The Ins and Outs of Expedited Freight Shipping
Savvy shippers know there are always times when normal freight transportation strategies fall short. First Call Fast expedited shipping services aid companies needing to move freight quickly when standard LTL or FTL methods won’t cut it.
But if carriers are already moving freight as efficiently as possible, what exactly is expedited shipping — and what can it do for your business?
What Is Expedited Freight Shipping?
Expedited shipping is the process of delivering freight quickly (sometimes in as little as two days) using route strategies and transportation methods built to cut out any ambiguity from standard delivery windows.
Experienced 3PL partners are equipped to manage the finer details of retrieving, loading, tracking and delivering time-critical cargo. Our team’s expedite services (termed “First Call Fast”) include:
- Last-minute deliveries
- LTL & full truckloads
- Freight rescues
- High value cargo transport
- Exclusive use vehicles
- Cross-border shipments
- Project & specialty freight
- Temp-controlled loads (reefer)
The benefits of expedited shipping apply to virtually every industry. E-commerce businesses can offer speedy delivery to keep pace with competitors, pharmaceutical companies can ship medications across the country at a moment’s notice, and manufacturers can overnight replacement parts to keep a factory up and running — no matter your niche, there are always use cases for expedited shipments.
Types of Expedited Freight Shipping
Expedited shipping can be tailored to suit virtually any need and distance through its three main forms:
Ground Expedited Services. For domestic shipments, ground expedited services are generally more efficient and cost-effective than comparable air services. Teams of drivers often work together to provide round-the-clock delivery over large distances.
Air Freight Services. Air freight is ideal for international shipments and includes both cargo services (dedicated aircraft for freight) and commercial services (shipping on regular flights).
Air Charter Services. Charter services provide a dedicated aircraft for your shipment. The service guarantees the fastest possible delivery, but at the highest cost per pound. Naturally, charters are reserved for only the most urgent or highest-value shipments.
It’s worth noting regulations for cargo carriers and commercial airliners often differ — your First Call agent can help make sure your freight meets all relevant standards.
Common Expedited Freight Shipping Questions
How does expedited shipping work?
Every job is unique, which is why successful expedited shipping requires close coordination between shippers, carriers, 3PL partners and anyone else operating a key role within a company’s supply chain. Together, these stakeholders leverage efficient sourcing, tracking and routing tools to meet tight delivery timelines.
How does First Call Fast compare to standard shipping?
Expedited shipping usually takes 2-3 days depending on the carrier and the shipping method involved. This is significantly faster than standard shipping’s average 7-10 business day timeframe. Our team can help shippers identify their best shipping options and target ETAs given their specific circumstances.
Can I expedite international shipments?
Yes, international freight is available for expedited shipping. While air freight is the most common method, shipping goods to and from Mexico or Canada also includes ground transportation options like sprinter vans, cargo vans, LTL, FTL, team-driver trucking and exclusive use vehicles to minimize transit times.
How are expedited shipments priced?
Expedite rates depend on distance, shipment weight, freight type and required delivery timeframe. Carriers may also charge premiums for last-minute requests or special handling needs. Your First Call agent can provide a cost estimate based on your specific requirements.
How do I track my expedited shipment?
Tracking is one of First Call Fast’s biggest benefits for our partners moving time-sensitive cargo. Real-time tracking and visibility tools will be made available through our customer portal so you can easily follow your freight’s progress and communicate any further details with your First Call agent.
Is First Call Fast expedited shipping worth the cost?
Expedited shipping is an invaluable resource when on-time delivery means the difference between normal operations and widespread logistical turmoil. This is often the case for perishable products, medical supplies, bulk ingredients and manufacturing materials (to name a few).
Expediting Freight with First Call
First Call Fast expedited services are tailored to each partner’s unique set of circumstances to make your supply chain management simple. Contact us today to learn how our best-in-class tracking tech and trusted capacity network can provide your organization with year-round supply chain efficiencies and cost savings.
Simplify your Next Shipment with First Call Logistics
Building and managing cost-efficient supply chains is a full-time job. First Call’s rare combination of in-house assets, expert problem-solving and track record of stellar customer service makes us the 3PL of choice for business partners with a wide range of shipping needs.
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