We sure do understand the pain of an unexpectedly high freight bill. With fuel costs being what they are right now, fuel surcharges can add 70% to an already high freight bill!
Here are a few tips to your freight to keep costs to a minimum:
- Consolidate orders, if possible (if you purchase 1,000 lbs. twice a month from a vendor, order 2,000 lbs. once).
- Large LTL (less than truckload) shipments are sometimes charged at full truckload prices and surcharges. Splitting a large order into multiple shipments can actually reduce the overall cost.
- Deliver freight to an occupied commercial address with access to a forklift truck. A residential delivery with a lift gate as well as delivery scheduling and notification can add as much as $400.00 to a freight bill.
- Talk to your vendors and freight carriers. They can assist in uncovering other options to avoid spending more than necessary.