Freightquote by C.H. Robinson Blog

Yes, it’s still summer, but fall is on its way, which means General Rate Increases (GRIs) will soon follow. A General Rate Increase is the average increase of base shipping rates from carriers. Although some may consider the increase unnecessary, it’s all dictated by the supply and demand chain with the average increase around 4-6% each year. 

A GRI, or General Rate Increase, is the average amount a less-than-truckload (LTL) carrier will increase their base shipping rates. Typically, industry leaders are the first to announce a GRI. When they do, others quickly follow.

Whenever fulfilling a shipment to a trade show or convention, it’s wise to incorporate additional planning. Making the right transportation decisions for the display and materials you’re shipping can save you precious time and money, while also helping to avoid any unnecessary headaches.

Companies will often choose less than truck load shipping (LTL) when they feel their freight load will not be enough for a full trailer. Although, for many businesses, shipping via LTL across the country, or even locally, can be stressful and time consuming without proper knowledge and assistance. 

As of April 2017, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will be fully enforcing the latest regulations regarding the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Sanitary Transportation of Human and Animal Food (STF) rule. The Act, which was passed by congress and signed by the President recently went into law.

Basic freight shipping services typically include a contract carrier pulling up to a dock, where the shipper loads their freight and it’s on its way. The delivery process is similar. Drivers are likely pulling up to a dock where consignees are prepared to receive and unload the shipment. Freight carriers are not usually expected to touch the freight.

Today’s businesses are under increasing pressure to reduce costs while improving overall efficiency. When it comes to shipping, one of the primary challenges businesses need to address is often referred to as “the Amazon effect.” 

When considering freight shipping options, it’s common for shippers’ minds to go straight to trucks, especially when sending goods domestically. However, intermodal transportation can be the right choice in certain scenarios. 

When a company is developing a new product, it does not simply roll a polished version off the assembly line. Before a new product launches, a series of steps take place. 
The same kind of business processes and thinking can be applied to LTL freight shipping. 

When your customers are relying on you to move goods quickly, you're likely short on the time needed to scour the expansive market for the best shipping rates. However, shippers can usually depend on freight service providers for convenience and competitive freight shipping rates.