Over the years, there has been a constant rise in the reliance on intermodal transportation. This is primarily because of the growing consumers demand and rising cost of transportation of products. Hence, the shippers are now looking for a cost-effective option. This particularly holds true for shipping within 300 miles or more or to the same metro. Here comes the role of professional intermodal freight brokers. However, the efficiency of intermodal transportation depends on the experience and expertise of the intermodal container broker. They must ensure timely and unscathed delivery. Since there are many service providers in this domain, finding the best one can be challenging, and hence, in this blog, we have compiled a list of pointers that you should add to your checklist before handing over the contract to them.
What are Intermodal Containers?
Intermodal containers or shipping containers are standard large sized contains used for intermodal freight transport. These can use used for shipping via ships or trucks.
What is Intermodal Shipping?
Before going ahead, let’s have a quick overview of intermodal shipping. The term refers to the movement of freight by two or more modes of transportation. Once the shipment is loaded in the intermodal container, it can move seamlessly between the different modes of transportation, like trucks and ships. A professional intermodal container broker has a well-organized fleet of vehicles that ensure timely delivery of shipment. They ensure lesser time lag, thus assuring timely delivery. Hence, the success of your supply chain operations depends on the proficiency of the intermodal freight broker. This brings us to the next important point of discussion, “ How to find the best intermodal freight broker?” Here we will be highlighting the key pointers that you should be taking into account when hiring an intermodal container broker.
10 Helpful Tips to Find The Best Intermodal Container Brokers
1. An Experienced Service Provider Will Ensure Quality Output
To begin with, the first parameter that you should take into consideration is the experience of the service provider. An intermodal freight broker who has been working in the business for a long time holds experience and expertise. Both these parameters play a significant role in ensuring a seamless supply chain and shipment movement. Moreover, they will be equipped to help you strive through the complexities of the market, thereby helping you get the best deals.
2. Expansive Network and Resources
The network of the intermodal freight broker assures hassle-free movement of the shipment. A broker that has a broad and diverse network will be able to offer better options as compared to the ones who are naïve or new in the business. Make sure that you hire a broker that has a strong network of trusted carriers. They will ensure that your cargo reaches the destination at the right time and will offer you the best service.
3. Don’t miss to Check their Reputation
Working with a reputed broker assures you of hassle-free shipment movement. These brokers will have all the necessary information and expertise to complete your check diligence. You can check the reviews and ratings of the front intermodal brokers. There are several third-party websites that do a comparative analysis of intermodal brokers and their services. Here it will be easier for you to filter out the best option based on your preferences.
4. Insurance Coverage To Guarantee Safe Delivery
A professional Intermodal freight broker would always emphasize providing the best service to its clients. Most of the intermodal freight brokers offer insurance coverage. This ensures that they will take a complete onus of safe delivery of the cargo. Failing to do so, the insurance coverage would cover the cost.
5. Look for Customised Solutions
Does the intermodal freight broker offer a customized solution? If the answer is yes, then the company is the right choice for you. Today business needs have become targeted and specific. Hence, relying on genetic services might not give you the desired results. But with an intermodal freight broker service provider who offers customers and Taylor solutions matching your business requirements will be a good choice. They will take time to understand your requirements and offer solutions accordingly. They will show that a solution matches your budget and requirements.
6. The Track Record and the Customer Service
Intermodal container shipping can be a challenging process. Transparency in the moment of shipment is important. With the help of a trusted and reputed intermodal container broker, you are assured of responsive customer service. They will address your requirements and doubts and also provide the necessary solution. The regular updates from the customer service division ensure smoother and more efficient movement of the shipment.
7. Don’t Forget to Ask for a Competitive Pricing
There is a huge scope of negotiation when finalizing a model container broker. However, don’t compromise on the quality of service for a lowest price. Make sure that the service provider you are hiring offers competitive pricing while ensuring high-quality service.
8. Does the Company Adopts New Technology
The technological intervention has made its way across the different business domains, and intermodal container broker is also focusing on its maximum application. With the use of technologies like artificial intelligence, Blockchain, and predictive analytics, it becomes easier to track the shipment and provide real-time updates on its moment. This gives better visibility into the status of the shipment. This helps in building trust and maintaining transparency.
9. Are They Following Sustainability Practices
Most companies are now moving towards eco-friendly modes of operation. Even the intermodal freight brokers are now adopting sustainable practices. Look for a broker that focuses on reducing carbon footprint and also demonstrates their commitment via the services they offer.
10. Check their Certifications and Compliance
The last point that you need to add to your checklist is to check the certification and compliance followed by the freight brokers. Look for a broker who meets all the regulatory requirements and also holds the necessary certification. A broker who follows all the protocols will ensure ethical practices.
Parting Thoughts
Intermodal freight broking a critical to ensure that the products reach their destination at the right time. It impacts the business operation and defines its success. By considering the above-mentioned factors, it will be easier for you to find the best Intermodal container brokers. Make sure that you shortlist at least 2 to 3 different options. Compare them on the basis of the above-mentioned pointers, and then make a final call. With the right broker by your side, you can streamline your intermodal container shipping and achieve greater efficiency and profitability for your business.
Want The Best Intermodal Freight Services? Hwy Haul Is Here To Help
Hwy Hawl is a renowned and trusted name in the market. As a company, we have been rendering outstanding supply chain services to clients across the event business niches. We also take pride in offering customers intermodal container shipping solutions. We have expertise in understanding the requirement of the client and, based on it, recommend the right solution. Without years of experience and expertise in the industry, we have carved a niche for ourselves. Moreover, our broad and diverse network and shipping lines enable us to offer the best rates and efficient services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your intermodal container shipping needs.