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What is Last-Mile Delivery?

It is said that last-mile delivery is one of the most crucial parts of any business that deals with customer deliveries. Many buyers expect a fast and efficient delivery system in place from your business and you have to meet these high expectations. We’ll be going through the important aspects of last-mile delivery in this article and how you could use it to improve your business.

Last-mile delivery defined

Last-mile delivery is the last leg of a parcel’s journey from its origin to its destination. It’s a term that generally refers to the last stretch of a delivery, which is usually the most difficult part of the process. If a parcel went from a seller’s warehouse to a shipping company, to another sortation facility, and lastly to a truck courier for door-to-door shipping, that truck courier would be considered as the last-mile delivery. 

The demand for an effective and efficient last-mile delivery is growing rapidly, with more than half of all consumers saying they want their orders delivered within 24 to 48 hours of ordering. In addition, as e-commerce becomes more popular and people shop online more frequently, last-mile delivery will become more important as companies look toward new ways to improve efficiency and speed.

One of the goals of last-mile delivery is to eliminate bottlenecks and make deliveries faster and more efficient by leveraging technology like drones, robotics, and automation. This can save retailers money by reducing labor costs associated with shipping products to customers’ doorsteps, as well as improve customer experience by eliminating wait times for deliveries that are currently experienced by many e-commerce shoppers today, especially in urban areas. 

When you order online with an online retailer, you usually receive your order in one or two days, on average. This is because most retailers have fulfillment centers near their distribution centers or warehouses – large facilities where they store inventory awaiting shipment. Implementing these types of techniques together with an improved and efficient last-mile delivery system will further improve the time needed for a product to arrive from the moment it was ordered. Last-mile delivery has become more important as e-commerce sales continue to skyrocket and companies look for ways to increase sales volume while improving customer satisfaction.

How can I use last-mile delivery in my business?

Implementing an efficient last-mile delivery method is a great way to get your product to the customer and out of your warehouse. If your business is still starting out, outsourcing this part of the process might be the best option for now. There are a lot of logistics partners that you can choose from who can provide you with outstanding services. 

A delivery guy holding a cardboard box waiting for a woman to sign the delivery documents

Last-mile delivery is a service that allows customers to have their products delivered directly to them, wherever they are. It’s a great way for businesses to tap into new markets and make sales. Incorporating your branding into your delivery vehicles will also improve your brand awareness, especially in new neighborhoods.

Last-mile delivery is great because it allows you to reach your customers in a personal way, which can be especially helpful if your business specializes in a certain product or service. In addition, last-mile delivery can help you interact with your customers on a personal level and increase the likelihood that they will return.

No matter what type of business you operate, but more especially if you engage in online retail, setting up a robust and effective last-mile delivery system will surely benefit your business.

How can the integration of last-mile delivery help to improve customer relations?

Last-mile delivery has become a core part of business operations as customers increasingly expect products to be delivered to them as soon as possible after they order them. There are many benefits that come with this type of service, including increased sales and improved customer relations if you handle the delivery aspect properly.

The integration of last-mile delivery into your business will help you improve your customers’ experience by providing delivery services at an affordable price point and improving your ability to meet high expectations from customers. This will in turn improve the perception of your brand and will guarantee repeat purchases from your customers in the future.

The last mile is the final leg of a delivery. In many ways, it’s the most important part of the entire process. After all, if you have a bad experience with a delivery service, you won’t be able to make any other purchases with that company again.

A delivery man in a black cap writing something on a piece of paper at the back of his delivery van

By integrating last-mile delivery into their network, some large companies have made it possible for shoppers to receive their packages at home or work without having to go out into the cold weather. This kind of integration is what makes last-mile delivery so valuable for businesses. It allows them to provide their customers with an excellent customer experience, among other benefits.

Last-mile delivery is an important part of your supply chain

Last-mile delivery allows you to get your packages right in your customers’ hands without much hassle. All the other parts of your supply chain are important aspects of your whole logistics machinery that needs to be working properly in order to minimize customer complaints. It is essential to always take a look at how you can further optimize and improve your process to further benefit your business and your customers.

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Different Packaging Materials You Can Use for Shipping Your Goods

One of the most important aspects of maintaining a good product and service is using the right packaging materials for the goods that you are selling. If your business is engaged in frequently sending orders to your customers through couriers, it is important to know the right type of packaging materials that you should be using. Choosing the right packaging material will ensure that your products will arrive safe and will minimize the risk of returns due to damages. 

In this article, we will cover some of the most commonly used packaging materials and when you should be using them for your products.

Corrugated Boxes

A person applying tape to a corrugated cardboard box

The corrugated box is a popular choice because it provides a strong and durable packaging material. They are made from corrugated cardboard, which is a type of paper-based material, mostly recycled from other paper products. This type of packaging is extremely cheap and easy to use, but it does not provide much protection for your product during transit, especially if your products are electronics or glassware.

Corrugated boxes come in various sizes, so you don’t have to worry about the size of your product or its weight when you’re deciding on the appropriate box size for shipping.

Corrugated boxes have several advantages over other types of packaging materials:

  • They’re inexpensive and easy to stack, which reduces shipping costs for you and your customers
  • They provide an attractive presentation for your products
  • Corrugated boxes are recyclable, which means they don’t add extra weight to landfills or oceans after they’ve been used once

Most businesses that use corrugated boxes for shipping their goods purchase them in bulk quantities, which makes them very cost-effective. You can also find smaller packs that contain just enough for one shipment or one week’s worth of sales at your store. You can connect with packaging retailers or manufacturers to have your corrugated boxes made into your specific size requirements and you can even pay an additional amount to have your brand included in the boxes themselves during manufacturing.

