Business owners sometimes miss out on significant points when trying to arrange a shipment as soon as possible. Often, it results in numerous freight shipping mistakes. Still, the attention to detail and your desire to improve the delivery process can eliminate the risks of shipping errors.
Why do shipping mistakes emerge?
Multi-level supply chain management can be challenging. Sometimes, retailers focus on side shipping operations instead of maintaining core logistics processes, which leads to shipping mistakes. Shipping errors frequently emerge under tight deadlines and high customer expectations. However, convenient planning and clear logistics organization can help you reduce the risks of shipping disruptions.
How can you avoid freight shipping errors?
Shipping mistakes happen, and they can potentially cost companies thousands of dollars. Even the most experienced shippers make common mistakes during their everyday planning. We laid out five practical strategies for you to follow when ready for shipment to avoid these mistakes.
Package your freight properly
It’s up to you to package their freight correctly. A few extra minutes is all you need when deciding on a suitable packaging method. Luckily, today there are many options to prevent your items from any possible damage and potential shipping errors. It is better to start with picking the crates fitting your goods and increasing the cargo density by using various void fillers and protective wrapping materials.
Then, it’s time to take care of fixating your boxes inside the trailer. The most practical way to do it is palletizing your freight. Pallets will limit the unwanted movement of the cargo during transportation and simplify loading/unloading processes. Taking your time to pack the goods properly is worth it when your freight arrives intact and damage-free.
Estimate the freight class
Understanding your freight class will aid your carrier in planning and ensure you avoid hidden costs. Skipping the estimation of the freight class could cause you to pay more than you should. If you don’t give the most accurate shipment specifications, carriers must adjust the rate. Try to gather all the necessary information, primarily the weight, size, and dimensions. It will also give you a clear understanding of the transport type needed to deliver the goods.
Besides, the cargo volume is the most critical factor in choosing a suitable shipping method. For example, you would usually transport large shipments via full truckload (FTL) mode to fill out the entire trailer space. On the other hand, smaller shipments are compatible with less than truckload (LTL) shipping mode, where you will share the trailer space with several other shippers. Try to determine the most suitable transportation mode to avoid shipping mistakes.
Collect the required paperwork
Shipping documentation is one of the core questions business owners sometimes overlook during transit preparation. However, taking care of the necessary paperwork is critical to prevent possible supply chain disruptions. Ensure to gather the pack of documents, including the Bill of Lading, containing the data about the shipped items and the carrier invoice, which works as a freight bill of the provided transportation services.
Some shipments will also require you to prepare the packing list with details goods descriptions and some other papers – everything depends on what and how you are moving. Shipping paperwork also involves freight insurance, which can help you reduce the risks of cargo damage or loss.
Track the shipment after pickup
As a solid business owner, you want to ensure your shipment arrives on time. Overlooking timing can force the receiver to reach out and complain about shipping delays. As a responsible business owner, you have to understand when your shipment will reach its destination. It would be best if you were sure to factor in harsh weather or the holiday season, which may increase delivery time.
It is where the option of shipment tracking comes in handy. The tracking system is helpful for retailers and customers as everyone can keep an eye on a shipment flow from any gadget. Thus, you feel in control of the supply chain process, and your buyers stay updated on the emerging changes. Simultaneously, they will receive notifications in case of delivery shifts.
Choose reliable carriers
Finally, finding the carrier that can provide you with the best rate and service is essential. Some carriers will be suitable for certain types of freight. Therefore, you can access an extensive list of carriers to make the right decision. When planning a shipment, consider your cargo specifics and outline the most relevant shipping mode and types of transport you find the best in your case. Counting your budgeting and working out the optimal timeline is also vital. Thus, you’ll know what type of carrier would meet your logistics needs.
At GoShip, we take the stress out of shipping. Let us use our advanced industry knowledge to get your freight where it needs to go. With plenty of qualified and experienced carriers, you can find the best rate for your budget and freight. See how we can help with our online solution by getting a free quote today!