Flatbed shipping can be complex and challenging, requiring careful planning, coordination, and execution. For many businesses, working with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can be an effective way to streamline their flatbed shipping operations and achieve greater efficiency and cost savings.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how flatbed shippers can benefit from using a 3PL.
Access to a Large Network of Carriers
One of the most significant advantages of working with a 3PL for flatbed shipping is access to an extensive network of carriers. A good 3PL will have relationships with many pages, including flatbed carriers, that can provide the necessary equipment and expertise to handle even the most complex shipping requirements.
This means that shippers can avoid the hassle of searching for carriers themselves, negotiating rates, and managing the logistics of each shipment. Instead, they can rely on their 3PL to manage the entire process, from finding the right carrier to ensuring timely delivery.
Expertise and Knowledge of Industry Regulations
Another benefit of working with a 3PL for flatbed shipping is their expertise and knowledge of industry regulations. Flatbed shipping can be subject to a range of regulations and requirements, depending on the cargo’s nature and destination.
A good 3PL will have extensive experience working with flatbed carriers and be familiar with all relevant regulations and requirements. This means they can help shippers navigate the complex regulatory landscape and ensure all necessary permits and paperwork are in order.
Reduced Shipping Costs
Working with a 3PL for flatbed shipping can also save significant costs. Because 3PLs have access to an extensive network of carriers, they can often negotiate better rates than shippers can obtain independently.
In addition, 3PLs can help shippers optimize their shipping operations to reduce costs. For example, they can help shippers identify opportunities to consolidate shipments, optimize routing, and minimize empty miles, which can help reduce transportation costs.
Improved Visibility and Tracking
Another benefit of working with a 3PL for flatbed shipping is improved visibility and tracking. 3PLs typically have sophisticated tracking systems that allow shippers to monitor their shipments in real time, from pickup to delivery.
This level of visibility can be precious for flatbed shippers, who often deal with larger, more complex shipments that require more detailed tracking and monitoring. With a 3PL, shippers can have peace of mind knowing they have complete visibility and control over their shipments.
Streamlined Shipping Operations
Working with a 3PL for flatbed shipping can help streamline shipping operations and reduce administrative burdens. By outsourcing their shipping operations to a 3PL, shippers can free up valuable time and resources that can be better spent on core business activities.
In addition, 3PLs can handle many administrative tasks associated with flatbed shipping, such as billing and invoicing, leaving shippers with one less thing to worry about.
Partner With PLS Logistics
Flatbed shipping can be complex and challenging, but working with a 3PL can help streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. With access to a large network of carriers, expertise in industry regulations, reduced shipping costs, improved visibility, and tracking, and streamlined operations, shippers can enjoy a range of benefits by partnering with a 3PL for their flatbed shipping needs.
Partnering with PLS Logistics gives you access to our carrier network of over 55,000 regional and national carriers and our TMS, PLS PRO. PLS PRO enables companies to optimize their loads by highlighting the carrier terminal’s availability, origin, and destination. In addition, it provides accurate rates, along with the carrier’s contact information. It allows businesses to select a suitable carrier for their budget! So contact us today and let PLS Logistics be your next 3PL provider.
