LTL Pickup – What to Do After the Shipment is Booked
Imagine you’re responsible for managing the logistics functions of your business. You must handle the orders and shipments that must be sent out. After evaluating your shipping needs, you determine the ideal shipping option is Less Than Truckload or LTL shipping. After you’ve booked your LTL shipment, there are certain steps that you must take during the pickup process.
Submit a Pickup Request
First and foremost, you must collaborate with your freight service representative to create a pickup request. You’ll enter the pickup location as well as the pickup time. You’ll also need to figure out when the pickup location closes and whether special equipment like a liftgate will be needed when the carrier arrives. In addition, you’ll need to inform the carrier of your shipment size and type and make requests for special services such as a guaranteed service.
Understand the Two Hour Pickup Window
It’s important to understand that the LTL shipping industry adheres to a two-hour pickup window standard. This means every LTL pickup must be scheduled at least two hours before it can be expected to be picked up, and there must be a minimum two-hour window when the freight will be available to the carrier.
For example, if your window is 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, it will need to be scheduled no later than 2:00 pm. The two-hour pickup window standard is designed to protect the service carriers from traffic, weather, driver shortage, and other unpredictable factors that can slow them down. It sets a provision that allows them to do their job most efficiently.
Collect and Provide the Proper Documentation
The Bill of Lading or BOL is the most crucial document you should have when the carrier arrives to pick up your shipment. It is a freight service receipt containing information such as shipping date, carrier and shipper details, shipment details, special instructions, and any additional comments.
How a 3PL Can Help
To maximize your savings on time and cost, it’s vital to be prepared to send off your LTL shipment once the carrier arrives. Using a third-party logistics or 3PL provider can eliminate many problems commonly associated with pickup and reduce the risk of headaches down the road.
A 3PL can manage pickup on your behalf so that you can spend your time and energy on your core competencies. You won’t have to try to figure out how to navigate the logistics challenges of your business because you’ll have a dependable and experienced 3PL by your side.
Contact Amware to Learn More About 3PLs
If you would like more information on how a 3PL provider may help with the LTL pickup process, contact Amware today. Request a free 30-day trial of Amrate today!