4-Step Critical Freight Shipping Checklist

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Checklist for critical freight shipping

  • Decide on a shipping option.
  • Get the packaging right.
  • Fill out the bill of lading correctly.
  • Track it.

You’re in a pinch.

You need a replacement part and you need it NOW.

But there are so many decisions to make and you’re losing revenue with each tick of the clock.

Take a deep breath. You don’t have to go it alone.

There ARE a lot of choices to make, but with the right help, you’ll make them quickly and have your processes back up and running in no time

Use this handy checklist to start thinking about what your next shipping emergency might look like.

1. Decide on a shipping option

There are a few factors that will play into your decision about which shipping method is the best one for your situation.

The size and dimensions of your product, how fragile its, as well as the time frame you need to be within.

Once you know those specifications, you can decide between air freight and ground expedite.

Pro Tip:

Don’t assume that air freight is the fastest option. In certain situations, ground expedite is a better choice. A trusted logistics expert will be able to steer you in the right direction.

Here’s a closer look at your options.

Air freight

Once you’ve figured out that moving your emergency shipment by air is the best choice, you still have more options:

  • Air charter.
  • Next flight out.
  • Same day air.
  • Next day air.
  • Second day air.

Ground expedite

If ground expedite is the emergency shipping method that best suits your purposes, it’s time to figure out what kind of vehicle makes the most sense.

  • Exclusive truck.
  • One- and two-man team.
  • Weekend.
  • After hours.
  • Hotshot.

2. Get the packaging right

It’s not good when your important part arrives and is damaged because it wasn’t properly packaged for the journey.

Chances are, your shipment will involve either crates or pallets.

  • Crates are used to protect smaller items.
  • Pallet size is important because it can affect safety and loading and unloading times.

This is another area that your domestic freight forwarder will know what to do to protect your product during transit.

3. Fill out the bill of lading correctly

The bill of lading (BOL) is a receipt for your freight shipping services. It serves as a contract between the freight carrier and the shipper.

When it’s filled out properly, it will include:

  • Complete addresses for the shipper and receiver.
  • P.O. box or other special numbers used between businesses to track orders.
  • Any unique instructions the carrier needs to know.
  • Date of shipment.
  • Number of shipping units.
  • Type of packaging.
  • DOT hazardous material indication.
  • Freight description.
  • The NMFC freight classification.
  • Weight of shipment.
  • Declared value of goods.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

4. Track it

Once your cargo is on the road – or in the air – you want to make sure it’s going to arrive when it should.

Website tracking tools allow you to keep your eye on your emergency transportation so you have peace of mind that’s it’s going to arrive when it’s supposed to.

Trust an experienced logistics expert

There’s a lot to think about when you’re shipping an important part.

The problem is that you don’t have much time to figure it out.

When you have an experienced logistics expert on your side, they’ll help you – quickly – figure out the best options like using air or ground freight, and which packaging choice is right for your shipment.

They can also help you cross all the t’s and dot all the i’s on the bill of lading and help you track your shipment, too.

You get peace of mind and avoid costly downtime. It’s a win-win.

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebok

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Maintenance, Repair and Operating Supplies: Keep Your Supply Chain Healthy

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What does MRO stand for?

Maintenance, repair and operating

Sometimes, the behind-the-scenes aspects of an organization fall through the cracks.

When it comes to maintenance, repair and operating supplies, you can’t afford to miss a trick.

That’s why we’re offering you some guidance on the best ways to track what you need, what you’re using and how often you need it so your supply chain doesn’t suffer.

Don’t let building maintenance supplies be your organization’s undoing.

Here’s what you need to know.

What are maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) supplies?

MRO meaning

Maintenance, repair and operating supplies are items consumed during the manufacturing or plant maintenance process.

These items are supplies that are consumed during the manufacturing or plant maintenance process.

In other words, they aren’t a part of the end product.

Here are some common examples of MRO supplies:

  1. Safety equipment.
  2. Gloves.
  3. Computers.
  4. Industrial equipment, such as valves, compressors and pumps.
  5. Consumable items, like cleaning, laboratory and office supplies.
  6. Supplies for plant upkeep, such as repair tools, lubricants and gaskets.

Why MRO “health” is vital

Why is MRO supply important?

Keeping track of maintenance, repair and operating supply is crucial to keep your supply chain running smoothly and prevent downtime and lost revenue.

Many people don’t understand how vital maintenance, repair and operating supplies are to keeping processes running smoothly.

A business can be immobilized when maintenance, repair and regular updates slip through the cracks.

On the other hand, businesses that keep close track of their MRO reserves can supply customers with the products they need in a reasonable amount of time.

Optimized maintenance, repair and operating supplies management leads to a healthy supply chain that allows everyone to get what they need when they need it.

The ordering dilemma

One of the roadblocks for industrial maintenance supplies is the responsibility of ordering.

The job often falls on a receptionist or another administrative professional who only place the orders on an “as-needed” basis.

