4 Common Logistics Questions, Answered

Almost 12 million different trucks, trains, and ships work together to move goods over the global transportation network. With so many different options and variables, it can be difficult to know where to begin when you're looking into truckload logistics for the first time.

Time may be of the essence, but you know you've got to be "in the loop" when it comes to your business's shipping logistics. After all, it's your responsibility to ensure that everything gets delivered accurately and on time.

You also know that just getting freight moved isn't the whole story -- you need to get it done in the most cost-effective way possible, without compromising quality or safety.

To learn what you need to know to make the best truckload logistics choices for your company, keep reading.

What are truckload logistics?

The industry of truckload logistics deals with matching the kinds of freight you have to deliver with the ideal equipment needed to deliver it. The goal of truckload logistics is to get your materials and products shipped to their destinations on-time in the most economical way possible. Factors like destination, product or material type, and deadline all come into consideration when matching freight with transport equipment.

What options are there for truckload logistics?

As pointed out above, the kind of equipment used to deliver something depends largely on the product or material being delivered. The conventional options for shipping include the following:

• 53-foot vans, better known simply as semi-trucks, may be the most common choice. These are optimal for large freight that must be protected from the elements.
• Small trucks are typically used for shipping parts or small loads that aren't big enough to justify using a full-size semi.
• Cargo vans are smaller vehicles often used for expedited shipping services that take freight directly to homes and offices.
• Flatbeds are necessary for large, bulky freight that has to be loaded from the top or side. This trucking option cannot guarantee that your freight will be protected from the elements.
• Gooseneck trailers are usually used for tall, oversized freight. They provide the most flexibility for trickier loads.

How much weight can your logistics partner handle?

Specific weight limits and regulations will be different for each individual freight carrier. Most logistics companies can easily manage any load weighing between 42,000 and 44,000 pounds. A full-sized 53-foot van can handle as much as 45,000 pounds of freight.

But how can you benefit from entrusting your shipping operations to third party truckload carriers?

How would you benefit from partnering with a trucking service?

The following are just a few reasons you should invest in an experienced truckload logistics company:

• You get to focus on your expertise while the logistics service focuses on theirs. You won't be forced to pour your time and energy -- or your company’s resources -- into an area you aren't equipped to manage. Instead, experienced freight handlers take care of it for you, freeing you to focus your energy on what you do best.
• You enjoy quicker delivery speed. By partnering with a truckload logistics company, you can rest assured that they will get the job done correctly and on-time. Experienced freight handlers know what equipment to match with what freight and they have the foresight and resources to prevent delays.
• Your company enjoys lower costs. If you tried to do your shipping and freight management in-house, you would have to hire an entire team of people to do the work. By outsourcing logistics to your shipping partner, you only pay for the services you need.
• You avoid the surprises and complications that come with learning something new. What would seem like an impossible freight situation to you would probably be easy for a professional freight handler to deal with.

This is why you should entrust your delivery needs to a company that's seen it all. When you're ready to streamline your business' operations, rely on DTS One as your best option for truckload logistics.