The best time to use a Broker vs an Asset is"

• When your freight is not pre-set; i.e. not the same shipment, on the same day, to the same locations

• When you're expanding into a new Market, where pricing has yet to be established.

• When you have a last minute shipment

• For LTL and Partial Shipments

There are many factors that come into play when pricing freight. Each factor either reduces or increases your cost.

• Pick up and Delivery locations

• Distance travelled

• Dimensions of Shipments (oversized or legal)

• Type of Shipment (TL, LTL or Partial or Parcel)

• Equipment type (Dry Van, Reefer, Flatbed etc)

• Delivery Parameters (expedited, appointment times, dock to dock, tailgate, driver assistance)

• Market Availability (Capacity)

The best way to reduce your freight charges is to limit the requirements and pre-plan efficiently. Other ways include:

• Remove Appointment Times

• Use Standard Dimensions (4x4 creates/skids)

• Delivery within normal business/shipping hours (Monday-Friday / 8am-3pm)

• Provide 48 hours notice to the Broker/Carrier prior to shipment

• Create Consistency (dates, times, locations)

• Know your break even points (LTL to Particle to Truckload)

• Avoid last second expedited shipments

• Load and Unload within the allotted time provided by the carrier

• Have the proper loading/unloading equipment on site (forklift, pallet jack, pump truck)

The average shipment comes with a preset 2 hour loading/unload rate built into the pricing. Should the loading and unloading process exceed the allotted 2 hours, carriers will charge an hourly rate for waiting (This can range from $50-$100 depending on the carrier).

• To avoid this or avoid frustration; a good practice is to know what that rate is prior to securing the shipment and to inform all parties (shipper and receiver) in writing (email).

• Be in communication with the broker/carrier as early as possible should delays occur

• Provide alternate options prior to carriers arrival should your freight not be ready to load (sometimes an overnight charge is less than an hourly detention fee).