Less than truckload freight is a mode of land transportation that uses semi-trucks for shipping. This method hauls more than one shipper’s freight collectively on the same trailer and is ideal for companies who need to ship anywhere from 1 to 6 pallets. Many companies can benefit from LTL shipping because it can help you save a significant amount of money as you will only pay for the amount of space you take up in the truck.
You will only be charged for the weight of the freight and the space it uses in the trailer, and you will also have flexibility because you will have options including pick-up and delivery, special handling and a lift gate.
If this is a shipping method you are interested in, the following tips will ensure a smooth delivery process, and you will be able to manage LTL freight costs effectively and efficiently:
1. Pay Attention To Correct Packaging Techniques
Most damaged freight is caused by incorrect packaging, and you need to use all of the correct packaging techniques to ensure your packages arrive in their original and intended condition. Shippers must realize LTL shipments are handled by many people in several different locations before reaching a final destination which is why it is a must that you use all of the right packaging supplies and procedures.
Taking the time to do this will help keep your shipments safe, and many carriers may even refuse to offer liability coverage for freight that is packaged incorrectly. Skimping on packaging supplies is never a good idea because the way your products arrive is a direct reflection of your reputation, and customers will not conduct business with your company if their products arrive damaged.
Determine the best packaging practices and invest in quality packaging supplies, as this will ensure your freight stays safe and sound.
2. Take Correct Measurements
It is very important that you are proactive with dimensions. An accurate measurement of dimensions is the most effective way to classify freight, and you need to take this step regardless of the products you are shipping or what their volume is. Inaccurate dimensions can cost you a lot more, and you will waste money paying for space you didn’t actually use. You may even have to pay unwanted reweigh and re-class fees, which can be avoided if you take the time to carefully measure and document those measurements.
3. Confirm Delivery Information
Do not assume that every customer’s requested delivery area is equipped to handle an LTL shipment because this is not always the case. Shippers must verify who they are shipping to and when they should expect the shipment, and it is your responsibility to double-check this information with your customers. It may be frustrating to do this for every shipment, but shippers can avoid reattempt hassles and additional paperwork by being proactive and double-checking the delivery address beforehand.
4. Make Sure You Have The Right Insurance Coverage
Loss, damage and delay of freight is always a possibility. These events are unpredictable and can hurt both your profits and your reputation. Limited liability coverage from the carrier is an option but is limited, and only a portion of the shipment will be covered. Additionally, the carrier will only be financially responsible for loss or damage IF it is proven to be attributable to carrier negligence. Carrier liability claims are often denied entirely.
If you want financial security and a lot fewer headaches, full-value cargo insurance is recommended, especially for LTL shippers because this cargo is at a greater risk because of increased freight handling. Make sure you have the right policy for your needs, and remember, it’s your reputation that is on the line.
5. Try To Automate Your Ltl Shipping Process
Paperwork is time-consuming and it can also be a big hassle and is a leading cause of shipping errors. When paperwork is not filled out correctly, it can lead to many problems, including shipping delays, lost revenue and extra charges.
The best way to minimize paperwork errors is to automate your documentation process, and you can consider quality transportation management systems to help with this process. Documentation does not have to be stressful, and this change can make the process easy, fast and efficient. It is possible to streamline your booking process, and you can look into automatically generating your Bill of Lading. Shipping documents can be shared with the click of a button, and you can use technology to your advantage.
The shipping automation process is not limited to just document creation and can be used for the entire shipping process, including quoting, tracking and analyzing your shipments. This will allow you to focus on other important areas of your business as you will have more time when you are not busy filling out paperwork.
Conclusion
Are you interested in a smoother, faster and more cost-effective shipping process? LTL shipping may be the perfect solution, and Lot Logistics can provide you with more information. We specialize in LTL freight and offer our customers shipping solutions that work! We will accommodate your needs and are always available to answer questions regarding the different shipping methods we offer.
We will further discuss the many benefits of LTL shipping and will deliver your cargo to their destinations faster and more efficiently. We are an LTL carrier and will make sure your products arrive at their final destination in good condition. LTL shipping is perfect for cargo that can be palletized and sent together but does not require a full trailer and provides a solution for shipments of varying sizes and weights, making it ideal for freight that is too large for a package but too small for a full truckload.
Our team will provide you with quicker delivery times, affordable transportation costs, safe shipping and multiple shipping options and you can contact us at any time to learn more about the benefits you will get when you choose LTL shipping!
