Transportation is unpredictable. Budgets get overspent, deadlines are missed, and partnerships are pushed to the test. You need a solution to assist you to achieve deadlines since you are lagging on your loading times. You should take every effort to ensure that your supply chain operates according to schedule, and you intend to do exactly that. So, what is the best option for you?
Drop trailer programs enable drivers to drop off trailers at a shipper’s location for loading or unloading at the convenience of the receiver and to pick up loaded trailers at a predetermined time. Drop trailer systems give shippers more flexibility (because trailers may be loaded whenever), reduced prices, and a more efficient supply chain. Drivers won’t have to wait as long for freight to be loaded and unloaded, which enhances the shipping process for carriers as well.
Benefits of drop trailer services for shippers, carriers, and customers
Drop trailer shipping streamlines the transportation and shipping procedure while reducing the stress on drivers. The FMCSA states that truckers are not permitted to drive for more than 11 hours per day. Drivers won’t have to take the chance of missing a scheduled drop-off appointment or being caught missing their required breaks, by leaving the trailer at a spot to be handled later by the shipper. A trailer may be dropped off and picked up by another driver practically instantly when everything is running properly, allowing for a continuous shipping procedure that delivers clients faster and more precise shipment timeframes.
Warehouse workers can now load and unload trailers without worrying about being understaffed or working extra. For the consumer, eliminating delay at this point in the supply chain has a clear ripple effect that lowers delivery costs, especially for urgently needed commodities.
Trailers can be extra storage space for companies and give businesses the ability to scale up their ability to move freight without the additional cost normally associated with expanding storage.
Is drop trailer service the right choice for you?
Even though drop trailers have numerous benefits, including money-saving ones like not incurring any detention or late delivery penalties, there are some situations where a drop trailer program may not be appropriate for you.
Drop trailers are not appropriate for shipments of produce or other perishable commodities since effective delivery depends on keeping the goods fresh, climate-controlled, and on a strict delivery schedule. Produce and other shipments of items that can be considered time-sensitive are not intended to be left unattended in trailers for longer periods. Drop trailers are frequently swiftly loaded and unloaded, but the number of times products are held there varies. This means that, despite the flexibility these programs offer, it is impossible to precisely forecast when the products will be delivered.
After reading this article and understanding when drop trailer services work and when not, you can make a decision. Ask yourself questions like: Are drop trailer services something I should look into further? Will this help me and in what way? Do I have the resources required for this business to work for me? Look at all variables and make sure you made the right decision.
