Do you ever wonder why some freight trucking companies are profitable? It takes more than knowing how to choose a good route or having the best drivers who know a trick or two about making prompt deliveries. The trucking business is incredibly competitive, and aside from having the right equipment for your company, the smart way to run such a business is to use load boards because they are not only extremely competitive, but it’s also the one way to get quality customers.

Individuals that operate freight trucking companies also know the importance of keeping on top of their expenses in the way of maintenance, truck repairs, truck and trailer payments, fuel, and the cost of their work. Therefore, they must be able to bid low enough to be competitive, but high enough to be profitable and remain relevant in their line of work.

It can be challenging to compete for jobs against other lower-biding freight trucking companies and still keep estimates at a reasonable rate. Low bids can mean anything from shipping delays, safety violations, low-quality products, all which can affect the profitability and reputation of freight trucking companies. With costs like fuel increasing every other minute, expenses can get ahead of revenues, and FTL trucking companies must always look for innovative ways to improve their cash flow to prevent issues like running out of cash-flow or the inability to pull loads until clients start paying.

Choosing low bids may prevent competitors from stealing your customers for some time, and it may also be beneficial, especially for a novice contractor that needs to build their client base, but lower bids can also tell a client a lot about how you are likely to perform and deliver in the long-term. A client may see it as your way of short-changing them in the future should the need arise where you can deliver on your promises. The lowest bids could also mean that customers don’t get additional services when they need them such as on-going support or after-sale services.

The FTL trucking business runs on efficiency and customers need to know that freight trucking companies will always deliver their goods, regardless of the bid (high or low) even in the worst of time. Therefore, bids should be just right in order to prevent the costs of deadhead miles outweighing profits.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

Your products need to get to their destination and unless you have your own trucks or shipping company, you’re most likely going to use a third-party freight company. With so many out there these days, finding the right one can be overwhelming and frustrating. You want to make sure that you choose the right freight transport company to handle your goods with care and get them to their destination on time. In order to help you with your search, here are some tips on how to choose the right freight company for the job:

Understanding the Freight Services, You Need

In order to find the right freight company, you’ll have to first understand what sort of freight services are needed in order to choose the one that best fits in with your needs. You’ll have to determine your transportation preference, if you’ll need and specific services and all the details of what you plan to ship before you contact a company. Put together a list of things you want like time frame, speed delivery, special packaging and more so that you’re clear on your needs.

Take Time to Research the Industry

By doing a bit of research on the freight services industry, you’ll be able to understand better what a freight transportation company will and won’t do for you. The research will help you understand various industry terms and regulations that will impact your choice of what company to go with.

Trust Your Gut to Go with Experience

When looking for freight services, you’ll want to go with a company that not only offers a great price, but also has years of experience in the industry. When a company has experience, they know how to handle packages and what it means to provide excellent customer service since they’ve been doing it for so long. If you can, get references to help you make your decision based on what others have said or experienced with that company.

Look for Great Customer Service

The right freight company is the one that will provide the best customers service. You want to make sure the company will communicate well with your about the service from the day they get your goods to the day they deliver them.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

When it comes to growing your business, it is important to work with a company that offers complete and reliable freight services.  Your success comes from a number of elements working together throughout your business most of which rely on the support of a consistent logistics provider.  Reliable transportation services are used to keep the flow of products coming and going in an efficient manner.  This is done by finding a logistics partner that offers an approach to your freight distribution that is strategic to your business’s needs.

Key parameters to evaluate freight partners:

• Logistic support that aligns with your time and budget constraints: Logistic partners must understand that each company has individual requirements in regards to their unique time limitations and regulated budget. Different levels within your company may have differing needs when it comes to time and budgets, so it is important that the logistics support received adjust with each unique layer of your business as needed.

• Logistic support that offers one unified system for your freight transportation needs: When logistic support comes from one complete system there are fewer hassles and less costs associated with service. It allows employees to be trained and rely on one platform thus avoiding unnecessary training and outside support services.

• Logistic support that provides automated processes for your specific company: Not all logistic support services can be automated however when services can be they should be.  Automated services allow for more efficient and quicker results.

• Logistic support that is trackable through a single dashboard: Logistics that can be controlled and tracked through one platform helps to create a sound system. One reliable point of access for logistics allows for a perfect flow of service.

• Logistic support that handles your freight management challenges: When challenges arise, you want a logistic team that can handle the complications and create solutions that are optimized for results.

