Shippers have gained value in the domestic shipping industry by using drop-and-pick trucking services. While this method may be unfamiliar to inexperienced shippers, it has gained popularity due to its numerous advantages. Drop-and-picks are when a trucker drops a container at a location before picking up another empty trailer. The area is typically a cargo storage facility like a warehouse with a dock. This differs from live loads when a driver waits for the truck to be loaded and unloaded. Live loads also differ from drop-and-pick in terms of scheduling. Since drop-and-picks don’t require time at loading docks, drivers don’t need to fit into tight schedules compared to live loads.
What Are The Advantages Of Using Drop-And-Pick Trucking?
There are numerous advantages using drop-and-pick services can have on a supply chain. A common reason why shippers use this service is due to the speed. When workers unload containers into facilities, the wait times for truckers can be around two or more hours. The time is cut significantly with drop-and-pick since the carrier is just dropping off and picking up the container. Not having to wait for hours at the dock also lowers the risk of detention charges from drivers waiting. Another benefit of time savings is that the driver can spend more time on the road. A carrier can make additional deliveries daily, which means more profit.
As previously mentioned, drop-and-pick services allow for versatility regarding scheduling options. Not only do drivers have greater conveyance, but shippers can load and unload containers before the driver arrives. Drivers also don’t have to rely on others to handle the cargo, which can sometimes lead to delays from waiting. Despite the benefits, there can be challenges with this type of shipping method. Issues can arise if the container is inaccessible due to being offsite or stuck behind other containers. Drivers also pick up unfamiliar containers, which may decrease the chances of receiving a good-quality container. In extreme cases, this can lead to a breakdown, causing cargo damage.
When Do Shippers Use This Service?
Regardless of the challenges, drop-and-pick is a popular service a shipper uses for various types of cargo. A typical user of this service is a company that has to move a high domestic shipping volume. There are limited hours in a day, and time is critical if you must ship large amounts of cargo. An exporter that needs to move prominent quantities of freight also uses drop-and-pick services due to its cost savings. The expense reductions come from making more deliveries in a day. Another user of this method is shippers with loose, floor-loaded cartons that can take a long time to load and unload.
Drop-and-pick allows shippers to preload the cartons into the container instead of doing a live load. This service also benefits exporters with specific time constraints and warehouses with a substantial backup of goods and enough staff. While it may seem attractive to start, finding the right provider may not be as easy. A1 Freight Solutions has drop-and-pick services and more solutions for streamlining your supply chain. Get in touch with our experts at 786-375-9420 or info@a1fsinc.com to begin your cargo’s movement. We also offer other services such as temperature-controlled, drayage, heavy haul, and more to move your cargo domestically.