| There are a number of different factors that impact | | | | 4. Carrier selection: Smaller truckload carriers are |
| trucking freight rates and being an informed shipper | | | | sometimes cheaper than larger transportation |
| will go a long way in reducing your transportation | | | | conglomerates. One carrier may be significantly |
| costs. Below are some important considerations that | | | | cheaper than another for moving the same freight in |
| will have a direct impact on your trucking quote: | | | | the same lane during the same time of year. Supply |
| 1. Size of your truckload freight: An obvious factor is | | | | and demand, and a carrier's equipment availability will |
| the size of your freight. Over sized loads cost more | | | | in large part dictate how much they charge to move |
| than LTL or regular full truckloads. The smaller the | | | | your freight. Be sure to check the carrier's |
| footprint the cheaper, but you shouldn't sacrifice the | | | | credentials, including their licenses, insurance, and |
| quality of the packaging for space. | | | | safety records. This is where a reputable truckload |
| 2. Type of equipment: Moving your freight in a dry | | | | broker can save you time and money. |
| van will typically reduce your truckload rate. Flatbed | | | | 5. Negotiate your trucking quote: Knowing the market |
| prices are typically more than dry van, truckload | | | | will go a long way in lowering your trucking freight |
| rates. Step decks, reefers, and other specialized | | | | rates. Again, a good freight broker would be able to |
| equipment, including tarps, will increase your | | | | provide some valuable advice. |
| transportation costs. | | | | There are a number of considerations that shippers |
| 3. Time of year: Trying to get a competitive | | | | should take into account when moving their freight. |
| truckload quote going into Florida during citrus crop | | | | Because truck freight rates vary considerably, a |
| season is an exercise in futility. Same with Idaho | | | | properly informed shipper can go a long way in |
| during potato season and California during avocado | | | | driving down their trucking freight rates. One way to |
| season. In the summer, fuel prices tend to be higher | | | | save time and money is to choose a reputable |
| than in the winter. If your freight can wait, you may | | | | freight broker. |
| want to consider the timing of your shipment. | | | | |