FREIGHT FORWARDING DEFINED
Freight forwarding involves organizing and managing the transport of goods, often on a nationwide scale. Buchanan Hauling & Rigging, Inc. is a provider that specializes in freight forwarding, which is one aspect of its overall hauling and in-house logistics services. Trucking transport plays a crucial role in this process, serving as either the primary or supplementary method of transportation. In essence, a freight forwarder is a business that generates revenue by arranging the import and export of its clients’ products and goods.
A freight forwarder coordinates the movement of shipments on behalf of shippers by liaising with various carriers. Buchanan Hauling handles both the movement of the freight as well as working out any logistics required to complete the delivery. They handle tasks such as freight consolidation, rate negotiations, shipment tracking, and customs documentation. This comprehensive role positions freight forwarders as essential facilitators in North American and Central American trade.
FREIGHT FORWARDING TRUCKING PROCESS
Freight forwarding in trucking is a detailed process that requires several steps to guarantee the efficient and timely delivery of goods. Here’s an overview of how companies like Buchanan Hauling make it happen:
Contact and Initial Planning
When a client wants to send goods, they reach out to a freight forwarder, like Buchanan Hauling, who specializes in trucking and the moving of freight. The company then evaluates the shipment needs, such as weight, size, and any special handling requirements based on the destination.
Driver Selection and Route Optimization
With their expertise and connections, the freight forwarder identifies the best route and chooses the driver to ensure affordable and prompt deliveries. This is where it is important for you to select the right company to handle your freight movement. At Buchanan Hauling, safety is prioritized above all else. All company drivers and owner-operators are vetted and subjected to a stringent selection process. This ensures the driver in charge of your load is not only reliable but also will be able to deliver your product safely. Due to this rigorous carrier review, Buchanan Hauling can proudly state a 99% on-time pickup and delivery record, a continuous safety rating of “satisfactory” since 2011, and a claim ratio lower than 0.5%.
Compliance and Documentation
The forwarder handles all essential paperwork, including bills of lading, forms, and any necessary permits for interstate shipments. For oversized or heavy haul loads, some permits must be acquired in each state, with specific travel rules that must be followed.
Origin Handling and Pickup
The freight forwarder organizes the pickup of goods from the shipper’s departure location. Some companies might combine smaller shipments into full truckloads to enhance cost efficiency if the shipment is an LTL (Less than TruckLoad) versus an FTL (Full TruckLoad).
North American and Central American Shipments (Customs Clearance)
For shipments crossing borders like Canada and Mexico, the forwarder oversees customs clearance by preparing and submitting all required documents to ensure smooth border crossings. For some carriers this requires transloading, whereas Buchanan Hauling can provide this transport without transloading.
Monitoring or Freight in Transit
During transit, the freight forwarder monitors the shipment, providing updates to the client and resolving any issues that arise along the way. Buchanan Hauling utilizes a live tracking system that allows both managers and customers to view their loads in real time.
The Last Mile Delivery
Once the shipment arrives in the destination city, the forwarder coordinates the final delivery to the receiver.
Services Post-Delivery
After delivery is complete, the freight movement company manages any necessary paperwork and billing and can assist with services like cargo insurance claims if required. Having a provider like Buchanan Hauling can free up significant time by taking care of these tasks efficiently.
FREIGHT TRANSPORT TRAILER TYPES
Trucking companies collaborate with different carriers and use various trailer types to guarantee safe and compliant goods transportation. The choice of vehicle is based on the cargo’s specific needs. Below are some common trucks and trailers used by Buchanan Hauling and the trucking industry as a whole:
Dry Van Trailers
Dry Van Trailers are standard enclosed trailers ideal for items sensitive to weather, such as clothing and non-perishable goods. They are versatile and commonly used for general freight. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Dry Van Trailers.
Refrigerated (Reefer) Trucks
Refrigerated Trucks are temperature-controlled trailers designed to carry perishables, pharmaceuticals, and other items that require specific temperature settings. They maintain consistent temperatures throughout the journey. Buchanan can take care of your refrigerated product needs.
Flatbed Trailers
Flatbed Trailers are open trailers without sides or a roof, making them suitable for oversized or irregular cargo. They are often used for construction materials and machinery. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Flatbed Trailers.
Drop Deck and Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers
Drop Deck and Removable Gooseneck Trailers feature a lower deck height, which is beneficial for transporting taller items. They are perfect for oversized construction equipment, with RGNs offering a detachable front to facilitate loading. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Drop Deck or Removable Gooseneck (RGN) Trailers.
