Why ECFD? Communication is at the heart of our operations. We assign dedicated account contacts, offers real-time visibility for all shipments, and guarantees swift response times to every inquiry. With ECFD, you’re never left guessing—we pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and transparency across every step of your freight journey.

5. Can you demonstrate results—through metrics, case studies, or references?

It’s one thing to promise results—it’s another to deliver. Your provider should track key metrics like on-time delivery, shipment cost efficiency, inventory accuracy, and contract adherence to prove they’re meeting expectations. Also, real-world feedback from customers and others in your industry can give you confidence.

Why ECFD? We have long-standing partnerships across Queensland. We don’t just talk performance—we measure it. ECFD tracks on-time delivery rates, inventory turnover, response times, and customer satisfaction as part of our commitment to continuous improvement. Our transparent reporting lets you see the value of every dollar spent. We also offer client case studies and testimonials that speak to our trusted freight solutions and long-term partnership value.

Bonus Freight Provider Performance Checklist!

To help you assess the performance of your current logistics partner, use the below points to compare your current logistics provider against industry best practice:

Why Businesses Are Switching to ECFD

As a trusted logistics partner, ECFD is built on a foundation of integrity, reliability, and exceptional service. Our vision is to become Australia’s leading provider of regional transport solutions, combining deep local knowledge with personalised care to deliver unmatched value.

We are driven by strong values—resilience, reliability, and a commitment to community. These guide us as we turn challenges into opportunities and build forward-thinking logistics that support long-term business growth.

Shaping the future of transport, ECFD uses smart systems and technology to enhance every step of the freight journey. From instant quotes and easy booking to 24/7 tracking, detailed reporting, and electronic PODs, our digital tools ensure a seamless, modern logistics experience.

Whether you’re reassessing your current provider or just getting started, contact East Coast Freight Distribution today and discover how Shelly Barber and her team’s vision for regional transport can support your growth with tailored logistics. Visit www.ecfd.com.au to learn more or contact us today.