Common Freight Shipping Questions for Hot Shot Trucking Companies

Unless you are in the business of shipping goods, the freight shipping process can be confusing and overwhelming to understand. Shipping freight follows some complex steps, as there are regulations and processes in place to make sure your valuable load arrives to its destination safe and sound. Whether you are new to freight shipping or don’t use this type of service all the time, you might like to get some clarification.

To give you a better idea of the shipping process, here are some of the most common shipping questions and answers related to hot shot trucking in Houston, TX.

What is a 3PL, and can you ship anything with freight shipping services?

A third-party logistics (3PL) company is a type of business that handles the freight shipping process for you. A 3PL company provides quotes for shipments, sees through on deliveries and offers necessary services and help.

Most 3PL companies will provide services for any amount of freight and to any destination. Some of these freight shipping options are truckload, less than truckload, intermodal and expedited shipping. Contact an established freight shipping company for help determining the best shipping option for your needs.

What rates will you pay for shipping?

The rate you’ll pay typically depends on several factors. The main factors are the type of freight you want shipped, the weight of the freight, the mode of transportation to its destination and distance. How rates are determined based on which shipping option you choose:

• Truckload: The most common way to determine truckload rates is an amount per mile—this may or may not be included in the gas surcharge. Additional charges may appear for things like detention and driver assistance.
• LTL: An LTL rate depends on the freight class, but other fees are possible for additional services like liftgate services and delivery appointments.
• Flatbed: If you are going flatbed rate, expect to have the following included in the charge: the type of equipment used, the total weight of the shipment and the mileage. Is your freight oversized? You might end up with extra charges and longer transit time.

Is it okay to estimate your freight weight and dimensions?

Estimating is never recommended. It’s extremely important that your freight is weighed and its dimensions measured to the nearest inch, including width, length and height. This is a must for all types of shipping options, but especially so when it comes to LTL shipping, because carriers need to know the amount of freight that can fit on the truck. If your freight measurements are not precise and correct, you might be hit with costly carrier adjustments.

Are there freight classifications?

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) created the freight classification system as a way to have a standardized freight pricing structure for a variety of shippable goods. There are 18 freight classes (ranging between 50 and 500), each determined by the weight, density, dimensions, value, liability and ease of handling. Often, the lower the class number, the lower the price per pound of your freight shipment.

For more information about freight delivery in Houston, TX, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Pro Delivery LLC!

Categorised in: Freight Delivery, Hot Shot Trucking

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