All businesses must ensure that their goods reach customers in perfect condition. Planning on the most efficient method to transport your goods is essential for your business. Efficiency in transport is achieved when work is done in the least possible time to maximise profits. A contingency plan should always be available when unexpected events happen.
Cost of transportation
The cost of transportation is an important factor to consider while planning because it adds to the cost of goods. The mode of transport chosen should be feasible, especially when moving goods across international borders. There are established European hauliers in the UK that businesses may contract for both their local and continental transport requirements. Air transport remains to be the most expensive mode of transport. But it is the best when dealing with perishable goods due to fast deliveries. Air transport is also used when transporting light and valuable goods.
When transporting relatively small goods over short distances, the most economical mode of transport to use is the road. Rail transport is also economical when transporting bulky goods over long distances. It is the quickest after air transport for long-distance transportation. The cost of transportation varies with the type and amount of goods needed to be transported. It is also dependent on the packaging required to protect the goods during transit and should be within the company’s budget.
Time factor
Products should reach the customers within the shortest time possible. Determining the best delivery route is key. The business should opt for the shortest yet safest route to save on time. A lot of time is wasted during the manual loading and offloading of goods. The use of machines such as cargo cranes, belt conveyors, and elevators makes work easier and saves time. Also, the integration of inventory systems increases the efficiency of handling goods. Air transport is the quickest mode of transport, and it is used when urgent deliveries need to be made. But water transport is the slowest, and it is used when time is not an important factor. Making timely deliveries is important for customer satisfaction.
Nature of the products
The nature of a product is an important consideration when making transportation plans. Perishables should be transported using the fastest means of transportation because they require very little time in transit. The fastest method being air transport should be used. Some goods may require to be transported in extremely cool conditions; therefore, transportation devices that are fitted with refrigerators are used. Fragile, light, and high-value goods are best suited for air and land transport. However, heavy and bulky goods are best transported via rail and water transport. Sea transport is the riskiest because goods are exposed to the dangers of the sea. When choosing the mode of transport to use, it is important that the safest is chosen and one that favours the nature of your products to avoid losses.
Every business entity’s goal is to make maximum profits. Therefore, every decision made during planning should be cost-effective and translate to profits either directly or indirectly. Efficient transport systems ensure that the products’ quality and quantity are not tampered with during transportation and that the products reach the customers on time. This is an effective method of retaining customers.
