The good news is, you’ve got options.
In a high-stress situation, it’s reassuring to know that there are multiple ways to meet your critical transportation needs.
Waiting means delays, setbacks AND lost revenue.
Let’s take a look at two options – truckload freight and less-than-truckload freight – and talk about why one is better than the other.
Truckload freight vs less-than-truckload freight
You’re probably familiar with the terms, but do you understand what they really mean?
Truckload freight
Truckload freight is a shipment that takes up more than half and up to the full capacity of a 48- or 53-foot trailer.
Less-than-truckload freight
Less-than-truckload freight shipping is for small freight or a shipment that won’t take up at least half of a 48- or 53-foot trailer.
Now that we’ve established the basics, we’ll dig a little deeper and look at why the truckload freight option is a better bet.
The advantages of truckload freight shipping
When you choose truckload for your critical transportation needs, there are a number of benefits you’ll enjoy.
1. Your critical shipment is the only thing on the truck.
The driver will pick up your shipment and drive it to its destination, taking only the breaks required of him/her.
This means your freight will only be handled during the loading and unloading process, greatly reducing the risk of a mishap.
On the other hand, a less-than-truckload shipment will take longer because it contains freight from multiple companies.
Of course, more stops will be made and your freight will be handled multiple times throughout the process.
2. Your freight can be heavy, bulky or as unwieldy as you need it to be.
Remember, only your emergency shipment is on the truck so what can be transported isn’t restricted.
For less-than-truckload freight, you’re limited in what you can ship because you have to share the space with others.
3. Cost efficiency
When you’re faced with the option between fast shipping via one truckload or multiple less-than-truckload shipments, truckload is the more cost-effective choice.
Truckload equipment for your critical transportation
There are two main options for your expedited shipment.
- Dry van is used for freight that needs to be enclosed or fits into the size constraints of a 48- or 53-foot truck.
- A flatbed is ideal for emergency shipments that are too large, bulky or oddly-shaped to fit in a dry van.
What to look for in an expedited shipping company
You know the basics of truckload freight shipping and why it’s a good choice. You’re familiar with your equipment options for fast transportation.
So, how do you choose an expedited shipping company to trust with your important cargo?
Here are some questions to ask when you’re making a decision:
- Are you properly licensed?
- Are you financially stable?
- Are you insured?
- Are your carriers qualified?
- How many years have you been in service?
- What’s your operational model?
- Do you have references to share?
- Do you have a website and/or social media accounts?
Reduce downtime with the right emergency shipping options
It’s great to have options.
Whether you need a part for a nuclear reactor or your workers are waiting for a repair on the construction site, you don’t have time to wait.
With truckload shipping, your critical shipment – no matter how big – will arrive quickly, safely and as cost-efficiently as possible.
This knowledge, combined with the right expedited shipping company, will put your important shipment on the road without delay.
