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.

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.

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?

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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 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.

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?

Managing air freight shipments comes with a lot of paperwork.

All that red tape can cost you extra money and slow down the shipping process.

Not good when you’ve got a part that needs to get to its destination immediately.

That’s where a domestic air freight forwarder comes in with a red cape to save the day.

They can get you the best price for shipping your materials and oversee the whole transportation process.

But that’s not all.

Domestic air freight forwarders can also take care of the necessary documentation that would normally hold up the process.

Knowing some of the ins and outs of the process allows you to correctly place an order so that production doesn’t stall and valuable time isn’t lost.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. Locate a domestic air freight forwarder.

Do your homework and find a reputable one.

You’ll know because they’ll be organized and happy to answer all of your questions, as well as provide you with referrals.

Make sure to check their licensure and verify how long they’ve been in business.

2. Get insurance.

Your newly-found domestic freight forwarder should be able to advise you as to how you can obtain insurance for the goods you’re shipping.

You’ll have several options with different levels of coverage depending on the specifics of what you’re shipping.

3. Obtain necessary paperwork

Here’s where all that red tape comes in.

It’s no big deal to your domestic freight forwarder, though. It’s just another day on the job.

Your domestic air freight forwarder will help you get all the documentation in order for your shipment.

All you have to do is provide the information and they’ll do the rest.

When a pro is on the job, you can trust that your shipment will go out quickly and will reach its destination right on time.

4. Develop a good relationship

Once you’ve found a domestic air freight forwarder you can trust, you’re setting yourself up for a future of hassle-free expedited shipping.

You’ll be able to count on having an advocate who will get you the right price and ensure your valuable cargo is delivered on time and in pristine condition.

On time, every time

You don’t have a moment to waste on red tape, figuring things out and other nonsense that sets your shipment back from getting out when it should.

The expertise of a trusted, seasoned domestic air freight forwarder can make all the difference between important parts arriving on time and wondering when in the world their promised part is coming.

Work with professionals, become familiar with the process and relax.

What’s the most important quality you look for in a freight forwarder?

You don’t have time to wait around.

Time is money and you need a cost-effective solution. Pronto.

It’s not ideal for a nuclear reactor to shut down any longer than it has to, right?

A leaking oil pipe can only be patched for so long.

Of course, no matter what industry you’re in, there are always obstacles to overcome.

Let’s take a look at the challenges facing expedited trucking specifically, and then show you how to access the solutions that ensure you get what you need – when you need it.

Roadblocks in the expedited trucking industry

These are the 5 biggest issues that the expedited trucking industry has to overcome to continue meeting the demands of the customers who trust you.

1. Aging drivers

Drivers are the most crucial element for the success of an expedited trucking operation.

As current truck drivers age, trucking companies are struggling to replace them with a new generation of younger drivers.

The risk is not having enough people to continue getting shipments where they need to be on time.

The ripple effects obviously go well beyond the trucking company.

2. Overworked drivers

As long as there have been truck drivers, they have been logging more than the legal limit of hours.

With the introduction of the Federal Logging Mandate, trucking companies will face a penalty if they allow this to continue.

It’s necessary to strictly enforce the rule that no driver should operate their vehicle for longer than 11 hours without a rest.

Of course, shipments are still expected to be on time.

3. Parking

This may seem like a trivial issue, but it has serious consequences.

Due to the lack of places for trucks to park, many drivers are forced to stop in spots that are either not safe or illegal.

This threatens the safety of the materials on board.

It’s far from ideal to put an important part for a nuclear reactor at risk because there’s no place to park. It can cost more than $1 million a day to keep a reactor shut down.

While this is an extreme example, any time an organization has to stall production, they lose money.

4. Retaining drivers

High turnover rates cost expedited trucking companies excess money for training replacements.

But an even more pressing issue is the way a revolving door of drivers puts a strain on smooth operations.

5. Route congestion

As the demand for expedited shipping grows, the available infrastructure is proving to be insufficient.

When trucks have to compete for the same road-space, service can be slowed and safety is compromised.

A customer-centric solution

The problems that threaten the efficiency of the expedited trucking industry don’t mean that it’s not a viable option for getting your (or your customers’) vital shipments on time.

The key to overcoming the obstacles that threaten to derail your schedule is to work with the right expediter.

