DELIVERY SERVICE TO THE GARMENT INDUSTRY

WHEN YOU'VE GOT GOODS TO BE DELIVERED SAFELY AND ON TIME, YOU CAN'T AFFORD TO MAKE THE WRONG MOVE!

The Bill of Lading is one of the most critical steps in the shipping and delivery of merchandise. Unfortunately, in many cases, this document is often not properly executed. Accuracy in preparing the bill of lading is vital in order to be assured that your company receives the proper routings and correct delivery charges. In order to avoid unnecessary errors, however, there are steps you can take to easily assure that the delivery process is followed through correctly.

First, it is essential that your Shipping Manager uses the specific delivery company's bill of lading (with a surplus always kept on hand). This document includes the shipping destination, content, product valued and driver's signature. It is also crucial that a copy is kept in case misrouting occurs.  

Second, in order to ensure that the charges assessed for your shipment are correct, the product needs to be properly identified. Each word in the description can have a bearing on the rate you are charged. For example, garments on hangers may have a classification which bears a higher rate than garments in cartons.

 Third, it is highly advisable that you have a representative from the delivery company evaluate your merchandise and your method of packaging in order for it to be properly identified. In addition, the item and class number must be written after each item shipped. It is not uncommon to have several items on one bill of lading, with each bearing a different classification number with a different freight rate. You may find that a change in your method of packaging can result in a considerable difference in the amount you are being charged for your shipments.

 Fourth, on shipments you receive from your suppliers, you may notice that several shipments for the same products will bear different rates. Most often this is the result of  a difference in wording on the bill of lading provided by the shipper. If you spot a product description error, you should contact the delivering carrier in order to request an adjustment on charges.

 In conclusion, if you steadfastly complete a detailed bill of lading with precise descriptions, your chances of misrouting and incorrect charges will be virtually eliminated. If errors should occur, the copies of the bill of lading kept on file by the shipping manager should help to quickly correct any problems that should arise.