Page 33 - Logistics News - July August 2023

FTL

another carrier, nor will you have to worry about your cargo role in determining FTL rate quotes, but it is not an easy
damaging the cargo of another shipper. estimate. Nevertheless, greater journeys normally result
• Offers several shipping alternatives. FTL shipping is an in higher rates due to the increased driver time and fuel
excellent choice for carrying large, delicate, high-risk, non- consumption. However, not all lanes are the same price.
stackable or hazardous goods. Carrying multiple high-risk Fuel surcharges based on the fuel market prices can have a
shiploads on the same truck at the same time is often direct impact on the FTL rate. As a result, transporters and
frowned upon. It may be risky to carry products that are logistics providers adjust their pricing regularly to reflect
bulky, fragile or cannot be stacked in a LTL shipment. When changes in fuel prices.
compared to the cost of damage in an LTL shipment, the
slightly higher cost of shipping via FTL is significantly Any route that a carrier covers on the schedule is
more affordable. considered a trucking lane. And the trucking lane can
change depending on the amount of freight travelling in
Best practices to improve FTL efficiency and out of a location. Cities having a higher ratio of trucks
Recognise your specific needs. Having clear expectations to available freight may be less expensive than cities with a
can assist you in selecting the best services to match your higher freight volume than drivers.
needs. This must be a top focus while choosing the right
carrier and service. If expectations are not satisfied, the Every FTL shipment is unique and the level of appeal
lower-priced choice is not necessarily the better option. varies depending on the carrier. Loads with easier
Consider the following variables when selecting a shipping appointment scheduling, the convenience of access and the
carrier: availability of backhauls are usually more attractive, which
• Safety. may result in reduced FTL prices.
• Reliability.
• Customer care. Increase carriers’ lead time. A longer lead time
• Geographic coverage provided. increases your chances of securing the finest carrier option
• Service kind. in terms of delivery dates, service and shipping rates.
• Transit intervals. Longer lead times can result in more timely delivery and
• Additional services available. help you save money. It can also help create greater levels
of accuracy and ensure that your goods are delivered on
Do not make a hasty decision. Take the time to consider schedule. For example, if your present shipments have a
each choice and service in light of your requirements. lead time of five to six days, you may have enough time
to precisely organise shipments. It will be a more cost-
Have a trustworthy carrier for FTL shipments. First and effective solution if the lead time between the order and the
foremost, your FTL shipment’s speed, safety and efficiency deal is extended.
are only as good as the FTL carrier you choose. As a result,
having an established relationship with a dependable carrier Optimise freight performance by using a
is one of the most crucial best practices for optimising transportation management system (TMS). Whether
operational performance. It will save you time and money the shipment is FTL or LTL, adopting a TMS can result in
while also optimising truckload freight performance. Your significant savings and efficiencies. As a result, employing
preferred carrier should have access to a diverse network of an innovative, computerised system remains one of the
high-performing carriers to satisfy your needs for FTL and finest practices. A TMS is a piece of software that allows
LTL shipments. you to easily analyse past and current shipments for FTL
and LTL shipments. TMS actively records data to help you
Learn how shippers determine shipping rates. When and your team forecast and schedule shipments while also
transporting FTL goods, it’s critical to understand how identifying gaps. This software can help your team arrange
FTL rates are computed. Rates are determined by supply shipments more effectively while also monitoring freight
and demand in most sectors. And, in the world of FTL performance.
transportation, supply and demand are even more critical.
Finally, leveraging technology to manage shipping and
Mileage is incredibly crucial and plays a significant carriers is the key to running an efficient operation. •

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