Increased wealth and an expanding world marketplace have made trucking companies in Asia a hot commodity. As part of the global supply chain, reliable transcontinental trucking services are in high demand. Fortunately, international transport companies provide coverage over most of the continent, and local trucking companies in Asia continue to service the gaps.

With global competitors vying for the Asian trucking market, logistics companies are implementing increased service options. Expedited and LTL freight are commonplace, with JIT service increasingly becoming the norm.

When selecting Asian freight companies, it’s hard to beat the convenience and security of an interactive customer service portal. Look for companies offering web-based tools that provide:

1. A user-friendly interface to order, locate and cancel shipments;

2. Downloadable BOL and POD; and

3. Asia trucking companies that offer freight status updates.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact global service providers to arrange Asian trucking services

Asia trucking can be as close as your keyboard. Worldwide trucking corporations offer user-friendly websites to arrange freight moves across town or across continents.

I recommend: Visit DHL’s global website or UPS in Asia to price, schedule or track Asian shipments. Select the country of origin for outgoing shipments, or country of delivery for inbound information. Request access to Ryder Trac to trace shipments moving through their supply network.

Arrange for LTL and expedited trucking in Asia

In today's global marketplace, JIT freight is rapidly becoming the service standard. Satisfy your customers using proven resources for LTL and expedited shipments.

I recommend: Choose TNT Express Worldwide to arrange expedited and LTL trucking in Asia. Register with Schenker, a global expediter with offices in over 150 countries worldwide. Track transportation in Asia or around the globe using their online tools.

Utilize containers hauled by Asian freight companies

Shipping containers are a versatile tool for moving intercontinental cargo. Once loaded, these multipurpose, stackable containers can ship by plane, train or truck. Simply schedule freight moves with container service providers, and they'll arrange logistical details with Asian truck companies.

I recommend: Register for a User ID for APL eBooking. APL provides web-based tools to arrange shipments, track progress, evaluate performance, hypothesize future demand -- even find alternative inventory to satisfy an unhappy customer. Alliance Shippers offers an interactive web tool you can use to arrange shipments and make supply chain decisions while the shipment is en route. Contact Alliance Shippers for more information about accessing their AIMS tool.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Compare shipment pricing among several Asia freight companies before committing to a service provider. Not only can freight rates vary, but a printed quote is an excellent leverage tool for negotiating lower rates with a competitor.