Because MRO inventories and expenses are not commonly on an organization’s regular reports, companies often have an inaccurate picture of how many facilities maintenance supplies they actually have on hand.

The remedy?

Tracking building maintenance supplies the right way. Here are three simple ways:

  1. Keep a complete list of maintenance, repair and operating supplies that are commonly used.
  2. Understand how much time it takes for an item to be resupplied.
  3. How often items are used and quickly they’re being depleted.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Efficient sourcing of maintenance, repair and operating supplies

A supply chain manager can strategically supervise MRO supplies by figuring out where to get industrial maintenance supplies for the most cost-effective price.

This will probably require making and maintaining key relationships with suppliers.

Failure to do a thorough investigation of a potential supplier could result in production lags, downtime, and lost revenue.

That’s a snowball effect that no one can afford.

Understanding facilities maintenance supplies

Your business’ sustainability relies – in part – on your ability to keep track of, efficiently use and keep your maintenance, repair and operating supplies in stock.

Follow these tips to get the most out of your MROs and avoid the downtime that costs you precious revenue.

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebook

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5 Digital Technology Trends Making Freight Shipping Faster and Safer

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5 digital technology trends impacting freight shipping

  1. Artificial intelligence and machine learning
  2. Blockchain
  3. Autonomous vehicles
  4. The Internet of Things
  5. Freight shipping security

Getting what you need when you need it is crucial.

Downtime is a drag on your revenue and that’s never a good thing.

That’s why you must be aware of the latest digital technology trends that are impacting – or will soon – your freight shipping experience.

It’s also vital that you’re working with logistics experts who are up on the current developments that can make shipping faster and safer.

5 Digital Technology Trends

Here are five digital technology trends you need to know about.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are two digital technology trends poised to make the freight shipping industry look a whole lot different.

Using algorithms, Machine Learning can help detect patterns that business owners can use to make decisions toward greater efficiency.

The best part is that this sophisticated analysis doesn’t require any human intervention.

ML pinpoints consistencies relate to:

  • Inventory levels.
  • Supplier quality.
  • Forecasting demand.
  • Production planning.
  • Transportation management.

Here’s an example of how ML can benefit ground expedite services:

Machine learning can analyze the data from thousands of trucking runs and indicate the routes that are most and least productive, the conditions that cause issues, as well as spotting inefficiencies.

2. Blockchain

A blockchain is an ever-expanding list of records that are linked using cryptography, and it’s useful for the freight shipping industry.

Each “block” has a cryptographic hash of the block that came before it, as well as a timestamp and other data about the transaction.

Currently, you don’t have a way to know what goes on during each leg of your important item’s shipping journey.

But blockchain may be changing that with a level of transparency that you’ve never had before.

This digital technology trend will go a long way in building trust between all members of a supply chain.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

3. Autonomous vehicles

Most modern warehouses are already using autonomous forklifts. Airports and other supply-chain locations have jumped on board, too.

Before long, your emergency freight shipment will be loaded by robotic arms, onto a truck that drives itself to the destination, where another robot is waiting to unload.

Platooning may also be on the horizon. This describes self-driving trucks traveling in a convoy, bumper-to-bumper.

The big selling point here is that it saves big on fuel, which is about 30% of a truck’s operating cost.

4. The Internet of Things (IoT)

Also referred to as, “radio frequency identification,” this digital technology trend is still in its infancy, but will likely have a huge impact on the future of freight shipping.

This type of technology uses a database, a chip, a reader and a GPS cloud-based method to not only track shipments but also to send reports on the condition of the product.

Shipments can be received automatically, with no need to scan a barcode.

5. Freight shipping security

Technology is changing so rapidly that logistics experts need to constantly monitor for vulnerabilities in their processes.

Using the latest in internet and cloud computing makes it easier to prevent cyber-attacks. Threats can be identified, observed and remedied before any damage is carried out.

Stay aware of digital technology trends

The technologies can make freight shipping faster and safer.

That’s good news for you – as long as you choose to work with logistics experts that stay at the top of their game.

You’ll get what you need, on-time, 24/7, 365 days a year.

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What Is a Freight Forwarder and Do You Need One?

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What is a freight forwarder?

A freight forwarder works as a go-between for a shipper and the mode of transportation. They can help you save money, keep processes from stalling and provide you with 24/7 service.

Nobody looks forward to an emergency.

Especially when it could cost you time and money.

You’re good at running your business, but you can’t do it all.

Guide to Freight Forwarders

Here’s why you should work with an experienced freight forwarder the next time a part fails or something else goes horribly wrong.

Freight forwarder definition

Simply put, a freight forwarder is a company that arranges for your product to be shipped from one place to another.

Businessdictionary.com supplies a more in-depth look: “A firm specializing in arranging storage and shipping of merchandise on behalf of its shippers.”

A freight forwarder usually provides a full range of services, such as:

  • Tracking inland transportation.
  • Preparation of shipping and export documents.
  • Warehousing.
  • Booking cargo space.
  • Negotiating freight charges.
  • Freight consolidation.
  • Cargo insurance.
  • Filing insurance claims.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

What does a freight forwarder do?

