Because of the cargo type, there are several factors to consider when shipping agriculture domestically. Agricultural goods are commodities cultivated and processed by workers on farms or plantations. Along with perishables such as meat, vegetables, and flowers, this can also include non-perishables like seeds and grains. Due to the type of goods, the transportation process may differ from other cargoes. Making a small mistake can disrupt the entire supply chain. There are also various components, like planning, handling, and regulatory compliance, that shippers should be aware of. While this type of cargo is common in international shipping, this article will explain the process for transporting it domestically.
What Should You Know Before Shipping Agriculture Domestically?
As previously mentioned, a small error can disrupt the entire transportation process. For example, if the temperature of the container is slightly high, the cargo can spoil and be unusable. Carriers must maintain certain goods at a specific temperature, like dairy, which typically ships between 32 and 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Reefer Trucks (Also Known as Refrigerated Trucks) are commonly used for shipping perishable agricultural goods. Before even starting, the shipper should understand the requirements, which can vary based on the type of agricultural goods. There are also various state laws and governing bodies that have regulations that domestic shippers must follow. Some of these organizations include FMSCA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture).
Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to monetary fines, delays, and loss of cargo. A shipper should also understand the paperwork that can be involved when shipping domestically. Some of these include a bill of lading, packing list, and proof of delivery, and can vary based on the cargo. It is also essential to understand that agricultural cargo must be packaged appropriately to prevent spoilage. To allow airflow, packaging can include crates, bins, or pallets and have an even distribution to prevent shifting. The shipper must also have the appropriate labels on the packages to identify the products.
What Is The Process?
The process of shipping agricultural products domestically begins long before the goods are loaded onto the carrier. It can start when the shipper identifies the cargo type, which will determine the rest of the supply chain. By selecting the cargo, you can find the correct truck, such as reefers, dry vans, flatbeds, etc. After correctly packing and loading, the carrier will transport the goods, maintaining the proper conditions. Shippers must pay attention to delivery times to prevent perishable agriculture from spoiling. Shipping during times with less road traffic and finding shorter routes can be beneficial. Transporters should notify receivers before the cargo reaches its final destination, allowing them to prepare for the unloading process.
When moving agricultural products by truck, it is essential to take the necessary steps to protect your cargo. Another way to ensure the success of your agricultural goods is by coordinating with a freight broker. Brokers serve as the middlemen between shippers and carriers, coordinating the transportation of cargo domestically. They achieve this by maintaining a list of carriers that specialize in transporting goods, such as agricultural products. Brokers also provide various solutions, such as preparing documents, finding rates, and securing carriers. They also offer consulting services to determine the best course of action for ensuring goods reach their final destination. Speak to our brokers at info@a1fsinc.com or 786-375-9420 to arrange shipping your goods to any location in the US.