Seems like a pretty hefty commission, eh? I've read that U-Ship's bidding system works against drivers, as CPM already goes down. How can truckers combat diluting CPM? Is there any solution out there?
If you build a reputation on there and talk to customers when they first post something before low bidders eat you up then you can get out of there with somewhat decent pay. There are times when I can book a load at a much higher rate than the other bidders just based on my prior feedback and credentials. I only use it to cover deadheads and maybe a side load or two when I have the space. I have made a few solid repeat customers from there. They all booked pretty cheap to begin with when I was just needing to cover a deadhead and now pay nearly double on a regular basis just because they know it will get done right.
Why isn't invoicing done electronically? It seems that carriers would sometimes forget to invoice a broker, an invoice gets lost in the mail, etc. Why do you even have to invoice a broker if he knows the freight you carry, the distance you travel, any accessorial fees, etc? It seems that a system should be able to easily handle electronic invoicing. I'm a shipper and I'm looking for ways to cut the broker out and I'm trying to figure out what value add they provide. It seems that they add more burden than anything else. If I'm a shipper, I'll just cut the check to the carrier upon delivery or I'll paypal them the money right away. What does an invoice look like?
California Will.. Are you shipping reefers, just curious.. If you are shipping produce, you also have to deal with PACA regs