The Rising Costs of Import Shipping – and How to Cut Them

Importing goods into the U.S. is more complex than ever. Port congestion, customs holds, and last-mile delivery challenges can quickly lead to inflated shipping costs—especially if your drayage strategy or carrier planning isn’t built for speed and efficiency.

At Accurate Logistics Group, we help businesses cut costs and streamline operations by optimizing every leg of the journey—from port to warehouse to final delivery.

1. Optimize Freight Planning & Carrier Selection

Many businesses overspend because of last-minute planning or inefficient routing. Here's how to fix that:

• Plan ahead – Lock in carrier space early to avoid surge pricing and urgent rate hikes.

• Use data to decide – Our Transportation Management System (TMS) provides insights that help you choose cost-effective routes and shipping modes.

• Consolidate shipments – When possible, combine smaller shipments into FTL moves for better rates than multiple LTLs.

🔗 LTL vs. FTL – Which is Right for Your Business?

2. Avoid Costly Drayage Fees & Demurrage Charges

One of the biggest sources of hidden fees? Delays at the port. Avoid detention, demurrage, and storage penalties with strategic drayage:

• Schedule drayage in advance – We coordinate timely pickups to keep freight moving.

• Monitor port activity – We provide real-time tracking and proactive communication around port congestion or delays.

• Work with an experienced 3PL – Our team understands import timelines and keeps your containers flowing smoothly.

🔗 Mastering Container Drayage: From Port Congestion to Warehouse Efficiency

3. Leverage Smart Logistics Technology

Modern technology can reduce costs across your supply chain—if you know how to use it.

• Use a TMS for live tracking – Get complete shipment visibility, ETA updates, and proactive alerts.

• Automate documentation – Avoid fines and delays from paperwork errors with our automated systems.

• Forecast trends – Historical shipping data helps you avoid peak-season surcharges and optimize scheduling.

🔗 How to Streamline Freight Tracking and Improve Delivery Transparency

4. Rethink Warehouse and Distribution Strategy

Your storage and distribution setup has a major impact on costs:

• Choose warehouse locations wisely – Proximity to ports cuts down on inland freight costs.

• Use cross-docking – Transfer goods directly from inbound to outbound without extended storage.

• Optimize last-mile delivery – We offer custom solutions to meet deadlines without overspending.

Partner With Accurate Logistics to Cut Costs Without Cutting Corners

Shipping doesn’t have to cost more than it should. With Accurate Logistics Group, you get the planning, tools, and real-time insights needed to control costs—without sacrificing speed or service.

💡 Ready to take control of your import logistics? Let’s lower your costs and simplify your process.

📍 Request a Quote or contact us today.