This article is for general information only and does not represent every service offered by APL Cargo. Services are subject to operational authority, insurance, equipment availability, and compliance approval.
Freight transportation encompasses moving commercial goods via truck, rail, air, or ocean. A successful shipping strategy depends on selecting the right transport mode, properly preparing the shipment for transit, and understanding the factors that determine your total cost.
Basics of freight transportation FAQs Answered
What is freight transportation?
Freight transportation moves large quantities of goods using trucks, trains, ships, or planes. It supports industries by delivering raw materials and finished products. Unlike parcel shipping, it handles bulk cargo, often on pallets or in containers. Coordination among shippers, carriers, and forwarders ensures efficiency. Costs depend on mode, distance, and cargo type. Technology, like GPS, enhances tracking. This process is vital for global supply chains, ensuring goods reach markets reliably.
What is a freight carrier?
A freight carrier transports goods for shippers, using vehicles like trucks or ships. They ensure timely delivery, maintain equipment, and comply with regulations. Carriers range from small trucking firms to global shipping lines. Their reliability impacts supply chain success. Advanced carriers use technology for tracking and route optimization. Shippers choose carriers based on cost, speed, and service quality, making carriers a critical link in logistics.
What is less-than-truckload shipping?
Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping combines multiple small shipments into one truck, reducing costs. Ideal for businesses with smaller loads, LTL offers flexibility but may involve longer transit times due to multiple stops. Freight class, based on weight and density, determines rates. LTL suits retail or e-commerce companies shipping pallets. Technology ensures efficient routing, making LTL a cost-effective choice for non-urgent deliveries.
What is full-truckload shipping?
Full-truckload (FTL) shipping dedicates an entire truck to one shipment, ideal for large or time-sensitive loads. It offers faster delivery since the truck travels directly to the destination. FTL suits heavy or bulky cargo, like machinery. Rates are often flat, simplifying budgeting. Shippers benefit from reduced handling, lowering damage risks. FTL ensures speed and reliability for critical shipments.
What is a bill of lading?
A bill of lading is a legal document listing shipment details, like contents and destination. It acts as a contract, receipt, and proof of ownership for customs. Accurate bills prevent delays and ensure compliance. They include weight, quantity, and handling instructions. Digital bills reduce errors, streamlining logistics. Businesses must verify accuracy to avoid disputes, making this document essential for freight transportation.
What is freight class?
Freight class categorizes cargo based on weight, density, and handling needs, impacting LTL rates. Classes range from 50 (dense, easy-to-handle) to 400 (bulky, fragile). Accurate classification ensures fair pricing and prevents disputes. Shippers use freight calculators to determine class. Understanding freight class helps businesses budget effectively and choose suitable transport modes for their cargo.
What is a freight forwarder?
Freight forwarders coordinate shipments across carriers, handling logistics like booking and customs. They optimize routes, reduce costs, and ensure compliance for international shipping. Forwarders use technology for tracking and documentation. Businesses rely on their expertise for complex shipments, like hazmat. This service simplifies global logistics, allowing companies to focus on core operations while goods move efficiently.
What is intermodal transport?
Intermodal transport uses multiple modes, like rail and truck, for efficient shipping. It reduces emissions and costs, as rail is cheaper for long distances. Containers transfer seamlessly, enhancing security. Intermodal suits non-urgent cargo, like raw materials. Businesses benefit from flexibility and sustainability, making it a popular choice for regional or global logistics.
What is a transportation management system?
A transportation management system (TMS) is software that optimizes shipping by analyzing routes, carriers, and costs. It automates booking, tracks shipments, and provides cost insights. Businesses use TMS to reduce expenses and improve efficiency. Integration with other systems enhances coordination. This technology is vital for managing complex logistics, ensuring timely deliveries.
What is a shipment consolidator?
A shipment consolidator combines small shipments from multiple shippers into one load, lowering costs. They negotiate rates with carriers, benefiting small businesses. Consolidators handle documentation and tracking, simplifying logistics. This service is ideal for companies with limited shipping volumes, offering access to competitive rates and reliable delivery schedules.
Types of freight services FAQs Answered
What is air freight?
