Key Considerations for Selecting a Container Shipping Partner

Choosing the right container shipping company is critical to the success of your international freight operations. Here are some essential factors to consider that will help ensure you select a partner capable of meeting your specific transportation needs effectively:

Understand Your Cargo’s Requirements

Before you engage with any container shipping companies, it’s crucial to have a thorough understanding of the cargo you plan to ship. Knowing whether you’re dealing with perishable goods, heavy machinery, or bulk items will affect the logistics and cost implications of your shipping process.

Assess Experience and Reputation

The reliability of a shipping company can often be gauged by its track record and the reputation it holds in the market. Research potential partners by reading through customer reviews, checking ratings from reputable bodies like the Better Business Bureau or the Canadian Transportation Agency, and examining their history of success.

Look for Tailored Shipping Solutions

Choose a shipping partner that offers services tailored to your specific needs. This includes providing various container sizes, specialized services such as refrigerated options for perishable items, and flexible solutions like intermodal shipping services that combine different modes of transportation for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Evaluate Logistics Expertise

The company you select should have a team of logistics experts who manage the entire shipping process meticulously—from planning the most effective routes to ensuring safe and timely delivery. Their ability to keep you informed throughout the process and handle complex logistics arrangements is essential.

Check for Advanced Tracking Tools

Leading shipping companies usually offer sophisticated online tracking tools that allow you to monitor your shipment in real-time. These tools are invaluable for maintaining control over your freight and ensuring that it progresses according to plan.

Choose MGA International Logistics for Trusted Shipping Solutions

For top-tier international freight and container shipping needs, consider MGA International Logistics. With over 30 years of experience and a commitment to providing intermodal transportation services, we ensure your cargo is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Visit our website or contact us directly to discuss how we can assist with your shipping requirements. Let MGA International Logistics be your partner in navigating the complexities of global freight.

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When choosing refrigerated trucking services, it’s important to consider their experience, reputation, and quality of their equipment. You’ll also want to get a quote from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your shipment.

Here Are Some Things to Keep In Mind When Choosing Refrigerated Trucking Services:

• Experience: Look for refrigerated trucking companies with extensive experience shipping temperature-sensitive goods. They should have a good reputation and be able to provide references from satisfied customers.
• Quality of Equipment: Make sure the company you choose uses high-quality refrigerated trucks and trailers. They should also have access to a well-maintained fleet of vehicles.
• Pricing: Get quotes from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your shipment.
• Flexibility: Choose a company that’s willing to work with you to customize a shipping solution that meets your specific needs.
• Customer Service: A company with excellent customer service should be available to answer your questions and address any concerns you have throughout the shipping process.

Benefits of Using Refrigerated Trucks

Improved Food Safety

One of the primary benefits of refrigerated trucking services is that they can help to improve food safety. When food is transported at high temperatures, it is more likely to spoil or become contaminated. However, when food is transported at cold temperatures, it is less likely to spoil or become contaminated. As a result, using refrigerated freight services can help to ensure that food quality remains safe during transport.

Extended Shelf Life

Another benefit of refrigerated freight services is that they can help to extend the shelf life of food. When food is kept at cold temperatures, it takes longer for bacteria to grow and cause spoilage. As a result, food that is transported using refrigerated trucking services can often be stored for longer periods of time without spoiling.

Reduced Waste

Refrigerated trucking services can also help to reduce waste by preventing food from spoiling. When food spoils, it must be thrown away, which results in wasted resources and increased landfill waste. However, by using refrigerated trucking services, businesses can avoid this waste and keep food fresh for longer periods of time.

Enhanced Flavour and Quality

In addition to extending the shelf life of food, refrigerated trucking services can also help to enhance the flavour and quality of food. Food that is transported at high temperatures often loses its flavour and freshness due to oxidation. However, when food is transported at cold temperatures, it retains its flavour and freshness for longer periods of time. As a result, using refrigerated trucking services can help businesses to provide their customers with fresher, tastier food products.

Lower Shipping Costs

Refrigerated trucking companies can also help businesses to lower their shipping costs. When businesses use traditional shipping methods, they often have to pay for additional insurance in case the food spoils during transport. However, when businesses use refrigerated trucking services, they are typically not required to purchase this additional insurance as the risk of spoilage is greatly reduced. As a result, businesses can save on shipping costs by using refrigerated trucking services.

If you would like more information regarding refrigerated trucking services, please contact MGA International Logistics and we would be happy to answer any of your questions. We offer a variety of trucking services that can meet your specific needs, and we are dedicated to providing the highest quality customer service.

