If you’re a business owner in Los Angeles that is looking for a trucking company, then it is important to make a balanced decision. That means finding the right mix of price and quality to meet your organization’s unique needs. Going with the company that boasts the lowest pricing often ends up being a mistake in the long run when their out-of-date equipment causes delays and losses. On the other hand, it doesn’t necessarily pay to go with the company that charges inflated rates because of the “extras” it provides that may not be valuable to you.

If you really want to know what to look for in a trucking company in Los Angeles, keep these four things in mind.

1. Local Expertise

If your organization’s efforts are focused in the southern California region, then you’ll benefit from choosing a carrier that has extensive knowledge of the local area. You’ll want a company that can provide you with same day pickup and delivery and is willing to offer less than full truckload shipping. Plus, the drivers’ comprehensive knowledge of the local geography and highway system ensures that your deliveries will always make it to their destination on time.

2. Licensed and Insured

Any reputable carrier is fully licensed and insured. What’s more, the representatives you work with should be happy to show you that they have all of the necessary documentation. If you have specialized or hazardous cargo that requires a specific type of licensing or insurance, just ask to see the pertinent records. Any carrier that isn’t willing to be open about these documents should never be hired. The risks are simply too great for you and your customers.

3. Review Equipment

Make arrangements to visit the carrier’s headquarters. This provides you with an opportunity to see their operations firsthand. If everything seems neat, orderly and functional, then this is probably a reliable company to work with. Pay attention to the state of the fleet as well as the warehouse operation. Most reputable carriers are proud to show off their trucks, and you’ll feel better when you see that the fleet is well maintained.

4. Tracking and Security

Modern technology has made it easier than ever before to monitor where shipments are and when they will be arriving. Specifically, GPS and RFID technology allow trucking companies and their clients to stay informed whether their shipments are going across town or to the other side of the country. Cutting-edge tracking also provides an extra layer of security, as it ensures that only authorized personnel have access to the cargo. In fact, a trustworthy trucking carrier will also offer enhanced security at warehouse and storage facilities to ensure that your investment is protected at every step of the way.

If you want to hire a Los Angeles trucking company that possesses incredible local knowledge, is fully licensed and insured, has an excellent record for maintenance and uses the technology needed to provide real-time tracking and state-of-the-art security, contact ONG Trucking today.