Air freight transports goods via cargo planes, prioritizing speed for urgent or high-value items like electronics. It’s costly but ensures fast delivery, often within days. Rates depend on dimensional weight, factoring in package size. Air freight suits global shipments requiring tight schedules. Technology ensures tracking, making it reliable for time-sensitive logistics.
What is ocean freight?
Ocean freight moves bulk cargo, like raw materials, via cargo ships. It’s economical for international shipping but slower, taking weeks. Rates depend on container size and distance. Ocean freight suits non-urgent, heavy goods. Forwarders handle customs, ensuring compliance. This mode is critical for global trade, supporting industries with cost-effective logistics solutions.
What is rail freight?
Rail freight transports heavy, non-urgent cargo over land, like coal or steel. It’s cost-effective and eco-friendly, reducing emissions compared to trucks. Rail suits long-distance, bulk shipments. Containers ensure cargo security. Businesses use rail for stable, predictable delivery schedules, making it a reliable option for regional logistics.
What is refrigerated transport?
Refrigerated transport, or reefers, maintains specific temperatures for perishables like food or medicine. Advanced cooling systems ensure quality during transit. It’s critical for industries where spoilage risks are high. Rates reflect specialized equipment costs. Technology monitors conditions, ensuring compliance with safety standards, making reefers essential for sensitive cargo.
What is flatbed transport?
Flatbed transport uses open trailers for oversized or heavy cargo, like machinery or lumber. It accommodates items that don’t fit in standard trucks. Flatbeds require special permits for oversized loads. This service ensures safe delivery of bulky goods, supporting construction and manufacturing industries with reliable logistics.
What is expedited freight?
Expedited freight prioritizes urgent shipments, using dedicated trucks or air transport. It ensures fast delivery, often within hours or days. Rates are higher due to priority service. Businesses use expedited freight for critical inventory or emergency supplies, relying on technology for real-time tracking and coordination.
What is white-glove delivery?
White-glove delivery offers premium handling for delicate or high-value items, like furniture. It includes unpacking, assembly, and debris removal. Rates reflect labor and care involved. This service suits luxury retail or specialized equipment, ensuring customer satisfaction through meticulous attention to detail during delivery.
What is hazmat transport?
Hazmat transport moves dangerous goods, like chemicals, requiring special permits and labeling. Drivers need training to handle risks. Rates are higher due to safety measures. Compliance with regulations prevents fines. This service is vital for industries like pharmaceuticals, ensuring safe delivery of sensitive materials.
What is drayage?
Drayage moves cargo short distances, often from ports to warehouses. It uses trucks to connect transport modes, like ships to rail. Drayage ensures smooth transitions in intermodal shipping. Rates depend on distance and cargo type. This service is critical for port-centric logistics, supporting global supply chains.
What is cross-docking?
Cross-docking transfers goods directly from inbound to outbound trucks, minimizing storage. It speeds up delivery, reducing costs. Retail and perishable goods benefit most. Technology coordinates timing, ensuring efficiency. Cross-docking streamlines logistics, making it ideal for high-volume, time-sensitive shipments.
Costs and pricing FAQs Answered
Key cost factors include:
- Fuel surcharges – Fuel surcharges adjust rates based on diesel prices, impacting costs. Carriers apply them to offset fluctuations. Shippers can negotiate fixed surcharges for predictability. Monitoring fuel trends helps budget effectively.
- Accessorial charges – Accessorial charges cover extra services, like liftgates. These vary by carrier. Reviewing policies avoids surprises. Clear carrier communication ensures transparent billing.
- Freight class – Freight class, based on density and handling, affects LTL rates. Higher classes cost more. Accurate classification prevents disputes. Freight calculators aid budgeting.
How are freight rates calculated?
Freight rates depend on distance, mode, weight, and cargo type. LTL rates use freight class, while FTL rates are flat. Air freight factors in dimensional weight. Fuel surcharges and accessorial fees add costs. Seasonal demand raises rates. Carriers use software for quotes. Comparing rates online helps find savings. Understanding these factors ensures accurate budgeting.
What is dimensional weight?
Dimensional weight calculates air freight rates based on package size, not just weight. It accounts for space used, raising costs for bulky items. Shippers measure dimensions to estimate rates. Optimizing packaging reduces dimensional weight, lowering expenses. This pricing method ensures fair carrier charges for space-intensive cargo.
What are accessorial charges?
