How to Find Carriers for Your Freights

Finding quality freight carriers takes work. Especially when the problem begins at the first load or lack of carrier capacity. Unreliable freight carriers are a liability to your business and your clients. And everything’s better than losing business over bad timing, carrier sourcing methods, and available trucks.

So how can you find a trusted carrier that will effectively transport goods in a timely manner and have available capacity for all your products? This blog will review the most effective steps to finding the right freight carrier. Also, we’ll cover other things you should remember when making informed decisions on future freight carriers.

Ideal Methods to Find Freight Carriers

Freight carriers are essential in transporting goods from one location to another. However, it can take time to find carriers that meet specific requirements. Thus, we will explore several methods that can help your business find carriers for your freights.

Truck Load Boards

Truck load boards are electronic markets or platforms that link shippers and carriers in the freight sector. These online marketplaces act as a central point where:

• Shippers can list their available loads.
• Carriers look for and reserve those loads that fit their capacity and routes.

On these load boards, shippers post details about their freight, such as the origin, destination, and type of cargo. Carriers can usually find the right shipper for their needs with search filters. This helps narrow down options to find the most suitable loads to fit their trucks and schedules.

Using a load board offers several advantages when finding quality carriers. These platforms often provide a wide selection of trusted carrier partners, including:

• Independent owner-operators.
• Small trucking companies.
• Larger logistics providers.

Plus, the existing network of freight carriers results in competitive prices and favourable transportation rates for shippers.

Tips for effectively utilizing load boards

To take full advantage of load boards when sourcing carriers, here are some key points shippers should cover:

1. Provide detailed and accurate information about your freight.
2. Write clear descriptions of the cargo, weight, dimensions, and any specific handling needs the shipment may need.
3. Refresh load postings to ensure they reflect your latest requirements to attract more carriers and increase visibility.

All in all, businesses can easily and quickly find carriers for their freight by using online platforms like load boards.

Freight Exchange Platforms

Freight exchange platforms are online spaces that connect freight providers with transport companies. It’s an ideal way for freight forwarders to find available capacity and carriers to search for loads. These platforms leverage technology to streamline the process of matching shippers with carriers and, in turn, optimise transportation management systems by reducing empty miles and utilizing all transportation resources.

Once either party finds an available truck or available loads, they can contact each other directly. They then discuss trip pricing, departure dates, etc.

A significant advantage of using freight exchange platforms is the transparency and accessibility of all information available. Both shippers and carriers can view every profile that includes:

• Reviews.
• Ratings.
• Past performance.
• And other service-related information.

This helps each party establish reliable relationships. Also, it fosters trust to enable secure business arrangements between shippers and carriers.

Tips for utilizing freight exchange platforms effectively

Regarding freight exchange platforms, there are a few things shippers must do. This includes the following:

• Provide accurate information about your freight requirements.
• Communicate clearly and straight to the point.
• Specify types of goods, dimensions, weight, and any particular requisites your shipment may need.
• Track shipments in real time and manage documents correctly to enhance visibility.

Freight Forwarding Services

Freight forwarding services act as a liaison between the shipper and carrier. These companies arrange the shipment of cargo on behalf of the shipper. A freight forwarding service does nothing when it comes to moving loads but organises its logistics.

Its popularity has risen recently due to its cost-effective and efficient solutions. Freight forwarding services negotiate for the best price for moving cargo. Thus, shippers can rely on their business relationships and choice of trusted freight carriers.

When selecting a freight forwarding service, assess the following factors:

• Experience and expertise: Do they have a proven track record and experience handling shipments similar to yours? Do they have any specialized requirements related to your cargo?
• Network and Coverage: Do they have a strong presence and partnerships in the regions or countries relevant to your shipment?
• Services available: Do they provide end-to-end logistics solutions like customs clearance, documentation, warehousing, etc.?
• Compliance and certification: Do they have the necessary licenses, permits, and insurance to cover your shipments?
• Technology and capabilities: Do they provide real-time tracking? How about integration with your systems?
• References and reviews: What are people saying about this company? Are they general, or do they touch on more details about the service?

Choosing a freight forwarding service like Spotos

Spotos is an innovative freight forwarding service that serves a vast European network using digital technology to its advantage. The aim of the game is to make shipping cost-effective while allowing shippers to become more flexible.

“Order trucks as pizza, book instant freights as taxis, and enjoy paperless mode.”

By automating tasks, you can take the pressure off late notifications on a late shipment and real-time tracking to inform warehouses about any delays. Spotos makes freight forwarding easy for anyone to navigate the self-service platform in an industry that’s complicated and intertwined.

Get a free Spotos demo today and see how to scale your business and save 30% on each shipment.

Industry Directories and Associations

Industry directories and associations serve as comprehensive databases or listings of companies in the freight industry. Like a phone book, these directories provide essential information such as contact details, services, destinations, reviews, etc.

Businesses can find carriers effectively through these directories based on specific criteria. By using directory listings, companies can compare carriers and their capabilities. On the other hand, associations offer the ability to network and other events where businesses can connect with carriers to discuss partnerships.

A notable directory is the International Forwarding Association (IFA), where you can find various transport companies. The International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) is another valuable resource with a worldwide network of freight forwarding companies, training schools, and more. Lastly, the Transport Directory provides a comprehensive database of over 14,000 transport professionals across England, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Networking and Referrals

Networking in the freight industry plays a massive role in nurturing relationships with various stakeholders. Collaborating and connections help expand reach, build trust, and exchange information. By creating these close relationships, businesses can enhance their visibility and reputation.

Some ways to network and connect with carriers include:

• Attending industry-specific events like conferences, trade shows, etc.
• Participating in industry associations and organizations.
• Joining online platforms and social media groups.

Now, when it comes to referrals, businesses can use this powerful tool to find new carriers that are trustworthy and willing to build a connection. Companies can find the right carrier by contacting customers, suppliers, industry peers, or trusted partners.

This approach lets businesses get firsthand knowledge and feedback about their network. Additionally, businesses can seek referrals from their carrier partners by asking them for more information on reliable carriers they’ve worked with.

Tips for Choosing Reliable Freight Carriers

When it comes to freight shipping, choosing trusted freight carriers ensures a smooth and successful transportation process. Making the right choice when selecting the right freight carrier may be overwhelming. Follow these tips to choose the best one for your business:

• Look at carrier reputation. Consider those that have been in business for a while and have positive customer reviews.
• Consider experience. The type of freight you need to ship must align with the carrier’s expertise.
• Verify licensing and certifications. To operate legally, double-check that the carrier has certificates and licenses issued by authorities.
• Examine safety measures. A carrier must have essential safety measures in place to protect your freight. Ask about their safety record, driver training programs, and compliance with safety regulations.
• Check insurance coverage. Verify that the carrier has adequate insurance to cover your freight against loss or damage.
• See equipment and technology. Apart from well-maintained equipment, examine the carrier’s tracking and communication systems.
• See pricing and contract terms. While price is important, don’t let it be your non-negotiable. The carrier’s overall reliability, services, and value for money should be the determining factor.

Ship your freights with Spotos

Shipping with Spotos is a reliable choice for businesses searching for the upper hand in freight forwarding. The team has extensive experience finding the best carrier for your type of freight and sporting a solid reputation. The company’s mission is to leverage advanced technology for tracking and communication. Spotos eases the process and ensures your shipments are in good hands.