Foam

One material that you might have thought of when thinking about shipping your goods is foam. Foam packaging is useful because it protects your fragile items from damage during shipping. It can also be used to cushion heavy items so they don’t break or crack during shipment. You might have noticed that some fragile appliances that you buy are usually packed in foam first before being put inside a cardboard box to minimize movement and therefore make the product safer during transit. With the right amount of foam packaging, you can provide great customer satisfaction while saving time and money on shipping costs.

Foam packaging is made from polystyrene, a lightweight material that can help reduce the weight of your shipment by up to 50% compared to other packaging materials. It can be used for fragile items, such as electronics and glassware, and it’s easy to seal with a plastic bag or tape. 

Bubble Wrap

A man and a woman wrapping something with bubble wrap and tape

Bubble wrap remains to be the top choice for most businesses in shipping any type of goods to their customers. Aside from being cheap, bubble wrap also offers the best protection for any type of item without making the package very bulky. Bubble wrap is available in different sizes and shapes depending on what you want to ship.

Bubble wraps are a great way to package items since they provide both protection and cushioning for your goods. These days, many people prefer using bubble wrap instead of cardboard because they’re lighter and more durable than their cardboard counterparts.

The best thing about using these types of packaging materials is that they enable you to ship anything with ease. You can even use them if you need to ship fragile items like glassware or delicate items like electronics or electronics accessories like laptops or mobile phones.

Most online retailers and e-commerce businesses will choose bubble wrap as their primary shipping material because it’s cheap, lightweight, and easy to use.

Paper or Plastic Wrap

A person wrapping a book with brown paper

Paper and plastic wrap are one of the best options for protecting your goods in transit before they reach your customers. It’s also a great way to promote your brand, as you can use your business name or logo on the packaging.

Paper and plastic wrap aren’t just limited to shipping, you can also use them to pack your goods at your brick-and-mortar store as an additional branding exposure for your business.

For shipping purposes, there are many different ways you can use paper and plastic wrap. 

Paper wrap is inexpensive compared to the other items on this list but they do have limited use. Paper wraps usually come in rolls with varying widths and thicknesses, so make sure you get one that matches the size of your products perfectly. Paper wrap is an excellent choice when you need to protect delicate items or those that are easily damaged by handling. It’s also an affordable option, making it an easy choice for many businesses.

The plastic wrap provides a good level of protection against moisture and air pollution when used in conjunction with other packaging materials like bubble wrap or foam peanuts inside your box or bag. Again, make sure you get a thickness and size that matches up with what you need and do make sure to overlap any edges for additional safety. Plastic wrap also offers a great deal of protection against rain and dust during shipping, but it can be harder to seal than paper.

Choosing the Right Packaging Materials

Shipping goods is a big job. The responsibility of getting your products to your customers, safely, on time, and at the right price is all on you. In order to do this well, you need to know how to select the right packaging for your products. Always consider the following when choosing what type of package to use:

  • The size of the package
  • The weight of the product
  • The destination where it will be shipped
  • The type of weather that your shipment is exposed to
  • The type of product (this can affect what kind of packaging you need)

Of course, if you have a lot of kinds of items in your inventory, it is important to have different types of packaging materials as well to be sure that you can pack anything once an order is received. Be sure to not only choose the most cost effective solution but also the safest one to avoid returns.

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How to Ship a Grand Piano

It will happen to almost every one of us, there will come a day when you will have to send out a very large item somewhere. Be it your old sofa, a new kitchen countertop, or even a grand piano! This scenario is not an impossible thing to happen, trust me (especially if you have one). 

In this article, we will go through some tips that you can follow so that shipping a large grand piano will not be that big of a headache. 

Measure the size of the grand piano

When shipping a very large item, the first thing that you have to do is to measure the dimensions of the object being shipped. This is necessary because most shipping companies will not ship items that are more than a certain weight or size.

It is important for the company shipping your package to know how what is the size of your shipment. Knowing this beforehand will save you a lot of time along the way especially when the shipping company will already determine the best method for shipping and the cost that they will charge you.

Secondly, it is important for them to understand what type of packaging material they will need in order for your item not to get damaged during transportation or storage once they have received it. Your shipping company will also have to arrange all the necessary equipment that they will need to use prior to your shipment so constant communication with them will always be a big help. 

Choose your shipping method

When shipping a large and delicate item such as a grand piano, you have to choose the shipping method carefully, especially since these instruments are not cheap.

White delivery truck traveling down a highway

The most common type of freight shipment is by truck, which is the fastest way to get your item from point A to point B. However, if you want your shipment delivered on time due to schedule restrictions, then you need to consider using a special type of shipping company — one that specializes in transporting heavy loads on a tight schedule, especially delicate musical instruments. Ideally, this will be delivered via an FTL method so that it will reach its destination faster and safer.

It might be possible that you’ll need a freight truck with a lift gate (or ramp). This will allow your grand piano to be loaded onto the truck without having to lift it into position yourself or have someone else do it for you. This will also be beneficial considering the cost that you will incur for manual labor.

