Shipper | Best practices 3 min. read
What is dedicated transportation?
By definition, a dedicated freight solution provides contracted, consistent capacity for your business’ shipping requirements. But the benefits don’t have to end there.
A dedicated solution is more than just consistent capacity
By definition, a dedicated freight solution provides contracted, consistent capacity for your business’s shipping requirements. But the benefits don’t have to end there. Since dedicated contracts are generally a three- to five-year agreement, superior dedicated carriers build and maintain a fleet tailored to your unique needs, including specific equipment and freight handling requirements. Schneider’s dedicated solutions do just that — and much more. The company keeps your freight — and your business — moving forward with customized answers to your toughest transportation issues.
Six ways dedicated transportation benefits your business
Guaranteed freight capacity
With a dedicated transportation solution, freight capacity is guaranteed for your routine shipping needs, where and when your business calls for it. As part of your dedicated contract, you and your carrier will agree upon a predefined route or geography, as well as a number of trucks and trailers to support your need. When your shipping volume surges, the carrier leverages its network — including third-party capacity brokerage — to keep freight moving on time. Schneider has the expansive reach and network to ensure a seamless shipping process whether the situation demands a change in equipment, people, capacity or technology. Additionally, when volumes are down, Schneider leverages its network to keep drivers busy and prevent assets from sitting idle.
Requires less fleet management
Working with a dedicated carrier is like having a private fleet without all the hassle that comes with it. Schneider assumes fleet management responsibilities like safety analysis, equipment investments, and driver hiring and training — so you can focus on running your business. Plus, Schneider’s commitment to innovation means you’ll benefit from the latest technologies.
Special care and handling of freight
Dedicated shipping is a natural fit for moves requiring specialized equipment and delivery techniques, such as storefront and jobsite delivery, mobile roller conveyor use and Moffett-powered offload. Schneider recruits the most qualified drivers and emphasizes special training tailored to your business. Whether your fleet operates temperature-controlled trailers, lift gates, flatbed or custom-designed equipment, you can trust our drivers to maintain product integrity and guarantee timely delivery of your freight.
Shipping flexibility and customization
Dedicated transportation is custom-built for your business needs. Schneider takes everything into account to build a flexible dedicated solution that works best for you, including conducting a comprehensive operations analysis, ongoing freight tracking and optimizations, and even the uniforms drivers wear. Schneider works alongside you to develop solutions specific to your business and evolve them as market conditions change.
Greater shipment predictability
With a dedicated fleet, you have the comfort of knowing that your freight keeps moving consistently. Even if volume changes, Schneider can use variable or dynamic routing to maximize the efficiency of your shipments. By optimizing shipments on your regular route schedule, you’ll see added value throughout the supply chain.
More consistent pricing and control of costs
A longer contract (typically three to five years), greater shipment predictability and consistent volume also lead to more consistent pricing. With a dedicated transportation solution in place, your shipping rates are managed and predictable, insulating you from the effects of market fluctuations.
Is a dedicated transportation solution right for you?
There’s a good chance your business could benefit from a custom dedicated transportation solution, especially if you find yourself facing these transportation issues:
Difficulty managing the ever-changing regulations and requirements of fleet operations
Requiring unique or specialty fleet equipment and delivery techniques
Having tight delivery windows with high-value or temperature-sensitive freight
Needing capacity for seasonal surges
Learn more about dedicated shipping service
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