5 Tips for Quotes from Truckload Motor Freight Trucking Companies by Michael Rogers, Shipping Expert

www.4way.com

You might send just a few truckload shipments every year, or you might send hundreds. Either way, the burden of finding carriers to deliver those shipments on time and in good condition can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, the quotation process doesn´t have to be such a challenge. With a little planning, you can actually increase your efficiency, gain control of your shipment, and improve your bottom line.

Here are five easy tips to help streamline the quotation process:

1. Determine which, if any, additional services are required at pick up or delivery. Questions to consider include:

Will it take longer than two hours to load or unload?

Are lumpers required?

Are facilities dock high? Many times, companies do not know that the shipper/consignee does not have the right facility to unload the trailer. The result? Unexpected charges.

2. Make sure the carrier has authority insurance and a satisfactory safety record. Recent court decisions have held shippers liable for their contracting decisions. Using a broker can help alleviate those burdens.

3. Select a carrier with the technology capabilities you need. If shipment visibility is important to you, look for a company with real-time tracking and tracing services.

4. Familiarize yourself with industry news and trends. For example, as economic pressures reduce the demand for truckload transportation, you may be able to negotiate better rates.

5. Contact an experienced transportation broker or third-party logistics company. They have access to thousands of carriers and are up to speed on changing backhaul lanes. They are also up to date on both spot pricing availability and contract pricing with carriers.

To download a copy of our whitepaper, "5 Little-Known Shipping Secrets," visit www.4way.com.

4 Way Logistics, Inc. is a non-asset-based 3PL that provides multi-modal transportation services. Based in San Ramon, Calif., 4 Way Logistics offers a broad array of transportation options to move freight, including truckload, LTL, intermodal, air, ocean, and heavy-haul projects.