What is freight shipping?
Purpose:
Key Modes of Freight Shipping:
- Ground (Truck / Rail): Common for domestic transport.
- Ocean: Used for international, heavy, or bulk shipments.
- Air: Fastest, best for high-value or time-sensitive goods.
- Intermodal: Combines two or more modes (e.g., ship + rail + truck).
Common Freight Types:
- LTL (Less-than-Truckload): Multiple small shipments share one truck.
- FTL (Full Truckload): One shipment occupies the entire truck.
- Parcel: Small packages (below freight threshold, often under 150 lbs).
Core Documents:
- Bill of Lading (BOL): The contract and receipt for the shipment.
- Freight Invoice: Details the charges for transportation.
Freight 101
Freight Quotes and Booking
How do I request a freight quote and what information is required?
To get a freight quote, provide origin and destination (with ZIP or city, and whether it’s a business or residence), shipment dimensions and weight, number of pallets or crates, and a description of the goods. Be accurate with weight and measurements, since carriers re-weigh and re-measure and discrepancies can change the price. Mention any special services you need, such as a liftgate for locations without a dock or inside delivery. After you supply these details, you can compare rates and then select a quote to book the shipment with your chosen carrier or service provider.
Is my freight quote binding, or will the price change later?
A quote is typically honored if the shipment details you provided are correct and the quote is within its validity period. Prices should not change after booking provided nothing about the shipment changes, such as weight, dimensions, locations, or timing. Most quotes expire after a short window due to changing carrier rates and fuel costs, so you may need a refreshed rate if you wait to book. Changes or discrepancies can alter cost, for example higher actual weight or size, or different pickup or delivery conditions like needing a liftgate or residential delivery. Standard quotes for international moves usually do not include customs duties, import taxes, or other government fees. Double-check all details when booking to help ensure the quoted price is the final price.
When should I start requesting freight quotes?
Start 5–10 business days before pickup for domestic LTL or FTL, 2–4 weeks before export for ocean, and 5–7 days before air. Add more lead time near peak seasons.
How can I request and compare multiple quotes easily?
Use a broker or a digital platform that returns multiple carrier options at once. Compare by total delivered cost, transit estimate, service level, accessorials, liability limits, and on-time performance.
How do I choose the best quote?
Balance price, reliability, and fit: correct equipment, pickup window, insurance/liability, transit time, claim ratio, and accessorials included. Cheapest is not best if it risks service failures.
What is the difference between LTL, FTL, and intermodal shipping?
- LTL: Shared trailer space for smaller shipments. Moves terminal to terminal, cost-effective but slower and subject to handling. Pricing depends on weight, dimensions, density, and class.
- FTL: Exclusive use of a trailer. Faster with fewer handoffs, ideal for larger or time-sensitive loads. Rates are typically per-mile or flat.
- Intermodal: Combination of rail and truck using containers. Often cheaper and greener for long distances, with longer and sometimes less predictable transit.