To avoid confusion, it’s important to understand what they DON’T do – move any cargo themselves.

Instead, they’re an intermediary between a shipper and the various modes of transportation, such as air freight or ground expedite.

A reputable freight forwarder will have established relationships with reliable carriers, whether it’s air cargo, hotshot, or trucking companies.

There are a lot of logistics to figure out when it comes to moving your shipment as quickly and efficiently as possible and a freight forwarder takes that burden off your plate.

You can rest assured that you won’t experience an unnecessarily long lull in production when you choose to work with a company that’s well-established and has a proven track record.

Do you need one?

No law says you must use a freight forwarder for your emergency shipments.

But, here’s what you risk by trying to handle it all on your own:

  • Lost revenue.
  • Long delays.
  • Stalled production.
  • Increased costs.

The benefits of working with a logistics expert far outweigh any downsides. They include:

  • 24/7/365 availability.
  • Transparency and communication, from pick-up to delivery.
  • Customized solutions for your unique needs.
  • Little downtime.
  • Staying within your budget.

The answer is a resounding “YES.”

It IS in your best interest to work with a reputable freight forwarder for your next shipping emergency.

Enjoy the benefits of a good freight forwarder

When you experience a mechanical breakdown or another catastrophe that threatens your revenue, you must get what you need ASAP.

Don’t waste valuable time trying to take care of everything on your own.

Get the help of a reputable freight forwarder and get production back up and running as quickly as possible

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Oil and Gas Maintenance Optimization [Case Study] (Part 2)

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This is Part 2 of a two-part look at oil and gas industry maintenance issues. You can find Part 1 here. In this part, we’ll talk about a case study that illustrates the importance of maintenance optimization.

Oil and gas refinery maintenance is a big issue in the industry.

Outdated, inefficient procedures are not only unnecessarily costly, but they’re also a potentially dangerous aspect of oil and gas operations.

This case study, created by Lloyd’s Register, dives into a situation that was happening at one facility, and how careful analysis and the implementation of new oil and gas refinery maintenance strategies turned things around.

The problem: The burden of oil and gas maintenance

One offshore oil refinery operation was several years into what is typically a 30-year lifespan.

With approximately 50,000 pieces of equipment that require upkeep, over its lifetime, this oil refinery maintenance will end up in 750,000 work orders that will take 9,000,000 hours to complete.

That adds up to nearly $2.5 billion in costs to keep operations running.

Many facilities exceed their expected 30-year-life, making the financial burden even greater than what was originally anticipated.

And there was no reason to think this refinery would be any different.

Not only is oil and gas refinery maintenance crucial to keep processes running efficiently, it’s also a safety issue – 27% of all offshore injuries are related to upkeep.

But that’s not the only oil and gas refinery maintenance problem that needed to be dealt with.

Over-maintenance was also an issue.

Performing needless service to equipment was creating a backlog, and some resulting injuries could have been avoided.

It was critical to find a solution.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

The solution: Refinery and pipeline maintenance optimization

One operator had the task of evaluating the current procedures and coming up with a maintenance optimization plan that would clear up the backlog (and prevent it from happening again), ensure the safety of the workers AND be cost-effective in the current financial climate.

The operator determined that there were a couple areas that could have a great impact.

  • Equipment that didn’t have an immediate production or safety benefit was considered lower priority for maintenance.
  • Preventive maintenance was reduced on items that had a low failure rate, as well as those that had minimal adverse consequences when they did fail.
  • Operating costs (OPEX) needed to be lowered.
  • The Personnel on Board (POB) needed to be increased to meet the oil refinery maintenance burden.

The result: Improved oil and gas industry operations

After the analysis and implementation of new strategies, the results represented a significant improvement.

  • A 65% cost savings on annual maintenance.
  • A reduction of 7,127 man-hours over the course of a year.
  • A plan was put in place for oil and gas refinery maintenance moving forward.
  • Unnecessary safety risks have been removed and no related injuries have been reported.
  • The backlog was successfully cleared and the new system will prevent future issues.

Optimizing maintenance for your facility

Oil and gas refinery maintenance is a significant cost for an operator.

There are adverse consequences for inefficient upkeep practices, including profitability and personnel safety.

An optimized maintenance program is crucial for ensuring an oil refinery can thrive through its expected 30-year-lifespan – and possibly beyond.

Preparing for emergencies

The efficiency of the oil and gas industry has a direct effect on your business and your bottom line.

When you need an emergency shipment to repair a pipeline or keep your refinery running, make sure you working with a freight shipping company that has a great reputation for complex logistics so you have peace of mind.

For access to the full white paper created by Lloyd’s Register, click here.

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The Ultimate Guide to Expedited Shipping

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Expedited Shipping Guide

  • Expedited shipping basics
  • History of expedited shipping
  • Expedited shipping and other options
  • Freight shipping cost calculations
  • Freight shipping for your industry
  • Solve your expedited shipping emergencies

You don’t have time to wait.

