Driver detention has been a big issue in the transportation industry for many years, but electronic logging devices (ELDs) have put a spotlight on the topic since the mandate took full effect in 2019. Though the impact of ELDs is still being analyzed, the way they record drivers’ hours of service (HOS) has made time more valuable than ever.
No matter what industry you’re in, getting products to your customers on-time and in good condition is vital to your business’ success.
The movement of freight seems simple to a consumer — they order something, and a short time later it arrives. But, those who work in the shipping industry know the process is a little more complex. How one shipment is packaged may not be safe for another, and the type of equipment required for one may differ from another (e.g. an oversized shipment needs a flatbed while pharmaceuticals may need temperature controlled). Understanding basic shipping information can help simplify this multifaceted process.
Online shopping makes it easy to get everyday items delivered to a home or business, but it can be even more useful for large purchases. When consumers buy items like furniture and equipment in-store, tasks such as finding a big enough vehicle and providing safe transportation become their responsibility — things not everyone wants to handle, especially in large cities where traffic can be difficult to maneuver.
If you aren’t familiar with the transportation industry, acronyms and industry jargon might make it difficult to find the services you need. We’ve created a graphic that illustrates frequently used shipping and logistics terms to help you understand and manage the various aspects of your supply chain.