!

Starting June 1st, 2023 Our warehouse fee will be $0.65/cubic foot per month

In effort to lower the warehouse storage fee during inflation, we have went narrow aisle racking.This construction took us four months but the project is finally completed. With narrow aisle racking, we are able to drop storage by 24%.We as partners will go through this inflation together.

Starting June 1st, 2023 Our warehouse fee will be $0.65/cubic foot per month

In effort to lower the warehouse storage fee during inflation, we have went narrow aisle racking.This construction took us four months but the project is finally completed. With narrow aisle racking, we are able to drop storage by 24%.We as partners will go through this inflation together.

Blogs/education-series

01/21/2024

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What is a Freight Truck? The different types and what they haul

    Explore the transformative impact of freight trucks on logistics efficiency. Delve into the pivotal role these vehicles assume in ensuring the swift and secure transportation of goods. Navigate the realm of freight trucking for a seamless flow of cargo. Stay tuned for updates on swift, secure, and cost-effective transportation solutions.

    What is a Freight Truck?

    What is a Freight Truck meaning

    In the realm of logistics, a freight truck serves as the indispensable conduit for transporting goods across varying distances. Crafted with a robust chassis and a formidable engine, the truck is engineered to effortlessly bear substantial loads. Its primary role involves the seamless movement of cargo between warehouses, factories, wholesalers, and retailers. Virtually any item traversing interstate or international borders invariably finds its way onto a truck at some juncture. The spectrum of freight trucks spans diverse types, encompassing compact pickups and semi-trailers designed for the carriage of small to large commodities, to heavy haulers specially equipped to accommodate oversized cargo.

    7 Common types of freight trucks & what they haul

    Seven primary categories of freight trucks are differentiated based on the nature of the cargo they transport: semi-trailers, flatbeds, step decks, dry vans, reefers, box trucks, and tankers.

    Semi-Trailer

    Semi Trailer Truck.

    Semi-trailers go by many names, including semi-trucks, 18-wheelers, tractor-trailers, and big rigs. They are some of the most commonly seen freight trucks on the road.

    The trailers themselves have no front axle or wheels and instead rest on a hitch or fifth-wheel coupling. They can also tow one or two additional trailers for carrying added cargo.

    Semi-trucks are not only adept at transporting consumer goods but also excel in the transportation of raw materials. Their remarkable versatility positions them as the optimal choice for hauling cargo over extensive distances, particularly given their capability to tow multiple trailers with a single truck.

    Flatbed Trucks

    Flatbed truck

    In the realm of transportation, a flatbed truck emerges as a crucial vehicle designed to transport goods on an expansive, open trailer, distinct from its enclosed counterparts. Its forte lies in efficiently ferrying oversized loads, making it an indispensable asset in the logistics landscape.

    Beyond just handling substantial cargo, flatbed trucks boast superior loading and unloading capabilities compared to other freight trucks. Securing items on a flatbed trailer is commonly accomplished using sturdy straps, adding an element of practicality to their functionality.

    The versatility of flatbed trucks extends to their adeptness in transporting an array of items, ranging from construction materials and vehicles to heavy machinery and even entire houses. This is made possible by their remarkable load-bearing capacity and flexible cargo space.

    Revolution Trucking relies heavily on the efficacy of flatbed trucks for numerous shipments, including the expedited delivery of hotshot truck loads. This underlines the pivotal role these specialized vehicles play in our logistics operations.

    Step Deck

    Step Deck Truck

    Much like a flatbed truck, a step deck serves as an open trailer but distinguishes itself by its ability to accommodate taller cargo due to its specialized design.

    Referred to interchangeably as drop decks or lowboy trailers, step decks feature a dual-level structure. The lower level is strategically designed to provide additional clearance for towering or oversized cargo, streamlining the loading and unloading processes.

    With a step deck trailer, the transportation of sizable and tall items is facilitated without the requirement for additional permits. Moreover, the secondary deck allows for increased cargo capacity, making it a versatile choice for efficient hauling.

    Dry Van

    Dry Van Truck

    In the realm of transportation, a dry van stands as a distinctive type of semi-truck, distinguished by its trailer's absence of temperature control. This truck variant is fully enclosed by four walls, complete with a roof, providing a shield against the unpredictable forces of the external environment.

    Typically measuring 53 feet in length, many dry van trailers boast versatility in accommodating various types of freight. The appeal of operating dry van trucks is particularly pronounced among new truck drivers, as they are commonplace and demand only a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

    These trucks are frequently tasked with transporting boxed cargo and pallets, making them a staple in the logistics chain. Consequently, a significant portion of everyday items found in households, ranging from furniture and non-perishable food to clothing, has traversed the miles on the back of a dry van at some point in its journey.

