Benefits of Freight Shipping
Freight shipping is the process of transporting different types of goods, commodities or cargo, usually bulk items from one point to another using a variety of transport modes. The transport modes are either by land, sea or air. One of the most common types of freight shipping on the road is via long haul or short haul truck. Many businesses use this solution to receive cargo as well as delivering them because it is usually the cheapest and most effective method of transportation.
Freight shipping is fundamental in getting goods to a destination on time, safely, and in a cost-effective manner. Regardless of the mode of shipping, there are a number of benefits to consider such as follows:
1. Delivery of large items made easy
With freight service, large items that are too big for regular mail delivery can be used instead for delivery.
2. Safe
When shipping your cargo, you do not want your items to be damaged or fall into the wrong hands. Freight shipping is one of the safest methods of shipping and loss or damage of goods are a rarity via freight shipping.
3. Cost flexibility
The reason for many people to choose shipping bulk like cars items is to save costs. One main advantage of freight shipping is the cost flexibility as it allows the shipper to find options that work best for their budget. Freight shipping options available allows the shipper to choose whether to spend less or a little more to get what they need.
Different freight shipping modes
There are several modes of freight shipping including less than truckload, full truckload, intermodal, partial truckload and expedited.
- Less than truckload – This is referred to as LTL, and is designed for shipments that are larger than parcel but not large enough to require the space of a full truckload trailer. LTL is typically used for shipments between 150 and 15,000 pounds.
- Full truckload – Full truckload (FTL) involves transporting bulk or pallet loads that are large enough to use an entire semi-trailer. The shipment is typically more than 15,000 pounds. Full truckload can be more cost-effective and reduce the opportunity for freight damage with less handling compared to LTL.
- Partial truckload – Partial truckload offers the option to split the cost of a truck with other shippers and this often results in cost savings. A partial truckload is a good choice if your shipment is over 5,000 pounds or 6 pallets.
- Intermodal – This mode of shipping typically refers to transporting cargo with a combination of rail and truck. It can also involve a variety of transportation modes including rail, trucks or ships to streamline the shipping process. When rail is included in your freight shipping, it can reduce fuel use, lower costs and offer a reliable method of shipping.
- Expedited – Expedited freight refers to time-critical shipments where freight has to be delivered quickly. Expedited freight is most often transported by truck or air.
What Is The Cost For Shipping Freight?
There are several factors which determine the cost of freight shipments and they are:-
- Distance – If an international shipment is required, then it will definitely cost more compared to interstate flights.
- Timings – How fast you need your freight items to be delivered will also affect the price. Expedite shipments usually incur extra charges.
- Pallet Size – The size and weight of your cargo will have an effect on the price.
- Pickup Locations and Delivery – If the pickup location is in a remote area, then the freight shipping company will have to travel a distance to get to your item or deliver your item. This requires more fuel and will affect the rate.
- Time Of Year – Weather can also play a part in determining the cost of your shipment. Adverse weather conditions may make travel times more difficult or slower and this will drive up the price.
