Pallet shipping cost plays a pivotal role in the intricate web of supply chain management. Various notable factors contribute to deciding the paramount important element, Pallet Shipping Cost. This blog will focus on navigating various pallet shipping cost factors and what you need to know.
Factors affecting pallet shipping cost
- Distance and location:
The budget and planning of the supply chain fluctuate directly with the different distances and locations geographically. Shipping to more distant zones and regions results in higher shipping costs due to the more resources used. For example, domestic freight costs lesser than cross-border shipments.
- Weight and dimensions:
The weight of boxes used for palletizing and crating also determines the cost overall. The volume occupied by shipments and carriers determines how much a load will cost. Big boxes and crates take up more space than small carriers.
- Transportation mode:
The modes of transportation like air, ocean, and railway also fluctuate the freight rates for custom crates. Air freight is the most expensive option and is less selected by new businesses and low-budget individuals. However, land freight covers most of the shipment needs overall.
- Special handling requirements:
Fragile and high-value items determine how much cushioning and padding is needed for the goods. Custom crates made of good quality wood (lumber) are the main thing that makes special handling expensive and requires extra care.
- Carrier selection:
Carriers like USPS, FedEx, and DHL have different rates and value-added options for palletizing and crating. Choosing the best option according to the customer’s budget and needs is what a good shipping company should do.
Strategies for Managing Pallet Shipping Costs
Follow the following strategies to manage your needs and requirements for pallet shipping costs;
- Optimzed packaging: Choose an excellent packing company to reduce mishaps of palletizing and crating.
- Consolidation and LTL shipping: Using thless-than-truckload (LTL) option for smaller shipments to reduce the overall costs of custom crates.
- Route planning: To minimize transit delays and unexpected mishaps of increased costs.
- Negotiate with carriers: To get a better flat rate, try negotiating with carriers to give your customers what’s best for them because we do that.
