Sometimes, the supply chain can get very complicated. The stages from inception to manufacture to final destination can involve several instances of shipping. From moving raw materials to hauling the final products to end users, shipping plays a large part. How carriers handle the process, how simple or complex it is, and what it costs can have an enormous impact on the final product and on consumers.

Shipping Services Online

Many carriers now advertise the range of services they provide on company websites. Some will even accept online requests for service and will provide detailed quotes. Manufacturers may choose to take that option, or they might use the services of a freight broker. Freight broker services include negotiating contracts with carriers, obtaining proof of sufficient cargo insurance, and even gathering data to prove a high percentage of safe and on-time deliveries. cargo API

Some shippers believe that they will get a lower shipping rate by going directly to carriers and negotiating their own contracts. This may not always be the case. Freight brokers usually have contracts with up to thousands of carriers. They will have first-hand knowledge of how well each carrier handles its business, and, because the broker may give them a substantial amount of business, the carrier may give them the lowest rates.

Other Shipping Services

Some of the other services offered to shippers may include online/real-time load tracking access, freight bill auditing, warehouse audits, and other elements of transportation logistics. A freight broker’s services can easily save the shipper both time and money, and those savings may be passed along to consumers.