Transloading logistics is more of a behind-the-scenes supply chain operation, involving the transfer of goods between transportation modes. While transloading doesn’t often garner the spotlight, it is nevertheless important to overall logistics processes, and transportation providers must overcome common challenges to deliver top-notch service.
Problem: Logistics Coordination
- Issue: Transloading can improve supply chain efficiency, but moving goods via multiple modes of transportation requires streamlined coordination, synchronized scheduling, and real-time communication to prevent delays.
Solution: Streamlined Communication and Scheduling
- Action: Advanced scheduling tools and communication systems are available today to coordinate efficient movements of cargo involving transloading.
- Technology: Transloading providers need to utilize the robust logistics software available to them to offer customers real-time tracking and automated equipment handling.
Problem: Damage and Loss During Transfers
- Issue: The more often goods are handled, the greater the risk of damage or loss, especially with fragile or high-value items. This is particularly a risk in transloading because goods can be moved and stored multiple times before reaching the end customer.
Solution: Improved Handling Protocols and Monitoring
- Action: Enforce strict handling protocols and invest in technology such as sensors to monitor conditions during transfers.
- Example: Real-time tracking and tested and proven cargo-handling protocols help ensure that goods are transferred safely between transportation modes and reduces the risk of damage and loss.
Problem: Demurrage and Accessorial Fees
- Issue: Demurrage charges can be incurred when freight is detained beyond predetermined free time. Accessorial charges can occur for a variety of reasons, including when a shipment is diverted in transit, or an improper handoff between modes takes place.
Solution: Proactive Planning and Real-Time Adjustments
- Action: Utilize predictive tools to prevent bottlenecks and streamline transitions between modes to avoid unnecessary costs.
- Example: Charges can add up quickly. Transloading logistics providers can reduce or prevent many charges with proper planning and real-time tracking. Inventory management software can give shippers greater visibility and enable them to make informed decisions quickly.
Problem: Regulatory Compliance
- Issue: Local, national, and international regulations can be difficult to navigate, including during transloading, and can lead to penalties if not managed properly.
Solution: Expertise and Compliance Management
- Action: Work with a logistics partner that has deep expertise in regulatory compliance to ensure smooth operations across borders and regulatory environments.
- Result: Properly managed compliance avoids delays and costly fines, especially when handling sensitive transloaded goods like alcohol or pharmaceuticals.
Problem: Handling of Over-Dimensional and Specialized Cargo
- Issue: Over-dimensional and specialized cargo presents unique challenges in terms of space, equipment, and expertise.
Solution: Specialized Equipment and Tailored Solutions
- Action: Partner with a transloading provider that has the right equipment and expertise to manage oversized loads.
- Example: The best transloading providers offer specialized solutions for moving oversized cargo, ensuring safety and cost-efficiency.
Problem: Weather-Related Delays
- Issue: Unforeseen weather events, such as storms or natural disasters, can lead to significant delays and operational challenges.
Solution: Contingency Planning and Flexibility
- Action: Develop robust contingency plans that include rerouting options and alternative transloading facilities.
- Technology: Use real-time weather monitoring tools to help plan for potential disruptions along delivery routes and adjust accordingly.
VCPB Overcomes All Challenges in Transloading Logistics
Money invested in transloading facilities is garnering headlines. A $3 million New Orleans Transloading Industrial Park opened this fall to facilitate the movement of goods between trucks and trains. Eco-Energy recently launched a transload terminal in Newton, Iowa, promising “high-speed truck offloading and rail loading.” And in the spring, a transload facility opened in Utah to connect trucks and railcars and provide on-site storage and direct access to Union Pacific Railroad.
The benefits of transloading outweigh the challenges. By combining transportation modes, shippers can reduce their overall logistics costs; lower their dependence on over-the-road trucking; lessen carbon emissions; achieve greater flexibility; increase their market reach; and ship more products as transloading allows for consolidating multiple shipments.
Trusted transloading partners can build strong relationships and collaborate and are willing to adapt to changing strategies. At VCPB Transportation, we do that and more.
We are experts in transloading operations. We provide comprehensive transloading solutions tailored to the needs of customers; skilled staff with expertise in transloading logistics; continuous updates on goods in transit; and cost-effective transportation options.
We demonstrate our expertise with every shipment and every type of service. In addition to transloading, we’re skilled veterans in intermodal, produce, over-the-road, oversized, temperature-controlled, and expedited shipping.
Start shipping with VCPB Transportation today.
