Automotive parts come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from small pieces to large engines and beyond. Different businesses may require certain components for their machinery, and it’s vital to ensure that they arrive safely on time.
Learn which companies are the best for shipping auto parts and how to choose the right partner.
8 best auto part shipping companies
Collaborate with logistics and transportation services that are equipped to handle car parts. You can also check the types of shipping methods they use and the distance they can ship. Here’s an overview of some of the best companies to work with.
1. Green River Logistics Solutions
Green River Logistics Solutions is a recognised freight services provider with premium logistics practices. It specialises in automotive shipping solutions with experience in trade shows, electronics, manufacturing and other industries.
It is one of the few small-to-medium-sized businesses in the logistics industry that offers nationwide freight shipping services. Customized less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping is its primary method, but you can also explore full truckload (FTL) shipments.
Key features:
- Certified Minority Business Enterprise that provides 3PL or third-party logistics coordination solutions
- Provides an instant quote for LTL and FTL services
- Delivers supplemental insurance for high-value items
- Accepts cancellations or rescheduling before pickup
2. FreightCenter
FreightCenter, under Blue Grace, transformed from a small family-run packaging store into a digitally powered hub where businesses can book freight at any time. It works with numerous carriers for a one-stop solution.
FreightCenter has expanded into LTL and FTL services, alongside intermodal shipping, expedited freight and other specialized freight solutions. It has worked with startups, global enterprises and everything in between.
Key features:
- Provides welcome discounts for first shipments
- Allows you to compare rates and track shipments
- Offers personalized shipping solutions for auto parts
- Ensures enhanced customer support
3. FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is a well-established logistics and delivery brand that has been strengthening supply chains across various industries. They offer automotive logistics solutions to meet client demands and ensure precise scheduling.
It can benefit multiple stages of the automotive sector. By conducting research and development for efficient engineering and manufacturing, it can reduce pipeline inventory expenses. FedEx Freight even has a presence in the aftermarket sector.
Key features:
- Provides same-day delivery
- Ensures specialized safety for lithium batteries
- Minimizes vehicle off road (VOR) time for end-consumers through full visibility and control
- Has auto logistics specialists to propose tailored shipping solutions
4. UPS Supply Chain Solutions
UPS Supply Chain Solutions is an innovation-driven logistics solution provider. It can help high-performance automotive supply chains improve their solutions. It has helped dealers, aftermarket distributors and service providers with their supply chain.
Partnering with this shipping company can even enhance your ability to manage your own supply chain through its specialized handling services. It has Air Freight Premium Direct and Worldwide Expedited Ground Freight for international shipments with tight deadlines.
Key features:
- Provides same-day transportation
- Creates a centralized dealer distribution model according to your needs
- Offers reverse logistics solutions to manage inventory and returns
- Adapts sustainability goals while serving communities
5. Freightquote
Freightquote provides excellent freight shipping solutions for businesses, ensuring a seamless delivery experience. You can also look forward to additional services, such as liftgates and inside delivery, which have been vetted by more than 83,000 customers.
In terms of auto parts, Freightquote has experience in handling engines, transmissions, body panels, wheels and more. It can help you find the best shipping solutions, including specific packaging and insurance.
Key features:
- Provides numerous online freight quote tools
- Offers freight quotes without needing signups
- Accepts LTL freight shipping, truckload shipping and parcel shipping
- Offers cash discounts through Freightquote Rewards
6. uShip
uShip is an online shipping marketplace that connects customers with a network of active carriers. It prioritizes the safekeeping of packages and provides a seamless customer experience. Book shipments with instant rates or place a listing to get different quotes from auto transporters.
Its auto transport services can involve everything from moving complete automobiles in open car or enclosed transport to shipping auto parts. Look forward to door-to-door service and specialized shipping equipment for convenience and reliability.
Key features:
- Provides comprehensive profiles on multiple carriers with reviews, photos and credentials
- Offers resources to break down shipping costs
- Ensures competitive pricing that you can compare
- Allows risk-free browsing without booking pressure
7. TForce Freight
TForce Freight is a leading logistics company that offers hassle-free freight solutions. It is committed to delivering LTL shipments, with a wide service coverage throughout all 50 states of the United States, Canada and beyond.
There are specific services reserved for trade shows, government agencies and niche markets. While TForce Freight provides rate estimates, there may be fuel surcharges, holiday schedules and other processing information that you can review prior to sending out shipments.
