How To Pick A Truckload Carrier.
With the wide amount of Truckload carriers in the market, it can be difficult to pick a good carrier to trust with your goods.
To pick a good truckload carrier, consider the following factors:
Safety record: Check the carrier's safety ratings and compliance history with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
Insurance coverage: Ensure the carrier has adequate insurance to protect your shipments.
Reliability: Look for carriers with a proven track record of on-time deliveries and minimal service failures.
Fleet quality: Consider the age and condition of the carrier's trucks and trailers.
Technology: Carriers with advanced tracking and communication systems can provide better visibility and service.
Customer service: Choose carriers with responsive customer support and clear communication channels.
Pricing: Compare rates but remember that a competitive rate is better than the lowest in many cases. Bad service ages like milk, not wine!
Capacity: Ensure the carrier has enough trucks and drivers to meet your needs, especially during peak seasons.
Specialized equipment: If you have specific requirements (e.g., refrigerated transport), verify the carrier can accommodate them.
References and reviews: Ask for customer references and check online reviews to gauge the carrier's reputation.
Ask yourself these questions.
Are you checking SAFER WEB (dot.gov) to make sure that the carrier picking up is safe?
Are you checking Carrier411 - Carrier Safety Ratings, SMS BASIC Scores, Insurance and Authority Monitoring to see if your carrier has a troubled past poor service or unstable business practices?
Are you looking for the biggest carriers in the nation or realizing that relationships with regional carriers is important?
And finally, are you looking inward to make sure you are considered a good shipper. A shipper that is carrier friendly with good freight, good operating hours, competitive rates, and a solid dock operation?
Why not utilize the company with over 113 years of operating experience and a management staff of over 200 combined years of experience to help you answer these questions.
Call us today at 262-689-9202, or email us here to discuss your truckload needs and how we can assist.
Chris Greenberg,
President and C.O.O.
West Bend Transit and Service Co.