• Logistic support that performs even during peak periods: It should not matter when services are needed your logistic support team should perform as expected every time. Whether it is during a period of slow operations or peak plus logistics support should allow you to flawlessly operate.

• Logistic support that helps you stay ahead of competitors: If logistics support providers are working to grow their technology and business delivery then they won’t be able to do this for you. Growth within their operations will transfer to you which allows you to stay one step ahead of your competition.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

For businesses that ship out products throughout the nation it is important to know the differences between LTL and FTL freight shipping options. It is obviously important for businesses to save as much money as possible on shipping costs for products, but this is especially true if you want to save money on large shipments that weigh more than 100 pounds.

Your best two options in shipping large orders are Less Than Truckload Shipping (LTL) and Full Truckload Shipping (FTL).  It not only makes sense to look for an affordable trucking company to ship your products it is crucial to work with companies that offer personal customer service, on-time shipments, and guarantees that your products are delivered as intended.

Consider the following differences in shipping LTL and FTL in order to make an informed decision for your company’s products.

Full Truckload Shipping

One of two things are possible when you hire a full truckload:

• You have a shipment that will fill an entire truck.
• You have a shipment that will not fill the whole truck, but you want a truck dedicated to only your shipment.

Most business’s that choose FTL freight shipping do so because they are shipping more than ten pallets, any which are considered high-risk packages.  This option is also plausible if you are short on time to have your shipment delivered.  FTL is a faster shipping option than LTL.  Full truckload shipping usually costs more than less than truckload shipping mainly because it will get your shipment to where ever it needs to be much faster.

Less Than Truckload Shipping

Unlike FTL, LTL shipping is when you share one truck with multiple other customers. It’s a more budget-friendly option for companies who are shipping average or stable products. The cost of the transportation for the goods is shared with all the companies using the third-party logistics company and their freight truck.

Companies only pay for how much space their product is taking up and how far it takes to get their products to their final destination. But since the freight shipping truck will make multiple stops, it’ll take longer to ship your product.  Shipments that range from 100 pounds to 10,000 pounds can be shipped using this method, while those higher than 10,000 FTL will be the viable option.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

In order to get the best value for your money while receiving and sending your shipments on time and in the best condition possible you need to find a suitable freight carrier.  Your shipments are worth a great deal to you and need to be handled with the utmost care.  Shipments need to be received on time and in perfect condition to maintain your business’s reputation within the industry.  There are 5 critical elements that need to be considered when looking to find the most suitable carrier for your shipments.  Let’s explore this in a bit more detail.

• Safety of Your Shipment

When looking into available shippers it is reasonable to expect that anyone in the race for your business is fully licensed and insured.  As a business owner it is your responsibility to only consider a freight company that insures your shipment and offers compensation in case of causalities that occur along the way before shipments have reached their preferred destinations.

• The Type of Shipment

Take a look into the type and volume of your shipments.  This will allow you to identify the most suitable freight companies to handle your shipments.  Often times, business owners decide to work with a freight broker who will handle the detail of finding a freight company for you.  However, if this is not an option or you prefer to keep the logistics of your company in house look for a freight carrier that has a record of transporting goods that match yours and your area of trade.  Some freight carriers and trucking companies offer diverse services while other specialize in one shipment type. The same is true for service areas; while some companies service the entire US and global shipments others stick to specific regions, such as the Midwest.

• Shipping Areas

As previously mentioned there are companies that only ship regionally.  Obviously, this element is crucial.  It is important that you consider freight carriers that serves your region.  Consider working with a company that offers freight services from your preferred destination to your nearest local terminal for purposes of convenience and accessibility of your shipment. You can use this company for future projects.

• Regular Shipment

If you are having weekly or monthly regular shipments, you need to identify a freight carrier that can handle your regular loads and deliver your shipment right on time, right where you want them to depend on the nature of your business.

• Market Rates

Before paying for the services, you need to know whether you will get value for your money. Expensive is not always the best. Finding a freight carrier that offers top quality services at the most reasonable rates is most important for your business.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

The cost of transporting commodities from one place to another is affected by various factors.  Freight charges may vary from one destination to another but there are standard issues that influence shipping rates on a global level.  These include:

Mode of Transport:  This allows business owners to choose the right means of transportation depending on the size, perishability, and the fragile state of the cargo.  Large shipments require spacious cabins and well-equipped freight vehicles.  Some goods are too delicate to fit all in one truck, hence the option of cargo trains in transportation.  If you are transporting perishable items through the air, the cost will be higher than opting for a truck equipped with preservatives.  Water transportation takes longer and carries heavy equipment; therefore, freight rates differ according to the amount or the number of items in question.