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Express Delivery

Sometimes, you might have a flexible timeline when it comes to deliveries. At other times, you may have more urgent needs. When your deadlines are tight and you need products fast, local trucking companies can come to the rescue. Many of the top companies offer expedited shipping to meet your business needs. When you require a faster response, talk to your trucking company of choice about their express options.

Proof of Delivery from Cargo Shipping Companies

Sometimes, it isn’t all about receiving a product from an international logistics company. You may have urgent needs to send something to a client. In these cases, it is nice to know when those items arrive at their destination. You do not have to wait until the recipient tells you. Good trucking companies have proof of delivery methods to set your mind at ease. This can be an automatic alert that you receive immediately upon delivery. Some trucking businesses even provide GPS tracking. This gives you a real-time look at where the products are at any time along the route.

Managing Your Inventory

Keeping track of your inventory is vital for organization and efficiency. Trucking companies can help you with this effort. If you are having trouble keeping on top of your digital warehousing, an international logistics company may provide solutions. These companies can assist you with tracking for incoming products and identifying every item in your warehouse. These tools can also show you how to create reports and rotate the goods in your facility effectively.

Less-Than-Load Shipments

This environmentally conscious option should be an offering from local trucking companies. Instead of paying full cost for a smaller load that does not fill up the entire truck, LTL shipping allows you to combine your shipment with that of another company that may also have a partial load.

Efficient Solutions for Your Business

Taking advantage of these benefits from cargo shipping companies provides you with peace of mind for all your shipping needs. Contact MGA International Logistics today to see how we can help with any of your logistical requirements.

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The Definition of “Intermodal Transport”

Intermodal transport is the act of shipping cargo or goods in the same singular container from the source to the destination. The container can be moved via multiple types of transportation, though trains and trucks are the most common vehicles used for intermodal transport.

Benefits of Intermodal Transport

Intermodal transport is often the most economical method when it comes to the shipping of goods. This is because planned usage of trains and trucks have lower costs associated with them than airplanes and cargo boats. Intermodal shipping is also safer for the cargo. Keeping the cargo in the same shipping container reduces the chances of damage due to handling. Also, trains operate on fixed lines, lowering the chances of vehicular accidents. Intermodal transport is also convenient for the shipper. In addition to only dealing with one bill of lading, the shipper can take advantage of the speed and reliability of their country’s rail systems. Generally speaking, intermodal transport is best suited for shipping distances over 500 miles, cargo with intermediate value, cargo that is 25 tons or lighter, or for cargo shipments that are performed routinely.

Best Practices for Intermodal Transport

The shipper should take care when packing their cargo. Though having the cargo remain in the same container lowers the chances of damage, the container will be moved and shifted frequently, so the cargo needs to be sufficiently padded or secured. Intermodal transport also requires a solid grasp of train schedules to ensure that the cargo arrives at the destination by the agreed-upon deadline. And choosing a trusted, reviewed provider to ship the cargo is essential; experienced organizations with multiple positive reviews are optimal picks for intermodal transport.

MGA International has a network of premier local trucking companies in the USA ̶ including Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and many more ̶ providing shipping logistics and services for international shipments. We perform a variety of cargo management services such as logistics (including warehousing and storage), shipping cargo ranging from less-than-truckload (LTL) to heavy shipping, and express shipping. We pride ourselves on making commitments we can keep, and on meeting or exceeding customer expectations. New and current customers can access our contact page to estimate shipping times, subscribe to our email list, submit questions, and request price quotes. We can also be reached via phone at (844) 334-0039.

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A Higher Level of E-Commerce

This year, many shipping providers are preparing for more orders getting placed online. During the pandemic, online shopping has provided a way for people to easily get goods delivered to their doors. And it is likely that the demand for online shopping will only increase as the end of the year gets closer. It is likely that during the year, online shopping will break records. E-commerce stores around the world are preparing for the huge surge.

As customers are purchasing more items online, the supply chain might feel the strain. The good news is that managing things smoothly can be helpful. That includes managing the inventory effectively and fulfilling orders.

How the Supply Chain Will Work

This year, the peak shipping season requires a lot of planning so that the supply chain will remain intact. For e-commerce companies, that means that they need to keep their supply chain flexible. That can help to reduce any issues that might occur with the market. The trends are still not predictable, but it is critical for companies to work with a wide range of providers, such as trucking companies in NJ. The right logistics provider will help to connect you with the right people. If you have a great partner to work with, then the process can go a lot smoother. That can help the winter to go better.

How Are Shipping Speeds Affected?

