Shipping freight in Canada can be a complex and costly process. Carriers bump their rates up every year, and gas prices certainly don’t help. The booming e-commerce industry has created a scarcity of various resources, such as truck drivers and warehouse space. But by choosing the right shipping company and services, you can effectively reduce expenses and optimize your supply chain.
In this blog, Stream Logistics will walk you through various shipping options and provide valuable tips on selecting the most cost-effective services based on your requirements. By choosing the right option, you can achieve significant cost savings without compromising on efficiency.
Direct service, Expedited Shipping Service, and Dedicated service: Balancing Speed and Cost
Direct and dedicated services offer extra convenience and efficiency for a higher price. The process normally involves trucks delivering the goods to the nearest terminal in a major city. However, for an added cost, customers can have a driver arranged to deliver their shipment directly. If the destination can’t be reached within a day, customers can have team drivers cover vast distances non-stop. If time is of the essence and cost is not a major concern, this option provides a seamless experience. However, if you’re looking to reduce costs, it might be worth exploring alternative options that strike a balance between speed and affordability.
Intermodal Shipping: Cost-Effective Solution for Long Distances
Intermodal shipping is a highly cost-effective solution for transporting freight over long distances within Canada and the United States. By combining the advantages of rail and truck transportation, intermodal services offer significant savings compared to exclusive trucking. Rail transport covers the long-haul portion of the journey, allowing for reduced fuel consumption (thus, making it the greenest option) and lower operational costs. This makes intermodal shipping an ideal choice for businesses with less time-sensitive shipments that prioritize cost efficiency. Stream Logistics offers intermodal services that seamlessly integrate rail and truck transport, ensuring reliable and economical freight transportation across Canada.
Trucking: The Efficient Choice for Time-Sensitive Shipments for shipping freight
Sometimes, speed is more important than cutting corners. While trucking may be relatively expensive, it remains the preferred choice for time-sensitive shipments that require quick and direct delivery. When it comes to urgent shipments or goods with specific delivery requirements, trucking offers the advantage of flexibility and responsiveness. Stream Logistics provides truckload services across major points in Canada and the United States. With a comprehensive range of equipment options including dry van, flatbed, heated, and reefer trailers, they ensure efficient and reliable transportation tailored to your specific needs.
Full Truckload (FTL) vs. Less Than Truckload (LTL): Choosing the Cost-Effective Option
When moving large quantities of goods, opting for full truckload (FTL) shipping can be more cost-effective compared to less-than-truckload (LTL) services. FTL involves reserving an entire truck for your shipment, eliminating the need for multiple stops and transfers. This reduces the risk of damage or loss and streamlines the transportation process. On the other hand, LTL services are more suitable for smaller shipments that don’t require an entire truck. By consolidating shipments from multiple customers, LTL providers can offer cost-effective solutions for smaller loads. Assess the size and quantity of your shipment to determine whether FTL or LTL is the most economical choice for your freight.
Conclusion
Reducing costs while shipping freight in Canada requires careful consideration of available services and selecting the right solutions for your specific needs. By following the tips provided in this blog and utilizing the services offered by Stream Logistics, you can achieve significant cost savings without sacrificing efficiency.
Remember to assess the urgency of your shipment, the distance it needs to cover, and the quantity of goods being transported. With the right plan in place, you can optimize your supply chain, streamline operations, and ensure a cost-effective shipping process. Reach out to Stream Logistics today to explore our comprehensive range of services and discover how they can help you navigate the complexities of shipping freight while reducing costs.