Contact a shipper

You can choose from a variety of different shipping companies when shipping large items, but there are some things that you should consider when choosing your shipper.

You will want to make sure that the company is capable of shipping your item. A grand piano is an expensive instrument and you have to make sure that it is taken care of properly during shipment. Once you have made contact, it is also a good opportunity to ask for shipping costs and compare them with other shippers. 

You will also want to ensure that they can handle your specific needs for such a large and delicate item, and provide tracking information for your shipment. One of the most important things to remember when shipping a very large item such as this is that it must be insured. You don’t want to risk anything with such a delicate shipment. 

When choosing a shipper, ask about their experience with shipping extremely heavy and delicate objects. A good shipping company will have many years of experience handling these types of shipments.

Wrap the grand piano carefully

Once you are done with the previous steps, it is now time to start packing. There are many different types of packaging options available for shipping your grand piano. Consider a combination of the following packing methods:

  • Wrapping the whole instrument with bubble wrap to protect it during transit
  • Consider using furniture pads to further protect your piano while it is being moved
  • Packing tape will help in securing all the movable parts together including your paddings

One of the most important things when shipping a huge item is to ensure that you use proper packaging and wrapping material. This will help in keeping your package intact and safe during transit.

You will also want to consider using cushioning materials so that parts will not shift around while being transported. You can use bubble wrap or foam peanuts for smaller items that will go with your grand piano as these are cheap and easy to find at any hardware store or big box retailer.

If possible, you should always try and ship from an area where there are lots of people around so that there are plenty of helpers who can assist in unloading and unpacking your package when it arrives at its destination.

Shipping a grand piano

Shipping huge items as delicate as a grand piano can be done with the right help and preparation. If you have a similar item that is too large to ship on your own, consider working with a professional. Your options for shipping very large items are limited but there are many reliable and highly competent companies that can help you out. Contact us here at Soul Logistics for your large shipment needs. Our fleet can accommodate almost any size of shipment and we would be happy to help in any way we can.

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Are you thinking of joining the logistics industry? Find out if it’s for you.

If you’re interested in a career in logistics, there are many options that you can choose from. The industry offers a lot of diverse career fields that you can explore. Not only is a career path in the logistics industry fulfilling, but it is also one that is stable and offers one of the best compensation packages in the job market today. 

With some logistics companies operating on a worldwide scale, the industry can offer you a work environment that is varied and exciting. In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide to help you decide if a career in the logistics industry is something that you can pursue.

What type of logistics job would you like to do?

Do you want to drive a truck? Do you prefer working in a warehouse? Or would you rather work as a dispatcher? The choice is yours to make and more often than not, there is always something for you in the logistics world.

A truck driver looking out from his truck window

If you want to drive a truck, you’ll have to take CDL training and become qualified to drive a commercial truck. There are several training programs available to choose from, depending on your location. Once you’ve finished your training, you can begin your job search and apply for jobs with trucking companies in your area.

If you’d rather work in a warehouse or distribution center, you’ll need to take a class to become a forklift operator or some minor training to become a warehouse clerk. Once you’re certified, you can start applying for jobs in warehouses operated by logistics companies near you.

Find training courses to help you build your skills and get the experience you need to land your dream job. There are a wide variety of training courses available online and at your local community college to help you learn new skills and get work experience in the industry. Most of these courses can be finished in a relatively short period of time. You can even start taking them while you are still employed so you can never be out of a job. 

What are the qualifications that you need to prepare?

Most of the time, applying for a job in the logistics field will not require you to have special qualifications. Just like all the other types of industries, there is always something that you can do depending on the skill set that you have. 

For example, if you are familiar with administrative and customer service functions, you can always work as a warehouse clerk or dispatcher. As a warehouse clerk, you will be in charge of maintaining the paper works of all the shipments that are handled by your logistics company. Each warehouse might operate differently but that is generally the job scope that you will be working on. 

If you have a specialized skill in operating heavy equipment, a forklift operator job might be suitable for you. Since these are specialized skills, they tend to pay more and they are often more flexible in terms of schedule. 

If you are on the tech side, most logistics companies – especially large ones, have their own software development department that you can work for. Aside from developing and maintaining software, data analytics is also becoming a high demand for the logistics industry.

If you are ready, you may apply for jobs that match your skills and interests

Make a list of the jobs you’re interested in and look for open positions online. Once you’ve identified a few positions you’re qualified for, you can start applying for them.

You will definitely have something to work with if you want to settle in the logistics industry. Here are some of the most common positions that you can apply for:

Two people walking down a warehouse aisle
  • Warehouse manager – Warehouse managers direct and coordinate activities concerned with the receipt, storage, movement, and dispatch of goods and materials.
  • Logistics analyst – Logisticians collect and analyze data that helps them plan efficient routes for shipments and other supply chain operations.
  • Van or truck driver – They are responsible for moving freight from one destination to another within the specified time period. They also help to load and unload cargo from the truck and keep track of delivery schedules.
  • Scheduling and dispatch coordinator – Dispatchers are the ones who receive and coordinate the schedule of trucks that are in a fleet. Their main responsibility, among others, is ensuring that shipments are delivered on time.

You can network with other professionals in the industry. Attend events and seminars and make connections that will help you in your career.

