Understanding Cost Considerations when Hiring Drayage Services

Mileage

When looking for drayage services, mileage is an important cost consideration. The farther the trip, the more expensive it may be to transport items through drayage services. Often, companies have multiple destinations they are servicing and will provide a discounted rate if multiple stops are scheduled simultaneously. Considering the mileage when determining which drayage service to hire is important, as it will affect prices significantly. Furthermore, if unexpected length additions to a trip after a drayage service have been contracted, they may charge more due to the additional miles traveled.

Time

Time is paramount for a Drayage and Logistics Company in Charleston, South Carolina. In this ever-changing industry, time is one of the many cost considerations for such a business when planning services. From fitting cargo into available containers to managing timelines of incoming ships, quick turnarounds are essential for success in this field. By understanding the parameters under which their operation must work and reacting quickly to these parameters changing, this business can remain an efficient provider of quality drayage services.

Weight

When looking for a drayage service, weight is an important cost consideration. Drayage services typically charge per-ton fees, and a comprehensive understanding of the freight weight helps find the best service. Knowing what items are being shipped and their exact weights help ensure that customers get accurate quotes from numerous vendors. Additionally, the exact weight of products can provide insight into potential shipping costs that can be made with adjustments to packaging or grouping items together. Depending on the service, many discounts may also become available if certain thresholds in terms of weight are met, making greater cost savings possible. Although there are other factors when choosing a drayage service, being mindful of the exact weights of goods is critical in keeping costs low when shipping via truck.

Tolls

When deciding to use a drayage service, there is one often-overlooked cost consideration: tolls. Tolls have the potential to greatly increase the costs of shipping commodities over long distances and must be accounted for at the expense of any long drayage journey. Conducting enough research on local or regional toll roads can help ensure that the drayage service chosen is both an efficient and economical option. Drivers should always ensure they’re familiar with any applicable road regulations as not adhering to them can lead to significant fines, adding further expense onto already expensive shipments. Shippers, transporters, and receivers must plan and understand what tolls will apply along their routes to save money.

Drop Fees

Determining the true cost of a drayage service can be a tricky proposition. Several factors must be considered, such as fuel costs, travel time, and—perhaps most crucially—any drop fees associated with moving your goods. Drop fees incurred when delivery is part of a multi-stop journey must be considered when evaluating how much you will ultimately pay for the service. Fortunately, many companies offering drayage services provide an estimate upfront, so it’s easy to plan accordingly and save some hard-earned money.