PODCAST: Economies of Scope Not Scale: A Conversation with Dr. Chris Caplice

Welcome back to More Than a Broker.

In this conversation, Spot Co-founder Andrew Elsener and Dr. Chris Caplice, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Transportation & Logistics and Chief Scientist at DAT Solutions, discuss the evolution of freight transportation, the importance of optimization in RFPs, and the dynamics of market visibility.

Chris shares insights from his unique journey from civil engineering to transportation, emphasizing the significance of consistency over volume in freight management. They explore the challenges of dynamic quoting, the efficacy of routing guides, and the impact of market volatility on shipping strategies.

The pair discuss the evolving landscape of freight management, emphasizing the shift towards dynamic solutions and the importance of relationships in transportation. They explore market trends and predictions for 2025, highlighting the impact of technology and education in supply chain management.

Andrew and Chris also discuss the industry’s challenges and innovations, particularly the pandemic’s effects on market dynamics.

About Dr. Chris Caplice

Dr. Caplice is the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Center for Transportation & Logistics (CTL), where he is responsible for planning and managing the center’s research, education, and corporate outreach programs. He created and currently serves as Director of the MITx MicroMaster’s Program in Supply Chain Management, the very first MicroMasters credential ever offered.He is also the founder of the MIT FreightLab – a research initiative that focuses on improving the way freight transportation is designed, procured, and managed. In addition to his work at MIT, Dr. Caplice is currently the Chief Scientist for DAT Freight & Analytics. He leads the development and deployment of innovations and insights into the transportation industry, including the monthly FMIC Pulse Signal Report and the bi-weekly Freightvine Podcasts.

Chris received a Ph.D. from MIT in 1996 in Transportation and Logistics Systems. His dissertation was on Optimization-Based Bidding for Transportation.

Prior to receiving his PhD, Dr. Caplice taught at the Virginia Military Institute for two years and served five years in the Army Corps of Engineers, achieving the rank of Captain. In addition to his PhD, he earned a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Virginia Military Institute (VMI).

10 Reasons to Listen

• Chris’s journey into transportation was not straightforward.
• The concept of supply chain was not recognized when Chris graduated.
• Optimization plays a crucial role in freight transportation.
• Dynamic pricing can help shippers manage costs effectively.
• Consistency in volume is more important than sheer volume.
• RFPs are still essential for securing contracts in transportation.
• Dynamic rates are becoming essential in freight management.
• Relationships in transportation are now more about problem-solving than socializing.
• Market cycles are returning to a more predictable pattern post-pandemic.
• Technology has empowered drivers significantly compared to the past.