Local Dock for Drop and Delivery - New Business Idea Good or Bad?

Most charge pallet in/pallet out, x CWT/mini for delivery in the same 3 digit +/- zip (Chicago area 605** through 606**)

 

As long as the shipper approves the warehouse they usually except their receipt for the originating carrier.

 

Correct. It is the shipper that chooses who he ships the freight with. I sure wouldn't drop to anyone that the shipper had not pre-approved.

 

I think it's a decent idea but be careful to coordinate with all parties. I have had customers who do not allow anyone other than consignee to handle their freight and many where seals cannot be broken by anyone other than consignee. Not sure how much demand there is but could be a valuable service. You would probably want to look at dealing with a specific group of carriers and they may need to bond you in case of OSD or other delivery problems.

 

I've seen too many abandoned drayage yards around Chicago to imagine it's profitable.

 

Ever hear of break bulk distribution, there is money in it!

 

IN this area there is JB Hunt running last mile delivery out of their docks, there is also a couple other companies doing last mile delivery - I think metro is one.

 

Jb does final mile. They also install appliances and things of that nature