Milk run and express transport in practice
Dynamics versus strategy – the success story of L.Force
Milk run in logistics: definition
Milk run is a transport and logistics method that involves the regular collection of goods from multiple supplier points, ensuring efficient delivery to their destination – typically a factory or warehouse. The name originates from the traditional routes of milkmen, who would collect milk from multiple farms along their journey. This model is currently widely used in the automotive, manufacturing, and other industries where logistics efficiency is essential.
The milk run system optimises transport costs and enhances logistics efficiency by improving vehicle utilisation, reducing empty runs, and enabling better inventory management – but only when it is carefully planned and consistently executed.
Experienced practitioners share their insights on effectively managing milk run logistics, as well as the challenges of express transport and securing carriers for unconventional destinations: Łukasz Ujek and Łukasz Ziarniak, founders of L.Force (TIMOCOM ID 380741).
The example comes from the top – there is no brand without competence
L.Force was founded in 2015 as a result of cooperation between two TSL specialists, graduates of transport studies, who have been building their expertise in transport and forwarding since 2007, both nationally and internationally.
For a decade, the company has been delivering transport services, including express transport with vehicles up to 3.5 t GVM, which has become a key aspect of its operations. The company continues to expand its offerings and network of contacts in Poland, across the European Union, and beyond. The quality of L.Force services is validated by the following certifications: the PN-EN ISO 9001:2015 quality management system and professional road carrier competence.
“We believe that the example should come from the top, which is why we both hold Certificates of Professional Competence, and they are earned through our own efforts, not borrowed from someone we have never even met,” explains Łukasz Ziarniak. “Moreover, we have got a comprehensive OCS policy, extended with third-party liability insurance for the contractual carrier, selected based on genuine protection rather than cost savings.”
“We handle each and every order with reliability and professionalism, ensuring our clients can rely on us 24/7, from the beginning till the end,” declares Łukasz Ujek.
Delivering on these commitments is not an easy task – especially when two transport models define your reputation, demanding both swift responses to unforeseen challenges and unique customer requirements, as well as precise, strategic planning. We are talking about express transport and milk run logistics.
How can transport be efficiently organised and loads ordered swiftly?
Since its very beginning of its creation, L.Force has specialised in express transport for loads up to 1.1 t. Where did this idea come from?
“As with any natural growth, every company begins with small steps. That’s why we initially focused on transporting small shipments, using our only truck at the time, with a GVW of up to 3.5 t – reflecting the possibilities available then,” recalls Łukasz Ujek. “We’ve been handling this type of transport the longest, which naturally led to our specialisation.
Express transport is often requested at the last minute, demanding a high level of flexibility from both the forwarder and carrier. They must be able to swiftly calculate costs, plan efficiently, and respond rapidly to changing circumstances.”
“This type of orders usually covers forgotten and delayed loads, where plans changes dynamically, and that is the best way to describe the automotive industry, where we handle the majority of our transport operations,” reveals Łukasz Ziarniak. “The greatest challenge in critical transport is to stay calm and think clear in situations, where time is tight and the customer puts pressure.
Pressure is the middle name of transport. The founders of L.Force admit that, in practice, seemingly standard orders often present unexpected challenges.
“Transport is influenced by numerous factors that must be addressed in order to carry it out successfully. Truck breakdowns, driver availability, or unforeseen urgency of goods can all impact the delivery schedule.Many times we had to search for pallets carrying the most urgent parts so that we could reload them onto a smaller vehicle without a tachograph, and keep the transport moving – ensuring production remained uninterrupted,” adds Łukasz Ziarniak.
“When time is of the essence, we rely on TIMOCOM AI. The AI-powered freight adding function has greatly enhanced workflow efficiency within the Marketplace. Time is critical for us, and working under pressure is part of our daily routine. That’s why this tool plays a vital role in streamlining transport organisation,” says Łukasz Ujek.
What does a milk run look like in practice, and how can these transports be executed efficiently?
The ability to stay calm and think clearly, as mentioned above, is invaluable in transport – not just for express shipments, but across all logistics operations. L.Force also specialises in transport involving multiple loading and/or unloading points – commonly known as the milk run. How can the execution of such an order be properly organised? And what must always be front of mind?
“The challenges of milk run transport lie in complex route planning – balancing distances, collection point opening hours, and driver working time. A delay at any point can disrupt the entire route, requiring flexibility and coordination,” says Łukasz Ujek.
“Planning, consistency, and clear communication are vital in this model,” adds Łukasz Ziarniak. “Tools such as maps and route optimisation software help to identify the most efficient routes and reduce costs.”
Ultimately, a well-organised milk run pays off. The benefits include reduced costs through optimised route planning and enhanced organisation with a fixed schedule. As the founders of L.Force highlight, this model also supports environmental sustainability – fewer vehicles mean lower emissions.
New directions, new goals – the road ahead for L.Force
L.Force is committed to reinforcing its standing in the transport industry, continually enhancing service quality, optimising processes, and integrating cutting-edge technologies to boost operational efficiency and adaptability. The company is steadily expanding its range of services, with a strong focus on developing regular full-truckload transport of up to 24 tonnes.
“We build long-term cooperations with carefully selected entities, enabling us to expand our network and strengthen our operational capabilities,” explains Łukasz Ujek. “TIMOCOM Transport Exchange proves invaluable in this process, helping us find transport partners for cabotage routes in countries like Germany and Italy, as well as on less typical routes such as Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.”
A key pillar of L.Force’s growth strategy is the drive for greater independence. To achieve this, the company is actively seeking its own logistics and warehouse facilities, which will allow it to expand operations without relying on external logistics parks.
“We thrive on challenges and embrace them with confidence!” summarise the founders of L.Force.
