Important Dos and Don’ts for Successful Freight Shipping

freight shipping

You want a smooth journey when sending your valuables or shipping products to your customers. Whether moving goods from point A to B or sending out gifts, shortcuts aren’t always the best. So, if you are considering freight shopping anytime soon, knowing these essential dos and don’ts of shipping can make a big difference.

Every detail matters, from choosing the right services to packing supplies and labeling the packages. And if you do it right, you can be rest assured of a smooth shipping experience like a pro.

Let’s get to the basics and look at tips from expert shipping professionals to uplift your next freight experience.

  1. Planning it for success
    As humans, we have a habit of procrastinating until the last minute and rushing through it. It may not be the best approach with shipments, as you might miss out on great deals. Moreover, you won’t have the time to explore your options and compromise on your packing and everything else. So, instead of pushing it and dealing with higher costs and stress, plan it well ahead of time.
  2. Documentation and paperwork is important
    If you were to look at the shipping supply chain and delivery centers, you would be overwhelmed by numbers. Every day, logistics centers receive thousands of packages of varying kinds intended for numerous locations across the country. The systems and operators rely on the paperwork to track and send the packets to the correct destinations. Documentation, like the bill of lading, permits, licenses, etc., is crucial to moving packages around. So, if you try to cut corners and be lazy, you must deal with delays and unwanted hassle.
  3. Research your carrier and pick carefully
    Though many shipment service operators are in the market, not everyone is reliable. Freight forwarders offer a wide range of services, but they may not be the best for all. When it comes to picking your carrier, you need something with the expertise and reputation to deliver a seamless experience. Depending on your freight needs, research and choose a carrier that specializes in it and offers a competitive price. Moreover, look for references, testimonials, and their catalog to understand more about their services before deciding. Because at the end of the day, your carrier selection can make all the difference in your shipping experience.
  1. Don’t skip insurance and package tracking updates
    Though you might find it unnecessary, package insurance and tracking are essential add-ons you must consider for your products. Hundreds of packages are damaged or lost during transit every year and are not compensated due to lack of coverage. You don’t have to insure every inexpensive item since insurance significantly adds to shipping costs. So, find the right balance between when you find it worth insuring your load. Similarly, for package tracking services, you can opt-in for this add-on as and when you find it essential. These are important and can make a big difference to your engagement.
  2. Optimize your shipments and don’t overload
    When it comes to pricing, most freight companies follow a volume-based scheme. This means you pay as per the size of your package and also the cargo type. But, most customers try to make the most of it by overloading their packages by fitting too many items or overfilling them with packaging supplies like foam beans, etc. You need to find the right balance between the two, as you want to optimize your costs but don’t want to damage the cargo either.
    Alternatively, you can consolidate and combine different shipments as a single load to manage your shipping costs. Most carriers offer special rates and discounts for bulk and group shipments.

While some generic guidelines suit all cargo types and shipment needs, the list is inexhaustive. Follow the best practices and professional tips depending on your cargo type and the items you are transporting. With these dos and don’ts, you are well-equipped to plan and prepare your goods for your upcoming freight. Although packaging can be a little tedious, with proper planning and strategy, you can do it quite easily. Look out for the best deals and cost-effective tips, and follow the best practices to improve your shipping experience. Plan to have seamless and hassle-free shipping and start your journey at www.mscargoexpress.com