Small Business Tips in Obtaining Freight Discounts

If you own or work for a small business that transports palletized shipments and are tired of paying thousands of dollars, I have included some tips to save you financially. The transportation business is a very competitive market and carriers, brokers, and business owners alike are attempting to conduct business at inexpensive measures. Here are a few ideas.

If you own or operate a small business with no self-owned logistics, you have more than likely received phone calls from freight representatives that are eager to offer you their services. You know the hassle. They question your current shipping standards/details and offer to provide you with a rate quote on their services. Typically, they will do their best to satisfy you with a seemingly inexpensive quote. Terms require that you complete a credit application and forward a list of trade references....and eventually you are ready to conduct business. They make money, you save money! It's time to save more.

Regardless of where you live, freight services are more than likely operating in bordering, more populated cities. Feel free to contact one of the carrier s and schedule an appointment for a representative to visit your office. By initiating contact, you are informing them of your shipping situation and inquire as to whether or not their services will save you money. Even if you ship a minimal volume of 2 pallets per week, it should not be difficult to obtain some sort of company discount on their services. For instance, they may provide an ongoing tariff for 60% off all freight shipped in the domestic United States. Instant savings! Utilize their services temporarily to ensure they provide comfortable transit times and minimal damages/shortages. Shortly after, contact another carrier and repeat the process; yet this time inform them that your current carrier is failing to meet your expectations. Provide them with a past invoice or tariff (anything showing your current discounts) and offer them the business if they can compete with the pricing. Maintain positive relationships with both representatives and over the course of time, you will notice the discounts increase as each battles for the business.

Brokers are also dedicated to saving you money. Brokers, however, simply remain a third party between you and the freight carriers and it may become tiresome as each load depends on their reaction time in scheduling freight, etc. Though if you're lacking enough volume to obtain discounts with the carrier, they may prove a profitable route; either will reduce your shipping costs significantly. The key: Maintaining a positive relationship. The goal: Have your representative checking up on you periodically to ensure you're satisfied. This type of relationship entails they appreciate your business and hope to further it. Give it a shot! A few minutes of your time may save you thousands on shipping costs in the long run.