Why work with ATM?

A company that knows the ins and outs of the expected trucking industry – and how to overcome challenges – makes all the difference.

Here’s what you can expect when you let ATM handle your expedited shipping needs:

• 24/7 service.
• Reliability.
• Transparent communication.
• Problem-solving that’s customized to your needs.

Overcome expedited trucking obstacles for good

As trucking companies try to attract younger drivers and meet deadlines despite route congestion, rigid work hours and parking issues, you can trust that your shipment won’t be stalled.

Working with a long-standing, well-established expediter that knows the ins and outs of the industry will ensure you get what you need on time.

Do you have a trusted expediter in mind for your next emergency?

Urgent. Time-sensitive. Emergency.

When you have a situation like this, you need a solution FAST.

There’s no time to waste on sending a vital part on a truck that has to make multiple stops and uses inefficient routes.

In today’s fast-paced world, your customers and business partners expect delivery more quickly than ever before.

Here’s what you need to know when you’re using expedited ground freight as a cost-effective solution for your important shipping needs.

1. The nitty-gritty of expedited freight

The purpose of expedited freight is to get your urgent parts or materials where they need to go as quickly as possible – and avoid downtime and halts in your production or processes.

Trucks that are shipping expedited freight rarely make any stops because their whole purpose is to get your shipment to you ASAP.

Everything is streamlined to avoid delays.

2. Logistics expert’s role in expedited freight

Of course, any kind of shipment requires an efficient process.

It’s even more important when the materials are time-sensitive.

You need to be able to trust that the expediter you’re working with is transparent, able to keep you in the loop, and will manage the logistics of your shipment from start to finish with a worry-free plan.

3. Distance isn’t an issue

Whether your shipment needs to go to the state next door or across the country, an expedited freight company can make it happen in a timely manner.

When coordinating a long-distance delivery, there are a lot of factors that come into play.

A good logistics expert will be able to manage and streamline the process so you don’t have to stress.

4. Who uses expedited freight?

While anyone can use expedited freight services, there are certain types of businesses that use them more frequently.

• Oil and gas industry.
• Nuclear power plants.
• 3rd party logistics.
• Construction management.
• Facility parts and repair companies.

In industries like these, any amount of downtime is a big deal.

Consider these examples:

• It costs over $1 million for every day that a nuclear reactor is out of commission.
• If a piece of construction machinery breaks down and the necessary parts to fix it aren’t received quickly, you’ll end up paying for workers who can’t do their job.
• An oil pipe that springs a leak can be patched, but the patch will only hold for so long before a replacement pipe is necessary.

There are also situations in which ground services like FedEx and UPS can’t handle either the material itself or the time-frame required.

Can expedited shipping benefit you?

Expedited freight services are valuable – and necessary – for a wide variety of industries.

The truth is, any business can use expedited shipping to get their items from Point A to Point B.

A good logistics expert will manage the shipment of an important load of any size and can coordinate the elements of your time-sensitive parts or materials.

What shipping needs do you have that require expedited freight?

Expedited freight is the answer.

At least, when the question is, “How can I get this uber-important part shipped ASAP?”

There’s no better way to prevent delays in production or vital processes when you have a mechanical failure or need an emergency shipment.

There are a few ways your precious cargo can be transported with expedited freight.

Check out your options.

Air freight

Often, air freight is the quickest way to get a part or piece of equipment across the country.

From budget-friendly to highly-customized transport, you’ll be able to get what you need on the next flight out, the next day or the second day.

Let’s take a closer look at these fast-shipping options.

Next flight out

With this service, your parts or materials can be picked up around the clock and will be sent to the destination on the next flight out.

Next day air

One of the advantages of this option is that there are no size or weight restrictions.

There also aren’t any cut-off limits for when your shipment can be picked up. It’s customized so it can be delivered any time of the day or night.

Second-day air

This is a cost-effective choice when your delivery is too time-sensitive for ground freight but not an emergency.

You can choose the time you’d like the materials to arrive on the second day or save money by designating that the delivery can be made any time.

Air charter

This option is the top-of-the-line, fastest way to move your shipment from Point A to Point B.

It’s highly-customized, you have maximum control and your freight is the only thing on board.

You would use air charter for the most time-sensitive emergencies.

Ground expedited freight

Air freight is not always the fastest option. It all depends on your timeline and what you’re shipping.

