Scheduling Heavy Haul Shipments, the Easy Way!

Scheduling heavy haul shipments takes time, organization, and a good deal of patience. Moreso than standard parcel shipments, LTL, or FTL.

 What makes it so much more complex is that it faces stricter paperwork, permits, and local, state, and federal regulations. Due to this level of complexity, many shippers prefer to partner with a 3PL company who can handle all of these tasks on their behalf.  After all, these types of tasks are exactly what these companies exist to fulfill.

Sooner or later, most shippers will deal with the frustration associated with scheduling heavy haul shipments. However, proactive shippers understand that it is best to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

Working with a 3PL comes with multiple benefits, that should certainly be considered, at the very least. If you frequently set up heavy haul shipments, then this blog post is for you!

In this article, we will be taking a look at four of the most important heavy haul tasks that a 3PL can help you fulfill. Ready to free up some of your team to deal with more important and immediate tasks? 

Let's jump in! 

Work with You to Find Accurate Measurements  

If you've set up a heavy haul shipment in the past, you know that the very first question is always about the size of the freight.

Dimensions make all the difference when trying to receive an accurate shipping quote. This is mainly due to the fact that certain sizes or dimensions require specific procedures and equipment to be used to safely move the freight.  

A professional 3PL will work with you right from the beginning to correctly determine the dimensions of the shipment. Oh, and these measurements are not just for the freight!

Heavy haul shipments also required various additional supplies or equipment needed to offload the freight from a trailer. So, these dimensions must also accommodate all of the necessary tools, as well. The dimensions of everything that will be moved must be accurate for a true shipping quote and delivery time to be received. 

Set Up Special Handling 

Besides their enormous size, many heavy haul shipments require special handling due to the materials involved. Most shippers don't consider this fact when scheduling heavy haul shipments. That is until the carrier arrives and lets them know that an extra surcharge for hazardous materials is required. Some heavy haul equipment requires other special handling services such as freight satellite tracking, escort services, or other specialty solutions. 

Whatever 3PL you partner with will be able to determine all special handling requirements prior to seeking estimates from carriers. This ensures you receive an accurate financial quote. Furthermore, it allows you to schedule the complete movement with your freight recipient and keep everyone on the same page. 

Handle All Permits 

Another reality of heavy haul shipping are the permits that are required to move the freight between County and State lines. A 3PL worth their weight has the knowledge and resources to pull and apply for all permits needed to legally move a heavy haul shipment. They can answer any questions you may have in regards to which forms to fill out... and even how to fill them out.

This eliminates the guesswork and ensures that there are no delays due to inaccurate paperwork or missing permits. 

Complete Handling of Services from Estimates to Delivery 

Arguably the best feature of working with a robust and professional 3PL is their ability and desire to handle the complete process themselves.

When a 3PL oversees the entire process from start to finish, mistakes are reduced, satisfaction is ensured, and money is saved. 

The best 3rd party logistics companies work with heavy haul freight specialists who know exactly how to load, ship and offload heavy haul equipment correctly. And when unexpected issues pop up, a well-rounded 3PL knows how to correct them quickly and efficiently.

Chalk it up to raw experience!

Final Thoughts

Scheduling heavy haul shipments can indeed be a time-consuming, often frustrating process. But with the power of a well-rounded, experienced and knowledgeable 3PL supporting you, you can alleviate a huge amount of stress.

Not only will your company likely save money, but you and your customers will have peace of mind knowing that the freight movement is being handled by leaders in this industry. And leaders don't just give themselves that title... it is earned!

Ready to partner with a 3PL to handle all your heavy haul needs? Reach out to Redwood Logistics today!