5 Ways to Reduce Shipping Costs in Your Business

For businesses of all sizes, shipping is a critical part of daily operations, especially if you’re dealing with international trade. However, shipping costs can quickly add up and eat into your profits. The good news is, with the right strategies, you can reduce these costs without sacrificing service quality.

At Evergreen Freight & Logistics, we believe that smart shipping doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are five effective ways to lower your shipping expenses and improve your bottom line.

1. Optimize Packaging to Reduce Dimensional Weight Charges

Shipping carriers often charge based on dimensional weight, which takes into account the size of the package, not just its actual weight. Overpacking or using boxes that are too large can lead to unnecessary charges. To avoid this, use appropriately sized boxes and consider lightweight packaging materials that protect your goods without adding bulk.

2. Consolidate Shipments

If you’re sending multiple small packages frequently, consider consolidating them into fewer, larger shipments. By grouping orders together, you can reduce the number of individual shipments, saving on transportation and handling fees. This strategy is especially effective for businesses that ship regularly to the same destination.

At Evergreen, we offer both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options for ocean freight, allowing you to choose the most cost-effective solution based on your volume.

3. Take Advantage of Multi-Modal Shipping

Combining different transportation modes—such as Air/Sea & Sea/Air services—can help reduce costs while maintaining timely delivery. Air freight is fast but can be expensive for heavy or bulky items, while ocean freight is cheaper but slower. Multi-modal shipping allows you to balance cost and speed by using the right combination for your specific needs.

At Evergreen Freight & Logistics, we help our clients choose the most efficient and affordable shipping routes, ensuring the best results for their business.

4. Negotiate Carrier Rates

Many businesses stick with the same shipping provider without reviewing their rates periodically. If you have a high shipping volume, you may have room to negotiate better rates with carriers. Request rate comparisons from multiple shipping providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

As a logistics provider, Evergreen works closely with a vast network of carriers, allowing us to secure competitive rates for air, ocean, and ground transportation. Our expertise in negotiating can help you save significantly on shipping costs.

5. Use a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Provider

Partnering with a third-party logistics provider like Evergreen Freight & Logistics can streamline your shipping operations and reduce costs. 3PL providers have access to bulk discounts, optimized routing, and integrated supply chain solutions that help you manage everything from warehousing to transportation efficiently. By outsourcing your logistics, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the shipping.

Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Savings

Reducing shipping costs doesn’t always require drastic changes—small adjustments in packaging, consolidation, and selecting the right shipping method can lead to significant savings over time. At Evergreen Freight & Logistics, we’re committed to helping businesses like yours find cost-effective solutions that enhance your logistics operations.

By working with us, you’ll not only reduce your shipping expenses but also improve your delivery efficiency and customer satisfaction. Contact us today to explore how we can help you streamline your shipping processes.