How to Evaluate Expedited Shipping Companies: 7 Critical Questions to Ask

When you need fast, reliable delivery, turning to an expedited shipping company is the natural next step. But all too often, providers overpromise and underdeliver—leaving you with late shipments, poor communication, and unexpected claims. Choosing the right expedited shipping partner is crucial for ensuring your freight arrives on time and in excellent condition. So how do you separate the reliable carriers from the unreliable ones? It starts with understanding the role of expedited shipping, knowing what qualities to look for, and asking the right questions before signing a contract.

The Importance of Expedited Shipping in the Logistics Landscape

Expedited shipping plays a crucial role in logistics by offering a faster alternative to traditional shipping options like truckload and less-than-truckload (LTL) freight. While truckload and LTL are cost-effective solutions for standard shipping, they don’t always meet the needs of businesses with critical freight.

Expedited shipping ensures that critical shipments—whether urgent inventory replenishments, healthcare equipment, medical supplies, or other high-value products—reach their destinations quickly. Unlike standard freight services that may involve multiple stops or freight consolidation, expedited shipments often move directly from pickup to delivery with minimal handling. This service is essential for businesses operating under tight deadlines, where even a slight delay could disrupt operations, result in lost revenue, or impact customer satisfaction.

Specifically, expedited shipping for industries like healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing can mean the difference between a smooth supply chain and operational chaos. When choosing an expedited shipping company, you should make sure the provider has the real-world experience, carrier network, and proven reliability to meet your high-priority shipping needs.

How to Effectively Vet Expedited Shipping Companies

Not all expedited shipping companies are created equal. To avoid unreliable service, take the time upfront to evaluate potential partners based on industry best practices and your unique preferences. Consider looking for these qualities:

• Transparent Tracking: A reputable expedited shipping company should offer real-time tracking and frequent updates throughout your shipment’s journey. If a provider lacks visibility, you’re at risk of unexpected delays with no way to plan accordingly.
• High On-Time Delivery Rate: Look for a provider with a documented history of reliable, on-time deliveries. A high on-time delivery rate indicates that the company has strong operational efficiency, reliable carrier partnerships, and the necessary logistics expertise to handle time-sensitive shipments.
• Vetted Carrier Network: Companies that work with a well-screened network of preferred carriers—rather than one-off partners—offer more consistent service, professionalism, and reliability. There’s often a big difference between working with a seasoned carrier vs. a new one.
• Low Claims Ratio: Expedited shipping often involves tight timelines and high-speed transit, all of which can increase the risk of damage if shipments are not handled properly. A provider with a consistently low claims ratio demonstrates strong quality control measures, a well-trained carrier network, and a commitment to careful handling.
• Large Geographic Scope: Ensure the company has the capability to serve your shipping lanes across North America. Some providers only specialize in regional routes, which may not align with your business needs. In general, it is more cost- and time-effective to partner with a limited number of vendors instead of many.
• Timely Customer Support: In the world of expedited shipping, time is everything. When an issue arises—whether it’s a weather delay, a rerouting need, or a last-minute change to delivery instructions—you need a dedicated point of contact who can address it immediately. Having a reliable and responsive customer support team that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week ensures that problems are resolved quickly, minimizing disruptions to your supply chain.
• Scalability and Flexibility: Expedited shipping is not a one-size-fits-all service. Your shipping needs can vary from small, time-sensitive packages to large, complex freight requiring special handling. The best expedited shipping companies offer scalability and flexibility, meaning they can seamlessly accommodate different shipment sizes, urgent same-day deliveries, and unique shipping challenges—without compromising speed or reliability.

Key Questions to Ask Expedited Shipping Companies

But how exactly do you discern whether expedited shipping companies actually have these qualities? It’s important to conduct thorough research and ask the right questions. Before requesting a quote or signing a contract, consider posing these questions:

#1. How often do customers receive shipping updates?

Frequent updates prevent surprises and allow you to plan ahead in the case of delays. Look for a company that offers proactive tracking and real-time status notifications. For example, S-2 provides regular updates, every four hours, throughout the life of an expedited shipment to ensure you’re never in the dark.

#2. How do you communicate about any delays in shipments?

Delays happen, but what matters is how they’re handled. Reliable expedited shipping companies should notify you immediately and offer solutions. S-2 will always keep you informed, and we proactively problem-solve when delays arise.

#3. How many carriers do you work with?

The best expedited shipping companies should have established, vetted carrier networks rather than relying on unknown drivers who offer the cheapest rates. S-2 only partners with a rigorously screened network of preferred carriers.

#4. How do you vet your carriers?

Ask about the company’s standards for background checks, experience, and performance of its drivers.  Additionally, all carriers should be thoroughly screened to ensure they hold a satisfactory rating with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), and insurance should be verified directly with the insurance provider. After initially vetting a carrier and partnering with them, S-2 has mechanisms in place to review compliance and to hold them to strict performance and on-time delivery standards.

#5. What steps do you take to minimize claims?

Low claim rates indicate safe handling. A reputable expedited shipping company should implement damage-prevention strategies, such as reduction of unnecessary transfers, proper load securing, and dedicated handling procedures for sensitive items. S-2 maintains a claim rate of just 0.0003%. When you partner with us, your freight is in excellent hands.

#6. How do you handle hard or uncommon route requests?

If you ship to remote or difficult locations, the provider should have the network, experience, and geographic scope to accommodate your needs. S-2 works with carriers who are well-versed in a wide array of routes, and our team is willing to work through any routing challenge.

#7. How quickly does your team respond to questions about shipments?

You need an expedited shipping company that offers quick, direct, and helpful responses. At S-2, our dedicated team provides fast and compassionate customer support for every shipment.

Expedited Shipping Company Red Flags: What to Avoid

As you’re evaluating expedited shipping companies, watch out for these red flags:

• Missing Performance Data: If a company can’t provide statistics on its claim rate or on-time delivery, it’s a major warning sign.
• No Preferred Carrier Network: Some companies work primarily with random, one-off carriers instead of a vetted, consistent network. This increases the risk of unreliable service.
• Poor Communication: If a provider isn’t transparent about shipments, delays, or updates, expect frustration down the road.
• No Tracking System: Real-time tracking is standard in the industry. A company that doesn’t provide it is behind the curve.
• Limited Customer Support: If there’s no clear contact person or long wait times for assistance, your urgent shipments could be left in limbo.
• Frequent Damage or Loss Claims: High claim rates suggest poor handling and an increased risk of freight damage.
• Inconsistent Pricing: Unexpected fees or fluctuating rates without clear explanations can put a strain on your business.
• Lack of Scalability: If a company struggles to handle increased shipment volume or does not offer other transportation options, it may not be the right long-term partner.

An Expedited Shipping Company That You Can Trust

When you need an expedited shipping company that delivers on its promises, S-2 is the solution. Our team goes above and beyond—whether it’s solving routing challenges, providing proactive tracking, or offering fast and compassionate support. Contact the S-2 team with questions or simply request a quote.