When something goes wrong – a part fails and you don’t have a replacement on hand OR you require a piece of equipment ASAP – you need an expedited shipping service that you can trust to get the job done.

You’re losing money by the hour, tensions are high and you have to find a solution NOW.

Consider this scenario:

You’re in charge of a construction site. To get the job done more quickly and efficiently, you’ve brought in extra workers. You’re patting yourself on the back because you’re keeping costs down and everything is coming along without a hitch. Until it isn’t.

An important piece of your machinery fails and you need a replacement part ASAP. If you can’t get fast transportation for your part, you’re paying guys who can’t work and money is going down the drain.

You need the customized solution that expedited shipping companies can provide.

This guide will give you all the information you need to have a better understanding of emergency shipping and give you advice for choosing the right expedited shipper to work with.

Let’s jump in!

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

1. Expedited shipping basics

Before explaining expedited shipping, it’s important to have an understanding of freight because that’s WHAT is being shipped.

A definition of freight

Freight is a commodity that’s shipped by air, ground or sea. It refers to large quantities of cargo that are too large to be shipped by common carriers.

What is expedited shipping?

Expedited shipping is a process that moves freight that needs to arrive faster than a normal courier can deliver it.

In emergency situations, there simply isn’t time to wait for more common, slower methods.

How does expedited shipping work?

One of the most convenient aspects of freight logistics is that you don’t have to work with a local vendor.

You can choose an expedited shipping service that’s across the country, in a neighboring state, or the next town over – it’s up to you.

Plus, the emergency transportation company will take care of all the details for you.

You don’t have to know HOW the shipping process works – you can pass your need along to them and they’ll handle it, whether you need expedited next business day, second-day air, or anything in-between.

2. History of Expedited Shipping

You may be surprised to find out that the history of freight shipping extends as far back as the 15th century, though it wasn’t significant until the 1700s.

At that point, countries like Spain, The Netherlands and England started to broaden their global empires.

This expansion required moving goods from one place to another.

Cargo was carried by carts and wagons pulled by horses. Needless to say, it was a slow and dangerous undertaking.

The industrial revolution

Shifting to the development of expedited shipping in the United States, it wasn’t until the industrial revolution that airplanes, steamboats and trains were used to get materials from Point A to Point B.

Before steamboats were a viable alternative, rafts and flatboats were the methods of water transport.

This was even more time-intensive and strenuous than a horse-drawn wagon, because the crew members had to paddle the whole way.

The invention of steamboats – and eventually cargo boats – revolutionized the way critical shipments made it to their destinations.

From steamboats to today

By the 1830s, steamboats were common practice for moving cargo and freight.

The Erie Canal revolutionized transit. When it was completed in 1825, freight transportation became much easier – and less costly, though there was still no such thing as expedited next-day shipping!

In addition to man-made waterways, the railroad forever changed the way goods (and people) could get from one place to another.

Though it got a rocky start, after 1830 when a standard T-shaped rail was introduced, railroads expanded industry and significantly lowered shipping costs.

Trucking

As paved roads became more popular in the 1930s, trucking became a viable option for shipping cargo and freight.

The late 1950s and 1960s brought a true revolution to expedient shipping when the Interstate Highway System was introduced.

The industry has continued to grow and now dominates freight shipping.

Air freight

The first cargo flight took off in November of 1910 and went from Dayton, Ohio to Columbus, Ohio. It was carrying 200 pounds of silk.

It took 57 minutes and set a world speed record.

It was expected that air cargo would take off, though it really didn’t become popular until after World War II, in 1945.

Moving cargo and freight by air didn’t become a staple until the 1990s, but with the rise of the internet – and the ability to track flights in real time – shipping by air has become a more reliable and accessible option.

Services like expedited overnight shipping are now commonplace.

3. Expedited Shipping And Other Options

There’s a difference between expedited shipping and mailing a regular parcel.

A parcel is a small package that can be handled by companies such as UPS or FedEx. The expedited shipping price is determined by the weight and/or dimensions.

Parcels can be dropped off at a number of convenient locations where it will be picked up by a commercial carrier. Or the vendor will sometimes provide pickup services, too.

So, what distinguishes an expedited parcel from freight?

Anything that exceeds 150 pounds and 165 inches in length plus girth is considered a freight shipment.

Where the big names can’t keep up

UPS, FedEx, and DHL expedited shipping are a far cry from the services freight logistics companies can provide.

It all comes down to speed of delivery, and these carriers can’t match the flexibility and swiftness that’s offered by a true expedited delivery service.

When emergencies come up – an integral part fails and processes are stalled – you need a replacement NOW.

You’re losing money by the hour and you don’t have time to wait for UPS or FedEx.

Freight Forwarding 101

It’s important for you to understand the difference between international freight forwarding and domestic freight forwarders.

Let’s take a look at what each of these unique services, how they differ, and what that means for you.

