Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Online Cargo Shipping Technology Streamlines Process For Shippers

Over the past several years, the cargo shipping industry has undergone significant changes. With the advent of the internet, the best shipping companies are leveraging this powerful technology to improve their level of service and to make shipping easier for their customers.

So, just what technological improvements have been made in the cargo shipping industry?

• Free instant quotes online - In the past, shippers didn't know how much it'd cost to deliver their packages until they took it in to their local cargo shipping provider. Thanks to the internet, anyone can now get a free instant quote online. The best shipping companies have simple forms you can fill out to get an estimate for your shipment. Common fields you must complete to get a quote include ship to and ship from details, shipping service desired (air, ocean, truck, etc.), and general information about the package being shipped. Instant online quotes are great for budgeting funds for shipping your goods.

• 24/7 real-time shipment tracking - For shippers who need to know where their goods are at all times and when they'll reach their destination, new 24/7 real-time online shipment tracking is crucial. At the time shipping services are purchased, customers are given a unique tracking number. The customers can then visit the cargo shipping company's website, enter the tracking number, and see exactly where their shipment is at the moment. This gives the shipper peace of mind, and it's helpful in coordinating delivery or customs clearance of the shipment.

• Online customer service - Many cargo shipping companies have supplemented their traditional phone and in-person customer service with online customer service. Internet customer service mediums may also include live online chat and email. Online customer service is advantageous as customers don't have to wait on hold, saving time and hassle.

• Insurance claims - No shipper wants to file a claim on their shipment. Doing so means their shipment has been damaged, and dealing with insurance companies can be difficult.. Thankfully, filing a claim has been made easier than ever before with the internet. The best cargo shipping companies provide step-by-step instructions on their website for filing claims. Some shipping companies also let you send notification of your intent to file a claim via email and submit documents which do not require a signature. If you do choose to notify the shipping company of your intention to file a claim via email, make sure to request an acknowledgment of receipt so it's documented that your email has reached the right department.

• Service overviews - From air cargo shipping to ocean shipping and express air to inland trucking, the number of shipping services are numerous. It's important that shippers understand all of their options so they can save money and get their goods to their destination on time. The best shipping companies fully detail their service options on their website, empowering shippers to make the best choice for their needs.

The internet has changed cargo shipping for the better. Before you head down to your local shipping retailer, hit the web to save time and money.

Amerijet International, Inc. offer Ocean Freight and Ocean Cargo Shipping.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_Richard

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Key Questions to Ask a Car Shipping Company

One of the biggest questions that people have when relocating to an area that is far away is how they are going to get their car to the new location. There are many shipping companies that specialize in transporting vehicles. Before enlisting the services of a car shipping company, you need to be aware of what is involved in shipping your car. The following is a list of questions you should ask a car shipping company:

How will my vehicle be shipped?
Generally your vehicle will be transported either by train, plane, truck, or boat. It all depends on where you are planning to move.

How much is it going to cost to ship my vehicle?
Considerations should include: distance and mileage, carrier type (Open or Closed), insurance, driver salary, and taxes, vehicle condition and value, and special services such as vehicle pick up or drop off. You may be charged additional fees if you have a collector's car or custom car with added value or special needs.

How long will it take to ship my car?
Shipment time can depend on a number of factors such as distance, size of the carrier, and the method of shipment and route. The time it takes can also affect the price.

What kind of trucks do you use to ship?
Open Carriers have trailers where the vehicles are visible and open to weather and other conditions. With enclosed carriers, trucks will look more like a normal truck trailer or have a trailer that is covered.

Is there a specific location that a transporter must pick up your vehicle?
Most auto transporters provide a door-to-door service. Door-to-door service usually depends on how easily your "door" is to access.

Do I have to be at home when they pick up my vehicle?
There usually has to be someone there to sign for the vehicle. You can sign for it or you could have a family member sign.

What do you mean by bill of lading?
The bill of lading is the document that records the condition of your vehicle. It is usually a form with an illustration of a car where you can note scratches, dents, marks, and other damage

How is their insurance policy prepared?
Try to obtain a copy of the car shipping company's insurance policy. Check if they offer liability coverage as primary coverage or secondary to your own insurance. Call your own insurance company to find out the level of coverage they provide during transportation.

Can I place personal items in my car?
There are insurance issues involved with this question. Many companies do not allow personal items to be stored in the vehicle.

Are there any size and weight restrictions?
The auto transport company you choose should be able to help you if you have any questions about the size or height of your vehicle. There could possibly be a few restrictions.

How do I get a car shipping quote?
You can often fill out our car shipping quote form online or call with your car shipping information.

What about rates and discounts?
When considering booking a car shipping company, ask them if they have any special discounts. Discounts can include: multiple car discounts, shipping more then one car at a time, and terminal-to-terminal shipping. Some companies will even offer military discounts.

More people are discovering the convenience of using a shipping company to transport their car. It was once a transportation method used by businesses, but now individuals are realizing it is an effective method of relocating their vehicle when they move.

Canada's largest courier delivery services company provides same day shipping, air freight, international shipping, container shipping and offers a range of choices to help meet all your shipping needs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Nutt