Joining the logistics industry

All businesses need to move their goods to and from various locations. With global e-commerce operating at a higher scale now than ever before, the demand for a dependable logistics industry is at an all-time high. A career in logistics offers many benefits including job security, flexible hours, and opportunities for growth. Visit our news page to know more about the logistics industry. We also have an article written on the different ways that you can start a career in logistics for a more comprehensive guide to exploring this field.

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How to Prepare Your Supply Chain for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is fast approaching and businesses all over the world will be all hands on deck to keep up with demand from consumers. Whatever your business may be, chances are you will have your hands full with all the orders coming in, many of which will occur during the last-minute period. 

The holiday season happens only once a year and it is very important that you get your supply chain prepared so that you can maximize revenue. We have prepared some tips that should get you started in achieving a fully ready supply chain.

Maintain an accurate inventory

A neat shelf of books on the left side of a corridor

The thing about the holiday season is that it can be very different from year to year. This means that you’ll want to be prepared for any changes that could come about in your supply chain over the course of the season itself.

To help bring in extra revenue, many retailers are planning to increase their inventory levels for the holiday season. It’s important that you maintain accurate inventories so that you can meet these increased demands. 

On the other hand, you don’t want to end up with too many orders at once, so having an accurate count of everything is important when it comes time to get those orders filled. You also want to ensure that your suppliers are able to do the same.

Hire more warehouse workers to manage the increased workload

You may need to hire more staff members if you’re unable to keep up with demand without them. This will help ensure that all items are delivered on time and in good condition so that customers can receive their orders without any delays or problems along the way.

But you have to be proactive about hiring holiday help. Before the holidays hit, start planning for your busiest time of year. Hire seasonal workers now so you’re ready when they arrive. Hire seasonal employees at least two months in advance of when they will be needed. This gives them enough time to get trained on their new jobs and familiarize themselves with your company culture before the big rush hits in December.

Consider using temporary staffing agencies when hiring seasonal employees. These agencies can help you find the right person for your business at a lower cost than hiring full-time employees or even temps from within your own organization — they’re often referred to as “temp-to-hire” positions because they can become permanent after.

You can also purchase additional equipment like pallet racks, forklifts, and sorting containers to help expedite deliveries during peak times. This equipment will make your operation more efficient during these busy periods of the year since there will be less manual labor involved in moving products throughout your warehouse facility.

Do transportation route planning

Cardboard box with “fragile” sticker on it inside a truck with a driver in the background

You should also make sure that when you are out of stock, but still want to deliver to customers, you have an idea of where it would go from there. For example, if you have a product that has been out of stock for two days and you know where it will be shipped from, then you can send it to where it is needed instead of holding it in inventory until the next shipment comes in.

If this sounds like something that is important to your business, then consider using online freight forwarders so that they can help with all aspects of this process for you.

Transportation route planning is something that every business owner needs to do in order to ensure that there are no disruptions in their supply chain during the holidays. If you have not done it yet, here are some tips on how to do transportation route planning:

1. Identify routes that need improvement. For example, if your company has a warehouse located near an airport, then you should look at other options such as shipping directly from the airport to save money and time. If all else fails, there are always express delivery services available at low cost which will save you more resources.

2. Reassess your inventory levels and take action if needed. Make sure that all of your inventory levels are correct before placing orders for items needed during the holiday season, especially for goods or raw materials that are very important in your business.

Offer a holiday-friendly returns policy

As the holiday season approaches, you’ll see an increase in your customers’ orders. This means there is a higher possibility for returns. One of the things that you should prepare for is a holiday-friendly returns policy that allows customers to return items without having to pay restocking fees and other charges.

A holiday-friendly returns policy is one that allows customers to return an item or order for up to a certain amount of days after purchase without any penalties. The buyer will make sure that the returned item or order can be processed within this time frame. It makes sense for retailers to have this kind of policy because it allows them to capture more sales during the holidays and also helps them retain loyal customers who may not want to buy from other brands during these busy months.

While most companies offer free shipping on their online sales, some do not offer free returns for online orders. This means that even if someone wants to return an item, they could end up paying for it if they aren’t aware of the company’s policy.

While the holiday season is a time when most retailers are increasing their profits, it also means that there is a higher possibility for returns. A well-crafted returns policy will surely save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Be ready for fulfillment delays from your suppliers

The holidays are about joy and celebration, but for the supply chain, it can be a time of stress — especially if you’re planning on distributing products from your own factory to customers around the world.

The reason for this is simple: during the holiday season, most companies expect to receive a large number of orders from their customers. And because these orders are usually placed at the last minute, it’s likely that your suppliers will also be busy with their own customers.

This means that your suppliers may need more time to fulfill your orders than usual. If this happens, it’s important for you to plan ahead and make sure that everything is ready in time so you don’t have delays in delivery or shipment.

It’s not uncommon for suppliers to experience a surge in demand to meet the needs of their customers over the holidays. Unfortunately, this can create challenges for many businesses and customers who expect their orders to arrive within an acceptable timeframe. The only solution for this problem is to plan ahead and talk with your suppliers to forecast the demands needed.

Preparing your whole supply chain for the holiday season

The holiday season is fast approaching and you should prepare your whole supply chain to be able to cater to more customer orders. To know more about the other trends that are affecting the supply chain in 2022, you may read this article from us. Here are Soul Logistics, we are committed to helping our customers fulfill their deliveries during the peak holiday season. If you want to get in touch with us, visit our contact page and send us a message to know more about our services.