Accessorial charges cover extra services, like residential delivery or detention time. They vary by carrier and service. Reviewing contracts prevents unexpected fees. Transparent carriers list charges upfront. Shippers should clarify needs to avoid surprises, ensuring cost-effective logistics planning.
How do fuel surcharges work?
Fuel surcharges adjust rates based on diesel price changes. Carriers apply them to cover fuel costs, impacting total pricing. Negotiating fixed surcharges offers predictability. Shippers can monitor fuel trends to anticipate rate changes, aiding budget planning for freight transportation.
What is a freight quote?
A freight quote estimates shipping costs based on cargo, distance, and mode. It includes rates, surcharges, and fees. Comparing quotes helps find savings. Accurate cargo details ensure reliable quotes. Online platforms simplify the process, supporting cost-effective logistics decisions.
How does seasonal demand affect rates?
Seasonal demand, like holiday peaks, increases freight rates due to high cargo volumes. Limited carrier capacity drives costs up. Booking early secures better rates. Shippers should plan for peaks to avoid delays and expenses, ensuring smooth logistics operations.
What is freight insurance?
Freight insurance protects against loss or damage. All-risk policies cover most incidents; named-perils cover specific risks. Carrier liability is limited. Third-party insurance offers broader protection. Accurate cargo values ensure proper coverage, safeguarding businesses from financial losses.
How can shippers reduce freight costs?
Shippers reduce costs by consolidating shipments, minimizing empty miles. Negotiating long-term contracts secures lower rates. Using TMS identifies efficient routes. Choosing LTL or intermodal saves money. Auditing invoices catches errors. Diversifying carriers enhances bargaining power, balancing cost and quality.
What is a rate tariff?
A rate tariff outlines a carrier’s pricing structure, detailing rates for services like LTL or FTL. It includes surcharges and accessorial fees. Shippers review tariffs to understand costs. Transparent tariffs prevent disputes, helping businesses budget effectively for freight transportation.
What is a freight audit?
A freight audit reviews invoices to identify billing errors, like overcharges. It ensures carriers adhere to quoted rates. Regular audits save costs and improve budgeting. Third-party auditors offer expertise. This process enhances transparency, ensuring fair pricing in freight transportation.
Regulations and compliance FAQs Answered
What are hours-of-service rules?
Hours-of-service rules limit driver hours to prevent fatigue. Electronic logging devices track compliance. Violations lead to fines or delays. Shippers should verify carrier adherence. These rules enhance safety, ensuring reliable freight transportation across regions.
What are hazmat regulations?
Hazmat regulations govern dangerous goods, requiring special packaging and labeling. Drivers need training. Non-compliance risks fines. Certified carriers ensure safe handling. These rules protect workers and the environment, making compliance critical for hazmat shipments.
What are customs requirements?
Customs requirements mandate accurate documentation, like invoices, for international shipments. Errors cause delays or seizures. Freight forwarders simplify compliance. Proper paperwork ensures smooth border crossings, supporting efficient global logistics.
What is the DOT?
The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates U.S. freight, setting safety and compliance standards. It oversees driver hours, vehicle maintenance, and hazmat rules. Compliance prevents penalties. Shippers rely on DOT regulations for safe, reliable logistics operations.
What are weight limits?
Weight limits restrict cargo loads to protect roads and ensure safety. Exceeding limits risks fines or delays. Permits allow oversized loads. Shippers must verify weights to comply, ensuring smooth transportation without regulatory issues.
What is an ELD?
An electronic logging device (ELD) tracks driver hours, ensuring hours-of-service compliance. It reduces paperwork and improves accuracy. Mandatory for most carriers, ELDs enhance safety. Shippers benefit from fewer delays due to regulatory violations.
What are cargo securement rules?
Cargo securement rules require proper tying or bracing to prevent shifting. Non-compliance risks accidents or fines. Carriers use straps or chains based on cargo type. These rules ensure safe delivery, protecting goods and drivers.
What is a commercial driver’s license?
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) authorizes drivers to operate heavy vehicles. It requires training and testing. CDL holders ensure safe freight transport. Shippers rely on licensed drivers for compliance and reliability.
What are international shipping regulations?
International shipping regulations include customs, safety, and trade rules. Accurate documentation prevents delays. Forwarders ensure compliance with global standards. These rules streamline cross-border logistics, supporting efficient freight transportation worldwide.
