Moving large items or large amounts of items that normal delivery service providers cannot haul requires the use of flatbed transportation carriers. These delivery services use large trucks known as flatbed trucks or carriers to get the job done. These trucks are large enough to carry construction equipment, vehicles, and other things that will not fit in a normal delivery truck. Before choosing flatbed transportation carriers, there are important facts to know.
Licensing and Insurance
Flatbed trucks require special licensing and permits to operate on highways. These trucks typically cause a shift in the normal flow of traffic, and if the permits are not in order, fines are issued to the company and passed on to the client.
Verify insurance before hiring a flatbed transportation carrier. Ask for a certificate of insurance that shows the amount of insurance, who handles incurred costs, coverage dates, and what is covered. Consider insurance coverage mandatory before hiring any flatbed transportation carrier.
Additional Fees
Quotes from flatbed transportation carriers do not always spell out all the fees involved. Get a detailed quote that includes loading and unloading the freight, any mileage or fuel related fees, and any administrative fees involved. Ask if there are additional fees for delays due to weather, mechanical breakdowns, or other unforeseen issues.
Pay attention to mileage costs and routes. Typically based on the number of trip miles, quotes vary drastically if the route is longer than necessary. Make sure the company is taking the most efficient route to the destination. Ask about additional mileage for detours or other potential issues.
Time
Ask the carrier for a delivery schedule and any historical data on the company’s record for meeting deadlines. Choose a company that meet or exceed deadlines and has a reputation for maintaining contact with clients when unexpected delays occur. Ask about discounts for delivery delays and schedule changes. If the freight is over width and the destination is a far distance, the carrier generally can only travel during daylight hours. It is important to know this ahead of time to determine if there are additional costs for a dead overnight time.
Research
Research flatbed transportation companies before choosing. Check the Federal Department of Transportation and the Better Business Bureau. If there are complaints, check for resolution. Consumer complaints do not necessarily mean a company is bad. If the complaints are resolved quickly, it is a good sign that the carrier is concerned about its business. Credit bureaus are another good resource when searching for a carrier. Companies that have good credit ratings typically stay on top of their business.
Choosing flatbed transportation companies based on research and knowledge ensures the safe, timely delivery of goods. Take the time to find out everything possible before hiring a carrier and put your equipment and valuable large goods in the right hands.