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Some of the Most Common Logistics Terminologies That You Need to Know

If you are planning to venture into or conduct a business that involves a lot of logistics, the first thing that you will notice is that there are a lot of terminologies that will be very new to you. People in the industry are accustomed to a fast-paced working environment and it is essential that you get yourself familiar with these terms. 

We have compiled the following list of the most common jargon that will get you started in the logistics industry.

Air Waybill (AWB)

An Air Waybill (AWB) is a document that has been used to record air freight shipments. It is also known as an Air Dispatch Document.

The first AWBs were printed on paper; however, today, most are created electronically. The AWB is an important document for any freight shipment because it contains information about the goods shipped and their origins. The information includes who paid for the goods and when payment was received. It also contains information about who is responsible for delivering the goods, including the name and address of the consignee and consignor, date of shipment, quantity, weight, and value of each package being shipped along with other pertinent details like origin and destination addresses.

Both buyers and sellers can use Air Waybill to track shipments once they have been picked up at their destination airport or port terminal.

Bill of Lading (BL)

A delivery man writing on paper at the back of a van

When you ship goods, you need to get a document called a bill of lading (BL) from your shipping company. This document is used to show that the goods have been shipped and can be tracked.

The term bill of lading is used in logistics as it refers to an official receipt issued by a carrier showing that a shipment has been made, loaded on board and all charges paid. The BL is issued when the goods are loaded onto the vessel, so it’s important that it’s authentic, complete, and legible.

There are several forms of bills of lading but they all have one thing in common: they contain all relevant information about your shipments such as weight, dimensions, origin, and destination. 

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance is a type of insurance that covers goods when they are transported by sea or air. It provides coverage for the cargo itself and its value, as well as any damage during transportation. The term has been used in logistics since about 200 years ago, but only recently has it begun to be recognized as an important aspect of shipping.

Cargo insurance can protect the shipper, receiver, and carrier from loss or damage during transit. If a shipment is damaged during transit, it may not be possible to sell it at full value. Cargo insurance can help ensure that you can get the full cost of your goods if any damage will occur during delivery.

A common misconception about cargo insurance is that it will cover every possible eventuality. This isn’t necessarily true; most cargo insurance policies only cover losses caused by weather conditions or other incidents out of your control.

Container Freight Station (CFS)

Aerial photo of a container terminal with the ocean as the background

A container Freight Station (CFS) is a freight station in which containers are stored, unloaded, and reloaded. They may also be referred to as container terminals, container yards, container storage, or storage and distribution center (SDD).

Container freight stations can be located near the place where the containers are intended to be delivered or they may be located at a distance from the delivery point. They are also known as transshipment centers, cargo handling centers, or ocean terminals. The term transshipment refers to the process of transferring goods from one mode of transport to another mode of transport such as rail or road transportation.

Container freight stations are designed for handling large numbers of freight containers, including those with refrigerated units. In order to make sure that products reach their destination in good condition, there must be a proper storage area for them.

Direct Store Delivery (DSD)

Direct Store Delivery (DSD) is a term used in the logistics industry to describe the delivery of goods directly from a manufacturer to a retailer or other business owner. DSD is typically used for large, bulky items that cannot be shipped via standard shipping methods.

DSD involves the transportation of goods from the manufacturer to the store, where they are stored until they are picked up by customers. This process can take place on either a scheduled or ad hoc basis depending on how often you need your products delivered. DSD can be used for consumer goods and many other situations where delivery to a specific location will be more economically beneficial rather than going through the normal process that may involve distribution centers.

Getting yourself familiar with logistics terminologies

If you plan to venture into a career in logistics or start your own logistics business, it is important that you be familiar with the most commonly used terms of the industry. Some of the items that we have not covered in the list are full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) shipping. But we have a full article written about these two terminologies as well. Feel free to explore our news page to know more about logistics.

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Everything You Need to Know About FTL Shipping

The logistics industry has certain terminologies that might be hard to understand if you are just starting to learn your way through it. One of the most commonly used jargon is “FTL” which stands for full truckload, it is the opposite of LTL or less than truckload. If you are engaged in a business that involves a lot of logistics or if you are working in the logistics industry yourself, you need to be familiar with the meaning of FTL and how it can be used in making your logistics efforts much easier.

What is full truckload shipping?

Full truckload shipping is a method of moving freight between two different locations. The term “full truck” refers to the configuration of the shipment that usually consumes an entire vehicle. This could include pallets, crates, and other packaging materials. 

There might be different definitions of a full truckload, depending on the carrier used and the type of shipment, it can include any of the following:

  • Flatbed
  • Intermodal
  • Backhauls
  • Dry van

Fee computation can vary as well depending on these types but a full truckload, generally speaking, is subject to these three most common maximum limits:

  • The product weight is 44,000 pounds
  • Shipment uses 48 standard pallets
  • Product volume is at 2,500 cubic feet

However, in most cases, a full truckload may be the best option for a shipment if it already reaches 15,000 pounds or 10 pallets.

When using full truckloads for your shipment, you have many options when it comes to shipping containers. You can choose from a variety of sizes, depending on what you need for your shipment and how much space you need for it. There are also different types of containers available depending on what type of freight you’re shipping and where you’re sending it. Sometimes, FTL can even be used for transporting large machinery or equipment that requires extreme care during transit.

When should you use full truckload shipping?

