FTL Archives - GlobalTranz

Cargo Theft: Know the Types and What To Do When It Happens

James Greenlaw — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 17:43:16 +0000

If your business ships freight, you never want to hear the words "cargo" and "theft" in the same sentence. And rightly so! Cargo theft is a hot topic and major concern in the logistics industry and has been on the rise in recent years. In fact, more than $150 million worth of shipments were stolen in the first quarter of 2024 alone.¹

Incidents of cargo theft don't just cost you time and money. They can disrupt your business and even erode your customers' trust. So, what should you do if it happens to your business? Don't worry — we have you covered! Let's take a look at the most common freight theft methods and go through the specific steps you should take if your shipments are stolen.

What are the most common types of cargo theft?

As with other criminal activities, thieves are getting more sophisticated. Today's cargo thieves are constantly looking for ways to exploit weaknesses in logistics technology and supply chains. The most common methods cargo thieves currently use include:

Straight theft

Also known as "grab and run," straight theft is when thieves physically steal cargo from loading docks, trucks or storage facilities. This can happen at stops, during vehicle breakdowns or when the cargo is left unattended. Cargo thieves may even use force or deception to access and steal the freight.

Strategic theft

When thieves use sophisticated planning and coordination to target specific high-value or in-demand items, it's called strategic theft. They gather intelligence on shipments, routes and schedules to execute well-planned operations. Organized crime groups or people with inside information about the cargo and its transportation details are often involved.

Pilferage

Sometimes, rather than stealing an entire full truckload (FTL) or less-than truckload (LTL) shipment, cargo thieves will take small quantities of cargo or individual items from larger loads. This type of freight fraud often goes unnoticed or unreported, which can lead to incremental losses over time. Pilferage can occur at various points along the supply chain, including distribution centers, warehouses and during transit. Drivers may not even notice the cargo theft until long after the fact, making it hard to know in which state it occurred and the appropriate law enforcement organization to contact.

Technology-based theft

Like many other criminal pursuits, freight theft has gone high-tech. Cargo thieves are finding more sophisticated ways to target your supply chain and gain an advantage. For instance, they may use electronic "sniffers" to intercept GPS signals, leading them to the exact location of valuable cargo.

Cyber theft

Cyber theft means exploiting vulnerabilities in digital systems and communication channels. Hackers may engage in deceptive tactics such as phishing attacks and data breaches to gain access to shipping data. They then use this information to orchestrate scams like double brokering or fictitious pickups, which means posing as drivers from legitimate carriers to pick up loads and steal them.

What should you do in case of cargo theft?

Even if your business has taken all the possible precautions, you can still be a victim of cargo theft. If this worst-case scenario comes to pass, it's important to respond in a thorough and organized way to make sure you can recoup your losses as much as possible and strengthen your operations and customer relationships.

Advise authorities and your insurance provider ASAP

If you discover your freight has been stolen, report it immediately to the law enforcement agency in the area where the theft occurred.

As it's often difficult for law enforcement to recover stolen freight, it's also vital to get an insurance claim started as quickly as possible. Make sure you follow the insurer's instructions and procedures closely to avoid unnecessary delays in compensation.

Document diligently

Gather all the relevant information, such as the details of the shipment, tracking numbers and any supporting evidence such as photos, security footage and software breach alerts. While you're pulling this information together, make sure your carrier is doing the same.

Keep customers content

Speaking of communication, don't leave your customers out of the loop. After all, they're dealing with the issue of the cargo theft, too. If the stolen freight affects customer orders or commitments, get in touch with them promptly. Provide frequent updates on the situation, any potential delays, and alternative solutions you may have in place. Being transparent in challenging times is crucial to maintaining strong customer relationships and keeping their loyalty.

Learn from the loss

As the dust starts to settle from your initial urgent actions, try and pinpoint any weak links in your supply chain that may have been exploited. This vital self-examination can help you take measures to prevent future thefts of a similar nature.