What is the FMCSA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) oversees U.S. trucking safety. It enforces driver and vehicle regulations. Compliance reduces accidents. Shippers work with FMCSA-compliant carriers for reliable, safe freight transportation.
Technology in freight FAQs Answered
Key technologies include:
- GPS tracking – GPS tracks shipments in real time, improving visibility. It helps avoid delays and informs customers. Carriers save fuel by avoiding traffic. This tool ensures accountability.
- Blockchain – Blockchain secures documents, reducing fraud. It streamlines customs with instant verification. This technology cuts paperwork costs, building trust in global trade.
- IoT sensors – IoT sensors monitor cargo conditions, like temperature. They prevent spoilage, ensuring quality. Real-time alerts reduce losses. This technology is critical for perishables.
What is GPS tracking?
GPS tracking provides real-time shipment locations, enhancing visibility. Shippers inform customers of delays, building trust. Carriers optimize routes, saving fuel. This technology ensures accountability and efficiency, making it essential for modern freight logistics.
What is blockchain in freight?
Blockchain secures shipping documents, like bills of lading, reducing fraud. It verifies data instantly, streamlining customs. This technology cuts costs and builds trust in global trade. Its adoption grows for reliable, transparent logistics.
What are IoT sensors?
IoT sensors monitor cargo conditions, like temperature or humidity. They prevent spoilage by sending real-time alerts. This technology ensures quality for perishables, reducing losses. It’s critical for industries requiring precise transport conditions.
What is AI in freight?
Artificial intelligence predicts demand, optimizing resource allocation. It analyzes data to improve routes and pricing. AI enhances decision-making, cutting costs. Businesses adopting AI gain efficiency, meeting customer expectations for fast, reliable shipping.
What is a fleet operations system?
A fleet operations system (WMS) streamlines inventory, speeding up loading. It tracks stock and optimizes space. WMS reduces errors, improving efficiency. This technology supports fast, accurate freight handling in logistics operations.
What is telematics?
Telematics monitors vehicle performance, like fuel use and maintenance needs. It reduces downtime and improves safety. Carriers use telematics to optimize fleets. This technology enhances reliability, supporting efficient freight transportation.
What is route optimization?
Route optimization software plans efficient paths, reducing fuel and time. It considers traffic and weather. This technology cuts costs and ensures timely deliveries, making it vital for carriers and shippers.
What is a freight marketplace?
A freight marketplace is an online platform connecting shippers with carriers. It offers real-time quotes and tracking. Businesses compare rates, saving costs. These platforms streamline booking, enhancing efficiency in freight transportation.
What is predictive analytics?
Predictive analytics uses data to forecast demand and optimize logistics. It helps carriers plan capacity and routes. Shippers benefit from accurate delivery estimates. This technology reduces costs and improves reliability in freight transportation.
What is electronic proof of delivery?
Electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) confirms shipment receipt via digital signatures. It reduces paperwork and disputes. Carriers provide real-time updates, enhancing transparency. ePOD streamlines logistics, ensuring accountability in freight transportation.
Sustainability in freight FAQs Answered
What are electric trucks?
Electric trucks reduce emissions for local deliveries. Charging networks support adoption. They lower fuel costs but require investment. Businesses gain green branding and incentives, making electric trucks a sustainable freight option.
What is biodiesel?
Biodiesel, made from renewable sources, reduces emissions in trucks. It’s compatible with existing engines. Carriers adopting biodiesel cut carbon footprints. This fuel supports sustainability, appealing to eco-conscious businesses in freight transportation.
What are carbon offsets?
Carbon offsets fund green projects to balance emissions. Shippers offset shipments, appealing to eco-conscious clients. This practice enhances sustainability without disrupting operations, supporting corporate responsibility in freight logistics.
What is SmartWay?
SmartWay is a certification for eco-friendly carriers. It promotes fuel-efficient practices and technologies. Shippers choose SmartWay partners for sustainability. This program reduces emissions, aligning with green goals in freight transportation.
What is aerodynamic equipment?
Aerodynamic equipment, like trailer skirts, reduces drag, saving fuel. Carriers adopt it to cut emissions. This technology lowers costs and supports sustainability, making it popular for eco-conscious freight transport.