    Reefer truck

    Reefer truck

    Reefers, short for refrigerated trucks, serve as indispensable freight vehicles tasked with maintaining a controlled environment for perishable goods. These trucks play a pivotal role in transporting a range of items, particularly food, to grocery stores and warehouses.

    The vigilant monitoring of the refrigeration unit's temperature is a crucial responsibility for drivers. Positioned either at the front of the trailer or above the truck's cab, this unit's oversight is essential to prevent the spoilage of transported goods.

    Reefer trucks are the preferred choice for shipping temperature-sensitive items, including food, medical supplies, chemicals, and hazardous materials. The rapid deterioration of such items without proper temperature regulation makes reefer trucks a cornerstone of time-sensitive cargo delivery.

    At Revolution Trucking, our expertise extends to specialized sectors such as life sciences, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods – all of which heavily rely on reefer shipping. Discover the myriad ways Revolution can ensure your deliveries are punctual and dependable.

    Box Truck

    Box Truck

    Box trucks, distinguished by their box-shaped cargo compartments and compact design, are a prevalent category among smaller freight trucks. The cargo box is directly mounted onto the frame, distinctively separate from the driver's cabin.

    Their design makes box trucks ideal for local deliveries, effortlessly maneuvering through narrow streets and tight corners. Widely favored for short-distance freight transportation, these trucks find application in various sectors including home appliance and furniture delivery, last-mile deliveries, food delivery, and even moving services.

    Tanker Truck

    Tanker Truck

    Tanker trucks are classified into two main types: dry bulk tankers and liquid tankers. Dry bulk transport handles loose, dry goods such as flour or sand, while liquids and gases are moved using liquid tankers.

    In contrast to conventional boxy trailers, tankers feature a cylindrical tank that affixes to the rear of a semi-truck. Maneuvering them can pose challenges, as drivers need to carefully navigate to prevent excessive sloshing of the liquid cargo.

    These tanks are equipped with compartments designed to minimize sloshing and facilitate the transport of multiple loads. Depending on the nature of the cargo, tanks can be pressurized, insulated, or refrigerated.

    Dry bulk tankers are specifically engineered for materials that defy conventional transportation methods, encompassing construction materials like sand and powders, as well as bulk foods such as sugar and grain. Liquid tankers, on the other hand, cater to a diverse range of liquids, spanning beverages like milk or wine to chemicals like gasoline.

    👉 See related articles now: Top 10 types of cargo vessels in the world

    Full Truckload vs. Less Than Truckload Shipping: A Comparative Analysis

    In the intricate landscape of today's global economy, the pivotal function of freight transportation cannot be overstated. This crucial element guarantees the seamless flow of products from producers to end consumers. Among the prevalent methods employed for shipping goods, Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping stand out. Each method possesses its own set of advantages and drawbacks, and discerning the disparities between them is imperative for businesses striving to make judicious choices regarding their shipping requisites. In this exploration, we delve into a comparative analysis of FTL and LTL shipping, shedding light on their distinctive features, advantages, and factors that demand consideration.

    Full Truckload vs. Less Than Truckload Shipping

    Definition and Scope:

    • FTL: Full Truckload (FTL) shipping involves the transportation of goods that fill an entire trailer, usually accommodating larger shipments or items demanding exclusive space.
    • LTL: Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is a logistics method that pertains to shipments not necessitating an entire trailer. This approach consolidates multiple shipments from diverse shippers into a singular truck, effectively optimizing space utilization and distributing costs among contributors..

    Cost Considerations:

    • FTL: Full Truckload (FTL) shipments are commonly priced according to the volume of space occupied by the goods. Although FTL may incur higher costs for smaller loads, it presents economic benefits for larger and bulkier shipments, leveraging economies of scale.
    • LTL: LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipments are priced considering factors such as weight, dimensions, and the distance covered in transit. This method of shipping proves to be economically advantageous for smaller loads, as the expenses are distributed among various shippers, contributing to a more cost-effective arrangement.

    Transit Time and Speed:

    • FTL: FTL (Full Truckload) shipping offers a direct and expedited route from the point of pickup to the final destination, leading to reduced transit times and quicker deliveries.
    • LTL: LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipments necessitate numerous stops for both pickups and drop-offs, potentially leading to extended transit times. Nevertheless, recent innovations in LTL logistics have significantly enhanced speed and efficiency within this sector.