Weight: The less than truckload shipping (LTL) rates are set in a manner that favors the heaviest loads.  According to carriers, LTL costs less per a hundred pounds for heavy cargo, but freight charges are distributed using the various weight groups set aside for all shipments.   On that account, more weight means high freight rates and vice versa.  For supply chains, full truckload (FTL) is cost effective and fast.  Their freight rates follow the same rules as the LTL, but the latter makes fewer or no stops.

Distance and Time: Shipping companies charge less while delivering within their geographical location, but they sometimes tend to receive items for clients beyond their reach.  Instead of returning the cargo, they transfer it to the nearest LTL carrier who in turn charges more for the final delivery.  Basically, the longer the distance, the higher the price.  Just in time (JIT) deliveries are charged more due to the urgency of the products in question.  Most carriers have a specific time assigned for transportation.  On that note, it will cost more to adjust the company’s schedule or ensure fast delivery.

Density and Classification of Freight: To determine density, shippers take the total weight of the cargo and divide it by mass. Also, include detailed information about the package’s physical appearance (i.e., protrusions or overhangs). The denser a shipment is, the lower the charges and the lighter it is, the higher the price. How so? The LTL freight rates are classified according to the various classes (ranging from 50-500) established by the NMFTA (National Motor Traffic Association). They fall into lower and higher-class levels. The former represents freights that are dense and easy to handle while the latter covers the light and fragile shipments.

Other factors include:

• Extra services given by carriers beyond their usual routes, drop off points, or docks involve making deliveries inside a prison, jail, school or church. Adding another extra mile to their schedule means more fuel hence higher freight rates.
• Negotiations can be carried out between a carrier and a client in cases where the shipment falls into the lower and higher class. Vendors transporting multiple commodities seek the Freight All Kinds (FAK) rates because the rates are cheaper despite the shipment’s weight.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

Logistics encompasses a combination of production and the delivery of a product or service to ensure efficient and effective management of various warehouse and distribution companies. Logistics management matters because it controls the flow of supplies to match the needs of the manufacturer with the schedule of sales to customers. It also coordinates the flow of information in terms of delivering feedback about sales, financing, and the delivery of product from various suppliers.

Trucking, on the other hand, involves the research and planning of trucking operations and considers all the factors involved in the transportation of goods by trucking companies with the goal of maximizing productivity and efficiency. In trucking logistics, distribution companies analyze trucking routes to improve efficiency through the reduction of delivery times including putting into consideration the type of load being transported to determine the best shipping method of goods.

Depending on what you want to transport and where you have the following services to choose from:

Just-in-Time Truckload (JIT)

This freight forwarding service specializes in the transportation of oversized goods on flatbeds, multi-axle trailers, or step decks. The Just in time truckload services includes same day land delivery in a local area or air freight services that can either be same day or next day. JIT transportation services are location-specific to ensure that a client’s shipment arrives at its destination on time, hence reducing storage and inventory cost while allowing customers to track their products in transit.  3pls prefer the Just in time truckload method because there are minimal inventory levels, which makes it cost effective as it minimizes the number of consignments a client can hold at a time. The turnaround of stock is equally fast, which also minimizes the risks of damaged or stolen goods.

Full Truckload Shipping (FTL)

Full truckload shipping is a cost-effective and practical solution for any large domestic shipment especially for time-sensitive, delicate or high-risk freight because the goods stay in the same truck during the entire journey. Full truckload shipping is a faster and safer method of transportation where companies dedicate an entire truck to a single client, regardless of the weight or size of the shipment. There are no stopovers, and the goods are not handled en route until they reach their destination. This minimizes the chances of mishandling or damaging the consignment.

Less Than Truckload shipping (LTL)

This shipping solution has several advantages as well as disadvantage. Less than truckload is cost-effective because clients only pay for the space they use rather than paying for the entire trailer as they would with FTL. The downsides are, shipments are handled several times through the duration of transit and often change trailers several times before reaching the destination. As a result, shipping companies must spend additional resources on the packaging of a product to minimize the potential for damages. Consignments in the Less than truckload method also does not come with guaranteed delivery unless requested, which increases shipment costs.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

Truckload shipping is the movement of large amounts of homogeneous cargo, generally the amount necessary to fill an entire semi-trailer or intermodal container. A truckload carrier is a trucking company that generally contracts an entire trailer-load to a single customer. This is as opposed to a less-than truckload (LTL) company that generally mixes freight from several customers in each trailer. One advantage Full Truckload (FTL) carriers have over Less than Truckload carriers is that the freight is never handled en route, whereas an LTL shipment will typically be transported on several different trailers.

