Pricing. How does it work and what does it cover?

We operate within an industry where overheads are high (think expensive trucks and equipment, highly trained operators, road tax and rising fuel costs) so it follows that you’re not going to find bargain basement prices (and if you do you should be asking yourself why!). 

We’ve pulled together an overview of what can influence haulage prices, some of which you can control and some you can’t.  Knowing this should help you get the best possible quote.  It’s also useful to understand what’s included in the price you’ve been quoted and consider whether you’re willing to compromise on any of these factors when deciding on a transport provider. 

Factors that influence haulage prices:

1.  Distance/time taken to complete the job

Often operators will quote on a half day/full day basis or consider how long a job will take before quoting.  Anything you can do to minimise time on site by preparing goods for uplift or offload will help with this.

Type of vehicle required affects pricing

2.  Type of vehicle required

As a general rule, flat bed jobs (where loading and unloading is done by the customer/contractor) cost less than Hiab hire.  Further to this if you require specialist equipment like a long reach Hiab, 4x4 Hiab, container lift etc. costs will be higher. 

3.  Flexibility

With a full fleet to plan for, it’s in the haulier’s interest to make sure that trucks move in the most efficient manner.  If your timings for pick up/drop off are flexible this can help with the price quoted. 

What’s included in the price:

1.  Highly trained operators

Truck drivers and Hiab operators need to hold all relevant licenses and professional qualifications.  This includes a Driver’s CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) which involves a 4 part test and 35 hours of professional training to be completed every 5 years to ensure skills are verified and up to date.

2.  Quality equipment

Safe, reliable and roadworthy vehicles are crucial for any transport provider.  We invest heavily in our fleet with a regular renewal programme to ensure we operate a modern fleet that meets customer’s needs. 

3.  Planning and tracking of jobs

Depending on the size of their fleet, most transport providers will have the backup of an office team who can provide regular updates on the progress of a job, ensure all paperwork is completed and ensure the fleet is running as efficiently as possible. 

4.  Time for loading and unloading

This time will be built into your quote and should be advised at the time of quoting.  If this runs over significantly you may find there is an hourly charge for any extra time. 

5.  Quality assurance

There are a number of quality assurance schemes that transport providers can be members of.  These involve thorough and rigorous checks of our Health, Safety and Environmental procedures, together with verification of financial health and reference-checking.  Schemes we’re members of include ISO, Constructionline, FORS and Achilles.

There is seldom a ‘one size fits all’ pricelist for haulage services.  However, understanding the factors that can influence the price and what is included can help customers understand the differences between cheaper and more expensive providers.  You then have to decide what value you place on each of these factors.

For a free, no-obligation quote contact us now.