If you are the owner of a business, or just require something delivered to your doorstep, you have a wide range of services available. This can also be applied to products that you need from another region, or if you need to ship something internationally. It, however, is important to recognize that all services will differ.
From choice of freight, to the speed at which it can be transported, these are all technicalities that could factor into your overall costs. However, delivering freight doesn’t have to be a strain on your budget. As long as proper steps are taken, you’ll be able to employ the use of a service who will have your best interests at heart.
Your money and time is valuable, so it helps to explore different cheap freight shipping options for your business. The following are six of the cheapest freight shipping options to save the most money:
Option #1: Less-Than-Truckload
Ground services, by and large, are the most commonly used options when transporting freight. For domestic purposes, not only are they fast and reliable, but they are famous for being cheap. Take, for example, transporting freight by truck. You usually have one of two ways to ship your items, the first of which is known as less-than-truckload.
This freight option, otherwise known as LTL, works by charging you for the space that your shipment takes up. If you are shipping something that is decently-sized, expect to pay a significantly cheaper rate. Even if your items are a bit larger, you can still expect to be charged a very reasonable price!
Option #2: Truckload
Should you have cargo that takes up more than just a simple spot on a truck, you should always opt for this freight selection. Even though it may be pricier than using an LTL choice, you won’t go bankrupt by using a truckload. All you have to do is your research; finding a service that will work with you can result in a very reasonable rate.
Once you have found multiple services to go with, make sure you speak to representatives of each company. They will be able to best advise you on your plans. Plus, if you negotiate accordingly, you will find that using a truckload freight option will be more efficient for your cargo needs.
Option #3: Rail freight
If you want cheap freight shipping options, rail services are a reliable bet. Not only can rates be very reasonable on your wallet, they are also environmentally-friendly for the most part. You get two benefits, for the price of one!
Sometimes, typical ground services may be at capacity, preventing you from using them for long distances. In this scenario, using a rail freight option will grant you the same sense of reliability that you may be accustomed to. Just be sure to negotiate with a service representative; you’ll be able to strike a mutually-acceptable rate with no hassle.
Option #4: Canada-US Shipping
If you happen to be a resident of Canada or of the United States, you may be able to access specialized services. This is because carriers work with one another, in order to give you the most discountable freight rate possible.
As one would expect, the level of reliability is exceptional, as is the price you will inevitably receive. However, you must be cautious about currency exchange rates, along with any additional fees that comes with international shipping. If you are working with large quantities, it’s best to consult a freight audit company to ensure your financial records are accurate. Canada-US shipping will require meticulous attention to the details and documentation, so always be careful!
Cross-border trucking companies are constantly on the move to deliver cargo to their intended destinations. Depending on the volume of items being carried, you may even be able to receive a better price. Just remember to do the requisite paperwork; customs will always be thorough with transported freight.
Option #5: Ocean freight
Delivering freight over the seas isn’t as pricey as you would initially believe. As is the case with many grounded options, there are a plethora of ocean freight services available to you. Once you do your due diligence, you will be able to find the best possible service for your needs.
A common thread here is negotiation; once again, you’ll have to find a service that will cater to your freight needs. Once you have, shipping cargo has never been more easy, or cost-efficient. The world, as it turns out, is your oyster!
Option #6: Air freight
Like ocean freight, air freight often gets a bad rep, in terms of relative cost. Although it is true that most cargo delivered by air can be pricey, there are many steps you can take to reduce the overall rate received. First, for example, if the freight doesn’t need to have a same-day delivery, your rate won’t increase exponentially.
In addition, peak times for international shipping can vary, depending on the port the freight is being delivered to. You’ll want to get a bead on the best possible times to ship your cargo by air, in order to get a substantially reduced price. As always, do your research beforehand and you’ll discover the cheapest freight shipping options!