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Common Freight Shipping Mistakes You Should Avoid

May 4, 2023

<strong>Common Freight Shipping Mistakes You Should Avoid</strong>

Freight shipping can be a complex process, and making mistakes can be costly for businesses. Let’s take a look at five common freight shipping mistakes that businesses should avoid in order to ensure smooth and cost-effective shipping.

  1. No Proper Packaging of the Goods

One of the most common freight shipping mistakes businesses make is not properly packaging the goods. Proper packaging is essential for protecting the goods during transit and ensuring they reach the destination in good condition. Failure to properly package the goods can result in damage or loss, which can be costly for businesses.

To avoid this mistake, businesses should invest in the proper packaging materials, such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. Additionally, businesses should take the time to properly package the goods. They need to ensure that the goods are secure and protected from damage during transit.

  1. Underestimating the Shipping Costs

Another common mistake businesses make is underestimating the shipping costs. Shipping costs can vary depending on several factors, including the type of cargo, the distance of the shipment, and the current market conditions. Many businesses make the mistake of underestimating the shipping costs, which can lead to unexpected expenses and financial losses.

To avoid this mistake, businesses should research and compare the different shipping options available. They should factor in all the costs associated with shipping, including the cost of packaging materials, labour, and insurance.

  1. Not Understanding the Incoterms

The Incoterms are a set of standard trade terms. They are used to define the responsibilities of the buyer and seller when it comes to shipping goods. Many businesses make the mistake of not understanding the Incoterms. This can lead to confusion and disputes over who is responsible for the cost of shipping, insurance, and other expenses.

To avoid this mistake, businesses should familiarize themselves with the Incoterms and make sure that they understand the terms and conditions of the contract before agreeing to it.

  1. Not Properly Labelling the Goods

Proper labelling is essential for ensuring that the goods reach the correct destination and can be easily identified. Many businesses make the mistake of not properly labelling the goods. This can lead to delays, lost shipments, and other problems.

To avoid this mistake, businesses should make sure that the goods are properly labelled. The labels should include all the necessary information, such as the destination, the contents of the package, and any special handling instructions.

  1. Not Considering the Transit Time

Transit time is the amount of time it takes for the goods to reach their destination. Many businesses make the mistake of not considering the transit time, which can lead to delays and missed deadlines.

To avoid this mistake, businesses should take transit time into account when planning their logistics and supply chain management. Additionally, businesses should work with a reliable freight carrier that can provide accurate transit time estimates and deliver the goods on time.

Freight shipping can be a complex process, and making mistakes can be costly for businesses. Proper packaging, underestimating the shipping costs, not understanding the Incoterms, not properly labeling the goods, and not considering the transit time are some of the common mistakes businesses make when shipping goods.

By understanding these common freight mistakes and taking steps to avoid them businesses can ensure smooth & cost-effective shipping and avoid unnecessary expenses.

-By Arti Tawani