Expedited Trucking is a special niche in the trucking industry. This refers to time-critical shipments which is freight which has to be delivered quickly. This involves shipments needed by customers in urgent situations. An example of an urgent situation would be a production line which runs out of a critically needed product. Another urgent situation could include a product which needs to be replaced immediately due to a company’s existing product being somehow damaged. It could also apply to medical equipment or supplies needed immediately. Expedited shipments can include the shipment of one item or several. Expedited shipments usually must be picked up immediately and delivered non-stop to the customer. Customers pay premium rates for this service and they expect their freight to be delivered A.S.A.P. There can be any number of situations which require urgent delivery of merchandise to the waiting customer.
One of the benefits of Expedited trucking to truck drivers is the high rate of pay they can earn as opposed to the typical rate of transporting general freight. This is due to the fact that the freight has to be delivered quickly. Another significant advantage of transporting expedite freight is that drivers don’t have to know how to drive an 18 wheeler. Drivers can use a box truck or cargo van to haul expedited freight. This is certainly an advantage for those that want to drive but don’t want to operate 18 wheelers. Box Trucks and Cargo Vans are also much cheaper than 18 wheelers which would be important to you if you plan to lease or buy your own vehicle(s).
Starting your expedited trucking career with an established carrier will allow you to gain valuable knowledge and experience about the business. This is especially useful if you plan to one day operate your own Expedited Trucking business. Many companies have positions for company drivers and independent operators. Those wanting to get into expedited trucking can choose from several expedited carriers. A few of these companies include:
- Fed. Ex. Custom Critical
- Conway Truckload
- Old Dominion Freight Line
- Schneider National
- Expedited Freight USA
Expedited trucking also has disadvantages in that there are no regular loads. This means you can’t necessarily count on steady work. You may work one day per week or several. You could deliver an expedited shipment have to wait several days to get another shipment. Freight availability is something no one can predict. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of expedited trucking to decide if it is right for you.
Please to to Truckingsos.com to read more articles about trucking and truck drivers such as truck driver jobs and expedited trucking . Truckingsos.com is your premiere source for trucking industry information. Annalee Chambers is a trucking industry veteran.