Understanding the differences between full truckload shipping and less-than-truckload shipping is important for businesses looking to improve their bottom line. Knowing when to use each type of shipping method is beneficial for both cost savings and improved shipping efficiencies.

What is the Difference Between Full Truckload and Less Than Truckload Shipping?

Simply put, full truckload shipping is primarily used when companies have enough goods to fill an entire truck whereas less-than-truckload shipping is used when companies do not have enough items to fill a truck. There are some exceptions to this. Larger companies will sometimes prefer to use a dedicated truck even though they may not have enough items to fill it. With dedicated trucks, the shipped items remain in the truck from the point of origin to the point of destination which is beneficial for both security and safety measures. Unlike full truckload shipments that move goods on a dedicated truck, less-than-truckload shipments consolidate shipments from multiple companies.

When Should Less Than Truckload Shipping Be Used?

Less-than-truckload shipping is ideal for smaller businesses that are not shipping enough items to fill an entire truckload. By using a partner network, goods can be consolidated with shipments from other companies to reduce overall costs. Although less-than-truckload shipping is not as fast as full truckload shipping, the cost savings usually outweigh the expedited transit times.

When Should Full Truckload Shipping Be Used?

Companies should use full truckload shipping when the shipment is large enough to fill the entire truck or when the cost of the items being shipped is far greater than the cost of using a dedicated truck. Full truckload shipping is usually faster and should be used for companies that require expedited shipping or are under strict time constraints. In addition to full truck truckload shipping being significantly faster, there is also less risk involved when using a dedicated shipment truck.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.

Many businesses require a freight service to carry and transport their goods. Since freight transport helps moving around materials in both large and small quantities, it is the preferred method of transportation for several different types of businesses. However, freight shipping itself is a very diverse method of transport. There are a few ways to handle freight shipping. Finding the best shipping service for you depends on several factors, including the dimensions and size of the transport, and its efficiency. You also need to be mindful of how quick the service is since no business wants its goods or supplies to be delayed. The following are the best freight shipping options for your business:

Full Truckload Shipping (FTL)

Full truckload shipping refers to the practice of loading huge cargo in freight trailers, to the extent that the entire semi-trailer is filled entirely. It really lives up to its name, with around 15,000 pounds of storage normally utilized in this freight shipping method. If your business requires moving huge amounts of cargo on a regular basis, full truckload shipping (FTL) is the way to go. Utilizing FTL will help you get better freight costs, better insurance, and greater protection, while moving huge amounts of cargo. FTL is the best shipping method for large manufacturers.

Less than Truckload freight shipping (LTL)

If your business entails moving goods more than an amount weighing 150 pounds and does not require and entire trailer, less than truckload shipping (LTL) is the best shipping method for you. LTL’s often carry a mix of different companies’ goods and travel at far greater speeds. Therefore, they are faster than FTLs and make sure that your goods are transported as quickly as possible with the least bit of hassle. LTLs also service a number of different businesses, from the very small to the very large. If you want your goods to be transported as quickly as possible and don’t need the entire truck, use less than truckload freight shipping (LTL).

Just in Time truckload freight shipping

Just in time truckload (JIT) is the best way of ensuring that your goods arrive at the right time as quick as possible. They are smaller than LTLs and FTLs and naturally carry less goods than both. However, with just in time truckload (JIT) shipping, you can ship appropriate items at a set time and be sure that the goods will be delivered on time. With its closed inventory and quick delivery service, JIT is the best freight shipping method for small businesses looking to reach their customers as quickly as possible.

The freight shipping method you choose depends on your own understanding of your business’ needs and then judging which shipping method suits you the best. It is essential to select the appropriate freight shipping method since the shipping plays a big part in your customer dealings and refilling stock.

Learn more about Matrix Transportation and the transportation services they offer including: dedicated truckloads, JIT truckloads, less than truckload (LTL), same day expedited FTL and LTL, full truckload, warehousing, cross-docking, and trailer rentals at www.matrixtransportation.com  To contact one of our trucking experts call toll free 888.896.2405 today.