Solid transportation solutions are among the main elements of almost all successful businesses that either make or distribute goods of one sort or the other. Even import/export companies are heavily reliant on transportation solutions to help them deliver their goods in a timely manner. Along with the proper logistics and reliable shipping quotes, finding a good commercial transportation provider is crucial to the smooth functioning of your business. In fact, without a good transportation provider you might find yourself trying to put out more fires due to late shipments, damaged goods or even lost shipments than you spend running your business.

There are a number of transportation solutions that provide excellent options for companies. In fact, depending on the kind of shipping needs you have, the quantity of goods you will be transporting, the frequency with which you will be sending shipments, the approximate weight of each shipment and the distance that you have to send it, will determine the best commercial transportation solution for your needs.

Trucks and Trains

If your business is land-based and you need to service clients that are easily accessed by land routes, then your most cost effective transportation solutions would be to either ship your goods by truck or train. Depending on where you want your shipment to go you will find that trucks are a cost effective solution, but might take longer than you would like. However, trains, while slightly more costly than trucks are nevertheless quick and still far more affordable than other options. Bear in mind, that neither trucks nor trains will be able to overnight goods for you unless you are shipping them over to a neighbouring city – and even then you might want to schedule at least a 48-hour turn-around.

Air

Transportation by air is by far the quickest solution that you can find for your business needs. As most air transportation is charged by weight, it is generally used for documents, small packages, fragile items and valuable items. Air freight can frequently send shipments from one place to the next overnight or within the week for longer distances. Air freight is, however, very costly compared to land-based forms of shipping.

Sea

Sea freight is another commonly used form of commercial transportation. It carries the largest percentage of the world’s shipping goods every day as it is both timely and cost effective. However, sea freight will never be able to get any package or shipment to its ultimate destination quickly. On average it takes anywhere between two-to-six weeks for shipments sent by sea to reach their destination.

Bicycle

Bike transportation is a fixture in urban landscapes. It is not uncommon to see fleets of bike couriers roaming the city delivering letters, documents and small packages to individuals and businesses. It is a convenient and highly efficient way of conducting business.

As you can see finding transportation solutions is easier than it might seem at the outset. If you have to find a transportation and logistics provider for your business, it is best to either get referrals from friends and colleagues or to do an online search for companies in your area – and always remember to get shipping quotes from all of the companies on your short list before selecting a transportation provider.