More and more businesses in the transportation industry are using shipping intelligence solutions to augment their income. Business intelligence means being more intelligent about your business. One example of a BI tool is using cloud data services as a form of data storage. Cloud integration can reduce downtime, increase productivity, and increase revenue.

Business Intelligence Benefits for Manufacturers

Besides storage, cloud vendors also offer BI tools that compile data and convert them into meaningful reports so you don’t have to. These tools automatically compile data into easy-to-read charts or graphs to instantly determine the latest trends.

Store Data Safely in a Single Location

Using cloud services means all your data, from invoices and bills of lading to outgoing dedicated truck shipment information, is stored in the same place. With this system, everyone stays on the same page and data is updated and collected in a single spot. Most cloud vendors also implement the latest security applications to prevent hacking. Cloud-based business intelligence solutions automate many tasks which previously had to be completed manually. Your employees’ time will be better spent conducting inventory or prepping freight for a pending LTL shipment.

Need Help With Shipping Intelligence Systems in the U.S.?

Machine Transport uses the latest cloud and shipping intelligence solutions for managing day-to-day operations. We’re able to keep track of the monstrous amounts of data from our clients across North America, and we’re able to stay on track when arranging shipments with the dozens of common carriers and line haul shippers we collaborate with. Cloud solutions for manufacturers is the way of the future. Contact us for more information on all our services. We’re a bonded freight broker licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

Shipping Intelligence: Technology Innovations for the U.S. Manufacturing Industry

Serving the manufacturing industry in the U.S., Canada and Mexico

Posted on August 20, 2026 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

If you’ve been in the Canadian transportation industry long, you know hot weather shipping of perishable goods requires diligent packaging on your end. With summer approaching, we’ll go over some tips on how to properly pack temperature-sensitive goods.

Be Careful About Shipping Time

Arrange for a shipping time later in the day, preferably late afternoon or early evening. This way, the starting temperature is lower once the freight is in transit. Also, try to arrange for a shipping date earlier in the week to reduce the likelihood of the freight sitting idle in a warehouse over the weekend. This is especially the case with LTL shipping.

Don’t Forget the Ice

If you need ice to keep the goods cool, don’t skimp, and dry ice is better. Some people use gel packs, but these don’t stay cool as long. If you do use gel, sprinkle them in dry ice pellets. Whatever cooling type you choose, keep the packaging tight to minimize air space.

Use Multiple Shipping Materials

Some perishable goods, like boxed chocolates, don’t need refrigeration, but do need to remain below a certain temperature. In this case, use custom shipping boxes lined with plastic foam insulation and cold gel packs. Slotted boxes work best; they provide air circulation. This method will keep the freight cool for about 72 hours. It might be wise to arrange for a dedicated truck transport that can make the hot weather shipping within that timeframe.

Need Hot Weather Shipping in Canada

Machine Transport can make transportation arrangements for your freight no matter the time of year. We work with various carriers and line haul shippers that specialize in shipping and moving machine tools. Contact us today for all your shipping needs.

Excellent Hot Weather Shipping in North America

Serving the manufacturing industry in the U.S., Canada & Mexico

Posted on July 20, 2026 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business

A parcel refers to any small package. How small does a package have to be to classify as a parcel? At what size does a package require LTL shipping? We’ll go over the difference between parcel and less-than-truckload shipping.

When to Choose Parcel Shipping

Every carrier has its own classification for defining a parcel. Typically, the package can’t exceed 150 pounds, although some shippers cap that weight at 70 pounds. Dimensional limits apply as well. The parcel must also be small enough for a single person to haul it by hand.

For parcels, you can make shipping arrangements with nationally recognized carriers, such as UPS and FedEx. These companies also offer overnight and weekend delivery. LTL shipment, by contrast, usually doesn’t offer expedited services since your freight is one of many in the truck.

If you have small, time-sensitive freight, see if you can reduce its weight and size so it falls under the parcel designation. If this isn’t possible, consider using a dedicated truck transport or carrier van.

When to Choose LTL Shipping

LTL is the more affordable option if you have multiple small packages headed in the same direction. In this case, consolidate the packages into a single pallet. This is much more cost effective than sending multiple parcels individually.

We’ll Help You Decide Between Parcel and Less-Than-Truckload Shipping in the U.S.

Our freight brokers normally deal with line-haul shipment for machinery tools and related freight. However, we know the best strategies for optimizing cost and timely delivery. Machine Transport can determine whether parcel or less-than-truckload shipping is better for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about the types of trailers we carry and the difference between common carriers and line haul shippers!

Brokers for Optimized Parcel and Less-Than-Truckload Shipping Solutions in the U.S.

Serving the manufacturing industry in the U.S., Canada and Mexico

Posted on June 20, 2026 | Published by Ignite Local | Related Local Business