When your goods need to be transported across long distances with the United States (or sometimes beyond), you have several choices as to the method. The most common of these is by truck and by train. Which should you rely on to get products and materials from one place to another? Here are the pros and cons of each transportation type.
Transporting by Truck
Trucking offers a great deal of flexibility to target your specific needs and circumstances. Rather than being controlled by a limited amount of track and specific, common destinations, you can haul goods over the almost limitless interstate road system. Items can be brought directly to your or your client's doorstep, removing one step in the shipping process.
Trucks can also easily carry just about any type of load, ranging from small, perishable items to awkward and bulky equipment. They often do not need to conform to pre-defined cargo container shapes.
Keep in mind, though, that trucking does have a few drawbacks. It may take longer than some other forms of transit because it's dependent on that same road system. While trucks can work 24 hours a day, weather, traffic, detours, and accidents can happen at any time — potentially forcing a delay in arrival. And modern regulations may limit drivers' hours and schedules.
Transporting by Train
Trains are a good way to move large amounts of cargo for a lower cost. Their high capacity is their biggest advantage, and it helps create discounted prices for large shippers. Trains are also bound by fewer vagaries of surface travel — such as traffic and weather delays — than trucks. That can facilitate a faster arrival, especially in large cities and during busy shipping seasons.
Because they follow prescribed routes, you will likely have to have your goods transported to and from the railway by other means. For a small shipper, arranging these things could make shipping more complex — especially if they have sensitive, fragile, perishable, or hazardous goods. The extra steps could also mean more time spent in transit.
Choosing the Right Transportation
Clearly, the right option depends on what you are transporting and how it needs to get there. While trains offer more speed and volume, trucks make up for it with flexible options and door-to-door service. To find the best choice, consult with an experienced logistics company that can guide you through the decision-making process. The result will undoubtedly benefit your products and your bottom line.
Share30 December 2019
Several months ago, my wonderful spouse decided we should sell one of our vehicles. At first I was worried about how we would both get around, but his main goal with this plan was to start utilizing more public transportation. Ultimately I agreed that this was a good plan, though I was still concerned with using public transit as I hadn't had many experiences with it in the past. This blog is all about the benefits and advantages of transportation besides your own personal vehicles. You actually might be surprised by how easy it is to use other transportation methods!