Transportation Review

A featured contribution from Leadership Perspectives, a curated forum for transportation and logistics leaders, nominated by our subscribers and vetted by the Transportation Review Editorial Board.

Triton International Limited

Jennifer Bosco, Transportation Manager, North America

Strengthening Transportation Operations through Trust, Efficiency and Adaptability

Jennifer Bosco

Jennifer Bosco

Relationship-Driven Logistics Management

Jennifer Bosco is a transportation professional with extensive experience in customer service and operations. She focuses on operational coordination, service delivery and supporting business efficiency within the global shipping and logistics industry.

Prioritizing Trust and Proactive Communication

My focus is to maintain strong relationships with the brokers and carriers in our network. We move our empty equipment on flatbeds and hotshots all over North America, either to our customer yards or to our storage locations. We work closely with our customers, confirming their timing and budgets so that we can use carriers who will be able to complete the shipments within the customers’ expectations. 

The transportation industry is always changing to accommodate things like fuel costs and CDL regulations, which affect capacity. These market changes can also affect our customers’ expectations. I believe trust and proactive communication are key. I am continuously evaluating our shipping lanes, especially the more frequent regional lanes and port locations, to find the most cost-effective and efficient ways to move our containers. It is important to stay focused on price, communication and operational efficiency.

Planning Ahead for Market Disruptions

For me, handling transportation across North America really comes down to planning, working well with others, and not relying on just one option. I have built a dependable network of brokers and local carriers. I keep a close eye on the market and always try to have a backup plan for things like bad weather, tight capacity or regulatory changes.

Technology helps, but clear communication with carriers and our internal teams is what really helps us adjust quickly when something comes up. Our internal teams need a clear understanding of current market conditions and emerging trends so they can anticipate and stay ahead of customer expectations. 

Building Vendor Relationships That Deliver Value

Trust and communication are the foundation of every strong relationship. I aim to be transparent, responsive and focused on solutions in every interaction with carriers, customers and colleagues. As an extrovert, I naturally enjoy connecting with people and building rapport. I maintain regular communication, set clear expectations and follow through on commitments.

When I bring on a new vendor, I emphasize three priorities: price, communication and reliability, though not necessarily in that order. I also take time to understand each stakeholder’s priorities. That understanding helps us collaborate effectively, solve problems together and build long-term partnerships that benefit everyone involved.

Adapting to Evolving Supply Chain Demands

I recently attended an industry conference at the end of September. Many of the sessions talked about automation, artificial intelligence, real-time visibility tools and sustainability initiatives. I think these trends will continue to grow year after year and play a big part in building stronger relationships with customers for faster and more efficient service across the board.

Companies that successfully combine technology with strong operational execution will be best positioned to adapt to changing market demands and supply chain complexities.

Advice for Transportation and Logistics Professionals

Be curious, stay adaptable and never stop learning. I am still learning every day. Transportation and logistics are fast-paced fields where problem-solving, relationship-building and attention to detail are essential. Take the time to understand the entire supply chain, learn from experienced professionals and embrace technology.

I have worked across different parts of the transportation and logistics industry, including customs brokerage, freight forwarding, steamship lines and equipment leasing. Throughout my career, I have continued asking questions and learning. The more you understand how different parts of the business connect, the more valuable you will become as a logistics professional. After all, logistics make the world go around.

The articles from these contributors are based on their personal expertise and viewpoints, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations.