Understandably, most customers want the best combination of price and service to ship heavy equipment. Often, the company with the most detailed information gets the best prices, the best service, and the most loyal truck drivers. Unfortunately, it doesn't take much to make truckers want to pass on your cargo.
In order for shippers to have the opportunity to receive the best price and best service, they need to ensure that their heavy equipment shipments are attractive to as many trucks as possible. Having as much information as possible - including small details that can have a big impact on truckers and shipping - can help make your shipments more attractive and give you the best results (pro tip: working with a shipping partner can make a big difference Influence how truckers view your shipments and help you get the best price, service and delivery schedule).
Gather important but small details about the actual heavy equipment you are shipping.
When transporting any type of heavy equipment, having as much information as possible is essential to ensure safe and efficient transport. Here is a list of some of the most critical data to share with your shipping partner (or review it with your shipping partner so he or she can help you fill any gaps!):
- The value of the commodity. How much is your heavy equipment worth, literally?
- The make and model of the device. Be sure to know exactly what you're shipping.
- Any modifications made to the equipment. It is important to be aware of any information that may change the basic specifications of your shipment.
- Precise size and weight. An inch or two off could mean a different truck or a different route for your load. This has the potential to cause significant cost variances and/or delays. For heavy equipment, the exact Weight is also important, which affects which type of trailer is required. Ultimately, size and weight also affect your shipping costs and schedule.
- Package. Will your heavy equipment be palletized or boxed? Need to cover with tarp?
- A photo of your device. Photos are a great reference point to make sure everyone is on the same page.
- Relevant names, phone numbers and emails. Having this information at your fingertips prevents scrambling. This information should be collected for delivery and delivery and customs brokers (together with account numbers).
- Pickup and delivery routes. Likewise, having direction at hand can keep everyone on track and set expectations.
- Hours and days of operation for pickup and delivery. If the driver arrives with heavy equipment and the recipient isn't ready or unable to receive it, these details can help prevent a big headache!
Customs documents. This is especially important for heavy equipment that will cross the border between Canada and the United States.
Take the stress out of transporting goods.
Gathering all this information can be time-consuming. If the thought of collecting and organizing all this information is overwhelming, you may want to consider working with a trusted shipping provider.
