At the surface, a scoop of gelato and a scoop of ice cream appear to be the same thing. They look the same, they are both cold. Despite their similarities, we know they are different when we taste the two. What makes them different is the work that is done to create the final product.
In the logistics industry, we can look at transloading and cross docking in the same way. The end result appears to be the same; however the manner in which the services are performed to get to the result are different. Transload is a form of cross dock just as gelato is a form of ice cream.
For those new to the supply chain game, we want to help make the services distinguishable. Here are some details about each service to help you find the best suited for your needs.
Cross docking: Cross docking services involve unloading products from a truck or container directly to another truck for immediate delivery. Items are not “put away” rather staged near dock doors to await loading. The turnaround time on the dock is typically less than 24 hours. In this past face environment it is important to have a 3PL that communicates well with shippers, carriers and internally.Transloading: Transload services transfer container cargo from one load unit to another. The transloading of a container is typically performed at a facility close to a port terminal. A container from the port will be taken to the facility and transferred to a domestic container or truckload. The product is often palletized at the facility since many ocean containers are floor loaded. By switching to a truck from an ocean container you avoid paying extra fees from the port.
Benefits of Transloading:
- Save up to 30% on inland transportation costs by transloading ocean containers into over-the-road trucks at the Weber facility at the Port.
- Save up to 20% on ocean freight costs by maximizing cargo weight through the transload process.
- Eliminate the risk associated with moving heavy cargo locally or over the road by transloading at the port and shipping legal loads to final destination.
- Inspect inventory for damage or irregularities prior to delivery to customers.
- Access inventory quicker by facility proximity