Key features:
- Provides flexible pricing for your unique shipping needs
- Simplifies documentation through cross-border services with electronic customs clearance
- Offers advanced technology to track LTL shipments
- Allows you to compare rates online
8. ArcBest
ArcBest aims to solve logistics challenges by building more efficient supply chains worldwide. Its selection of services provides a premium customer experience that builds trustworthy relationships and long-term value.
In terms of automotive logistics, it has experience in improving the supply chain experience for various tiered suppliers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). It has even helped companies overcome line-down situations and parts shortages.
Key features:
- Enhances logistics performance and minimizes transit times
- Advances sustainability initiatives in its logistics operations
- Provides visibility and tracking to avoid supply chain disruptions
- Offers expedited and cross-border shipping
Comparing the auto part shipping companies
Each option has its highlights that could match your business needs. To help you narrow things down further, here’s an overview of how the best auto part shipping companies stack up against one another:
Methodology for assessing auto part shipping companies
There are numerous other auto part shipping companies out in the market. Here are the factors to discern the best of the best:
Additional considerations when choosing a shipping partner
While the above factors are critical when choosing a shipping partner, there may be secondary priorities to consider.
1. Pricing
Auto part shipping can come with several fee structures, whether it’s scalable pricing or volume-based pricing. You also have to worry about additional fees, such as package handling or fuel surcharges.
Work with service providers that provide the most cost-efficient rates. Remember to assess the quality and reliability of the services to determine whether you’re investing in a reputable shipping company.
2. Shipping insurance and liability
Auto parts are a valuable commodity, especially when it comes to engines and more technologically advanced units. Shipping insurance can enhance your product protection by covering its full value. Certain shipping partners may already offer these as part of their service.
Review the liability policies of your auto part shipping company. Some carriers may shoulder losses related to natural disasters and package theft. However, you may be liable for your item in specific scenarios, like inadequate packaging.
3. Tracking and visibility
Keeping track of auto part shipments can help you provide a more accurate status report to clientele about their whereabouts and change estimates of when it’s about to arrive. It’s also indirect reassurance that it will arrive in time.
The best auto part shipping companies are capable of delivering real-time and end-to-end tracking by using technology like GPS trackers. Request automated updates to stay informed about any delays and customs clearance.
4. Handling capabilities
Knowing that companies specialize in or have experience with moving auto parts is a critical step. However, you also have to confirm if they can handle the specific size, weight, component types and more before you ship them out.
For example, certain auto parts are powered by lithium batteries, which are prone to damage and fires when mishandled. It’s crucial to find providers who understand how to ensure the safety and security of these items.
Prepping and packing car parts for shipping
Packaging the car parts before having auto part shipping companies handle them can be a complex process. Here are the main steps.
1. Clean and inspect components
Auto parts should be cleaned before shipping. Brand-new ones will require minimal services, but used components may require more work. Focus on disassembling and inspecting each piece for any damage.
Once the parts have been cleared, it’s time to remove the dirt and grease buildup that might have occurred. Drain fluids and lubricants to ensure they are dry. While you can reassemble them before packaging, disassembling them reduces their total mass.
2. Use heavy-duty packaging
When it comes to packaging, use heavy-duty wraps or bags to avoid bumps, scratches and other damage. If you’re handling delicate auto parts, protective padding like bubble wrap or packing peanuts can provide cushioning for the item.
Cover any sharp edges with corrugated cardboard to prevent them from piercing the vessel. If you’re dealing with larger items, such as bumpers or sway bars, consider covering them with film to preserve their surface quality.
3. Seal and secure the part
As soon as everything is packaged, make sure you seal it up. Heavy-duty wraps or bags may be sufficient on their own, but you may still want to use a box for maximum protection. Use wider packing tape to secure the item shut.
While the tape should be applied across the center of the box, it should also be used on the edges of the top and the flaps. That way, the box itself is also secure.
4. Label the shipment correctly
Finally, make sure you apply a shipping label. Some carriers prefer placing it on top of the box, but there are other options, such as the tie-on tag or any other flat surface. Curved surfaces increase the likelihood of the label peeling off.
Remember to check the information on the shipment to ensure that you’re sending the auto part to the right recipient. You can also take this time to review any additional handling instructions before handing the package over to the shipping company.
Partner with an auto part shipping company
Once you know who the best auto part shipping companies are and the factors that go into choosing them, it’s easier to narrow down who to work with. The automotive industry is a competitive market, so ensure that you’re getting high-quality and reliable delivery services.
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