Definition:
Freight control refers to the management and oversight of shipping processes to ensure that goods are transported efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with contractual agreements and regulatory requirements.
What is Freight Control?
Freight control involves monitoring and managing the entire lifecycle of goods transportation, from shipment planning to delivery. It ensures that shipments are executed as planned, costs are kept within budget, and any disruptions are promptly addressed. Key aspects of freight control include tracking shipments, auditing freight bills, managing carrier relationships, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
For example, a freight control system may track a shipmentâs progress in real time, flagging delays or deviations. It can also verify that freight charges align with agreed-upon rates and help identify cost-saving opportunities through optimized carrier selection or route planning.
Effective freight control minimizes errors, enhances supply chain visibility, and ensures timely delivery, contributing to improved customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Use Cases of Freight Control
- Shipment Tracking: Providing real-time visibility into the location and status of goods in transit.
- Cost Management: Monitoring and controlling freight expenses to stay within budget.
- Carrier Performance: Evaluating carriers based on delivery times, condition of goods, and adherence to agreements.
- Freight Auditing: Verifying freight invoices against contracts to identify and resolve discrepancies.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring shipments comply with international trade laws, customs requirements, and safety standards.
- Delay Management: Detecting and mitigating delays or disruptions to minimize impact on the supply chain.
- Load Optimization: Maximizing the use of vehicle capacity to reduce costs and environmental impact.