    Flexibility and Capacity:

    • FTL: FTL shipping provides enhanced flexibility in scheduling and pickup/delivery times, making it an optimal choice for businesses dealing with time-sensitive or high-volume shipments necessitating dedicated space and prompt delivery.
    • LTL: LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping offers businesses dealing with smaller shipments a flexible solution by enabling them to pool truck space with other shippers. Despite its advantages, it's important to note that LTL shipping may come with restrictions concerning precise delivery schedules.

    Risk of Damage and Loss:

    • FTL: FTL (Full Truckload) shipping reduces the likelihood of damage or loss, as the goods remain untouched and untransferred during transit. This ensures the shipment maintains its security and integrity throughout the entire journey.
    • LTL: Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipments encounter increased susceptibility during the consolidation and deconsolidation stages, characterized by frequent handling and transfers. This raises the probability of potential incidents involving damage or loss.

    Documentation and Tracking:

    • FTL: In the realm of FTL (Full Truckload) shipping, meticulous documentation and advanced tracking procedures come into play, given that the entire truckload is dedicated to a solitary shipper. This confers heightened control and transparency to the shipper, enabling them to closely monitor and manage their shipment throughout the transportation process.
    • LTL: LTL shipments demand intricate documentation and tracking due to the involvement of multiple shippers. Nevertheless, advancements in modern technology have significantly enhanced LTL tracking capabilities, resulting in heightened visibility.

    In essence, the choice between FTL and LTL shipping hinges on various factors, encompassing shipment size, volume, urgency, budget constraints, and specific requirements. FTL shipping boasts advantages such as expedited transit times, dedicated space, and a diminished risk of damage, rendering it well-suited for sizable shipments or time-sensitive deliveries. Conversely, LTL shipping presents cost savings for smaller loads, flexibility in shared truck space, and notable improvements in speed and efficiency. Businesses must thoroughly assess their shipping needs, taking these factors into account to pinpoint the most fitting method for their requirements.

    Truckload Shipping Seasons: Understanding Industry Fluctuations

    Truckload Shipping Seasons

    The ebb and flow of the transportation and logistics sector, intricately tied to truckload shipping seasons, underscores the industry's regular fluctuations. These seasonal dynamics wield a direct influence on both capacity and rates, thereby shaping the landscape of available options for shippers. A nuanced comprehension of these shipping seasons empowers businesses to fine-tune their supply chain strategies, strategically navigating heightened demand and constricted capacity periods for optimal efficiency.

    Slow Season – January to March

    Post-holiday fervor gives way to a subdued shipping season for the transportation and logistics sector from January to March. Despite a dip in shipping volumes, industry activity remains palpable. Vital commodities such as medication, food, face masks, and hand sanitizers continue to experience robust demand. 

    The distribution of COVID-19 vaccines adds to the industry's vitality, necessitating refrigerated trucks for nationwide deployment. Simultaneously, the aftermath of holiday gift exchanges sees a surge in returned items, prompting their shipment back to the original sellers. This lull in activity translates to a favorable environment for shippers as truckload rates lean in their favor, courtesy of diminished shipping volumes. Carriers, eager for business, contribute to the advantageous rates for shippers. Anticipating the imminent arrival of spring and summer, shipping volumes are poised to escalate by March.

    Increased Volume Season – April to July

    As spring unfolds, a surge in shipping volumes creates a more favorable landscape for drivers seeking employment, in stark contrast to the lethargic pace observed during slower months. This season heralds the onset of a bustling truckload shipping period, characterized by a decline in carrier availability, consequently ushering in more stringent freight rates.

    The upswing in shipment volumes is further propelled by the onset of the produce harvest season, a boon for truckload shippers specializing in the transportation of food products. Notably, the transport of perishable goods like produce often necessitates the use of temperature-controlled equipment to mitigate the risk of spoilage or damage, a crucial consideration, particularly in the scorching summer months.

    Peak Shipping Season – August to October

    During the months of August through October, the industry undergoes its peak shipping season, aligning with the ongoing produce season. Retailers and e-commerce establishments observe a notable upswing in product shipments as a consequence of heightened online consumer activity. This increased demand for shipping services leads to a tightening of capacity, requiring an augmented fleet of trucks to adequately fulfill the demands of shippers.

    Holiday Shipping Season – November and December

    November and December stand as the pinnacle months for the transportation and logistics sector, marked by a surge in consumer activity. The frenzy kicks off with major retail extravaganzas like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Small Business Saturday in November. Notably, some retailers prolong their Black Friday sales throughout the month, enticing consumers with extended shopping opportunities. The real hustle, however, unfolds in December, characterized by last-minute purchases as individuals strive to dispatch gifts to their loved ones.

