In recent times, the shipment of associated cargo – goods or materials that are transported together with the main cargo, often in the same container or in the same vehicle – has become an increasingly popular service. Cargo owners are increasingly choosing this method of transportation, as it is economical and reliable, especially if you turn to the services of professionals – TVL.
What is an associated cargo and why to send it
Using the term “associated cargo”, it is necessary to understand its meaning. To understand it, it is worth understanding that there are two variants of such cargoes – “extra load” and “return cargo”. In the first case, the full load of the car that makes an idle run before or after the fulfillment of the order is carried out by collecting orders that are on the way or on the same route. “Dozhruz” is the transportation of goods by hitchhiking in cases where the vehicle travels on its route partially empty. Therefore, nothing prevents it from taking in the body of the cargo of a certain size and deliver it along its route.
Advantages of such transportation:
- Savings due to lower transportation costs
- Reduced delivery time, as such a load can be delivered faster as it is already on its way in the same direction as the main load or empty vehicle.
- Increased efficiency by utilizing the remaining space in containers or vehicles, which can improve the efficiency of logistics processes and reduce empty spaces.
With the growth of e-commerce, the number of small shipments is increasing, making co-shipments more attractive to shippers. With the development of logistics services such as express delivery and courier services, shipments of associated cargo have become more affordable and convenient.
How to find transportation for your cargo
It is possible to carry out such a delivery if you find an accompanying vehicle for cargo transportation. The choice of carrier should be approached with seriousness and attention, paying attention to reviews, reputation and the presence of the necessary licenses. Before deciding to cooperate with this carrier, discuss the terms of transportation, responsibility for the safety of the cargo and the availability of insurance. It will also be necessary to conclude a written contract, which will specify the details of transportation, namely:
- characteristics of the cargo (weight, volume, special conditions);
- route and delivery time;
- payment terms and penalties.
Such actions will help to ensure the safety and reliability of delivery of your cargo. You can choose reliable carriers by using specialized online platforms and services that connect shippers with carriers or immediately seek help from experienced carriers, such as TVL. Its experts will choose the best solution for you, taking into account the specifics of transportation. You can calculate the cost by taking into account the peculiarities of the cargo, additional costs and using the following formula:
Total Cost = (Distance×Tariff) + Additional Services
The following calculation is an example of a final calculation. For example:
- for cargo weighing 500 kg and volume of 2 m³, transported at a distance of 300 km tariff – 6 UAH/km;
- additionally – loading 100 UAH, insurance 1% of the cargo value (10 000 UAH) = 100 UAH.
- Total cost – (300×6)+100+100=2000 UAH.
In addition, on platforms for finding trucking companies, such as TVL, Lardi-Trans, Della or DeGruz, there are online calculators for automatic calculation of the cost, where you just need to enter the parameters of the cargo and route.
What documents are needed to send a cargo of opportunity
Before you find an accompanying cargo for transportation, it is necessary to draw up a mandatory package of documents that ensure the legality and safety of transportation. This list of basic documents includes:
- Bill of lading – contains information about the cargo, the sender and the recipient.
- Contract for transportation – an agreement between the sender and the carrier, which regulates the rights and obligations of the parties.
- Vehicle registration certificate – confirms the right of ownership or the right to use the vehicle.
- Insurance policy – a policy of compulsory insurance of the vehicle, additional insurance of the cargo may also be required.
- Certificates and permits for transportation – if the cargo is dangerous.
- Documents on the cargo. Depending on the type of cargo, specific documents such as invoice, bill of lading, quality certificates, licenses may be required – if the cargo belongs to regulated categories (e.g. medicines or alcohol).
- Documents confirming the right to accompanying cargo – permits for transportation of accompanying cargo, if provided for by the legislation. It is important that the accompanying cargo is specified in the consignment note and that the transportation does not violate safety standards.
There are specific features and international transportation by road. For example, customs documents such as commercial invoices, packing lists and others will be required. These documents confirm the ownership of the goods and their value. Certificates and permits may be required if, for example, food products are being transported. It is mandatory to fill out a customs declaration, insure the cargo and track the delivery process. It is also important to properly account for all costs and take into account currency risks.
Risks and benefits of sending coincidental cargo
Often businessmen have a question about how to send goods if they are small in volume and it is not economically feasible to order a full-fledged transport for their transportation. Responsible and reliable specialists of TVL company will help to provide professional consultations and explain how to send cargo and organize its delivery. Having vast experience in the sphere of delivery of associated cargoes, TVL provides an individual approach to each client, develops routes that allow for quick and fast shipment, ensure its arrival without damage and delays. The company provides comprehensive assistance at all stages of transportation, including document processing and cargo insurance.