For example, your location or the destination may not be near an airport.

Here are your options for ground freight:

• Cargo van. To cover a short distance very quickly, a cargo van is probably the best option. Whether it’s across town or across the state, a cargo van can get your important shipment where it needs to go quickly and safely.
• Flatbed truck. Parts for construction machinery are often large, bulky, and/or unwieldy. A flatbed truck is the perfect option for this type of cargo.
• Small pickup truck. A small pickup has the capability and speed of a cargo van, but it’s more sensible for small parts that don’t require much space.
• 53-foot van. This type of “dry” van can be used to transport anything but liquids. It’s ideal for a shipment that needs some protection from the elements because it’s enclosed.

Expedited freight helps you minimize downtime

No matter what industry you’re in, experiencing a hitch in your process can be costly.

Sending and receiving materials and parts crucial to your day-to-day operations quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively is a must.

Expedited freight is a tried and true method of making sure all your bases are covered when an emergency hits.

Working with the right complete transportation and freight services provider is a big piece of the puzzle.

What is your most common emergency situation?

Most companies will face it at some point:

An urgent shipping deadline that’s not-negotiable.

Money lost – in the form of downtime – is on the line. Productivity is at risk and you’re responsible for getting things back on track – like, NOW.

In situations like these, air freight is your best friend.

Here’s what you need to know about this option.

What is air freight?

The simplest way to define it is: Transporting goods by aircraft.

There are two main reasons to use this method of shipping your important materials or parts.

• Speed. Air freight is often the fastest way to get something from Point A to Point B.
• Dependability. Other than delays related to the weather, air freight has the lowest possibility of delays.

The cost factor

The biggest reason you may avoid using air freight is the expense.

There’s no denying it’s the most costly option for shipping.

But that’s only one part of the equation.

Using the right strategy can actually save you money, over time.

• Remember, downtime is also costing you – possibly a LOT.
• While air freight may seem cost-prohibitive, it’s actually a cost-effective solution if you’re able to get production up and running more quickly.

It’s important to keep in mind that air freight isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

Your shipping strategy will be tailored to your specific needs.

Your air-freight options

Because this is a specialized solution, there are a variety of ways air freight can work for you.

Each one is designed with your unique emergency-shipping needs in mind.

Here are the four main choices.

1. Next flight out

Just like the name implies, your nuclear reactor replacement part or pipeline component will go out as soon as a flight is available.

This is the fastest of the expedited shipping options, but it’s also the most costly.

2. Next day air

There are no weight or size limits for this expedited service.

Your shipment is customized – including pick-up – so that you can receive it any time of the day or night.

Paying workers who can’t work without a replacement part is a drain on your bottom line. Next day air ensures you won’t have days of downtime on a construction site.

3. Second day air

Sometimes you may need a shipment more quickly than ground expediting can get it to you, but it’s not an immediate emergency, either.

Second day air is the cost-effective happy medium.

4. Air charter

While a charter is the most costly air freight option, it’s also the quickest way to get time-sensitive shipment where it needs to go.

Advantages include:

• A high level of customization.
• You have maximum control.
• Your freight is the only thing on board.

Your precious cargo may be shipped via turboprop, wide-body or Lear jet, depending on your needs and what your freight is.

You need the right domestic air freight forwarder

Not all expediters are created equal.

Be choosy about who you allow to handle your most time-sensitive shipments.

Look for a company that is:

• Reliable.
• Available 24/7.
• Transparent and stays in communication.
• Able to offer you a customized solution based on their expertise and longevity in the industry.

Whether you need next flight out, next day air, second day air or air charter services, the right partner can make all the difference.

You’ll never have to worry that your shipment will be late or that your equipment will arrive in anything less than pristine condition.

Are you prepared for your next emergency?

Reducing downtime is vital.

An equipment failure situation can cost you thousands of dollars by the minute.

If only your urgent shipment could sprout wings and zoom to the destination.

While that’s not possible, there is a next-best-thing.

Air charter is the fastest, most customized way to get your goods where they need to go.

Here’s what you need to know about this downtime-reducing solution.

Benefits of air charter

There are several great reasons to use a charter plane for your shipping needs so downtime is reduced as much as possible.