With FTL shipping, you will get the full space of an entire truck for your shipment without any company sharing it with you. Using FTL can be costly due to the nature of the service but it also serves its purpose during special occasions when this type of shipment is needed. 

Man driving a forklift inside a warehouse.

There are at least two reasons why you should consider going with a full truckload type of shipment for your logistics needs.

  1. You have a very large quantity of delivery – If your business happens to have a bulk delivery that might weigh enough to get an FTL service, then going with this path might be the most economical decision. Not only that you can take advantage of all the benefits of FTL shipping but using this method in this scenario will help in reducing your cost since you will no longer have to worry about redelivery, reweigh, and other common charges.
  2. Your shipment needs to arrive at its destination fast – With FTL shipping, you will be occupying the whole truckload for yourself. This means that the vehicle will go directly to its destination from its point of origin without doing stops to pick up other shipments along the way. This is a great option especially if your shipment is needed at its destination within a specific timeframe.

What are the benefits of FTL shipping?

Woman with a white cap signing on a document for a box of shipment she was about to receive from a delivery man.

Full truckload shipping provides many unique advantages that you cannot get with other modes of delivery. It is a popular option for business owners who want to ship their items quickly, safely, and hassle-free. For an FTL shipment, your benefits will include:

  1. Flexibility – You can schedule your shipments at your convenience when it suits you best. You don’t need to re-schedule your shipments if you discover that there is a better time for them. Therefore, you have more flexibility and control over your shipping process since you are essentially the only customer for that particular shipment.
  2. Cost savings – Moving your cargo directly from point A to point B without any stops has its advantages due to the fact that certain costs for handling will be eliminated, which makes it cheaper than other modes of transportation. With this, you will be able to save money on your shipping costs as well as on transportation fees charged by the couriers who provide their services through FTL shipping delivery services. This can also mean if your shipment is planned out carefully and it is only done a couple of times a year, moving your goods in bulk can be more cost-effective than LTL.
  3. Faster delivery – The couriers who provide their services through FTL shipping delivery services are experts in speed and efficiency so that they can deliver packages within a shorter period of time than traditional carriers would take to deliver them via regular modes of transportation. With FTL deliveries not having to stop to pick up other shipments along the route also means that your goods will arrive much faster and safer.

Disadvantages of using FTL shipping service

Though there are a lot of advantages to using an FTL shipping service, the complexities of any type of business may require different modes of delivery from time to time. There can be disadvantages in using FTL if your business is not entirely designed for bulk shipment.

  • It is not suitable for companies with regular, smaller orders. Businesses such as online clothing lines, or even sellers of office equipment, for example, seldom receive bulk orders. With smaller transactions involving only a handful of items, FTL might not be the best choice. Most smaller companies will choose to go with the LTL type of shipment.
  • Expensive compared to less than truckload shipment. In an FTL shipment, you will be occupying a whole truck, so that means that you have to pay for the whole space even if it is not consumed at maximum capacity. The cost is also high considering that you will have to shoulder all the fees related to your shipment on your own.

How FTL can be used for your business

Ultimately, it comes down to your shipping requirements. There are also other factors that can influence your decision on what shipping service to choose. Your shipment size, destination, and timeline are all important things that should be considered when making this decision.

If you have requirements in either LTL or FTL shipping, you can contact us here at Soul Logistics to avail yourself of our reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions.

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Planning to Move Your Home? Here’s Why You Need a Reliable Logistics Company

Moving your home is a big deal. It means changing addresses, getting new utilities, and managing all of the logistics involved in the process. The most significant advantage of hiring a logistics company is that you get to save time and money.

Logistic companies are experts at moving homes. They know how to organize everything from packing materials to shipping containers and make sure everything goes smoothly along the way.

The most significant advantage of hiring a logistics company is that you get to save time and money.

Moving is a stressful time. It’s stressful not only because it involves packing and unpacking, but also because of the financial burden that comes with it.

The most significant advantage of hiring a logistics company is that you get to save time and money. You don’t have to worry about hiring movers or hiring an expensive truck. You can hire a reliable logistics company that will take care of all your needs for moving.

Here are some other benefits:

  1. The cost is cheaper – You won’t have to worry about paying for expensive moving services such as movers or trucks. Instead, you can just pay the fees for delivering your belongings from one place to another place.
  2. You’ll be able to save time – You’ll be able to focus on other things during this important period of your life because you don’t have to spend so much time packing. A reliable mover or trucker company can help you move out of your current home and into your new home in the right way at the right time.
  3. There’s no need for hiring helpers – Logistics companies have a team of trained staff who will take care of everything that you may need in a stressful time such as this. You can focus more on other important things or just observe and check while they take care of everything.

A logistics company can also provide a convenient method of handling the movement of goods from one place to another.

If you’re planning on moving your home, there are many things to think about. But when it comes to logistics, the most important thing is that you choose a company that is reliable and can deliver your goods on time.

Man wrapping a cardboard box with tape.

The best thing about using a logistics company is that they offer more than just shipping services; they also offer storage space and other services such as insurance and delivery. This means that you don’t have to worry about finding someone else to help with these tasks or having them done at an additional cost.

The first thing that you should do when hiring a logistics company is find out what kind of services they offer. You will want to make sure that they have all of the equipment and supplies necessary for moving your goods safely from one place to another. The last thing that you want is for your belongings not to arrive at their final destination because of poor transportation methods.