International Freight forwarder

To put it most simply, an international freight forwarder is an organization that facilitates importing and exporting of goods across the globe.

If you need to ship something from the U.S. to France, Germany, Australia or India, you’ll need an experienced international freight forwarding company.

Domestic freight shipping

A domestic freight forwarder, or expedited shipping provider, can ship your materials throughout the U.S. via land, sea or air.

There are numerous benefits to choosing a commercial freight shipping vendor:

  • Flexibility. Your critical transportation can be shipped any time of the day or night.
  • Dependability. It’s a more reliable method of expedited domestic shipping.
  • Customizable. You can get your materials shipped according to when and how you need it.
  • Options. For example, emergency overnight shipping, expedited ground shipping, and many other choices to meet your unique needs.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Freight forwarder options

When it comes to expedited freight shipping, you need options – and you’ve definitely got them.

Check out these services to meet your unique needs.

  1. Ground freight services

Despite what you may think, air freight isn’t always the fastest – or most cost-effective – choice.

There are several different ways your critical cargo can be moved from Point A to Point B over the ground, quickly and without delay – by ground.

Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.

Ground expedite

Ground expediting your cargo is a wise choice when your pick-up and delivery spots aren’t close to an airport, your shipment needs to go out in the middle of the night, or it’s just plain quicker to move your materials by ground.

Ground expedite includes:

  • Exclusive Truck. As the shipper, only your cargo will be on the truck. That means you don’t have to worry about extra stops or your materials being handled unnecessarily.
  • Truckload: One- and Two-Man Team. Your goods are the only shipment on the truck. The driver or drivers pick up your cargo and take it directly to the destination. Other than rest breaks for the driver (if he’s not part of a two-man team) and refueling, the truck doesn’t stop. In the case of a two-man team, the drivers take turns driving and resting, which means the truck can keep rolling.
  • Weekend/after hours. Things break down after hours and on the weekends, too. With this ground expedited shipping option, it’s no problem.
  • Hotshot. This emergency freight is for one customer and is needed immediately.

B. Air freight services

Sometimes, moving your important cargo by air is the best way to get it where it needs to go due to the customization that’s possible.

Here are your air freight options:

  • Next Flight Out. This means your cargo can be sent out round-the-clock, on the next available flight. When you choose this option, your materials can be delivered to you or you can pick them up.
  • Same Day Air. With Same Day Air, your emergency shipment will be picked up whenever you need it, and it will arrive the same day.
  • Next Day Air. This option is also highly customizable. Your cargo can be delivered at any time of the day or night.
  • Second Day Air. When you need a cost-effective choice for a shipment that’s too critical to be sent via UPS, FedEx or another option, but isn’t a critical emergency, this is your best bet. It allows you to choose the specific time of the delivery (on the second day) OR, you can choose delivery any time, which saves money, as well. Rest assured, you’ll still receive the same great level of attention.
  • Air Charter. This is hands down, the quickest, most-customized way to move your cargo. And, of course, your freight is the only thing on board.

Making an informed decision

You don’t have to know which option to choose. You just need to know what you need shipped and when you need the item shipped by – as well as any budgetary restrictions.

The professionals at an expedited delivery service will help you find the best solution.

4. Freight shipping costs calculations

Charges are calculated on a per-shipment basis.

Because of the “one-off” nature of expedited shipping and the availability of flights, drivers, etc., the rate will be unique for each situation.

Usually, an expedited shipment is quoted each time it is arranged.

5. Freight shipping for your industry

You may be surprised by the number of industries that require expedited transportation.

Oil and gas companies

Oil and gas companies often need pipes or items that are necessary for pipe repair, such as fittings and gaskets.

For example, when oil workers are out in the field and a pipe springs a leak, they’re able to patch it, but a patch won’t hold long-term.

A new pipe or the components to repair the pipe need to be delivered to them ASAP.

Companies like ExxonMobil, Valero, Citgo and Shell regularly use freight-shipping services.

Nuclear power companies

In the power nuclear industry, time is money.

It costs $1.5 million PER DAY when a nuclear reactor is shut down.

Obviously, getting the parts needed to avoid a hitch is crucial.

Here are some of the situations that the power nuclear industry faces, requiring emergency shipping.

  • As soon as you see a need, you have to have the necessary backup part/component before you can make the repairs.
  • Sometimes, the solution requires shipping a part from one plant to another.
  • When workers are painting parts inside a nuclear reactor, they require a very specific type of drop cloth that’s approved for use inside a nuclear power plant. One thousand pounds of this drop cloth is often shipped at once.

STP Nuclear, Entergy, Exelon, Southern Nuclear all use domestic expedited shipping to avoid costly downtime.

3rd Party Logistics (3PL) companies

Ninety-five percent of this service is trucking.

These companies often specialize in meeting the needs of power plants and refineries.

The cargo they carry is usually big, bulky, and heavy – or it’s needed on the same day.

Companies like Ardmore Logistics, Malark, LPS Globaltranz, SAA Logistics all utilize expedited delivery to get what they need, when they need it.

