5 Common LTL Shipping Mistakes You Might Be Making

5 Common LTL Shipping Mistakes You Might Be Making

Less than truckload shipping, or LTL shipping services, are very beneficial to businesses across the country for many reasons. For this reason, many people like to use it. Utilizing LTL freight services is great, but not if you're making these common mistakes.

Incomplete or incorrect BOL

The bill of lading (BOL) is the document that contains information like the dimensions of your freight, the number of packages, the desired destination, etc. If this document is not complete or accurate, it could result in a delay in shipment or even your packages getting lost in transit. To avoid this, diligently complete the BOL and double-check it for accuracy.

Improper packaging

When you use LTL shipping services, the items in your shipment get handled several times. If they aren't packaged correctly, you increase the risk of your items getting damaged. You also can cost yourself more in shipping rates if your freight is not correctly packaged based on its dimensions. Using pallets or crates is highly recommended to avoid these issues.

Not tracking the shipment

After you've shipped your freight, it's important not to forget about it. As the shipper, you should monitor your package through the freight company's tracking services so you know where it is and when it will be delivered. This way, you can give your customers accurate information about their package and when it will arrive to help improve customer satisfaction.

Skipping insurance

LTL shipping services are a safe way to get your freight from point A to point B, but accidents happen. You want to protect your packages from anything like theft, traffic accidents, and even natural disasters. Without protecting your freight with insurance, it could cost you thousands of dollars to fix the problem.

Picking the wrong service

Within LTL shipping services, there are standard and specialized plans you can choose from. Do your research and find out which shipping service will be the best for your customer. Find out how quickly they need their packages and what they prefer in terms of shipping options before you choose one.

The value of freight moved is expected to rise from $882 per ton in 2007 to $1,377 per ton in 2040, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. Using LTL shipping services to move your valuable freight is a great choice, just make sure you aren't making these common mistakes.

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