Today, more customers are ordering goods online. But that also means that the shipping market has already become quite saturated. And when it is so saturated this year, the shipping speeds might be slower than usual. That means that many companies will need to choose the right international logistics company to partner with so that the items can get delivered on time.

Choose the Right Logistics Provider Today

When you work with a good international logistics company, you can see items delivered to their final destinations on time. Of course, using open and smooth communication can help things to go better. That way, you can assure your clients that things will go well. If you want to know more about how to work with the right trucking companies in NJ, feel free to contact MGA International Logistics today. We are one of the best logistics providers.

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About the Dimensions for Flatbed Shipping

Legally, the load of a flatbed trailer cannot be more than eight feet, six inches high and wide, and the maximum length is 48 inches. The average weight is usually around 45,000 pounds, but it cannot be more than 80,000 pounds. If the trailer is a traditional one, the driver’s view will not get obstructed, ensuring safety for them.

About Over-dimensional Flatbed Trucking

Flatbed shipping companies use over-dimensional flatbed trailers. They can handle freight as long as 160 feet, 18 feet high and wide, and weighing as much as 200,000 pounds. This type of flatbed has around 18 to 40 wheels, depending on the load that you are transporting.

Often, over-dimensional freight can obstruct the driver’s view because of its size. That means that this type of load often requires pilot cars to travel in the front and the back of the trailer. They would let the driver know about any potential obstacles. That way, they would ensure that that shipment gets transported smoothly. There are a few things that you should know before deciding whether this mode of shipping is right for you. These things include:

• The total weight of the cargo
• Type of cargo
• Exact dimensions of the cargo
• Transit time
• Address of destination and origin

Getting the Details Right

It is important to ensure that the dimensions are correct. Otherwise, it could cost you and the flatbed trucking companies in Illinois many thousands of dollars. That is especially true if the shipment is moving through state lines. If you list the wrong weight or dimensions, your transport company might end up using the wrong equipment, which can be dangerous and result in fines.

As your freight gets bigger, the rules for over-dimensional items change. They can also change when your shipping company moves over state lines. The more freight information a shipper can provide the carrier, the better it is.

Work With the Best Flatbed Shipping Companies for an Advantage

If you want to ensure that your load gets delivered on time, you should get a free quote from MGA International Logistics. MGA will connect you with the right carrier with the best equipment for any size of load. If you need flatbed trucking companies in Illinois or flatbed trucking companies in Ohio, contact MGA today.

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The Reputation

The reputation of a company plays a big role in selecting and vetting different business partners. The transportation of your items should not be any different. A carrier is vital in your company’s success, so a trusted transport and logistics company will vet them to ensure the process stays streamlined.

Honesty and Transparency

There isn’t much worse than getting unexpected fees and other costs in the supply chain. Sadly, the logistics industry often struggles with transparency, and that has left many business owners unaware of the real cost of moving their items.

But by working with reputable logistics companies in NJ, you can become more informed on the shipping procedures. These companies have the experience and knowledge so they can ensure that clients can access vital information. Pertinent information can include waiting times, right routes, and costs and fees.

Finding the Right Experts

It is not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to finding the best carrier, route, and transportation mode for your company. Depending on your industry, your supply chain might have different requirements and needs. Many times, suppliers have to reach out to multiple companies to find the right solution for moving freight.

Some carriers do not have all the resources or skills to move the freight. Others are not honest about their capability to meet the client’s requests. The good news is that many logistics providers can help you with choosing the right transportation company, saving you a lot of time and money and allowing you to focus on more important business tasks.

Choosing One of the Best Transport and Logistics Companies

As a business owner, you have a lot on your mind, especially if you have to deal with a lot of freight. It is vital to choose a logistics provider with solid industry experience. This type of company should be able to meet your supply chain needs with ease.

Working with trusted transport and logistics companies will ensure that you get the best service at the right rates. They will have a collaborative relationship with a network of reliable and experienced carriers. No matter what type of transportation you require, they can create the best strategy for you. If you are looking for one of the top logistic companies in NJ and across North America, feel free to reach out to MGA International Logistics today.

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Legal Limits on Oversize Loads

When you are shipping an oversize load, you will want to make sure you are paying attention to the limits. In the United States, these limits are generally consistent in different states. For other areas, you will want to make sure that you check the restrictions before choosing from one of the many oversize load companies.

However, generally, the maximum legal width for your load is about eight and a half feet. The maximum limit on the height is also about eight and a half feet tall. The length ranges from 48 to 53 feet, while the maximum weight is about 46,000 pounds. Some trucks might be capable of handling heavier loads. It is a good idea to check your local transportation department’s regulations for specific guidelines.

