Carrier comparison tool

Choosing a carrier does not have to be subjective. Use this comparison tool to assess 3-5 bidders systematically against the same criteria.

The 12 comparison criteria

• Total price for the same route, cargo and included services
• Licences required for the trip, checked before selection
• Liability and insurance: verified limits, exclusions and documents
• Average age of the trucks in the fleet
• Euro class of the fleet (5, 6)
• Trip updates: channel, frequency and contact person
• Dedicated dispatcher per account (YES/NO)
• Quote response time (working hours)
• On-time delivery rate (figure reported for the last 12 months)
• Additional cargo insurance available (YES/NO)
• Quoted commercial terms: payment, validity and additional costs
• Verifiable references (companies they have worked with)

How to score

• Each criterion gets 1-5 points
• Multiply by your selected importance from 1 to 3
• Add them up and compare the total scores
• Compare scores only after completing all criteria and checking mandatory requirements
• The score supports selection; it does not replace document checks and agreement on terms

Common mistakes in the comparison

• Comparing prices that include different services, charges or terms
• Not asking for real references
• Using claims about fleet or experience without verifiable evidence
• Ignoring the CMR insurance (in the event of damage, it is the key)
• Failing to check vehicle availability and loading and delivery access