When it comes to seeing a significant volume of freight ship, Full Truck Load (FTL) shipping is usually the more productive and cost-effective option. FTL shipping means that your shipments fill the entire vehicle, rather than sharing the vehicle space with other shippers. You'll enjoy more control, shorter transit time, and less risk of damage. With FTL shipping you get more options, but unfortunately, finding the right carrier for shipments is often the biggest challenge. This is where 3PL logistics providers will definitely help.

It gives you an opportunity to streamline your supply chain and improve your customer service. Identifying a carrier or third-party logistics partner to identify a carrier is extremely important with FTL shipments. Here are the top things to think about when you are looking for a carrier for your Full Truck Load shipments.

1. Service Capabilities and Equipment

The first thing to do is determine if a carrier can provide the equipment and services to meet your needs. There are some carriers that specialise in refrigerated freight, others that focus on dry goods, oversized loads, or dangerous goods. If you are shipping items that require special trailers or subject to a temperature-controlled environment, verify that the carrier can provide these. Many 3PL logistics providers have access to a broad selection of carriers, allowing you to find the right fit without needing to search for yourself.

2. Coverage and Geographic Reach

Interstate freight is tricky in Australia due to size. The appropriate carrier for your Full Truck Load shipments will have strong coverage across major cities and regional areas. If your business also ships internationally you chose a carrier – or 3PL logistics provider with a freight network – will provide you with a seamless process. With solid coverage, you can ensure your shipments will avoid unnecessary handling and delays.

 

3. Reliability and On-Time Performance

Being on-time is critical to customer experience. A trustworthy carrier should have a strong commitment to reliable tracking, and their on-time and low-damage rate history should be verifiable. Ask about their history, check references, search online reviews. You'll be able to work with a logistics third-party partner (3PL) that helps you, and they will give you reliable carriers who have already been verified for reliability, taking the legwork out of it for you.

4. Technology and Tracking Visibility

Today's supply chains rely on visibility technology. Carriers who provide GPS tracking, digital proof of delivery, and real time status updates, allow companies to remain in touch with the progression of their shipments. This gives a level of visibility that enables you to keep your customers informed, while handling your operational planning. Many 3PL logistics providers also provide a platform that combines the information regarding the visibility information together, simplifying your understanding of all of your Full Truck Load shipments with a single point of data.

 

5. Flexibility and Scalability

Your freight needs may change over time. Seasonal spikes, sudden increases in orders, or changes in shipping routes all require flexibility. A good carrier—or a 3PL logistics partner—should be able to scale services to meet your needs. Whether you need one truck this week or several next month, flexibility ensures your supply chain won’t be disrupted.

6. Compliance and Safety Standards

Moving products around Australia is subject to extensive compliance obligations. Carriers must adhere to industry regulations as well as safety and environmental legislation to legally operate in Australia. It is a good idea to ascertain the carriers you intend to use, adhere to the required guidelines and maintain their fleet to the highest standard, before you arrange to use them! With a 3PL logistics partner, the compliance for the transport chain is often managed on your behalf so you can feel reassured that your freight is being moved responsibly.

 

7. Cost and Value for Money

Cost is always going to be a factor when moving freight. But remember, the cheapest carrier won't necessarily provide your best results. Look for value: on-time performance, risk of damage, supporting customer service, technology integration, and so on. A good 3PL logistics provider can provide competitive rates as well as protect your value proposition, so you don’t have to (by any means) lower your standards.

 

Final Thoughts

Finding a suitable carrier for your Full Truck Load shipments requires careful consideration and analysis. In order to ensure your freight get moved safely and on time, consideration to service capabilities and coverage, reliability, compliance and ultimately cost, there are many factors that need consideration.

In many cases, many businesses find working with a trusted 3PL logistics partner makes the process so much easier.  A 3PL has access to a vast network of vetted carriers, technology enabled tracking and(some 3PL's) scalable service options. Third party logistics providers search for your best fit.

In Australia's freight industry, choosing the right carrier is about more than just moving goods from point A to point B. It's a strategic and fundamental building block for developing and maintaining a supply chain that can grow with you and ultimately lead you to increased customer satisfaction.