Scheduling

You’re the boss. Your cargo can be picked up and delivered when you need it to be. That’s 24/7, 365 days a year.

This is especially important when there’s a disruption in the ground transportation industry, like a natural disaster, a strike or a shortage.

Flexibility

A chartered aircraft can usually get closer to an out-of-the-way destination.

For example, dropping necessary equipment in a remote oil field is no problem for a chartered plane.

No delays

Other than weather-related issues, you won’t have to worry about anything holding up the process.

The plane is for shipping your materials – and yours only.

Convenience

From the beginning of the process to the end, it’s all about making things easier for you and meeting your deadlines.

Real-time tracking

It gives you peace of mind to be able to find out where your precious cargo is at any moment.

Value

You’re only paying for exactly what you need.

Safety

A chartered plane is much less likely to be subject to theft or any other kind of tampering.

Your important shipment is the most secure when it’s transported by an air charter.

Finding the best air charter option for you

The process begins with your logistics experts talking with you to determine your unique needs.

The type of aircraft used will depend on what you’re shipping and how quickly your important parts need to arrive at their destination, as well as what that destination is.

Your parts or equipment can be shipped by:

• Turboprop.
• Wide-body.
• Lear jet.

Let’s take a closer look at what each option has to offer for your emergency shipment.

Turboprop

For short trips, the turboprop is a more cost-effective option.

On a shorter trip, it can cover the distance in the same amount of time as a jet, but they burn less fuel per hour.

Another unique feature of the turboprop is the ability to take off from and land on shorter runways in more remote areas.

Wide body

This type of aircraft can carry large, bulky loads, including machinery and bulky, unwieldy equipment.

Not only can they transport large items, but they also have the capacity to accommodate a large quantity of materials.

The large interior space also means the loading and unloading process is much more convenient.

Lear jet

When you need to get an important part across the country ASAP, there’s no match for the speed of a Lear jet.

When combined with the ability to use this service any time – day or night – you can’t go wrong using a private jet for your most time-sensitive transportation shipments.

For example, the nuclear industry can lose an astronomical amount of money for each day that a reactor is out of commission.

Getting a replacement part insanely quickly is an absolute necessity.

Is air charter right for your next emergency?

You can’t predict when something is going to go wrong.

When machinery breaks down and production stalls, you’re losing money.

But you don’t have to panic.

An air charter might be your best option to get things up and running again, without too much hassle or lost revenue.

What experiences have you had with air charter for your shipping needs?

Quick. Fast. Speedy. Like lightning. $$$.

These are all running through your mind when you’re in an equipment failure crisis and you need a replacement part. NOW.

Time is wasting – and that means money is, too.

Hotshot may be the answer.

Here’s what you need to know about hotshot freight solutions.

What is hotshot?

The term “hotshot” usually refers to a class 3, 4, or 5 truck with an added trailer for extra capacity, hauling an item for a single customer who needs it to be delivered in an expedited way.

They’re used for delivering time-sensitive loads, often for an item that’s needed to prevent some type of failure, like a powergrid in a factory or an oilfield pump.

Hotshot loads can also consist of large equipment or machinery, like those used on a construction site.

Why hotshot’s so hot

Of course, the biggest advantage of using hotshot is avoiding downtime and minimizing costs.

Here are some scenarios in which hotshot can save the day:

 

• You’ve hired in some workers to help you get a huge construction job done. Things are moving along right on schedule – UNTIL. An integral piece of equipment goes kaput. You have a choice: Pay employees for being on the job and work they can’t complete OR get replacement equipment ASAP.

• Things are humming along at the nuclear power plant. Then they’re not. When part of a nuclear reactor fails, time is of the essence. Huge amounts of money are lost for every hour the processes are stalled. You need the replacement and you need it NOW.

• You’re the manager at an oil-drilling site. A pipe springs a leak and you can patch it, but you know the patch won’t hold for long. It’s essential that the work keeps moving along or your revenue will suffer.

 

When you have an emergency situation, using hotshot to get your precious cargo delivered in a timely manner is often an optimal solution.

But not all expedited services are created equal.

Finding the right logistics expert

Let’s look at some of the qualities you should look for in a hotshot company.

Reliability

The stakes are high. You need a company you can trust will do what they say – when they say they’ll do it.

Communication

When a lot of money in lost revenue is on the line, you want to work with a freight forwarder who stays in close contact with you.

