flatbed dispatch services are perfect for transporting pipes, machinery and other goods that would otherwise be difficult to fit in a box-style truck. Their low center of gravity makes them the right choice for heavy loads, too.
When choosing a dispatch service, consider how much they earn per load. Some charge a flat rate, while others will take a percentage off of each load you haul.
Tarping
The earnings of a flatbed dispatch services depends on the type of freight that is being hauled. In general, the more complex or hazardous the cargo that is being transported, the higher the rate that a flatbed dispatch services will earn.
Flatbed trucks are versatile vehicles that can transport a variety of goods, including boxes of paper, containers of food, or other types of freight that require special handling techniques. The cargo on flatbeds can be loaded with help from forklifts or cranes, but the driver needs to make sure that all of the freight is balanced and secure over the axles before driving it to its destination.
This can be an overwhelming task, especially when you have to tarp the cargo in order to keep it safe from rain and snow. In addition, tarping can be a physically demanding and time-consuming task that can lead to injuries if a driver is not careful.
Fortunately, there are many different tarping systems that can be used to protect the cargo that is being hauled on a flatbed truck. One of the most common is a side kit, which uses stakes on each side and bows that cross the trailer to support a specially designed tarp that covers all 48 feet of the trailer.
Although tarping can be a time-consuming task, it is essential to protect the cargo that is being transported on a flatbed truck from rain and other weather elements. This can help reduce the damage that can be caused to the cargo while it is being moved and improves safety for other drivers on the road as well.
In fact, a lot of trucking companies will pay their drivers extra money for tarping their loads to help them maintain their earnings. The pay is typically a percentage of the profits that are made as a result of the tarping, and a portion of those profits are then deposited into the driver’s bank account.
If you’re a truck driver who is looking for a better way to find loads, consider joining a dispatch service. These companies will help you find loads that are convenient for your schedule and provide you with a wide range of benefits and resources to improve your business. They’ll also give you access to load boards and broker negotiation assistance so that you can get the highest rates possible for your freight.
Hazardous cargo
If you have a truck, you are probably familiar with hazardous cargo – this type of freight can include anything that could be harmful to people or the environment. When you ship hazardous goods, you have to follow very specific regulations on packaging and labeling.
Whether you’re shipping flammable or poisonous material, explosives or radioactive materials, it is important that you work with an experienced hazmat expert to make sure your shipment is handled safely. A hazmat expert will know how to identify and classify dangerous goods, package them properly and complete paperwork known as a dangerous goods declaration (DGD).
Hazardous cargo requires special attention because mishandling can lead to a serious accident. That’s why many carriers require employees with hazmat certification to transport these items.
In addition to ensuring that your drivers are well-versed in the proper handling of dangerous goods, you’ll want to ensure that all of your packages have labels and markings that communicate the cargo’s hazards. These labels and markings must be legible and accurately placed to make sure you’re complying with safety rules.
The labels and markings on your cargo will also indicate its International Maritime Dangerous Goods code or United Nations number, which is necessary to help first responders locate the cargo in the event of an emergency. If you’re transporting hazardous cargo by air, it is also helpful to include the IATA Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods, which asks for a lot of information about your shipment and its contents.
You may also need to prepare other documents for your shipment, depending on what it is. Some of these may include the IMDG or UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group, quantity, number and type of packages, emergency contact information, and shipper’s certification.
The key to a successful and safe hazmat shipment is finding an experienced transportation partner who can give you advice, review your paperwork and find a cost-effective solution. Fortunately, Phoenix Air can offer the expertise and experience you need to get your hazardous cargo from point A to point B in the most effective manner possible.
Freight damage
In the US, a flatbed dispatch services can earn anywhere from $7000-$14,000 per month. Depending on the company’s reputation, this can be a significant source of income. A dispatch service can also help you find loads to drive and get your business off the ground, which can lead to even more revenue.
One of the most important parts of shipping is ensuring that your freight arrives in good condition and that it’s packed correctly. If a shipment is damaged, it’s crucial that you file a claim as soon as possible. This way, the carrier can take action and you can begin the process of getting repaid for your damages.
Once you’ve filed your claim, the next step is to get it reviewed by a claims examiner. This is an expensive and time-consuming process, so it’s important to do it right.
If the examiner finds damage, you will need to provide evidence of the damages. For example, photographs of the damaged products will be helpful. The carrier may also require an inspection report, if necessary.
You can also request a waiver of the inspection, but be sure to get written confirmation before doing so. Failing to do so could result in partial compensation or denial of your claim altogether.
Another common type of freight claim is the one for “damage.” This means that your freight arrived at its destination in a condition that’s visibly damaged, such as crushed boxes or crates. You should be able to prove this with pictures or by having an inspector inspect your freight for you.
The most difficult type of freight claim is the one for “concealed damage.” This is when your freight has arrived but it’s still in the original packaging and you don’t notice any issues with the goods at first glance. These claims are tricky because the consignee usually signs the proof of delivery, only to realize later that some of their freight is damaged or missing.
The key to filing a successful claim is to remain calm and patient, document everything, and be even-keeled. By doing so, you’ll be able to get the freight repaired or repaid in full.
Customer service
Customer service is a crucial part of any trucking business. A well-run dispatch service can help you build strong relationships with customers and make connections that will lead to loads. This can help you increase your earnings in the US and keep your business running smoothly.
In addition, great customer service can also help you retain drivers. Research has shown that driver turnover can be lower when dispatchers are friendly, helpful, and genuinely interested in making sure their employees are happy and satisfied.
If you want to provide excellent customer service to your customers, you must be able to handle difficult situations. When a customer gets upset, you must be willing to diffuse the situation and offer them an alternative solution that works for both of you.
Dispatchers are also responsible for scheduling driver shifts and communicating with drivers about their work. This requires a high level of skill and attention to detail.
Some of the specialized skills needed by a freight dispatcher include verbal communication and writing ability. These skills are particularly important for specialized freight transport, where goods can be hazardous or perishable.
A good dispatcher will take the time to understand your business and your equipment before finding you jobs that suit your needs. They will also be able to connect you with clients that need specialized services, like tankers or flatbeds. This will make it easier for you to expand your business in specialized areas and earn more money by doing so.
Another benefit of using a truck dispatch service is that they can help you manage the back-office tasks that aren’t as glamorous as driving. This includes billing, collections, insurance certificate generation, and many other important responsibilities that need to be handled in the background.
A quality dispatch service will also be able to help you negotiate with brokers, which can mean getting better rates. This can be a difficult task for truckers, and an excellent dispatch service will ensure you’re prepared for negotiations with brokers.
