Are you looking for ways to streamline your freight distribution operations?
A more structured process can reduce transportation costs and improve supply chain efficiency. One way to do this is by using pool distribution.
Pool distribution groups shipments together and then transports them on a single truck. From there, the products arrive at a pool point, which is a location where freight is sorted and redistributed for final-mile delivery.
Let’s look at how this works and the advantages of using a pool point.
Pool Point: Explained
Before we discuss a pool point, let’s review how pool distribution works.
Freight pooling includes consolidating multiple less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments and transporting them to a centralized pool point. The pool point is where freight is sorted based on its final destination and then sent off for delivery. The shared shipments may be multiple orders from the same shipper or large orders from many manufacturers that are in close range.
Using pool distribution methods allows for more flexibility with shipments and lower costs.
Process for Pooling Shipments
How are shipments pooled for transportation? Let’s take a look.
Collecting Goods
Products from one supplier or various manufacturers are collected and transported to the pool point. While the goods are sent to one location, they may have different final destinations.
Consolidating
At the pool point, products are consolidated based on their final destination or similar delivery routes. Grouping goods helps optimize transportation processes by reducing the number of individual shipments and ensuring more efficient transportation.
Sorting and Preparing
How are the goods organized and moved at the pool point? It may involve sorting based on specific factors such as destination, delivery schedule, or product type. Packaging and labeling can also influence the way items are prepared for transportation.
Transport
After the goods are consolidated and prepared, they are transported from the pool point to their final destinations. The modes of transportation are usually trucks but may differ depending on the urgency of the shipments.
What Are the Benefits of a Pool Point?
A pool point offers many advantages for businesses wanting to streamline their supply chain processes, such as:
- Cost efficiency
- Sufficient transportation
- Reduced transit times
- Improved inventory management
- Simplified supply chain management
- Enhanced customer service
- Sustainability benefits
When you optimize pooling in freight distribution, you can reap the benefits of fewer costs by saving money on fuel and truck usage. Improved delivery performance can ultimately enhance customer satisfaction and increase the movement of goods.
Trust Beitler Logistics With Your Pooling Distribution
Beitler Logistics Services has a vast network of carriers that allows us to help companies of all sizes take advantage of pool distribution. We offer the most competitive rates available and service every state in the United States. The industries we serve include:
- Retail
- High value
- Food and beverage
- Medical
- Consumer packaged goods (CPG)
- Packaging materials
- Industrial products
- Automotive
At BLS, our team is committed to environmental sustainability. We work to reduce emissions, waste products, and consumer energy. Pool distribution at the pool point allows you to share truck space with other shipments and reduce the need for multiple trucks on the road.
Does pool distribution sound right for your company? Get in touch with us today for a quote.