You can easily find a reliable logistics company online, as many companies have websites for promoting their services.

You can easily find a reliable logistics company on the internet. However, before signing up with any company, you need to do some research about them. This way, you will know whether or not they are trustworthy and will be able to provide quality service at affordable rates.

You should also consider the following factors when choosing a logistics company:

  1. Experience: It is always better if you choose a company which has been in business for several years. They will have more experience than new companies and thus they will be able to handle all kinds of jobs without any problems.
  2. Reputation: You can check out their reviews online or by asking around people who have used their services before. The good thing about using this method is that you will get an idea of how other customers felt about them and therefore if they had any problems with the job done by them or not.

Using the Right Packaging Techniques Can Prevent Damage During Shipment

One of the most important steps in moving your house is making sure your belongings reach their destination in one piece. The right packaging techniques can help prevent damage during shipment and ensure that your items arrive in good condition.

Cardboard box with the word “fragile” written across it.

Here are a few tips for protecting your valuables:

  1. Use durable boxes. Most people think of packing materials as cardboard or bubble wrap, but these lightweight materials can be easily torn or damaged during shipment. Instead, opt for sturdy cardboard boxes or eco-friendly foam containers to protect your belongings.
  2. Don’t use too much tape or bubble wrap. Tape is great for securing fragile items, but excessive amounts of tape can cause damage to the box itself if it spends too long in transit. Use just enough tape to hold everything together and avoid using tape as a crutch for poor packing materials.
  3. Wrap carefully around fragile items like glassware and china sets. If you’re sending something breakable, such as a vase or plate, wrap it in bubble wrap first before placing it inside the box; this will make it safer to transport these fragile items. Labeling them will also do a great help.

It’s essential that you use the right packaging techniques when shipping your things. The wrong packaging can lead to damage, which means more money is spent on repairs and lost time spent settling into a new home.

Finding a reliable logistics company will make a difference in how smoothly your move goes.

Moving your home is a stressful process. But it can be a lot easier if you partner with a trusted and reliable logistics company. There might be slight differences in cost but as long as a freight company can provide premium services, it might be worth it.

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How to Use an LTL Freight Company

A less-than-truckload (LTL) freight company is a logistics company that specializes in transporting goods from different owners using a single shipping truck. These companies offer both small and large shipments, and most offer flat rates for their services. Some companies also offer door-to-door services for customers who live close enough to their destination.

You probably already know how much your delivery costs when you use an LTL freight company, but there are other things you should consider before deciding whether or not they are right for you.

What is an LTL Freight Company?

An LTL company is a common type of freight carrier that transports goods from one point to another usually in smaller vehicles. Instead of occupying a whole container for a shipment, an LTL company will mostly cater to smaller packages that can be combined into a large container. Typically this includes small shipments from different customers.

An LTL freight company will typically have its own fleet of trucks, and they will pick up your shipment from its original location and deliver it where you want it delivered. They can also provide storage space while they wait for other orders to arrive.

What are the benefits of using an LTL freight company?

Woman standing outside a delivery van with cardboard boxes around her.

An LTL freight company is a small business that specializes in moving large amounts of cargo. Usually, they will offer a wide range of services, including loading and unloading, managing the shipment, and providing insurance coverage. 

LTL shipping is a great option for businesses that need to ship a small amount of cargo, but don’t want to deal with the hassle of physically driving their product to the freight company or even to the customers.

At first glance, using an LTL freight company may seem like an unnecessary expense. After all, you can just drive to your customer yourself and load up your shipment. However, there are some advantages to using an LTL freight company that you should be aware of before making your final decision on how to transport your goods.

Benefits of LTL Shipping

  1. Lower Costs: LTL shipping companies will often charge less than full truckload companies, which means you can save more money on your shipping costs.
  2. Faster Delivery: Because LTL shipping doesn’t require as much physical movement and handling, it’s usually faster than full truckload shipments.
  3. Easy Accessibility: Since the warehouse is most likely located near your facility, you can easily retrieve your products without having to drive them back home.

Who uses an LTL freight company?

LTL freight companies are best suited for businesses that will be transporting items from one location to another within the same state. While LTL shipments can be sent from anywhere in the country, they require more preparation and planning than a typical shipment.

There are many different types of shipments that can be sent via LTL. The most common type is parcel shipping, which involves delivering items between homes or offices as opposed to major retailers or warehouses. Other types of shipments include furniture, equipment, and automotive parts.

LTL freight companies are a great choice for businesses all over the country. They are able to offer specialized, high-quality service at competitive prices and have the flexibility to meet your needs in any situation.

Here are some of the most common types of businesses that use LTL freight companies:

  1. Small Retail Stores: Smaller retailers often have limited storage space and need to keep their inventory moving quickly so they can sell it as soon as possible.
  2. Manufacturing Facilities: Manufacturing facilities can be very large in size and also require a lot of shipping supplies, such as boxes and packing materials. Using an LTL freight company will allow you to ship these items quickly without having to worry about storage space or inventory management issues.
  3. Athletic Clubs: Athletic clubs typically ship athletic equipment such as balls, shoes, helmets, and other equipment all over the country for tournaments and competitions. In addition, many athletic clubs need heavy equipment delivered quickly for training purposes or for special events.

How to find the right LTL freight company.

