Cross docking refers to the quick movement of items from a transport carrier to a vehicle with no down time in storage. Most often this is performed directly between different vehicles, or it can involve short or long-term storage in a shipping container. This is an efficient way for carriers to move shipments between docks and ships. The whole process typically takes place within a span of two hours, and some businesses choose to store their shipments overnight. Here's how the entire process works.
When using a transport carrier, many people do not realize that the carrier's cross docking services can be very beneficial in helping to reduce transportation costs. By offering extra storage space and temporary storage to shipping containers, carriers can expedite container movement to their final destination. In addition, a good cross dock facility helps to minimize storage costs, which ultimately helps a shipper save money. In the end, a shipper can expect to pay less than ten cents per gallon when using a cross docking service, which is much less than the average fuel expense per gallon.
For businesses, saving on transportation costs is important for a variety of reasons. By saving on storage costs, a business can free up space for other activities. In addition, a shipper can expect to pay less than ten cents per gallon when using a cross-docking facility. Therefore, a good cross docking service can help shippers save money and cut back on transportation costs. After all, any savings business makes are typically passed along to customers by the carrier.
There are several types of cross docking services available. Some services simply transport items between docks. Others offer storage facilities. Still others offer both services and more. Businesses should make sure they choose a company that offers the most options, because each business will need different features.
For example, a manufacturer may need a storage facility with security measures, while a retailer would prefer that the shipping container had a refrigerated unit and loading dock. The manufacturer would also want its products to be received on time and undamaged, while the retailer would prefer the company provides packaging materials, pick and pack employees and ship with dependable service. Similarly, a manufacturer might want its products to be delivered in an environmentally controlled setting, while a retailer prefers to ensure the shipment arrives at its destination on time and in pristine condition. Different companies will have different needs, so it's important to understand the services offered before choosing a cross docking service.
Another benefit of a cross-docking service is a reduction in truck space required for storing finished products. A large warehouse management company will have trucks on standby to make room for incoming shipments. These trucks will then be attached to a distribution center, where they can unload products as needed and then store them in their appropriate containers. A distribution center is typically designed to hold thousands of finished products, which maximize space usage. If you want to know more about this topic, then click here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cross-docking.
