Whether you are a small business shipping products locally or a large corporation sending bulk shipments across the globe today, the role of shipping services is far more essential for businesses than it has been ever before.
The most popular option for shipping freight is through trucks, but unfortunately, many businesses are still unaware of the correct practices to ship trucking freight. Therefore, we have come up with this guide to help you understand the basics of freight trucking shipping services and provide you with industry insights into the process.
Let’s get started to streamline your shipping process and optimize cost and productivity
How to ship trucking freight?
1. Choosing a transportation mode
Choosing the right mode of shipping depends on what you’re sending, how long it will take to arrive, and what is your budget. To make it the best choice start by finding out where your shipment is coming from, where it’s going, and specific details such as cargo volume, weight, fragility, etc. Because each option has its own advantages so knowing your priorities will help you decide.
Rail and road transport offer flexibility, especially for shorter distances or when connecting different modes. When you choose road transport you also have further options including:
- Less than truckload (LTL)
- Full truckload (FTL)
- Partial truckload
- Intermodal
- Expedited freight
2. Preparing shipping documents
After you have selected the right mode of transportation, the next step is the preparation of shipping documents. This will take a little bit of time but ensures smooth and efficient freight shipping that complies with regulations.
Here is a list of the essential shipping documents shippers might need when shipping freight:
- Bill of Lading (B/L)
- Commercial Invoice
- Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI)
- Electronic Export Information (EEI)
- Certificate of Origin
- Hazardous Materials/ Dangerous Goods (HAZMAT)
3. Freight packaging
Strong and protective freight packaging is essential to ensure your goods arrive safely and on time and keep your customers happy. However, packaging requirements can vary depending on the size, weight, and fragility of the goods shipped as well as how they’ll be transported.
Here’s a quick look at some common packaging options:
Boxes & cartons: Made up from cardboard, wood, and plastic and best for smaller items.
Pallets: Made up of wood or plastic they are strong and good for large or heavy shipments.
Crates or cases: Often made up of wood, they are best for delicate or high-value items like machinery or artwork.
Drums or barrels: Made up of steel, plastic, or fiberboard they are best for liquid products
Shipping containers: Made up of metal and perfect for large shipments, especially going by rail or sea.
4. Calculating freight costs
Calculating the cost of freight trucking shipping services can be complicated. However, knowing the key factors makes understanding and planning much easier.
Here are some key elements that affect the cost.
Weight and size: Heavier or larger shipments require extra handling and fuel which will cost more to ship.
Freight class: For smaller loads, known as Less than Truckload (LTL) shipments, this is a classification that helps determine shipping rates based on things like size, how easily it can be stacked, and whether it needs extra care.
Speed: Expedited shipping is more expensive. So planning ahead can save you money if your schedule allows.
Distance: Shipping far away distances is costly because of more fuel and handling cost
Seasonal factors: Try to plan ahead to manage the effect of seasonal fluctuations like weather issues, Christmas, and others on freight trucking shipping services costs.
5. Insuring freight
Insuring shipment against loss or damage is important to protect shipping businesses from unforeseen circumstances. Freight and carrier liability insurance covers several shipping needs, but does not cover concealed damages or losses due to inadequate packing. Insurance can give shippers peace of mind and financial security in the event of a mishap.
6. Freight pick up
Plan your freight pickup ahead to ensure smooth delivery of your shipment.
Here are some tips:
- Try to book your pickup in advance to avoid last-minute hassle.
- Always do research and compare quotes from different carriers, then choose one that matches your budget and needs.
- Always provide accurate information like weight, dimensions, or any other special handling to avoid delays and extra fees.
- Let the carrier know beforehand of any loading or unloading requirements.
- Consider factors like the carrier’s service areas, network coverage, and reliability, pricing, transportation modes offered, technology capabilities, cargo handling capabilities, and any special requirements for your shipments.
- Online ratings and reviews can also help you make an informed decision when selecting a carrier for your shipments.
7. Tracking freight
Throughout the process of freight shipping, it’s important to stay aware of where the freight is at all times before delivery. Visibility into freight movement helps improve operational efficiency, enabling shippers to reroute shipments, ensure documents are in order, and check up on freight status. Look for freight trucking shipping services that offer real-time freight tracking and visibility solutions so that you can stay on top of your transportation game.
8. Clearing customs
Shipments crossing international borders are required to navigate customs. This involves ensuring that all documentation is in order and that any tariffs or duties are paid. Delays in customs clearance can lead to significant hold-ups, so it’s important to have all paperwork correctly filled out and submitted. Your shipment only has to clear customs in the country of its final destination.
JJT freight trucking shipping services
Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, they have solutions that you can tailor to your business’s freight shipping needs. Their unique combination of expert-led partnerships, leveraging technology, and a strong network delivers efficient logistics across the supply chain.
Connect with one of their experts to learn how they can help you make the most of your logistics and transportation operations.
