There are several factors to consider when selecting a chemical transporter for your goods. From employing the necessary equipment during transport to ensuring that drivers have the required training to leveraging new technology to expedite order fulfillment, the logistics of bulk chemical transportation are complicated, and carrier selection should entail a comprehensive screening procedure. However, the industry is growing rapidly and many companies choose professional chemical transport services for their shipping processes.
To guarantee that your bulk chemical transportation is conducted safely, effectively, and in accordance with all state and federal standards, we have compiled a list of the most important elements to consider when selecting a carrier.
Choose a seasoned service provider
There are various classes of chemicals, and each of these classes has its own handling, transportation, and storage specifications. Shippers should never presume that a prospective 3PL is capable of handling all chemical classes. From explosions and environmental damage to employee injury, third-party logistics providers that handle chemicals must have competence with all sorts of chemicals, not just safe or uncontrolled classes.
Obtain a transporter with modern equipment
Your carrier’s equipment is a significant determinant of timely, efficient service. In addition to finding a carrier with a big fleet and the appropriate hoses, containers, fittings, and adapters for the work, it is essential to assess the quality of the equipment.
What is the average age of tractor-trailers? How many new trucks have your transport company added in the last five years? How many new trucks do they want to acquire during the next five years? These questions will help you assess if your provider is committed to delivering the greatest quality service to their consumers. The new equipment will also assist protect product integrity, reducing the likelihood that contamination concerns may arise during loading, shipping, and unloading.
Examine their safety documentation
As a company owner, you prioritize safety. Especially when hazardous substances are involved, you want to guarantee that everyone in your supply chain is as safe as possible. Find a 3pl service provider that takes safety as seriously as you do. In the realm of chemical shipping, regulations are continuously changing, therefore it’s crucial that your logistics supplier keeps current on the procedure.
Request your 3pl service provider’s safety qualifications and certifications. What kind of safety precautions do they use at their facilities? Are their drivers educated and qualified in hazardous materials? What is the established procedure for emergency situations? Don’t be afraid to dig deep here. A reputable 3pl supplier will gladly answer all of your queries and reassure you that they are up to the job.
Ensure that they are centrally positioned
When chemicals are involved, it is particularly true that time is money. Current restrictions governing the transportation of chemicals limit the number of hours that drivers are permitted to work, thus every second on the road counts.
Having a 3pl in a central location may make all the difference in optimizing the supply chain for your organization. Choose a chemical transport firm with a central hub situated near major highways and thoroughfares, so that your company’s chemicals may reach their destination as quickly as feasible.
Conclusion
When enlisting the assistance of a third-party logistics (3pl) supplier, it is vital that you choose one that understands how to handle hazardous substances appropriately. They should have a history of satisfying consumers and ensuring the safety of their personnel. Before deciding which company to entrust with your company’s chemical transportation requirements, you will need to evaluate a number of distinct variables.