Transparency is an important piece of the communication puzzle, too.

If an issue comes up, you need to be confident that your logistics expert will be upfront and work with you to find a solution.

Customized problem-solving

Each situation is unique.

You want to work with a logistics expert who can minimize your downtime, help you maximize productivity and offer you cost-friendly options.

24/7/365 availability

That’s the beauty of hotshot, isn’t it?

A mechanical failure rarely comes at a convenient time. Your logistics expert needs to be able to handle your emergency no matter the day or hour.

Hotshot your way to less downtime

The bottom line is that you don’t have time to wait when you experience a failure on your job site, wherever and whatever that may be.

Hotshot is a safe and reliable way to get what you need, when you need it.

And don’t forget that the logistics expert you trust with your cargo can make or break you.

What types of hotshot freight do you need help with?

Logistics experts are called that for good reason.

Getting customers what they need, quickly, is the backbone of the business.

The ability to do so depends on supply chain efficiency.

If you’re struggling with getting things out on time, there are some ways you can improve your processes and bring about positive change.

Here are five ways to enhance the way your business runs.

1. Communication

Communication with your customers is certainly vital.

When there’s an issue, it’s always best to be upfront with your clients about what’s going on and how you’re handling the situation.

But what about communication amongst your team?

A commitment to regular meetings gives everyone a chance to address issues BEFORE they become bigger problems that can stall your processes.

Don’t wait until a client is stuck with a leaking oil pipe in the middle of nowhere, losing dollars by the minute, to take care of complications.

Keep in mind that, whenever it’s possible, face-to-face interactions are preferable to avoid misunderstandings that can cost precious time.

2. Analytics

Data-gathering is vital for continuously improving the way you do things.

Assess supply chain metrics regularly to pinpoint areas that aren’t working as efficiently as they should be.

Involve your team members in the process, too. You’ll spark creativity that can lead to innovative problem-solving.

3. Information sharing

In your business, speed is critical.

When your clients are losing money for every wasted minute, there’s no time to pore over handwritten pages of data.

If you’re relying on outdated paper spreadsheets to relay information, it’s time to make a change.

Share the most up-to-date information through the latest technology that’s available to you.

4. Customized solutions

There’s no cookie-cutter answer that works for every client.

Analyzing transportation data gives you the insight you need to stay on top of trends and offer customers the most up-to-date opportunities for getting their important parts to them as quickly as possible.

5. Partnerships

It’s important for you to have suppliers you can rely on. You don’t have time for mistakes.

When you look for opportunities to improve your current processes by leveraging the capabilities of suppliers, your clients win.

Solutions for every situation

Working through the answers to these questions will help you improve your supply chain efficiency and better meet your clients’ needs.

Of course, the other key to running a successful complex logistics operation is providing a variety of options to get your customers’ parts and supplies to them quickly and within their budget parameters.

ATM offers:

• Air freight services, including:
  • Air charter.
  • Next Flight Out.
  • Same Day Air.
  • Next Day Air.
  • Second Day Air.

• Ground expedite. Because we have such an extensive network, any pickup point and destination can be covered by:
  • Exclusive Truck.
  • One and Two Man Teams.
  • Hotshots.

And that includes after-hours and weekends.

Take steps to improve your supply chain efficiency

Meeting the needs of your customers is your top priority.

They need to get their parts and supplies ASAP so their production doesn’t lag and they don’t lose money.

But, you can’t accomplish this without a supply chain that works efficiently.

Use these five steps to ensure you’re doing everything you can to meet your clients’ urgent requests.

What did these five steps reveal about your organization’s supply chain efficiency? Do you need to make some changes?

An emergency shipping request requires a quick solution.

Sometimes air freight is the best way to go.

But that’s not always the case.

There are several factors that play into the mode-of-transport decision, including how quickly the delivery is needed and the budget parameters.

One of the options is truckload freight.

Here’s what you need to know if truckload shipping is right for you.

One truck, one destination

The term “truckload freight” refers to large shipments that will take up more than half up to an entire 48-foot to 53-foot trailer.

Truckload is the preferred method when the shipper has enough freight or when the customer wants their materials to be the only thing on the truck.

It’s also good for time-sensitive shipments and is often a more cost-effective solution because the truck doesn’t make any stops from where the shipment originates until it gets to the destination.

