When you order something online, you just can’t wait until it arrives. The waiting can be brutal, but once it’s in your hands, you’re overjoyed. When it comes to shipping freight, those same feelings can come out. But what if your delivery is delayed?
A delayed delivery could be detrimental to your business. If the product is needed to complete a project, that means money and time have been wasted. Sometimes you can’t avoid a delay, while other times you can. But what are some shipping delay causes, and how can you work around them?
Top 5 Shipping Delay Causes
1. Weather
Weather is unpredictable. One moment the sky can be clear and the next, a storm has rushed in. One of the biggest causes of delayed shipments is the weather. Whether it’s rain, snow, wind, or hail, weather will cause transportation to halt. Dangerous road conditions and limited visibility generally occur during extreme weather, causing drivers to stop their journey.
Unfortunately, the weather cannot be controlled. It’s important that you check the forecast for the days leading up to delivery, just in case severe weather comes through. Then, you’ll be able to prepare for the shipments delay rather than scrambling something together at the last minute. If your shipment is coming from another section of the country, it’s best to know the weather that’s occurring on the route as well.
2. Incorrect Documentation or Missing Paperwork
Another major cause of shipping delays is incorrect or missing paperwork and documentation. Documentation and paperwork are important in the freight industry, and if information is missing, it could cause a major delay. These items are very important when shipping internationally, but they’re also important when shipping nationally.
The first major piece of paperwork all shipments need to have in the United States is the Bill of Lading (BOL). The BOL is used by all parties involved for proper billing, important information for the driver and carrier, and a show of ownership. Without it, the shipment may not be delivered by the driver because they can’t prove who the recipient is. Make sure to have your BOL on you to prevent delays.
3. Carrier Capacity Issues
Throughout the year, there are certain peak seasons where the increase in demand spikes. During these times, trucks aren’t able to meet the amount of demand. This can lead to shipments being delayed at their pick-up point. As carrier capacity tightens, shipments may be subject to massive delays, causing problems throughout the supply chain.
It’s best to anticipate what products you need before the peak seasons begin. Setting up shipments in advance prevents delays due to increases in demand and secures your spot. Of course, you can’t predict everything, but there are busier times of the year than others. Make a plan and set it into motion early.
4. Failed Delivery Attempts
Failed delivery attempts encompass a portion of delayed shipments. The inability to deliver to the location is a major factor. Some locations are classified as limited access, which makes delivering tricky. If the correct information, such as the delivery location being within a gated area, isn’t included on the BOL, it will cause a delay.
It’s also important to note if accessorials are needed. A liftgate should be utilized if the drop-off location doesn’t have a loading dock, but some trucks aren’t always equipped with them. If it isn’t noted, the shipment won’t be able to be delivered.
5. Not Partnering with a 3PL
Third-party logistics companies (3PL) help with shipments, and not partnering with one will lead to delays. 3PLs, such as FreightCenter, navigate the world of freight alongside you. You’ll have all the information at your disposal, rather than having to go through it alone. Our expert agents will equip you with the correct paperwork to minimize any delays. Don’t stress over a delayed shipment; our customer service team is here to help with any troubles you might be experiencing. Get a free online quote today or call one of our agents at (800) 716-7608.