Construction management companies

What happens when a construction crew is on a job site and they get behind or need to complete a job, but they’re missing one specialized part?

The project stalls and money is lost.

Remember the scenario already discussed that happens all too frequently: Often, workers are sent from other locations to help with a certain project. If a part fails or machinery malfunctions, the job can’t move forward and you end up paying people to wait around.

Kiewit, Fluor, Furmanite, Bechtel are examples of companies that need the services of an expedited delivery company.

Facility parts & repair companies

If you’re responsible for maintenance and repair inside a plant or for ensuring the production line keeps moving along as it should, you’re familiar with the necessity of fast shipping.

Sometimes your need is to have a back-up part in stock so your process doesn’t have to stop while you wait.

But when the time comes that a part fails and you don’t have a replacement part, you’ll need to shut down production until the new one arrives.

These are the times that FedEx and UPS just won’t cut it and you need the same-day service that an expedited freight shipping company partner provides.

Some of the companies that commonly need emergency shipping services are Motion Industries, Lamons Metal Gaskets, Sunbelt Supply, Colt Services, Wesco.

6. Solve your expedited shipping emergencies

When the pressure’s on and your production goals are threatened by a mechanical failure, you may not know where to turn.

But you don’t have to go it alone. There’s help available – at any time of the day or night.

Let’s take a look at the qualities you should seek in an expedited shipping company that can become your go-to in times of need.

24/7 service

Work with a company that is available for your critical shipping needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Reliability

Some expedited transport companies will make commitments they can’t fulfill and your business pays the price.

Choose to work with an expedited delivery service that gets your critical shipment to you on time because they have the industry experience and proven track record to deliver – every time.

Communication

Without good communication, there could be dire consequences.

When you need something NOW, you need to know that your shipment will arrive on time.

Transparency

Even with the most organized process, you can experience a hiccup.

Your expedited shipping service should be able to address any issues head-on and work quickly to come up with a solution.

Customized problem-solving

Every situation is unique.

Thinking outside the box is the norm.

A great expedited shipping company will be able to find the best solution for your needs – including your budget.

Getting started

When time is of the essence and your productivity (and profits) are on the line, you need an expedited freight transportation choice that provides you with a customized solution.

The days of horse-pulled wagons and steamboats are long gone. With today’s sophisticated ground and air freight logistics, you have options.

If you haven’t worked with an expedited shipping company to help solve your shipping emergencies and time-critical shipments, now’s the time to explore your options.

Understanding expedited shipping basics, how costs are calculated, and the difference between expedited shipping and other modes of transportation is crucial for you to make informed decisions for the good of your business.

No matter what industry you’re in, knowing where to turn when you need an emergency shipment will give you peace of mind and reduce downtime.

Contact ATM Freight Services for all of your emergency transportation needs. Our experienced team will work with you to move your freight in the quickest and most budget-friendly way possible.

Give us a call today at (888) 462-3452

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Want to Avoid Shipping Emergency Setbacks? Stop What You’re Doing and Read This

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How to avoid a shipping emergency mistake:

  1. Not calling ahead.
  2. Hiding problems and avoiding communication.
  3. Offering only one or two transportation modes.
  4. Making documentation mistakes.
  5. Using improper packaging.

No matter what line of work you’re in, downtime is a problem.

Your productivity suffers and ultimately, you lose the revenue that keeps your business working at its highest levels.

Let’s take a look at the toll freight shipping delays can have on a few specific industries, and get the information you need to prevent these scenarios from happening to you.

Disastrous delays

A delay is always an annoyance.

But in certain industries, a setback is a whole lot more than that.

Take a look at these scenarios in which a delay can have far-reaching negative effects.

Oil and gas shipping emergencies

The crew is working in the field when a pipeline springs a leak.

It can be patched – but it’s a temporary fix and it will only hold for so long.

The job site manager couldn’t find an emergency shipping option and there is a delay in getting the necessary elements.

The patch gives way and now they’re looking at a much bigger issue – a spill.

Costs skyrocket and there are also environmental consequences.

Nuclear power shipping mistakes

While the nuclear power plant has spare parts on hand, a complication has still come up.

The inside of the reactor has to be painted, which requires a shutdown.

Before the project begins, the foreman discovers there aren’t enough of the special drop cloths needed to get the job done.

Without a trusted freight shipping option, the shutdown lasts longer than it should – at the cost of $1.5 million a day.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Construction management shipping delays

Things are moving along without a hitch on the job site.

Until they aren’t.

An important piece of machinery has broken down and now you’re paying workers who can’t do their jobs.

Time is of the essence, but UPS and FedEx can’t handle your request quickly enough.

With no other options, you go with an emergency shipping company that doesn’t communicate well and takes the part to the wrong job site.

The clock is ticking and all you can hear is the cha-ching of money going down the drain.

The 5 mistakes to avoid in a shipping emergency

In each of the scenarios, mistakes were made and money was lost.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

We have a resource for you that explains 5 Critical Mistakes to Avoid in a Shipping Emergency.

