5 best practices for shipping expedite
No matter your reason for utilizing ground expedite transportation, you want to make sure you’re getting all of the benefits of the solution. And one of the best ways to do that is by following some best practices. These quick tips will help ensure your expedite freight arrives quickly and efficiently.
1. Communicate, communicate, communicate
Communication is vital for a successful shipment and is especially important when time is of the essence. As a simple tool for making sure you’re communicating all details to your carrier, remember to answer the “who, what, when and where” for your shipment: Who are the emergency contacts and point people at pickup and delivery? What are you shipping? When is the absolute latest this load can arrive? Where is your load picking up and delivering?
By over-communicating the details of your shipment, you set yourself up for a smooth and quick expedite experience.
2. Know your exact dimensions
While all details are important to share, it’s critical to know and effectively communicate your freight’s dimensions with your carrier. Knowing your freight’s precise dimensions will enable them to choose the right piece of equipment for your shipment. Not only does this ensure the freight will fit on the assigned equipment, but it also could mean better transit times. Smaller trucks generally move quicker, so if your load is smaller, then a sprinter van may be the best and quickest option.
3. Confirm liability details
If your load is high value, you’ll want to know the exact cost of your freight and confirm with your broker that it will be properly insured for the correct amount. Sometimes additional liability coverage is necessary to cover the value of your load, but don’t worry: most 3PLs can purchase coverage for higher values if needed.
4. Make yourself available
Most delays occur when loading and unloading freight. This means that to prevent delay in your time-sensitive freight, it’s imperative to make yourself available during these times. Keeping your cell phone with you or having access to your email will enable your carrier to contact you if something were to go wrong.
5. Choose the right partner
Above all, choosing the right expedite partner and working with a company that you trust should be at the top of your checklist. Because a broker acts, in part, as yourself during the shipping process, knowing and trusting them is essential. Does your 3PL provide different types of equipment for expedite? Have you worked with this broker before? Do you have your broker’s direct line? These are all questions that you should ask yourself when choosing an expedite partner.
Ship confidently with ArcBest
ArcBest offers ground expedite transportation through our Panther Premium Logistics fleet — an industry leader in delivering high-value and time-sensitive freight with speed and precision. Give us a call today and we can get an expedite quote to you within 15 minutes!
Still have questions about the service? Check out these expedite FAQs for more information.