For many businesses in the UK, the cost of getting stock and equipment from one place to another can be considerable. If you’re running a number of different premises in different parts of the country, and you’re distributing from a central location, then even a small improvement in your logistics can compound over time.
But exactly what changes might you make? Let’s take a look at a few cost-effective ways to transport your equipment and stock.
Evaluate Transportation Options
The process should begin with a frank assessment of your options. Transport can be done by air, road, rail, or sea – and the method that’s appropriate for your needs will depend on how far you’re travelling, how much stock you need to move, and how pressing your deadlines are. For example, perishable goods might need to be shifted quickly via plane, but non-perishable ones might sit in the hold of a cargo ship for weeks on end.
Bear in mind, however, that road transport will almost always be involved at some stage of the journey – and you can often make big time savings by addressing this potential bottleneck.
Implement Shipment Consolidation
The more journeys you’re making, generally speaking, the more money you’ll end up spending. For this reason, your transport operations can often be made more efficient by consolidating many different shipments into a single larger one. If you’re not doing enough shipping to make this viable, then you might look for a consolidation service that will effectively bundle your package together with those being shipped by a number of other businesses. If you’re a small company bringing in products from overseas, this might make a big difference.
Utilise Temporary Van Rentals
For smaller businesses needing to carry goods over a shorter distance on a regular basis, the investment in a decent van can be a wise one. If your transport needs are short-term, however, it might be a better idea to rent the van. Make sure that you have the appropriate level of coverage, too; in many cases, the investment in temporary van insurance can protect your assets while they’re being moved.
Of course, there are advantages to a van rental that apply even if your needs are not temporary. Through a series of short-term leases, you can maintain a fleet more easily, without the cost and hassle that comes with storing and repairing the vans as they get older. If you’re running a local business selling and fitting carpets, for example, you might find yourself reliant on the vehicle being used to get them to the customer – and by leasing a van, you’ll make yourself less likely to suffer from a breakdown that will ultimately harm your reputation.