There are a number of important things to remember when shipping LTL freight. Use this list as a guideline for all less than truckload shipments.
To reduce re-classes, customers should always enter the product description, weight, dimensions, class and proper NMFC.
If a shipment is over 6,000 lbs., six standard pallets, or occupies more than 12 feet of a truck, a "volume quote" should be requested.
Transit times are NOT guaranteed unless specified in the special instructions of the BOL and the shipment is quoted appropriately. All other transit times are reliable but are standard, estimated transit times.
An LTL carrier's transit times do not count the day of pick-up, holidays or weekends. For example, if a shipment is picked up on Friday and the transit time is two days, then the shipment will be delivered on Tuesday.
If a shipment is not ready at time of pick up, a driver typically will not wait or come back that day. The shipment must be rescheduled for the following day.
Carriers require a two-hour window to schedule a pick up.
LTL drivers will usually tailgate all products, meaning the driver will pull the shipment to the end of the trailer at no additional cost. If a pallet jack is required, customer must specify that in the special instructions.
Lift-gate delivery can add a couple of days to the delivery date.
The proof of delivery is usually available 1-3 days after delivery.
To ensure that the freight meets the on-time delivery standard to the customer, it must be shipped before 5:00 PM.
Customers must always use the bill of lading produced by BlueShip™. You cannot use your own.
If you ship high value items, you should always inquire about extra insurance and limits of liability. The limits of liability vary carrier to carrier and more so when FAK (Freight all Kinds) rates are applied.