Determining If a Load Is Oversize

Sometimes, adjusting a load can make it fall under the criteria for oversize loads. This is because the restrictions are applied per axle. However, the width is more likely to make a load oversize. Loads over eight and a half feet wide or tall are oversize. Drivers for oversize loads must obtain a permit for this type of cargo.

Travel Escorts

Many states and areas will require loads more than 12 feet wide to have a travel escort. Oversize trucking companies will usually cover hotels and per-mile costs for these escorts. This will be included in the overall cost of shipping the freight. The travel escort will warn the truck drivers about problems on the road, including traffic jams and construction zones.

Creating the Schedule

Many times, an oversize load will only be allowed to travel while there is light out. This includes half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Many oversize loads cannot move during the weekends or holidays. Oversize trucking companies must carefully plan out their routes to allow for these considerations.

Special Markings

Larger items may need to have flags or lights on the trailer or the tractor. Usually, you will need a red flag and an amber light. This will ensure that the load is visible for other drivers during both daylight and night. Any travel escort will also need to have flags and lights on them.

Choose One of the Top Oversize Load Trucking Companies

It can be challenging to ship an oversize load. However, working with a logistics provider that is experienced in handling these shipments can help. When you choose to work with MGA International Logistics, you can rest assured that you will be working with one of the best oversize load companies around. Contact us today to learn more.

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Better Efficiency With Lower Operating Costs

Because of new advances in technology, freight trucking companies now have more opportunities than ever to lower operating costs while improving efficiency. Other companies are already testing the use of automated or autonomous trucks. Through automated technology, automated trucks could take over the long-haul parts of the journey. Traditional vehicles would handle only the first and the last mile or so of the journey. Some estimates put the cost savings at as much as 40 percent. This includes the salaries of the drivers for the long-haul portion.

International freight forwarders and startup companies are both working on creating electric trucks. This can improve efficiency while minimizing the industry’s impact on the environment. This can also save trucking companies money because operating the trucks will be less expensive than traditional fueling options. This is true for trucks that operate within about a 400- kilometer range of the company’s headquarters. Another reason that electric vehicles can be cost-effective is that they can better meet stricter standards for emissions.

Digitalization

Another trend that is affecting international freight shipping companies is digitalization. This advancement can help offer more efficient logistics to these companies. Customers, warehouses, suppliers, and trucks can all benefit from being connected through digital technology. Artificial intelligence can help to avoid inefficient planning and logistics. This can offer these companies an advantage over the competition.

Benefits for the Trucking Industry

Technological innovations can help reduce truck operating costs by as much as 25 percent to 40 percent. This can help to create a new business model and bring in new competitors to the market. Freight trucking companies and logistics companies alike should prepare for new competition in the market and come up with new strategies for the business.

Choose the Right Logistics Company

Here at MGA International Logistics, you can count on us to keep up with all of the newest advances in technology. These advancements will change the industry day by day, and we take pride in knowing about each change and its importance. When you need to choose from the many international freight forwarders out there, turn to MGA International Logistics. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can benefit your business.

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Transporting your items relies on many different factors, many of which are uncertain. For example, fuel prices, transportation obstacles, and even the best route can all change. Being able to respond to these changes is vital to help your company deliver goods on time. This can ultimately help your company present a better image to your customers. The network of transportation can vary greatly, which can make it difficult to find the right logistics strategy.

You might be wondering how you can add business value by ensuring goods are delivered on time. Working with the best cargo shipping companies can help ensure that your goods reach your customers in a timely manner.

Optimizing Costs

While trucking companies in Illinois may involve an initial cost, you will often find that they can give you a better value overall. Logistics companies have managers and planners who are experienced in the many variables that can change during the transport of goods. These managers and planners can help optimize the available resources to ensure that your company’s goods will be delivered efficiently.

Even though the variables in transportation are constantly changing, an experienced international logistics company has learned from the past what the patterns look like. It has the expertise to sort and analyze previous transportation data. This means that this logistics company is well- equipped to help you reduce costs and optimize your resources. A logistics company of good standing can point out areas of waste and how you can reduce costs. This can help your company to avoid any bottlenecks in your process.

Better Customer Service

One of the main benefits that cargo shipping companies can offer you is helping you better serve your customers. Being able to provide the right products at the right time is huge for building your company name and brand. This can ease better customer relations and increase your company’s base of clients. The right logistics solution can encourage your customers to work with you in the future.

Choose One of the Top Trucking Companies in Illinois

Here at MGA International Logistics, we take pride in offering the best logistics services. You can count on us to help you plan your route from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more about how our services can benefit your business.

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