Cargo Shipping, How Does It Work and How to Choose the Right One?

Cargo shipping or freight forwarding is the process of sending goods from one place to another using means of transportation such as ships, airplanes, trains, or trucks. Cargo can be goods shipped in packages, containers, or containers.

These shipments are usually used in the context of international business or trade, where companies ship their goods to consumers or business partners abroad. However, it can also be used to ship large or heavy items from one city to another within the country.

The shipping process involves several stages, including collection of the goods from the shipper, loading of the goods into the means of transportation, delivery of the goods via a designated route, and delivery of the goods to the recipient’s address. During the shipping process, the shipper and receiver can usually monitor the status of the shipment and obtain information about the location and condition of the shipped goods through cargo tracking services. Here’s how to choose a safe cargo shipment.

How to Choose Safe Cargo Shipping

Now that we know what cargo shipping is, this time we will learn about how to choose a safe cargo shipping. The ways are:

1. Choose a Reliable Logistics Service

One of the best ways to ensure your shipment is safe is to choose a trusted and reputable logistics service or cargo shipping expedition. Don’t choose a logistics service based on cheap prices alone, because cheap prices don’t always guarantee good service quality. You can do your research first, read reviews from previous users, and consider the experience and reputation of the logistics service.

2. Service Range

Make sure that the logistics service you choose has a service coverage that includes the city or country you are shipping to. If the service coverage is limited, chances are that your goods will go through multiple shipments, and this can increase the risk of damage or loss.

3. Clear Tariff Scheme

Make sure that the logistics service provides a clear and detailed tariff scheme for all types of shipping services offered. Also make sure that there are no hidden fees or additional costs that are not clearly explained at the beginning.

4. Delivery Duration

Check the estimated delivery time offered by the logistics service, and make sure that the delivery time suits your needs. Also make sure that the logistics service guarantees the delivery time so that you don’t worry if there is a delay in delivery.

5. Security Guarantee

Make sure that the logistics service provides a safety guarantee for the goods to be delivered. This includes safe packing procedures and careful handling of the goods during shipment. Also ensure that the logistics service has cargo insurance to protect your goods from the risk of damage or loss during shipment.

6. Easy Tracking

Make sure that the logistics service makes it easy to track the status of your shipment, so that you can monitor your cargo’s journey in real-time and know the whereabouts and condition of your goods during the journey. Thus, you can take the necessary actions if any problems occur during the shipment.

You can also use TransTRACK’s Cargo Tracker to check the vehicle’s mobility through a portable GPS device with a rechargeable sensor. In addition, TransTRACK’s Cargo Tracker also has a long battery life of 5 days and can measure temperature and humidity.

Difference between Regular and Cargo Shipping

Here are the differences between regular shipping and cargo shipping:

1. Weight

Regular shipments are usually made for relatively light and small items, such as documents, letters, or small packages weighing less than 20 kg. Whereas these shipments are usually made for heavier and bulkier items, such as industrial equipment, cars, or construction equipment that can weigh up to tons.

2. Rates

Due to different sizes and weights, the rates for regular and cargo shipments are also different. Regular shipments usually have cheaper rates because the shipments are made by regular methods and do not require special treatment in terms of packaging and handling. Meanwhile, cargo shipments usually cost more because they require special treatment in terms of packaging, handling, and transportation.

3. Type of Goods

The type of goods being transported is also the difference between regular and cargo shipping. Regular shipping is usually done for consumer goods, such as clothing, gadgets, or other products that can be transported in small packages. Meanwhile, cargo shipments are usually made for industrial goods, such as raw materials, machinery, or heavy equipment. These items require special treatment in terms of packaging and handling, and require larger and stronger vehicles to transport.

How Cargo Shipping Works

The way cargo shipping works involves the following stages:

Receipt of Goods

Cargo delivery begins with the receipt of goods from the shipper. Goods to be shipped must be properly packed and clearly labeled with complete information, such as destination address, recipient’s contact number, and tracking number if available.

Pick-up of Goods

Once the goods are ready to be shipped, the delivery service will pick up the goods from the sender’s location. Cargo shipments can be picked up directly from the sender’s address or from a predetermined pick-up point.

Packing

Once the goods are picked up, the delivery service will inspect and pack the goods carefully. Items that are deemed to need special treatment will be given extra attention in terms of packaging and protection.

Transportation

Once packed, the goods will be sent to the distribution center or warehouse of the delivery service. There, the goods will be collected and sorted based on the destination address. After that, the goods will be loaded onto a delivery vehicle and sent to the destination address.

Shipping and Receiving

Once the goods arrive at the destination, they will be given a receiving label and stored in the receiving warehouse for repacking and shipping to the recipient’s address. Acceptance of goods can be done by signature on the proof of delivery or by a verification code provided to the recipient via text message or email.

Tracking

During the delivery process, recipients can monitor the status of the shipment by using the tracking number provided by the delivery service. This tracking number allows the recipient to track the shipment status online and know the progress of the shipment from start to finish.

In this era of globalization, cargo shipping has become one of the essential needs for many companies and individuals. In cargo shipping, choosing a reliable and safe shipping service is very important. Through cargo shipping, goods can be sent quickly and safely to various regions, both at home and abroad.

However, before sending goods, make sure to choose a reliable shipping service that can provide satisfactory service. Things that need to be considered in choosing a shipping service include service coverage, clear tariff schemes, delivery duration, security guarantees, and ease of tracking.

By paying attention to these factors, it is hoped that cargo shipments can run smoothly and safely, so that the goods sent can arrive at the destination address safely and on time.

To facilitate the delivery of your cargo, you can install a Kargo Tracker from  TransTRACK as mentioned above. Kargo Tracker from TransTRACK can check the mobility of your vehicle through a portable GPS device with sensors and can be recharged. Start using TransTRACK’s cargo tracker and optimize your fleet management!

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