What are low-rolling-resistance tires?
Low-rolling-resistance tires reduce fuel use by minimizing friction. Carriers use them to cut emissions. These tires support sustainability and lower costs, making them a practical choice for freight transportation.
What is green logistics?
Green logistics optimizes shipping to reduce environmental impact. It includes efficient routes and alternative fuels. Businesses adopting green logistics cut emissions, appealing to eco-conscious customers while maintaining efficient freight operations.
What is sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging uses recyclable or biodegradable materials. It reduces waste and emissions. Shippers adopting it lower environmental impact. This practice supports green freight transportation, aligning with consumer demand for sustainability.
What is rail’s role in sustainability?
Rail freight reduces emissions compared to trucks, using less fuel. It suits bulk, non-urgent cargo. Expanding rail use supports sustainability. Businesses benefit from cost savings and eco-friendly logistics.
What is empty mile reduction?
Empty mile reduction optimizes routes to avoid empty trucks. It cuts fuel use and emissions. Technology like TMS helps plan loads. This practice enhances sustainability and lowers costs in freight transportation.
Choosing a provider FAQs Answered
Key provider criteria include:
- Reliability – Reliable providers ensure on-time delivery. Reviews and metrics assess dependability. Communication during delays builds trust. Proven carriers stabilize supply chains.
- Technology – Tech-savvy providers use TMS and GPS for visibility. These tools streamline operations. Advanced carriers adapt to demands, enhancing efficiency.
- Flexibility – Flexible providers offer LTL or intermodal, meeting needs. They adapt to urgent shipments, ensuring scalability. Versatility supports peak seasons.
What is provider reliability?
Provider reliability ensures on-time deliveries, minimizing disruptions. Reviews and delivery metrics gauge performance. Strong communication during delays builds trust. Reliable carriers stabilize supply chains, supporting business success.
What is service flexibility?
Service flexibility offers diverse options, like LTL or hazmat transport. Providers adapt to urgent or specialized needs. This versatility ensures scalability, supporting businesses during peak seasons or unique shipments.
What is technology capability?
Technology capability includes TMS and GPS for visibility. These tools streamline operations and improve decisions. Tech-savvy carriers adapt to demands, ensuring efficient, reliable freight transportation for shippers.
What is geographic coverage?
Geographic coverage determines a provider’s reach, critical for international shipping. Broad networks ensure seamless deliveries. Shippers verify coverage to avoid gaps, supporting efficient global or regional logistics.
What is a carrier contract?
A carrier contract outlines service levels, rates, and liability. It ensures transparency and dispute resolution. Clear contracts prevent surprises, supporting long-term partnerships for reliable freight transportation.
What is customer support?
Customer support resolves issues like delays or billing errors. Responsive providers offer 24/7 assistance. Strong support builds trust, ensuring smooth logistics and customer satisfaction in freight transportation.
What is specialized transport?
Specialized transport handles unique cargo, like hazmat or oversized loads. Providers with expertise ensure compliance and safety. This service supports industries with complex shipping needs, enhancing logistics reliability.
What is carrier reputation?
Carrier reputation reflects reliability and service quality, based on reviews and performance. Reputable carriers deliver consistently, minimizing risks. Shippers research reputation to ensure dependable freight transportation partnerships.
What is scalability in freight?
Scalability allows providers to handle varying shipment volumes, like peak seasons. Flexible services, like LTL or expedited, support growth. Scalable carriers adapt to business needs, ensuring efficient freight transportation.
What is a third-party logistics provider?
A third-party logistics (3PL) provider manages shipping, from booking to tracking. They optimize costs and routes, offering expertise. Businesses use 3PLs to streamline freight transportation, focusing on core operations.
Challenges in freight FAQs Answered
What is port congestion?
Port congestion delays shipments due to high cargo volumes. Real-time data helps reroute cargo. Forwarders speed up customs, reducing wait times. Proactive planning mitigates disruptions in freight transportation.
What is cargo theft?
Cargo theft targets high-value goods, like electronics. GPS and secure facilities deter thieves. Verifying carrier protocols reduces risks. Insurance covers losses, ensuring protection during freight transportation.
What is a driver shortage?
Driver shortages limit trucking capacity, raising rates. Carriers offering better conditions attract talent. Booking early secures capacity, avoiding delays in freight transportation logistics.