Finding the right LTL freight company can be overwhelming. There are so many options out there, and you may be unsure how to choose one that is right for your business. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Woman writing in a notebook with a cup of coffee and a laptop in front of her.

The first step is to find a freight broker who can help you determine which carriers can ship your goods. The best way to do that is by asking around. Talk to other businesses in your industry and see what they think of their carrier partners. Also ask your customers, suppliers, and vendors whether they’ve used the carriers you’re considering.

Next, visit the websites of the carriers that interest you and see if they have any reviews available for public viewing on third-party review sites like Google Business Pages. When reviewing these sites, look for positive reviews from past customers. The more positive reviews, the better chances that your transaction with that company will turn out great.

Finally, once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential carriers, go ahead and request quotes from them via email or phone call. Be sure to ask about any discounts or bonuses that may be offered by the trucking company as well as any other incentives that might make it cheaper for you to use them instead of another competitor in your area.

Using an LTL shipment company for your goods.

There are many cases where an LTL freight company is the best option especially if you are only moving small quantities of goods. This article should help you decide if an LTL freight company is the right choice for your next logistics need. If you want to connect with us here at Soul Logistics for your LTL shipping needs, let us know by sending us a message. We would be delighted to work with you on your next shipment.

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Ensuring Efficient Freight Delivery: Here’s How To Make Sure Your Cargo Arrives Safely and on Time

The shipping industry is growing, and so is the number of cargo shipments. It’s important to ensure that your goods arrive safely and on time, but it can be difficult to know how to do this. We’ll walk through the steps you need to take before your shipment arrives at its destination—and help make sure everything runs smoothly during transit.

Communication is key

The communication between you and your shipping company is key to ensuring that your cargo arrives safely and on time. If there are problems with the shipment, you should be able to contact them quickly and easily.

Additionally, you must stay in touch with your carrier throughout the entire process so that they can communicate any issues that may arise or changes in plans as they happen.

A tracking number is essential so you can monitor your shipment’s progress. You should also be provided with a contact number for the carrier, in case there are any issues or concerns with your cargo.

Choose a shipping company that is thorough and reliable

Man scanning the barcode of a container with a tablet in his hand

Picking the right shipping company can be very challenging. There are many factors to consider, including the type of cargo being shipped, individual needs, and budget. However, if you want to ensure that your shipment arrives safely and on time, it’s important to choose a company that has been in business for years and has an excellent reputation within the industry. Here are some tips to narrow down your choices.

  • Choose a shipping company that is thorough and reliable. You can check the reputation of your chosen freight carrier by doing some research on them, or asking around with other businesses who have already used their services in the past. You may even want to visit websites like Yelp where customers share their experiences with various companies; this will give you an idea of how they handle customer service and satisfaction levels before making a decision about which one is right for you and your cargo needs.
  • When choosing any company for shipping services, make sure all their documentation is up-to-date so there aren’t any delays during delivery time frames because of outdated paperwork. Permits are sometimes necessary especially if you are shipping internationally or with items that are prone to a lot of regulations.

Make sure your cargo is properly packed, stored, and marked

When you have chosen the right company for your shipment needs, you have to be ready to prepare your cargo. Most cargo companies will do their packaging of your items but you can have more peace of mind if your cargo has been properly packed before it leaves your warehouse.

  • Consider using waterproof packaging to ensure the items inside are kept dry during transit. You can also label each box with a number or letter so that you know what’s in each one when it arrives at its destination. This will prevent any mix-ups between shipments and save time when unpacking from a truckload of boxes delivered to your destination.
  • Pallets are another way to ensure that your goods arrive safely on time: They provide both stability as well as protection for fragile items like computers or electronic equipment (which could otherwise be damaged during transport). Pallets should be used whenever possible because they’re sturdy enough not only to handle heavy loads but also to prevent damage while being moved around by forklifts—or even carried by hand.

Consider using GPS tracking to follow your shipment

In addition to tracking your shipment in real time through your logistics provider, you can use GPS tracking to send alerts if the cargo is delayed, damaged, or lost. The best part about this option is that it’s mostly free! There are many tracking devices nowadays that you can buy at very low prices. These are a mostly small device that has batteries of their own. You can put one of these into your package so you would know all the time where it is. Tracking your shipment is always a good idea. You can follow your shipment live in real-time, and if there’s an issue with it, you’ll be notified immediately. This can help you prevent delays or damage to your cargo before it even happens.

Set up alerts for when the cargo arrives at its destination

Woman looking at her phone with her laptop in front of her

To help you keep tabs on your cargo, consider setting up alerts for when the freight arrives at its destination. You can do this via email or text message, and many tracking software programs offer this capability as well.

Once you’ve set up an alert in one of these ways, all it takes is a few clicks to receive an alert when your shipment arrives at either the port or destination city (or both). If something goes wrong during transport—for instance, if some part of your shipment gets damaged in transit—you’ll be alerted immediately so that you can assess the situation and correct any damage before shipping continues.

Ensuring efficient freight delivery

We hope you’ve found these tips helpful in ensuring that your cargo arrives on time. Remember that the only way to make sure your shipment arrives safely is by doing the research upfront and choosing a reliable shipping company—which means finding out what they have to offer before you choose one.

If you want to know how we at Soul Logistics can help in moving your goods or improving your current logistics process, talk to us today. We have been in the industry for a while and have helped a lot of companies with our reliable service.

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