Hey there! You’re probably here because you’ve considered bypassing a freight broker like us to coordinate your cargo shipment yourself. And sure, why not? It could be an exciting adventure, filled with twists, turns, and a lot of… paperwork?
Before you dive head-first into the wild world of freight, we’d like to give you a road map of what lies ahead. Let’s see if the do-it-yourself approach is right for you, or if you might want to leave it to the professionals.
1. Find the Right Driver and Equipment
You’ve got a load to ship, and you need a driver with the right trailer and proper equipment like loading ramps, tarps, or other essentials. Seems simple enough, right? Well, you may need a license from the FMCSA to access “loadboards” to find these drivers. Without it, you’ll be cold-calling trucking companies hoping to hit the jackpot. Time-consuming? You bet!
2. Background Checks – A Necessary Detour
Once you find a potential driver, get ready to play detective. You must ensure that the driver is authorized by the FMCSA, has an active license, and can haul your specific load. Safety ratings, carrier history, previous records – all these come into play. And don’t forget to read online reviews! It’s like online dating but for trucking.
3. Insurance: A Road Full of Potholes
Insurance isn’t just a “check the box” task. You need to know the amount, whether your load is covered, and even add yourself as a certificate holder. Then, call the insurance company to verify it’s paid for and active, and check if there are any claims against that policy. This step alone could feel like navigating a maze!
4. Avoiding Scams – Don’t Get Taken for a Ride
Sadly, some unsavory characters might impersonate carriers to steal or hold your load hostage. Avoid this by verifying the driver’s license of the person picking up your load. Think of it as a spy mission, with less glamour and more logistics.
5. Coordination – The Final Stretch
Once all these steps are completed, you’ll need to follow up with all involved parties, like pickup and drop-off locations or crane services, to coordinate arrival and avoid delays. Extra fees can add up if something goes awry.
Don’t Want the Hassle? We’ve Got You Covered
While taking control of your shipping might seem appealing, it’s clear that it’s a complex task filled with potential pitfalls. It’s like a road trip without GPS – possible, but a bit more stressful.
That’s where we come in! At STT Logistics Group, we specialize in taking these burdens off your shoulders. From finding the right carrier to ensuring every last detail is taken care of, we handle it all. Why not give yourself peace of mind and leave the freight to the pros?
Ready to learn more? Visit sttlogisticsgroup.com or call us at 888-884-0608. Let’s make your shipping a smooth ride!