Seek proactive protection with shipping insurance

Being proactive is always better than being reactive, and that's especially true when it comes to cargo theft. Adding shipping insurance to your valuable shipments can help cover your losses and is always a smart idea. A 3PL can provide insurance and discuss your options.

GlobalTranz: Your Partner and Cargo Protector

Fortifying your supply chain against the threat of cargo theft — and dealing with thefts if they do occur — can be difficult and daunting for even the most prepared business. By partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider like GlobalTranz, you'll have expert support in crafting a shipping strategy that keeps your goods more secure. You'll also enjoy access to top-tier insurance coverage, as well as a dedicated team to take on the burden of the claims process in case of theft or any other challenges that come your way.

We use our decades of experience and knowledge from working with thousands of companies to help you make smart business decisions about freight security and every other aspect of your shipping operations. And if the worst happens, your dedicated GlobalTranz team will be by your side and on your side every step of the way to help make you whole from cargo theft. That kind of peace of mind is absolutely priceless!

Request a complimentary, custom shipping consultation with a GlobalTranz shipping expert today.

1. Riskandinsurance.com. Cargo Thefts Surge to Record Levels in Q1 2024 — May 2024

The post Cargo Theft: Know the Types and What To Do When It Happens appeared first on GlobalTranz.

Need more options than LTL? Try FTL Freight, Partial TL and Volume LTL

James Greenlaw — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 18:24:13 +0000

Are you currently using less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping for your goods? As your business expands, are you noticing that your shipments are getting larger? Typically, LTL shipments range from 150 to 15,000 pounds and can include up to 10 pallets. However, if your loads consistently exceed 5,000 pounds or more than five pallets, it might be time to explore alternative freight options to boost shipping efficiency and cost savings. Maybe it's time to consider full truckload (FTL), partial truckload (PTL), or volume LTL services.

Real World Freight Shipping Scenarios

Each freight shipping mode mentioned here provides unique solutions that need to be weighed against your shipping needs. Let's take a closer look at some shipping challenges similar to those you might be facing.

Situation: A Large, Fragile Shipment

"I have a shipment of delicate medical equipment that's around 15,000 pounds. It's bigger than my usual LTL shipments but probably won't fill an entire truck."

Recommendation: FTL Freight

You likely want to look at FTL shipping. This mode is typically appropriate for shipments that weigh 15,000 to 44,000 pounds and include up to 26 pallets. Even if you don't quite fill the truck, it may be worth leveraging FTL to get exclusive use of the space, which means less handling since other companies' freight won't need to be loaded or unloaded. And unlike LTL freight, your shipment will go directly from origin to destination without stopping to pick up or drop off any other freight. It also won't be transferred from truck to truck, making it more secure and less susceptible to damage. Just remember, FTL shipment rates are market-based and can fluctuate from day to day, so it's always good to check current pricing.

Situation: Big Shipment, Short Journey

"I have 10 pallets of flat-pack furniture, each weighing around 2,000 pounds, going from Ohio to Indiana."

Recommendation: Partial Truckload Shipping

Considering the relatively short distance and the size of the shipment, partial truckload shipping might be the ideal choice. PTL is often used for loads that weigh between 8,000 and 27,500 pounds and/or include about 8‒18 pallets. Unlike FTL, you only pay for the space your shipment occupies, rather than the entire truck. However, shipping longer distances costs more with PTL than volume LTL. On the plus side, while PTL shipments can share space with one or more loads from different companies, there are typically fewer stops than with LTL or volume LTL, and your freight will stay in the same truck for the whole journey. This means faster transit times and lower risks associated with handling.

Situation: Cross-Country Freight Shipping On a Budget

"I have a shipment of seven pallets of retail goods, weighing approximately 9,000 pounds, with a total length of 14 linear feet, going halfway across the country. Keeping costs down is a high priority for me."