It’s free but packed with valuable information that can have a huge impact on your next shipping emergency and how you handle it.

You’ll learn more about how to dodge these 5 mistakes:

  1. Not calling ahead.
  2. Hiding problems and avoiding communication.
  3. Offering only one or two transportation modes.
  4. Making documentation mistakes.
  5. Using improper packaging.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t drop the ball on your next shipping emergency

Time is money.

Being unprepared can cost you hours – or even days – of unnecessary downtime that take a drag on your business.

Keep production moving smoothly, don’t lose critical hours and work with a freight shipping company you can trust – 24/7/365.

Get our helpful guide today and avoid the critical emergency shipping mistakes that will hit you where it hurts.

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebok

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Reduce Downtime With 8 Specialty Shipping Freight Items

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Downtime isn’t good for anybody.

When you need a part, you need it NOW.

Otherwise, production slows, you lose money and there are a lot of unhappy people.

You don’t always have time to wait for UPS or FedEx – especially when you’re waiting on specialty freight.

It’s essential that you work with a expedited freight team that knows how to handle anything you can throw at them, including the loads that need extra care.

Here’s what you need to know about shipping specialty freight items and reducing downtime.

Common specialty freight shipments

These are some of the items that you should trust to a logistics expert.

1. Precision parts

Waiting for a part is make-or-break time for you.

Precision parts have to be handled with care through each step of the journey to the waiting buyer.

2. Tooling components

Having the right kind of tooling in place is essential for manufacturers to keep production running smoothly.

If tools don’t work properly, valuable time (and money) can be lost.

Tooling components requiring careful handling include:

  • Fixtures.
  • Jigs.
  • Gauges.
  • Molds.
  • Dies.
  • Cutting equipment.
  • Patterns.

3. Electronic equipment and devices

Robotics are often heat-sensitive and may have delicate, intricate parts that require the right handling.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

4. Military freight

These items will usually require security clearances, specific documentation and meticulous handling.

Working with a emergency freight expert who knows how to handle these special circumstances is the best way to make sure the process goes smoothly and moves quickly.

5. Oversized or awkward items

Large industrial parts are usually heavy and can’t always be shipped with other materials.

They’re also usually needed in a rush.

A company that is familiar with shipping items like this has the knowledge and skill to get the part where it needs to be in the quickest way.

6. Parts for the oil and gas industry

Shipments for this industry often involves moving heavy gas equipment that has strict guidelines that must be followed closely.

Additional items that are commonly shipped include:

  • Piping.
  • Drilling rigs.
  • Refinery equipment.
  • Replacement parts.

7. Parts for the nuclear power industry

Parts for an industry as customized as nuclear power undoubtedly requires special handling.

Whether the parts are safety-related or non-safety-related, they need to get to their destination quickly and intact, ready to be put to use.

8. Construction equipment

Construction managers may find themselves in a conundrum when they need to facilitate the movement of equipment and materials.

The size of the materials and the swiftness with which they need to be transported requires the right freight services provider to handle the job.

The equipment that may require shipment includes:

  • Cranes.
  • Forklifts.
  • Bulldozers.
  • Excavators.
  • Dumpers.
  • Loaders.
  • Concrete mixers.

The ill effects of downtime

There are two types of downtime – planned and unplanned.

Because you know it’s coming and it can be compensated for, planned downtime can have minimal negative impact.

It’s the UNplanned downtime that can really do damage, including:

  • Loss of revenue and profitability.
  • IT recovery costs.
  • Negative effect on employee morale and productivity.
  • Potential overtime costs.
  • Ripple effects to your supply chain.

This is why it’s so important that specialty freight be handled by a reputable logistics company.

Keep your specialty freight safe – and reduce downtime

Don’t trust your valuable or time-sensitive shipments to just anyone.

Whatever your special freight needs are, it’s important that you choose a domestic freight forwarder with the knowledge and skill to safely and quickly ship your items.

Do you have something to ship that requires special care?

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebok

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3 Truckload Logistics Tips For Cost-Effective Expediting Shipping

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You have freight that needs to get from Point A to Point B.

Like, NOW.

Time is of the essence, but you want to make sure you’re in the loop. After all, you’re responsible for getting everything where it needs to be.

Of course, getting it there isn’t the whole story. You may also have to move the freight in the most cost-effective way.

All this adds up to questions about truckload logistics. That’s understandable. And knowing is half the battle.

Here are the answers you need to the most common logistics questions so that you can be confident your shipment will arrive on time.

1. What are truckload logistics?

The simplest answer is that truckload logistics deals with matching your time-sensitive freight with the right type of equipment.

The goal is to ship your materials in the quickest, safest or most economical way – or a combination of all three.