Conestoga or Curtain-Sided Trailers
Conestoga or Curtain-Sided Trailers are enclosed trailers with retractable sides for quick side-loading and unloading. They provide protection from the weather while still allowing for the flexible removal of freight like a flatbed. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Conestoga or Curtain-Side Trailers.
Tanker Trucks
Tanker Trucks are designed to transport liquids, chemicals, and gases, featuring various designs suited for different types of liquids. These trucks require specific safety measures, and drivers must have special hazmat endorsements in addition to their standard CDL. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Specialized Division.
Heavy Haul Trailers
Heavy Haul Trailers are built to handle extremely large or heavy loads, often requiring special permits and escort vehicles. They usually have multi-axle designs to ensure proper weight distribution. Check out additional information on Buchanan Hauling’s Heavy Haul Division and trailers.
Intermodal Containers
Intermodal Containers are standardized containers that allow for easy transfer between truck, rail, and ship, making them efficient for long-distance and international shipping. They are available in various sizes and configurations.
Choosing the right trailer depends on the cargo’s type, size, weight, distance, and handling requirements. A reliable trucking company like Buchanan Hauling assesses these factors to select the most suitable and cost-effective transportation option for each shipment, ensuring safe and efficient delivery.
10 REASONS CHOOSING BUCHANAN IS THE BEST FREIGHT SOLUTION
1. Industry Changes Adaptation
The freight industry constantly evolves with new technologies, trends, and regulations. At Buchanan Hauling, we keep track of these changes to ensure you can ship your goods more efficiently and affordably.
2. Aid in Business Growth
As your freight transport partner, we streamline trucking logistics, allowing you to focus on key business activities. By offering a single point of contact for all your trucking needs, you can invest more time and resources into sales, product development, and other vital growth initiatives.
3. Regulatory Compliance Simplified
The knowledgeable team at Buchanan Hauling stays updated on trucking regulations like hours of service, weight limits, and interstate transport laws. They make sure your shipments comply with all necessary requirements, reducing the risk of fines or delays.
4. Expertise in the Transportation Industry
We excel at transportation, providing insights on the best routes, carrier selections, and handling specific needs such as oversized or temperature-sensitive loads. Our expertise improves your supply chain and overall efficiency.
5. Shipment Coordination Efficiency
Our team manages over 160,000 shipments annually, optimizing load planning, routing, and scheduling to ensure your goods reach their destination on time and efficiently.
6. Communication Streamlining
We simplify communication by having our team act as a single point of contact between shippers and drivers, reducing misunderstandings and improving the shipping process.
7. Scalability and Flexibility
As your business grows or faces seasonal fluctuations, we can quickly adapt to your changing trucking needs without requiring you to invest in your own fleet or navigate complicated carrier relationships.
8. Integrated Technology
Buchanan Hauling uses advanced technology to track shipments, manage documents, and analyze performance. These tools provide real-time visibility into your trucking operations and identify areas for improvement.
9. Core Competencies Focus
Outsourcing your trucking logistics to inexperienced brokers can pose challenges. By trusting our professional team, you can focus on your core business objectives while we manage the complexities of transportation, leading to better resource allocation and enhanced overall performance.
10. Management of all Claims
Managing claims for lost or damaged goods can be complicated. At Buchanan Hauling, we carefully vet our carriers to minimize claims occurrences. When claims do arise, we handle them for you, simplifying the process and easing your stress.
Freight Solutions for Canada and Mexico Transport
For assistance with your trucking and transportation needs, contact Buchanan Hauling. Since 1996, we have been a leading provider in 3PL and freight forwarding, equipped with the knowledge and nationwide network to strengthen your supply chain. Our focus on seamless cross-border trucking to Canada and Mexico eliminates the need for transloading and ensures efficient door-to-door service. Whether you need a single shipment, a dedicated route, or multiple routes, our team will create a customized plan to meet your specific requirements.
THE BUCHANAN ADVANTAGE
A strong supply chain depends on reliable freight hauling solutions, and Buchanan Hauling is here to help your business succeed. Whether you need to transport large construction materials, industrial machinery, or general goods, we have the expertise, equipment, and nationwide reach to ensure your goods are delivered safely and on time. Partner with us to enhance your supply chain and experience. Contact Buchanan Hauling for your freight transport.