Recommendation: Volume LTL

For this scenario, volume LTL shipping would be a suitable choice. Size-wise, volume LTL bridges the gap between LTL and PTL. It can be ideal for shipments that weigh more than 5,000 pounds, are six pallets or more, and/or are longer than 12 linear feet. Volume LTL is priced according to a carrier's LTL rates, so these shipments require a freight classification, unlike FTL and PTL. In general, volume LTL offers cost-effective pricing between traditional LTL and PTL, so it can be an economical option. Additionally, volume LTL shipments generally experience fewer stops and transfers than standard LTL, which can equal faster transit times and less handling.

Freight Shipping Options at a Glance

	LTL	Volume LTL	Partial Truckload	Truckload
Number of pallets	1 to 10	More than 6	8 to 18	1 to 26
Weight	150 — 15,000 lbs.	More than 5,000 — 10,000 lbs.	8,000 — 27,500 lbs.	15,000 — 44,000 lbs.
Length	Maximum of 12 linear feet	Longer than 12 linear feet	Maximum length depends on the truck being used	Maximum length depends on the truck being used
Transit	Multiple stops	Multiple stops	Direct to drop-off location, with some exceptions	Direct to drop-off location
Durability	Better for durable cargo	Better for durable cargo	Less risk of damage	Less risk of damage
Pricing	Based on classification code	Based on classification code	Based on market price	Based on market price

Let GlobalTranz optimize your freight shipping strategy!

GlobalTranz has decades of experience in the logistics industry and helps thousands of shippers of all sizes move products with great efficiency. We are also part of WWEX Group, alongside Worldwide Express and Unishippers. Combined, these three companies make up one of the largest and most diverse 3PLs in the industry, providing shippers with top solutions that help them succeed. Through our full suite of shipping solutions, we service more than 48 million shipments annually and have the resources and expertise to work with companies of all sizes in nearly every industry.

See how GlobalTranz can help you transform your freight shipping. If you are ready to talk to an expert, reach out for a free consultation today!

The post Need more options than LTL? Try FTL Freight, Partial TL and Volume LTL appeared first on GlobalTranz.

FTL Freight Shipping: 8 Questions Answered

James Greenlaw — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 20:29:01 +0000

As your business expands, you may find that changes in your shipping strategy become increasingly apparent over time. Have your less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments grown in size, weight or frequency? Are you experiencing challenges with the rules and additional fees associated with LTL that are impacting your efficiency and profitability? If so, it's worthwhile to consider transitioning to full-truckload (FTL) freight shipping.

Moving from LTL to FTL can feel like a significant leap, one that requires thorough preparation. This guide aims to address common questions about the distinctions between LTL and FTL shipping, as well as the potential benefits of making the switch to FTL.

1. What is the difference between LTL and FTL shipping?

With FTL freight shipping (also known as truckload shipping) you get a truck solely dedicated to your shipment! This is the fundamental difference from LTL freight shipping, where your pallets travel in trailers along with freight from other shippers.

2. How are rates calculated for LTL vs FTL freight shipping?

One big hassle (and source of rate hikes) in LTL is determining the freight class of your shipment according to The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC). LTL freight must be assessed by density, stowability, handling and liability, which all affect rates. FTL freight shipping, on the other hand, is priced by weight, volume, distance and commodity, so it's simpler and avoids possible reclassification fees.

3. Is FTL cost-effective?

If what you need to ship is higher volume, it's likely going to save you money to ship it as a full truckload versus one or more LTL shipments. Besides the volume discount, you may be able to avoid common LTL fees for things like reweighing, redelivery, appointment pickup or delivery, oversized/odd-shaped pallets and more. However, you should always price out the two options if cost is your main concern.

