Transit times can be a confusing subject for many shippers.
In today’s demanding freight shipping world, things need to happen fast and there is constant pressure on carriers to get the job done promptly. Cassidy’s knows this and does what it takes make sure the shipper gets what they need.
Safety and Security Come First
Cassidy’s has a responsibility to perform the job safely and in total compliance with all laws and regulations, particularly the new Hours of Service Regulations. Shippers also have a responsibility not to pressure their carriers to do something that places the carriers’ employees and the general public in danger. No load is worth exposing you and your company to legal liability.
Estimating Transit Time
If you are unsure how long your truck load will take to get from “A” to “B”, here is a simple way to do that calculation.
First go to www.mapquest.com or Google Maps and enter the origin and destination of your shipment. This will give you a mileage number.
Trucks average 50 miles per hour. Under the regulations a driver can drive 550 miles per day. Divide 550 miles into that mileage calculation and add one-half day for the pick-up, one half-day for the delivery and one-half day for a border crossing (if applicable).
For example, if you have a shipment going from Ottawa, ON to Los Angeles, CA:
- The distance is 2,800 miles.
- 550 miles divided by 2,800 miles is 5 days.
- Add one half day each for the pick-up, delivery and border crossing.
- Gives a total of 6.5 days transit time.
OPTIONS
Faster transit times can be achieved by team drivers but the cost is more. Less than Load (LTL) shipments take longer because the driver has more pick-ups and deliveries but the cost is less than truck load because you are sharing the truck with other shippers.
Protect Yourself From Unscrupulous Providers
Beware of carriers who promise faster transit times than is reasonable. They are either not telling you the truth or they are breaking the law. The consequences to you can be severe. If a court believes you displayed an indifference to safety, the damages are potentially enormous.
Please read this for more information. Protect yourself.