Advantages of truckload

There are three big selling points of truckload shipping.

1. Quicker transit time

Supplies and parts that are via truckload are usually delivered more quickly than when they’re shipped by other ground expedite methods.

The truck goes directly to the destination and doesn’t have to stop at any hubs in-between, which adds on time.

2. Decreased risk of damage

Truckload shipments aren’t typically handled from the time they’re loaded until they reach their destination and are unloaded.

That means there’s less opportunity for damage to occur.

3. Competitive rates

Shipments that are substantial enough to fill up an entire trailer’s space are usually less expensive to ship by truckload, as opposed to having to break the materials up into separate shipments.

Best practices for truckload shipping

Logistics experts should follow these best practices to make sure they’re meeting their customers’ expectations.

• Stay informed. Make sure you have a handle on supply and demand, and how it affects rates in the trucking industry.
• Be efficient. When shipments are packaged so they can be loaded and unloaded easily, productivity goes up and time is used more efficiently.

What’s the difference between truckload and LTL shipping?

You’ve probably heard of LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping and may have wondered how it compares to truckload.

LTL refers to shipping an item via truck that doesn’t take up the entire space on the trailer.

It’s not economically sound for most smaller businesses to pay truckload rates when their shipment isn’t that large.

The downside is – because they’re sharing space on a truck with the supplies of other businesses – the transit time is much slower.

Bottom line: Truckload is a valuable option

It’s important to offer a variety of options to meet a wide range of emergency shipping needs.

Along with air freight, truckload and other ground expedite options will help you provide your customers with the most comprehensive solutions.

The most important piece of the puzzle is getting your clients’ shipments from Point A to Point B as quickly as possible so their production doesn’t lag and they don’t lose money.

What is your go-to for emergency transportation?

When you’re in a time-crunch, traditional delivery services just don’t cut it. FedEx and UPS aren’t even open 24/7!

If you’re working on a nuclear reactor and a part fails, you can’t exactly hop on Amazon and order a new one and have it delivered right away.

Not even with a Prime membership!

But your shipping emergency calls for FAST action.

You need logistics experts that can get the part to you the same day.

Colossal amounts of money are lost for every hour that the reactor is down.

In fact, no matter your industry, your revenue will suffer when you experience downtime.

Here’s what you need to know about same-day delivery so you can save money and keep production chugging along.

The benefits of same-day delivery

Take a look at the advantages of having the important parts, supplies or materials you need to be delivered on the same day:

• Increased efficiency.
• More money saved.
• Less stress.
• Improved bottom line.

Whether your job site is an oil field in the middle of nowhere or a busy factory in a small town, the right logistics experts can get you what you need – 24/7, 365 days a year.

Not only does this quick service save money, but it also takes your stress levels down some serious notches.

Air freight vs. ground expedite

Many people assume that sending something via air freight is always going to be a faster option.

Not quite.

Some circumstances aren’t ideal situations for airplanes.

For example, maybe your shipment drop-off and pick-up points aren’t near an airport.

Perhaps your emergency shipment has to go out in the middle of the night.

And sometimes, it’s just plain faster to send a part by truck.

In addition, the cost of air freight can be prohibitive, and in some situations, the extra money to ship by air isn’t worth it.

Each method is suited for different scenarios and a great logistics expert will be able to quickly determine which one is best for your needs.

The right “vehicle” for the job

There are always options for getting your shipment from Point A to Point B on the same day – no matter your shipping emergency.

1. Air freight

An air charter is the fastest way to transport your emergency shipment because it’s so highly-customizable.

You, as the customer, maintain maximum control.

The same-day air option means your freight can be picked any time – day or night – and it will be delivered that same day.

2. Ground expedite

There are options for transporting your supplies over the ground on the same day, too.

Truckload freight is a good option because your material is the only thing on board and the truck doesn’t stop from the warehouse to your destination.

And that includes weekends and after hours.

Another good option is hotshot. As the name implies, it’s all about getting your shipment to its destination – FAST.

Don’t trust your time-sensitive shipment to just anyone

It’s important that you get what you need, when you need it, to avoid costly downtime.

When you have a shipping emergency, work with a logistics expert that can get your part to you on the same day, any day of the year.

What’s your go-to move when you have an emergency?