4. Are there size or weight limits for FTL freight shipping?

Although there's no minimums, you probably wouldn't benefit from FTL for shipments less than 10,000 lbs. As for maximums, FTL shipments involve the use of an entire trailer dedicated to your shipment, so they can be a lot bigger and heavier than LTL shipments. You're generally limited only by the size and type of truck or trailer. They can often hold up to 30 pallets or 45,000 lbs. Learn more about when you should move from LTL to FTL shipping.

Of course, there are state and federal transportation regulations, road weight limits, and other restrictions on oversized or overweight loads. Work closely with your carrier or third-party logistics (3PL) provider to make sure you've considered all legal and practical angles.

5. How does FTL freight shipping differ from LTL freight shipping in terms of transit time?

For time-sensitive shipments, FTL may be the answer. Full truckload shipping tends to have faster transit times because there are no stops along the route to pick up or deliver other people's shipments. Loading and unloading can also sometimes go more quickly because workers won't have to move or unload/reload other pallets to get yours off the truck.

6. Is FTL freight shipping better for fragile or high-value freight?

FTL freight shipping service gives you a significant advantage if you want added peace of mind about a higher-value or fragile shipment. With a whole truck to yourself, there are no stops to deliver another company's products. Your freight won't be moved around or unloaded/reloaded to accommodate pickups and deliveries of other businesses' goods. There also won't be any transloading (moving your product from one truck to another at terminals).

Less handling of your product equals less chance of damage, theft or loss — it's as simple as that!

7. What can FTL freight shipping service handle that LTL can’t?

FTL can be used to ship oversized items or loads — products that are wider or longer than what LTL freight shipping can carry. It's also the perfect solution if you need to ship items that are oddly shaped or won't fit on a pallet.

Since you have a truck all to yourself, you also have more flexibility in terms of equipment. For example, you can book a vehicle that fulfills special requirements: refrigerated trucks, flatbeds, dry van and more.

8. Should I work directly with a carrier or go through a 3PL for FTL shipping?

It depends on your specific situation. If you have a robust in-house logistics department, working directly with carriers may be feasible. One thing to keep in mind is that, especially in today's challenging freight market, carriers may go out of business or reduce operations, forcing your staff to start the search for a new provider all over again. A 3PL can minimize the disruption to your operations because they have relationships with multiple freight carriers and can help you quickly switch to a new one.

A 3PL Can Optimize FTL Shipping for You in Several Other Ways

Expertise. A 3PL's expertise in FTL shipping can help you navigate the complexities of FTL shipping, provide advice on route optimization, carrier selection, and ensure compliance with regulations and requirements.
Wide network. 3PLs have an established network of trusted and vetted transportation providers, which saves you time and effort in choosing carriers and adds peace of mind.
Better rates. Those relationships with carriers mean 3PLs can negotiate competitive rates on your behalf. They'll also help you determine whether FTL is the most cost-effective choice for your shipment.
Streamlined operations. A 3PL can handle tasks such as load planning, scheduling, freight documentation and carrier communication. That lets you focus on their core operations, saving time and resources.
Technology. 3PLs often provide advanced transportation management systems (TMS) and other technology designed to help you streamline your FTL shipping processes and gain better visibility into your supply chain.
Scalability. As you grow or experience fluctuations in your shipping needs, a 3PL can quickly adapt to adjust capacity, find better shipping options or recommend cost-saving strategies.
Risk mitigation. By ensuring carrier compliance, conducting thorough audits, and providing insurance options, a 3PL can protect small to mid-size businesses from potential losses and liabilities associated with FTL shipping.

Explore the Benefits of FTL With a 3PL Partner Like GlobalTranz

GlobalTranz has decades of experience in the logistics industry and helps thousands of shippers of all sizes move products with great efficiency. We are also part of WWEX Group, alongside Worldwide Express and Unishippers. Combined, these three companies make up one of the largest and most diverse 3PLs in the industry, providing shippers with top solutions that help them succeed. Through our full suite of shipping solutions, we service more than 48 million shipments annually, and have the resources and expertise to work with companies of all sizes in nearly every industry.