Power only trucking is used when the shipper owns the trailer that needs to be transported but does not have any trucks available to haul it. In power only shipping, the truck and driver are hired to transport the trailer/freight. Power only is used mostly for local runs so that the driver ends up near their home base.
Pick-up and drop-off locations are important in all shipping but power only freight companies need this information to determine the deadhead. Deadhead refers to the distance the driver will have to travel in order to get to the shipment. Additionally, the type of trailer/equipment plays a role in the final quote, especially if it’s some kind of specialty trailer. Lastly, the weight, commodity, and dimensions are needed to provide an accurate quote.
Power only is great for moving trailers within a company’s own fleet, especially during times of surge freight. So if you have a busy time coming up try to schedule with a power only freight company ahead of time in order to get the best rates. Additionally, you want to ensure that there is a good line of communication. The trailers are usually just being dropped off and left there so you want to ensure that the driver knows where the trailer needs to be.