Getting the Most Bang Out of Your Transportation Buck

In this economy, everyone is looking to save a buck. Cutting costs is no different for shipping freight to the local grocery store. Ultimately, the more a load costs to ship, the more the consumer pays for the product. Below are a few tips that can reduce shipping costs and shipping stress!

1. Know Your Product

Often, shippers have limited knowledge of the product they are shipping. The more information you can provide when scheduling a shipment, the quicker and easier it is for TransCorr to provide an accurate and competitive rate. You should always know the commodity, weight and skid count.

If there are special details regarding your freight, we need to know! Scale tickets, blind shipments, special insurance requirements, and other information can often increase shipping costs.

2. Plan for a Lead Time

Generally, the earlier a load is scheduled, the cheaper the cost. Most transportation companies will add extra charges for expedited shipments, weekend deliveries, or short lead time.

If a load is time-sensitive, let us know and we’ll be sure to make the appropriate arrangements for scheduled status updates.

3. Be Aware of the Market

Rates often fluctuate due to fuel prices, seasonality and capacity.

• National Diesel Prices- Fuel rates always affect pricing. It helps to use a fuel scale and add a fuel surcharge to every load. Breaking out charges gives a better idea of where your money is being spent.
• Seasonality- Be aware that rates may vary drastically depending on the lane and season. During the produce season, a load that is shipping from the south will be much more expensive than shipping in November.
• Capacity- Rates are always affected by where trucks are located and where there is freight. Because of a fluctuating market, our rates will be much more competitive on a “per shipment” basis, instead of locking in “year-around” rates. It never hurts to ask for an updated rate quote.

4. Be Realistic

Situations arise in shipping. It is important to understand that a driver may be late due to weather, traffic or a break down. Our mission is to deliver every load on time. Our approach as a trucking company is to communicate with our customers to ensure you know the status of your shipment and what to expect.

If you have to schedule a shipment, why not save money doing it? As long we have all the facts about your freight, it is easy save a few bucks shipping with TransCorr.