2. What are your equipment options?

The type of truck/vehicle used to ship your freight depends on what it is you’re moving. These can include:

  • Flatbed. You would need this type of truck for freight that has to be loaded from the top or the side. It’s perfect for anything large and/or bulky.
  • Small trucks. Parts that aren’t big but still need to travel fast may be transported via pick-up truck.
  • Cargo van. This vehicle is often the choice for hot-shot expedited shipping.
  • 53-foot vans. Large, sensitive freight that needs to be protected from the elements is best shipped in this vehicle.
  • Gooseneck trailers. Long, tall freight can be shipped on a gooseneck trailer that offers the ultimate flexibility for the trickiest loads.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

3. How much weight can be accommodated?

The specifics will depend on each individual carrier.

Generally, freight carriers are comfortable with hauling between 42,000 and 44,000 pounds.

A 53-foot van can haul 45,000 pounds.

Now that you know some of your options, let’s talk about the benefits of depending on an expedited freight forwarder to handle your most important shipments.

Pros of using expedited freight services

Why should you use a company that’s specifically there to meet your expedited shipping needs?

Check out some of the advantages.

  • You can focus on your business and your expertise. You don’t have to drain resources from other areas of your business. Let experienced freight forwarders handle that while you put your efforts into growing your organization.
  • Quicker delivery speed. When you hire an experienced freight forwarding company, you can rest assured that you’re working with people who have the expertise and know-how to get the job done. They know which type of vehicle will suit your needs best and they have more – and better – resources at their disposal.
  • Special circumstances. What seems like an impossible shipping situation to you is probably old hat for expedited freight pros. They’ve seen it all and they know how to deal with what you entrust to them. You get to hand the worry off to someone else.
  • Reduced costs. When you outsource your expedited shipping needs to freight forwarders, you’re only paying for the actual services you use. You don’t have to employ a whole team of people for a few shipments a week.

Cost-effective, time-sensitive delivery? Check!

Tensions can run high when a part breaks, production stalls and time is ticking.

Understanding truckload logistics – and the benefits of handing the details off to the pros – will help you save money and worry less.

Do you commonly have time-sensitive shipping needs that would benefit from an expedited freight forwarder’s services?

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebok

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Freight Forwarder: 6 Reasons to Hire One for Your Expedited Shipping

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6 ways a freight forwarder can help:

    • You won’t have to manage multiple vendors.
    • No document and permit stress.
    • Peace of mind
    • Connections
    • Communication
    • Experience

Shipping can be a headache.

No matter how big your company is or how often you have to do it, shipping can cause you some massive drama.

At least, when you try to do it on your own.

You can save yourself time, money and a whole lot of hassle by hiring a domestic freight forwarder to take on the burden for you.

6 Ways a Freight Forwarder Helps

Check out the 6 biggest reasons going this route is a great idea.

1. You won’t have to manage multiple vendors.

Chances are, a domestic freight forwarder can handle your entire shipping operation.

An organization that can manage the entire supply chain – getting your precious cargo from you to where it needs to go – means you don’t have to go through a ton of steps with a variety of providers.

An expedited shipping service will often have better negotiating power due to their size. That means it’s costing you less to ship your items through them than on your own.

2. No document and permit stress.

There are a lot of rules that govern the transport of various materials around the United States.

Checkpoints and regulations are a major issue for you to deal with.

But it’s everyday work for an experienced domestic freight forwarding company.

They jump through the hoops often enough to know exactly how to handle the unique formalities and legalities for different scenarios.

Shipping Mistakes to Avoid

3. Peace of mind

This one’s a biggie.

Managing your business is stressful enough as it is. You want to be successful – and profitable.

Letting a domestic freight forwarder handle what they do best frees you up to do what YOU do best.

Not to mention they have intricate software and management systems in place that allow them to track your shipment and any part in its journey so you’re always in the loop.

4. Connections

Domestic freight forwarders understand your needs – probably even better than you do.

They have a well-established network of carriers that allows them to meet your objectives effectively and without time-consuming snags.

5. Communication

A professional domestic freight forwarding company will always keep you abreast of any changes in the plan.

In the (rare) case of an unavoidable delay of some sort, they’ll stay in touch with you through each part of the shipping process.

6. Experience

Seasoned, reputable domestic freight forwarding companies will have already dealt with a multitude of issues.

That’s good for you because it means they’ll be handle anything that comes up quickly and efficiently.

Work with a trusted, reliable domestic freight forwarder to cut costs

These reasons all add up to significant savings.

  • The more individual services you work with, the more you’ll have to pay. Every dollar adds up.
  • Failure to handle documentation correctly can end up costing you money in fees or fines. You can’t miss a dotted i or a crossed t or you could have to pay for it.
  • Stress can cost you in more ways than one. It can take a physical toll on your body and it can cause you to be less productive in all areas of your work – and life.

You don’t have to go it alone when it comes to shipping your important materials around the country.

Choose to work with a domestic freight forwarding company that’s experienced and trustworthy so that you can hand off the stress and focus your efforts on growing your business.

Has something been holding you back from giving your expedited shipping business to a freight forwarding service? If so, what?

Shipping Emergency Mistakes to Avoid Ebok

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