Transportation
By prioritizing product supply close to Tractor Supply Distribution Centers and stores and maximizing every truckload, we have eliminated over six million shipping miles from the road over the last 24 months.
Since 2013, Tractor Supply has been a SmartWay Transport partner. SmartWay Transport is a public-private initiative between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, large and small trucking companies, rail carriers, logistics companies, commercial manufacturers, retailers and other federal and state agencies. Its purpose: to improve fuel efficiency and the environmental performance – reduction of both greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution – of supply chains.
During negotiations with carriers, the SmartWay relationship is discussed in depth and is a crucial factor when considering onboarding a carrier. We are proud to say that in reporting year 2021, 100% of Tractor Supply’s carriers were SmartWay carriers, compared to an average of 97% among our peers. Effective in 2022, it is a requirement that new carriers for Tractor Supply become SmartWay certified.
As a SmartWay partner, we have a direct link to other organizations and can manage our business by using those carriers. We also integrated the use of intermodal, or rail transportation, when appropriate, which has taken trucks off the road and reduced fuel use. Since 2018, Tractor Supply has been recognized as a SmartWay High Performer, based on the sustainable performance of our shipping and freight operations.
Improving transportation efficiency is an ongoing focus for Tractor Supply. While our partnerships and systems have significantly reduced diesel fuel consumption and pollution, we will continue to implement new practices to reduce our environmental impact as we serve customers across the country.