I have devoted this entire blog post to this important section. 80% of the calls received by businesses are ‘Frequently Asked Questions.’ It’s no wonder that Corporate America has gradually moved from ‘Live Operators’ to an automated voicemail system. In the shipping industry, Reps are spending their valuable time generating quotes for potential customers, being proactive, and generating the required paperwork for your shipments.
My job entails selling those quotes, turning some of them into ‘bookings,’ and making sure those bookings are aligned with good customer service.
I’d like to start this FAQ process by providing two (2) summarized answers to two (2) frequently asked questions. I look forward to answering more questions written in the appropriate section by prospects and potential customers. Feel free to ask any shipping related questions even those that aren’t listed in this post. It takes a member of our team 24 – 48 hours to answer:
1st Question
Why do so many established shipping companies give quotes to customers instead of using set rates?
Major shipping companies have been giving quotes to potential customers that are good for at least 3 months rather than using a flat rate. The international shipping business is very dynamic. We still have flat rates in some major US cities for shipping barrels. However, for the most part, rates fluctuate at reasonable intervals because we’re using a shipping software that generates quotes based on dimensions and the approximate weight given to a Rep. It is also practical for many shippers to use the services of a Freight Forwarder from an NVOCC warehouse. Freight Forwarders together with some Brokers will always work hard to find the best deals for our shipping company. This approach will result into discounts and SALE, CentEx Cargo can pass on to customers.
2nd Question
How does CentEx Cargo & Transport charge locally to pickup customers’ freight?
CentEx Cargo & Transport charges $2 per mile for the first 50 miles. Tabulation of the distance traveled or mileage starts at the point where one particular driver and his vehicle are stationed or at the warehouse where he/she is responsible to deliver your cargo. After the first 50 miles, we charge $1.75 for each additional mile. However, do keep in mind that the CentEx Cargo drivers are limited to the type of technology they can bring to a private residence or storage unit. In order for us to give a customer an accurate quote for pickup and delivery, we need to have the exact number of pieces in your shipment, the approximate weight of each piece. Every shipment has to be on a ground floor. Most drivers are independent contractors that work alone. They only carry a hand truck or a dolly. If you have more than 2 barrels, your shipment needs to go on a pallet. Ordering a commercial vehicle – i.e., box truck – with an electronic liftgate will cost you more. Commercial pickups require a loading dock and the customer sharing with us beforehand the type technology that’s available. The pickup of your shipment can be done smoothly and in a timely deadline as long as you provide us with accurate information.
CentEx Cargo/STG Logistics 