What is weather disruption?
Weather disruptions, like storms, delay shipments. Real-time tracking helps reroute cargo. Carriers with contingency plans minimize impact. Shippers plan for weather to ensure reliable freight transportation.
What is capacity constraint?
Capacity constraints occur during peak seasons, limiting trucks. Diversifying carriers ensures availability. Early booking secures space. This strategy maintains efficiency in freight transportation.
What is regulatory complexity?
Regulatory complexity involves navigating safety and customs rules. Forwarders simplify compliance. Staying updated prevents fines. Expertise ensures smooth freight transportation across borders.
What is fuel price volatility?
Fuel price volatility raises shipping costs. Fixed surcharges offer predictability. Monitoring trends aids budgeting. Flexible contracts mitigate impacts, ensuring cost-effective freight transportation.
What is shipment damage?
Shipment damage occurs during handling or transit. Proper packaging reduces risks. Insurance covers losses. Carriers with securement expertise minimize damage, ensuring reliable freight transportation.
What is delivery delay?
Delivery delays stem from traffic or congestion. Tracking provides updates. Contingency plans, like alternate routes, reduce impact. Proactive carriers ensure timely freight transportation.
What is documentation error?
Documentation errors, like incorrect bills, cause delays. Digital tools reduce mistakes. Forwarders ensure accuracy. Proper paperwork streamlines freight transportation, avoiding costly disputes.
Additional FAQs from PAA
What is the difference between freight and cargo?
Freight refers to goods transported commercially, often in bulk, via trucks, ships, or planes. Cargo is a broader term, including goods carried by any vehicle, like personal items in a car. Freight involves complex logistics and regulations, while cargo may not. Freight is typically for business, ensuring supply chains function. Understanding this distinction helps businesses choose appropriate transport modes.
How does freight forwarding save time?
Freight forwarders streamline logistics by coordinating carriers, handling customs, and optimizing routes. They reduce paperwork errors and ensure compliance, avoiding delays. Their expertise speeds up international shipping, managing complex regulations. Businesses save time by outsourcing logistics, focusing on core operations. Technology enhances efficiency, providing real-time updates. This service accelerates freight transportation, ensuring timely deliveries.
What are the benefits of LTL shipping?
LTL shipping saves costs by combining small shipments, ideal for businesses with limited cargo. It offers flexibility, accommodating various load sizes. Technology optimizes routes, ensuring reliability. LTL reduces environmental impact by maximizing truck space. Shippers benefit from competitive rates without sacrificing service quality, making it a practical choice for efficient freight transportation.
How do I track a freight shipment?
Freight shipments are tracked using GPS-enabled systems provided by carriers. Shippers receive tracking numbers to monitor progress online. Real-time updates show location and estimated delivery. Technology ensures transparency, allowing quick responses to delays. Some platforms integrate with TMS for seamless tracking. This process enhances reliability in freight transportation, keeping businesses informed.
What documents are needed for freight?
Freight requires a bill of lading, commercial invoice, and packing list. International shipments need certificates of origin and customs forms. Accurate documents ensure compliance, preventing delays. Digital tools streamline preparation, reducing errors. Forwarders assist with paperwork, ensuring smooth logistics. Proper documentation is critical for efficient freight transportation across borders.
How does freight insurance work?
Freight insurance compensates for loss or damage during transit. Policies vary, with all-risk covering most incidents and named-perils covering specific risks. Shippers declare cargo value for coverage. Claims require proof of damage. Insurance adds cost but protects financially. Choosing reliable carriers reduces risks, ensuring secure freight transportation.
What is the role of a freight broker?
Freight brokers connect shippers with carriers, negotiating rates and coordinating logistics. They ensure compliance and handle documentation. Brokers use technology to match loads with carriers, optimizing efficiency. Their expertise saves time and costs. Businesses rely on brokers for reliable, streamlined freight transportation, especially for complex shipments.
How do I choose a freight carrier?
Choose a freight carrier based on reliability, cost, and service range. Check reviews and delivery metrics. Ensure technology like GPS tracking is available. Verify compliance with regulations. Compare quotes for value. Carriers with flexible services, like LTL or hazmat, meet diverse needs, ensuring efficient freight transportation.
