7 Tips on Choosing a Flatbed Shipping Service for Your Business

Flatbed shipping is an option to consider if the cargo you need to ship won’t fit inside a standard truck trailer or doesn’t necessarily need to be enclosed.

It is one of many options at your disposal as a business owner. But there are definitely situations when you will want to go with flatbed shipping.

If you’re a business owner who needs to get things to customers and believe that flatbed shipping is the right option, you’ll still need to find the right service provider. There are many, so which one should you choose?

It would be a mistake to assume that all flatbed shipping companies are more or less the same. You need to do your research so that you find the right one. Otherwise, you might end up with a severe case of buyer’s remorse.

Consider these seven tips for finding the right service provider for your business. Once you find a reputable flatbed shipping company, you’ll be in good hands.

1. Research Different Flatbed Shipping Companies

Your first order of business is to research different shipping company options so that you can draw up a list of companies to look into further. You’ll want to research reputations, service options, unique value propositions, and more.

By reading online reviews and testimonials, you can learn about what other companies have to say about flatbed shipping businesses they’ve patronized. You’ll find out which companies to look at more closely and which ones to avoid.

You can also ask business owners who have hired shipping companies. Getting feedback from people you know and trust can arm you with the information you’ll need to make an informed choice.

2. Driver Qualifications

It’s also a good idea to ask the shipping companies on your short list about the qualifications of their drivers. Do the companies perform background checks before hiring drivers? Do the drivers have the right licenses and experience?

You have the right to have answers to these types of questions. So don’t be shy. You will want to ensure your products are in good hands, after all, so that they get to the intended destinations in good shape.

3. Tarping

One of the benefits of flatbed shipping is that it can accommodate large equipment that wouldn’t fit within the confines of a truck. But what to do if you need help shipping large equipment or products that need to be covered?

When calling different flatbed shipping companies, ask whether they can place a tarp over your cargo. This is important if your cargo needs to be protected from the elements. You obviously don’t want your cargo to be damaged.

The customer care agents at the shipping companies you contact will be able to fill you in on the steps they will take to protect your precious cargo.

4. Insurance and Licensing

Don’t overlook the importance of looking into insurance and licensing. And don’t just take a company’s word for it. Ask for proof. You won’t want to take anyone’s word for anything. A lot is at stake when you hire a flatbed shipper.

You don’t want to face a situation where your cargo gets damaged and you’re left with little to no recourse for compensation. Finding a reputable flatbed shipper that has the right insurance and licensing will benefit you.

You’ll get peace of mind since you’ll know you’re covered if there are any problems.

5. Expertise and Understanding

When shipping with flatbed trucks, you need to find a service provider that knows the shipping process thoroughly. This means that the service provider needs to know, among other things, the proper way to pack cargo.

The service provider also needs to know the documentation that needs to be completed in order for the cargo to get to the intended destination with no issues.

6. Customer Service

Don’t overlook the importance of customer service. Everything hinges on whether the flatbed shipping company you hire is really there for you.

When you call to ask questions, will you get the answers you need? If there are problems that need to be addressed, will the service provider leave no stone unturned to help you in any way it can?

You can learn a lot about a flatbed shipping company’s customer service by checking out reviews written by its clients. You will definitely want to avoid shipping companies with shoddy customer service ratings.

7. Cost

When it comes to finding the right flatbed shipping company, comparing shipping costs is critical. You’ll want to research how much different service providers charge so that you get the best deal for your money.

But don’t make the mistake of being fixated on the cost. This could bring dire consequences.

The reason for this is that sometimes paying a bit more means getting a better overall experience. So when looking at the cost, comb over what is included. Doing this will help you to choose the right service provider and package.

OGL Has You Covered for Flatbed Shipping

When you’re assessing flatbed shipping options for your company, you’ll want to find one that matches up well with these seven tips. A lot is riding on finding the sort of service provider that will safely deliver your cargo.

At OGL, we have the flatbed shipping options your company needs. So if you’re looking for a service provider that will deliver your cargo safely, be sure to get in touch. We’ll help you with your business needs.