Route planning for shipping services has become mandatory for many businesses and those involved in shipping. There is not one business that can operate with success without a detailed plan in place for all their travel logistics.
One of the most common mistakes made by new and smaller companies is a lack of a route plan or not having enough information in place to properly plan a route. Route planning is not just for larger shipping companies though.
Small companies that do not have the resources or the personnel to plan a successful route oftentimes make the mistake of relying on what the larger companies are doing. Many times, they will attempt to mimic what they see rather than planning ahead and trying to improve on it.
The result can be more lost time and money instead of more profit and customers. In addition, many times, companies will try to take shortcuts along the way. There are many steps involved in planning a route. It is very important to note these steps so that you have an accurate route map when you begin.
This is also important to know in case of an emergency or any unforeseen circumstances that may impact your route. A lot can go wrong along the way and you want to be prepared. When you begin to map out your route, it is important to note the number of lanes and routes that you will have to travel so that you can estimate how long each of these trips will take.
You should also keep track of the truck driver’s license number, loading dock space, and gas stations and service points. Knowing this information is not only important for your shipping services; it is also critical to the safety of the drivers. If you have multiple drivers, they must also know the route in order to perform their duties correctly. Browse through Phandroid’s article on all-things route optimization and how to use it to improve business.
Keep track of the most efficient route by using stopovers as necessary along the route. Estimating distances is very important in planning out a shipping services route. You should also consider alternate routes that may be more cost-effective or safer in terms of traffic patterns.
When you know the shortest route that you can take to reach all of your destinations, it will help your drivers to deliver the goods in the best possible condition possible. When you map out your route, you should keep one thing in mind. Freight shipping services usually only need a minimum amount of space for loading and unloading trailers and larger vehicles.
They do not need huge amounts of space for the conveyances used to carry their goods to their destinations. Determine how much space you will need and work from there. For example, if you have to move your equipment more than a few miles, you will not be able to load it in one fell swoop.
It is also important to keep your shipment within the specified shipping area in order to avoid extra charges on your bill. One of the most important factors to consider when mapping out your route is traffic patterns. Most large trucks travel along well-known roads in the area.
It is important that you do not route your trucks through any heavily congested streets. If you encounter a major intersection or a major traffic stop on your route, you should make sure that you move your trucks off the street so as not to cause damage to anyone.
Knowing your shipping service’s route before you start shipping is very important. It can help you avoid delays and ensure that you are reaching your customers on time. If you already have a good route planned, it is still necessary to make changes as needed throughout your operations.