    This period witnesses a substantial uptick in shipping volumes, with retailers grappling to fulfill the escalating demand. The crescendo builds as businesses dispatch significant quantities of goods to meet consumer expectations during the festive season. Yet, as mid-December approaches and the bulk of holiday shopping wraps up, the industry experiences a gradual deceleration.

    For businesses aiming to fine-tune their shipping strategies, a profound awareness of these seasonal shifts is indispensable. Understanding the nuanced fluctuations in demand and logistical capacity empowers companies to adeptly navigate each season, orchestrating a seamless and efficient transportation process.

    4 Advantages of Full Truckload Freight Shipping

    4 Advantages of Full Truckload Freight Shipping

    Exciting developments on the horizon for businesses grappling with time constraints and seeking ways to curtail freight expenditures. Entrepreneurs and managers of small to medium-sized enterprises, pay heed to the four key advantages of opting for full truckload freight shipping.

    • Negotiable Rates: Unlike the non-negotiable rates associated with Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipments, full truckload rates dynamically respond to market conditions. This flexibility empowers your Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider to engage in real-time negotiations, potentially securing more favorable rates for your shipments.
    • Time Savings: Streamline your logistics timeline by embracing Full Truckload (FTL) shipping, which eliminates the inefficiencies tied to LTL shipments involving multiple trucks and terminals. FTL shipments, facilitated by a single truck, expedite the process, reducing transit time by up to two days between pickup and delivery points.
    • Fewer Hassles: Bid farewell to the intricacies of LTL shipping, which demands meticulous attention to shipping unit accuracy, frequent audits, and additional complexities like determining freight class and density. FTL shipping offers a smoother experience by sidestepping these hassles.
    • Reduced Risks: Mitigate concerns about potential cargo damage or liability issues arising from shared trailer space. FTL shipments, wherein your cargo occupies the entire truck, diminish the risks associated with co-loading, providing a more secure transportation solution. While additional third-party cargo insurance remains advisable for unforeseen circumstances, FTL shipping alleviates certain risks associated with shared trailer space.

    WorldCraft Logistics (WCL) Simplifies Truckload Freight Services

    WorldCraft Logistics Simplifies Truckload Freight Services

    WorldCraft Logistics (WCL) boasts a dedicated team of seasoned Truck Freight Experts committed to delivering exceptional service and support tailored to your shipping requirements. Armed with extensive knowledge of the truck freight industry and a keen understanding of shipping regulations, these experts guide you in selecting optimal carriers and shipping solutions. Collaborating closely with clients, they craft personalized shipping plans that align with budgetary constraints, timelines, and cargo specifications. Their service encompasses regular updates, prompt issue resolution, and a steadfast commitment to ensuring on-time and flawless shipments. To witness WCL's unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, make contact with them today.

    Selecting WorldCraft Logistics comes with a multitude of advantages, including access to a vast network of carriers that guarantee competitive rates and dependable services. The platform offered by WCL simplifies the freight shipping process by enabling users to compare truck freight rates from diverse carriers, empowering them to make informed decisions and secure the best prices. The streamlined booking process and automated document generation contribute to a hassle-free shipping experience.

    WCL's expansive carrier network ensures competitive rates and reliable services. Simplify your freight shipping endeavors by leveraging their platform to effortlessly compare truck freight rates.

    Irrespective of the nature of the commodity being transported, truckload freight services provide swift, secure, and cost-effective delivery solutions for large quantities or items unsuitable for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipment. Truckload (TL) freight shipping proves invaluable for meeting production deadlines and swiftly restocking inventory. It stands as the ideal solution for reliable freight services.

    With over 12 years of experience, WorldCraft Logistics possesses the expertise to ship a diverse range of commodities to different locations. Their carriers are equipped to handle shipments varying from shingles to farm equipment or used excavators, ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods.

    WorldCraft Logistics takes pride in its excellent customer service and commitment to on-time delivery. The team actively listens to and comprehends your needs, posing relevant questions to offer the most suitable options. Transportation specialists assist in navigating the intricacies to get your freight moving locally, regionally, or nationally. WCL stands as the premier solution for freight shipping. For in-depth discussions and exploration of options, reach out to their truckload experts today at (909) 632-1643.

    Simon Mang

    Digital Marketing/SEO Specialist

    Simon Mang is an SEO and Digital Marketing expert at Wordcraft Logistics. With many years of experience in the field of digital marketing, he has shaped and built strategies to effectively promote Wordcraft Logistics' online presence. With a deep understanding of the logistics industry, I have shared more than 300 specialized articles on many different topics.

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