Starting a new business is an exciting time, but can also be scary. The life of an entrepreneur is something of a roller coaster, so it’s important to arm yourself with as much information as possible. Shipping is one of those things that all business owners use, but few talk about. Click To Tweet As a result, new business owners are often in the dark as to which carrier to use, what method would be best, and how to get started.
Smart Shipping Solutions
When you think about your business, chances are you imagine the big picture. Your service or product, your marketing plan, production, and revenue. Shipping is usually one of the last thing businesses consider, even though it’s crucial for lasting success. If you’ve just started your business and don’t know where to begin with shipping, this will serve as a primer on what businesses need to know about the process.
Compare Rates
You wouldn’t buy a new car without comparing various prices, so it doesn’t make sense that you would settle on a carrier without comparing costs. This can be tricky if you’re not familiar with shipping carriers, freight regulations or best practices. Using a rateshopper service provides the most accurate rates for LTL shipments. Simply include the starting location zip code and the destination, the weight and the freight class, and receive the best discounted rates available.
Work With a Broker
Why work with a freight broker? Couldn’t you just find a decent rate yourself? If you’re new to business, the simple answer is no. Rather than scouring the industry to find the best shipping options, a freight broker will always do the legwork for you. Thanks to their truckload management expertise and connections in the industry, a broker will save you valuable time and money. They’re more likely to get the best bids from a multitude of companies you would never consider. Working with a freight broker will ensure the best conditions for every shipment and will approach every load with attention and diligence.
Package Correctly
Package items using the minimum amount of space you can. You want to ship with safety and density in mind, and put your items in an appropriate container.If you’re shipping multiple items on a shrink-wrapped pallet, it’s important to label each individual box in case the load is somehow split up.
Use Analytics Wisely
Thanks to technology, your business can now carefully monitor every step of the delivery process at any given time. This allows you to track the shipment, and quickly identify potential delays. Data collection and analysis can clue you into problems with a certain carrier, or ways you could possibly improve the shipping process.
Reevaluate
Once you find a shipping process you’re happy with, you can relax. For a little while. You should still evaluate your shipping needs and strategy every six months to ensure that it’s operating at peak efficiency and you’re getting the best value for your money.
Contact Us to find the best shipping solution to keep your new business profitable.
