Choosing the right freight transportation service is crucial for every business that relies on getting their product to distributors or the consumer. There are huge discrepancies when comparing these services because companies tend to specialize as demand changes and shipping windows increasingly tighten. While the cost is certainly a driving factor for many companies, manufacturers need to also consider the specific shipping criteria necessary to successfully get their goods to market.
Know Which Transportation Services are Important for Your Goods
Every shipment has its own nuances. You may have to meet government regulations when shipping your goods or you may have other shipping criteria that need to be addressed. You should make a checklist to ensure that the freight transportation services you are comparing can meet all your special transport requirements. These may include handling instructions, temperature control and monitoring, expedited shipping, security, warehousing, and tracking. When you request your quote from each of the service providers make sure you have documented all your special needs. Many service providers have to ability to supply you with online quotes very quickly.
Choose the Best Type of Transportation for your Freight
There are many ways to get something delivered from point A to point B. The best and cheapest way to do this will depend on the size, special handling requirements, special licenses required (for instance in the handling of chemicals or hazardous materials), weight and shape of the freight, and speed of delivery. For example, you may choose between a Full or Less than Full Load (LTL) method of transporting your goods due to the size and amount of your freight, the number of times it may be handled, or the nature of your freight. One may be significantly better in terms of cost savings or successful delivery.
Understand that you will Likely Pay More for Special Attention During Shipping
When your shipment requires special attention with fragile products or products that can spoil, explode or pollute, your freight transport service may be required to use special equipment, add additional staff or secure a special license, which will impact your bottom line.
Do Your Due Diligence and Research your Freight Transportation Service
Check the carrier’s online reviews and their Glassdoor page to make sure they have happy employees. Carefully read what others have to say about the service provided and the success of their shipments. If you want responsive, fast turnaround and personal attention, the first impression the company makes when they provide you their quote is a good reference point.
Don’t let choosing your freight transport services become complicated. With forethought defining your requirements, online quoting and careful research you can easily narrow down your search for the perfect freight transport service. If you are on the East Coast of the US, you should consider East Coast Transport.
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