How to identify a reliable partner that fits your shipping needs

Finding the right carrier may pose a challenge to some retailers. Unishippers shares some expert tips to help businesses match with transport companies.

With more than 30 years of experience, thirdparty logistics provider Unishippers Global Logistics focuses on helping customers find the right carriers at the right price for each shipment by providing thorough information and options.

“With any business, shipping can be expensive, time consuming and inconsistent,” said Unishippers’ executive vice president,
Tim Story. “Since we do not have our own vehicles, one of the most fundamental aspects of our business is having reliable carrier partners that we can trust day in and day out to promptly deliver our customers’ shipments.

“We know it is not an easy task to identify the right carrier at the right price. Since we take the time to do the necessary due diligence, we can save [customers] from countless headaches and financial strains in the long run.”

With a number of carriers available to choose from, Unishippers suggests taking the following steps when conducting carrier research:

1. Start online research
   Depending on your product size, shape and destination, it is important to determine which carriers have the resources necessary to properly and safely move your goods. Some carriers specialise in specific types of shipping (such as B2B, residential, white-glove, low touch/low damage and so on). Additionally, most publications that focus on the transport industry have carrier listings available on their websites.
2. Look for red flags
   Ask questions such as: Is the company compliant with the country’s rules and regulations? Businesses can consider accessing databases to see a carrier’s safety record. If they have a poor compliance history, proceed with caution or even reconsider employing their services.
3. Understand the carrier’s liability limits
   Freight shipments can be exposed to extreme conditions during transit, making them susceptible to damage. It is important to understand the carrier’s liability limits and restrictions to help mitigate financial loss. Carriers may also offer excess value coverage, whichwill extend the liability for higher value goods, but can be rather costly.
4. Check for added perks
   Another key element is accessibility to the status of a shipment’s whereabouts. Consider what features carriers offer customers, such as online tracking services or portal access, to compare estimated rates and service levels.
5. Ask for references
   All businesses want affordable options, no damages, no theft and no delays, but not all carriers are equal. It is easy to find carrier reviews online, but keep in mind that customers are often more vocal about negative experiences. Therefore, the best way to find reliable shipping carriers is to ask the company for customer references. Trustworthy companies should be more than willing to share contact information of past and present customers.