5 Things You Need To Know Before Getting In Bed With A Furniture Carrier

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Unlike general commodity shipments, furniture requires specialized carriers that not only have trucks equipped to handle your loads but also staff trained to safely move them. Since furniture requires specific equipment, care when packing and handling, and some rather unique routing, it is imperative that you understand your costs before selecting a new furniture carrier. After all, you want a carrier who is dependable, consistent, reliable, and will deliver your products intact for a great price.

Here are 5 things you should know before getting in bed with a furniture carrier

1 - A Leg To Stand On – Whether it's your first loveseat or your thousandth dresser it is important to find carriers who specialize in moving furniture. You may already have a great relationship with a common carrier and a preferred trucker who does an outstanding job with your general cargo. But, if you haven't worked with a specialized furniture carrier it's time to start. You want a company properly trained in safely moving all types of furniture. A well trained carrier will ensure that your freight is loaded and unloaded in the best condition possible.

2 - Proper Cushioning – Equipment is king. A proper carrier will have all of the straps, pads, wraps, and plastic needed to move and protect your freight. It is imperative that you make clear to your carrier partners what they'll be moving and what the requirements are. If you are unsure of anything, an experienced company will be able to properly advise you on all the additional requirements that may be necessary. This is important as all special handling requirements may mean additional line items on your freight invoice which could drastically change your freight cost. 

3 - From Carolinas to Customers – Much of the furniture in the US moves out of the lower Mid-Atlantic area, so planning how you get your goods to your warehouses and distribution centers needs to be taken into careful consideration. The strategy used in moving your freight should align with how your carrier partners operate. Since most moves are based on volume density this is a key area of optimization for your supply chain. Look for opportunities to build consolidations (where carriers pick up locally in the Mid-Atlantic to build larger loads to send throughout the U.S.)

4 - In One Piece – Insurance. Insurance. Insurance. With furniture your exposure to risk is wide open. Not only can product be damaged at any point during transit but the furniture itself can damage walls, doorways, elevators, etc. during a move. It is important to elect proper coverage for your freight so you can become whole again were any damage to be incurred or caused. In addition, some locales require specific coverage and COIs (certificate of insurance) before delivery can be made. You wouldn't want something like that delaying your moves and increasing your costs.

5 - Now Lie In It – After taking into account all of the factors above it's now time to negotiate your billing and rates. If you are a furniture retailer, you may have merchandise suppliers adding freight charges to their invoice. This means that the shipper pays the freight company then bills the customer the actual freight charge. However, just because it is common doesn't always mean it is the most cost effective way to run your supply chain.

Analyzing the broken out freight cost against market prices in those lanes is one effective strategy for lowering cost. Converting to collect freight terms with your supplier partners and negotiating directly with carriers can both reduce supply chain cost and truck congestion at your dock doors. When planning your supply chain and negotiating with carriers, consider any additional needs like direct-to-customer or interplant transfers. This is where you can get the most control over your freight cost. After all, you wouldn't want to leave money on the table...or the bed.

 Already moving furniture or thinking about doing so? Reach out to Aborn & Co. today for a free consultation.

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