Transloading and Cross Docking, both methods are used by Freight Forwarders or Importers/Exporters directly to reduce costs in the supply chain, but sometimes these methods can be confused because of their similarities; even though both methods accomplish the goal of forwarding freight, they are useful for specific scenarios and that’s what we want to talk about in this opportunity.
Keep on reading and find out what is Transloading and Cross Docking and which one is better for your business.
What is Transloading?
As we mention on a previous blog, Transloading is the operation to transfer freight from one mode of transportation to another that allows the merchandise to reach its final destination faster and in a cost effective way.
The transloading process starts when cargo arrives at a port, then is unloaded, sorted, palletized and finally loaded to another transport that delivers it to its final destination. During transloading, the goods can be stored in a warehouse until they need to be shipped. The total transloading operation takes between 48 to 72 hours.
Usually, Transloading services are used on international shipment, because the requirement of multiple transportation vehicles to accomplish the shipment from origin to the final destination, but this does not mean that inland shipment cannot use Transloading.
What is Cross Docking?
Cross Docking is similar to Transloading in the way of transferring the freight from one vehicle to another, the main difference is that in Cross Docking the goods are instantly handled and transferred from the inbound vehicle to the outbound vehicle, reducing, and almost eliminating, the time of storage of the goods. To achieve this, it is necessary rigorous planning and the usage of Advanced logistics management software to avoid delays or damages to the goods.
The freight usually arrives at a central docking station, where it is unloaded, then sorted and finally loaded in another truck to be dispatched to its final destination. Sometimes, the goods are stored when it is necessary to wait for another vehicle, or you are going to do consolidation or deconsolidation. The total Cross Docking operation takes less than 24.
Cross Docking is especially used for importers/exporters that work with raw material, finishing products, perishable goods or any item that needs fast delivery. Also this method is good to deliver the products to retailers, manufacturers or even the final customer.
With all of this, Which one is better?
Both methods aim to reduce cost for your entire supply chain, so the decision needs to be based on which one covers your needs the most.
As we mentioned before, Cross docking is useful if your merchandise needs faster forwarding in order to preserve its good state. Also, it can be good to transport multiple freights from different origins to one single final destination or vice versa.
Transloading is useful to international shipment, also, with the usage of different methods of transportation you can reach to more destinations and expand your business. Also, reduce the cost of transportation especially when you use full truckload. If you want to know more benefits of Transloading you can check our previous blog here.
Everything to reduce cost and maximize your chain supply process is beneficial for your business, and if you want an ally to help you with transloading or Cross Docking you can count on us.
In Cargo Care Services we have more than 12 years helping our clients to successfully ship their merchandise, We have experience in Cross Docking and transloading to help you with your logistics needs and advise you on the best option for you and your business.