When it comes to shipping, the method that you use to prepare and exchange cargo loads can have a huge impact on the efficiency of your system. Live load and drop hook shipping are the two primary ways of exchanging cargo, and there are some significant differences between the two.
If you own a business that relies on speedy shipments, keep reading to learn more about whether or not live load trucking might be the key to streamlining your supply chain.
What Is Live Load Trucking?
Live load trucking involves having a trucker wait for their container to be loaded or unloaded before leaving the container yard or their next stop. In live load trucking, truckers will transport cargo to its destination, and wait for that cargo to be unloaded. They may also wait while a new load is compared.
Another way to understand live load trucking is to compare it to drop and hook shipping. In drop and hook, truckers pick up or drop off loaded or empty containers without waiting for the container to be loaded or unloaded. Instead, the trucker hooks up the new container and leaves again right away.
What Are the Advantages of Live Load Trucking?
There are lots of benefits that can come with live load trucking that might make it the right option for your business. Some of the advantages of live load shipping include:
- Shorter Lead Time – Rather than loading or unloading the truck ahead of time, you can reduce lead time by loading or unloading only once the trucker arrives.
- Requires Less Space – Drop and hook shipping requires space to store empty or loaded containers for pickup.
- Good for Perishable Cargo – Live loads are loaded quickly and transported right away, making it the best option for perishable goods.
What Are the Drawbacks of Live Load Trucking?
While live load trucking has considerable benefits, there are also challenges posed by this method that might make it the wrong option for your business. Some of the drawbacks of live load shipping include:
- Slower Delivery – Because the trucker will need to wait for the cargo to be unloaded, there’s more downtime on deliveries.
- More Trucker Contact – Truckers may be called upon to help load or unload shipments.
- Higher Cost – You’ll need to cover the cost of paying the trucker to wait while their trailer is loaded or unloaded.
- Less Convenient for Drivers – Drivers have to wait on their container, potentially leading to delays.
It’s important to remember that drop and hook shipping comes with its own unique challenges as well. To learn which type of shipping is right for you, you should consult with a logistics expert.
Get Efficient Live Load Trucking From Lean Cargo Logistics
Whether your business handles food, industrial materials, pharmaceuticals, or non-perishable foods, no matter what you need to ship, we can handle it. The logistics experts at Lean Cargo Logistics have the expertise needed to get your cargo where it needs to go, safely and efficiently.
If you want to reduce lead time and optimize your supply chain, get in touch with the team at Lean Cargo today. We can help you determine the right type of shipping for your business.
