Resources & Insights
Your open-deck shipping price, although difficult to predict, is important to understand. Budgeting your transportation dollars appropriately is crucial to managing your company’s supply chain logistics. But why is it so difficult to do so?
Not to be the bearer of bad news but you may be overpaying for your freight. Sure, spending an extra dollar here or there isn’t terribly destructive. You’ve been known to swing an occasional splurge purchase. To substitute your homemade brew for some store-bought java or to pump unleaded 89 rather than 87.
Did you know that all told, there are roughly 19,495 incorporated cities, villages, towns and communities in the United States of America?
First come, first served (FCFS) in logistics means a warehouse or shipping facility handles trucks and freight in arrival order rather than by scheduled appointment. The first carrier to check in is usually the first one loaded or unloaded, although delays can still happen due to dock availability, labor, and freight volume.
Is FCFS the same as a delivery appointment?
No. FCFS means service is based on arrival order, while an appointment-based system assigns a specific time for pickup or delivery.
The pricing structure in the freight shipping industry is complex. The price you pay to move your freight is subject to many variables and — in some cases — a first come, first served scheduling model is one such factor.
You’ve put in the time.
Let’s face it, transportation is unpredictable. Deadlines get missed, budgets get overextended and partnerships are put to the test. You're falling behind on your loading times and you’re looking for a solution to help you meet deadlines. Every precaution should be taken to promote the on-schedule execution of your supply chain and you’re looking to do just that.
The trucking industry is brimming with unique jargon. This can make starting in this industry or working with it overwhelming. As soon as you think you’re beginning to master the language of trucking, another term will pop up.
With so many different trailers on the roads today, it can be difficult to discern what each is used for and which is best for your freight.
Finding trucks to pull your freight in the current market is continuing to prove difficult. That’s forcing you to get more creative in the way you find capacity for a reasonable price.
Keeping an eye on your shipping budget can be tricky, especially when you don’t understand where your money is going, how shipping rates are calculated, or how to make the most of the dollars you have.
