RoadLINX Inc Third Party Logistics Keeps Haulage Trucking | Page 2

INTRODUCTION
Road haulage is once again thriving despite many companies having to face harsh economic conditions as well as
stiff competition from railroads and airlines. The financial burdens of escalating fuel prices and shortages in
qualified experienced drivers have of course had the effect of driving costs and subsequently customer prices
higher. However, despite this inclement economic climate trucking companies are still proving to be the best way
for companies to transport goods. This is primarily due to the fact that for most businesses shipping goods by road
is still the quickest, cheapest and most direct form of transportation.
This may not initially seem to be true as trains and certainly airlines can cover vast distances far quicker than trucks
that are limited by traffic congestion, speed restrictions and commercial vehicle regulations that limit a driver to
eleven consecutive hours with a ten hour rest. However trucks still have a major advantage in that they are not
constrained by timetable schedules and can reach any city or town across the country. Furthermore, road haulage
has remained popular with businesses because of the variety and cost efficient methods of transportation. This is
typically something that most consumers and small businesses are unaware of as they are typically limited to using
the services of local couriers.
However there are significant differences between local couriers and trucking haulage companies which will
become apparent through this article. Nonetheless, a good starting point is that road haulage trucking firms are
dealing with companies rather than private consumers and are more focused on long haul of goods rather than local
delivery. But having said that, by comparing trucking companies against local courier services is an ideal place to
introduce the range of services that trucking haulage companies provide to businesses.