Dry van loads keep getting bumped for higher paying freight?
Stop the last-minute cancellations. Gateway Logistics dry van in Maine, ME.
Your regular carriers keep calling with bad news. That load you booked for Thursday? Someone else offered them more money, so you're scrambling to find backup coverage. Your customers in Maine are starting to ask questions about delays, and you're tired of making excuses.
This happens when you're working spot market rates with carriers who have no commitment to you. Carriers take the highest bid, especially when freight rates spike. Your loads get bumped because someone else offered $200 more per mile, and your carrier sees easy money.
Spot rates feel cheaper upfront, but bumped loads cost you more in the long run. You pay rush fees for replacement trucks, lose customer trust, and spend hours on the phone fixing problems. Emergency coverage often costs 20-30% more than your original rate.
Ask your broker about contracted rates or dedicated capacity agreements. You pay slightly more per mile, but you get guaranteed pickup and delivery windows. Gateway Logistics offers both options for Maine shippers who need reliable dry van capacity without the last-minute surprises.
With contracted capacity, your loads move on schedule. Your customers get their freight when promised. You spend less time firefighting and more time growing your business.
Other things people in Maine ask
expedited dry van shipping next day
Call a freight broker who specializes in expedited dry van service. They have carrier networks that can handle rush deliveries. Expect to pay 20-30% more for next-day service, but it's cheaper than losing the customer.
when to book dry van trucks peak season
Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak season (holiday shipping, harvest time, back-to-school). Spot rates spike when capacity gets tight. A good broker can help you balance contract rates with spot market flexibility.
dry van freight damage prevention
Poor loading and securement cause most dry van damage. Work with a broker who vets their carriers for proper loading procedures. Require photos of how freight is loaded and secured before the truck leaves.
dry van shipping cost per mile
Dry van rates change based on fuel costs, distance, and demand. Ask for a breakdown that shows base rate, fuel surcharge, and any accessorial fees. Rates typically run $1.50-$3.00 per mile depending on the lane and season.
LTL vs FTL shipping comparison
FTL makes sense when your shipment fills 75% or more of a trailer, or when speed matters more than cost. LTL works for smaller shipments but takes longer with multiple stops. Calculate cost per pound, not just total price.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Logistics handles dry van in Maine and the area around it.