1. What LTL surcharges and assessorial charges exist?

Carriers provide a wide range of equipment and services. The price they charge for these varies from carrier to carrier. Carriers’ profits depend upon how full the capacity of each shipment is, and upon the efficiency of the routes they follow for pick-ups and drop-offs. When special equipment is required, or a special service is needed, this often takes drivers off of their route.

Lift Gate A lift gate is a hydraulic ramp on trailers that drivers use when a loading dock or forklift is unavailable. This is often used in residential pick-ups or deliveries.

Fuel Surcharge Carriers charge a percent of the freight cost for fuel. This cost is updated weekly depending on the cost of fuel in the market. So, a quote you receive on Monday should be re-quoted if your shipment is not leaving until Thursday.

Inside Delivery or Pick-Up When a customer requests an inside delivery or pick-up, and a carrier’s operating conditions permit, a driver may move all or part of a shipment beyond the standard delivery nearest to the trailer. This service is only provided when an elevator or escalator is available to move the shipment, and when an operator is provided without cost to the carrier.

Notify Before Delivery This is typically used when shipping to residences, storage facilities, or even businesses with limited dock space. Drivers do not call ahead to the shipping location. This is done by a dispatcher at the terminal and can cause a delay in transit while the freight sits on the dock until the consignee can be notified. This is different from an appointment delivery since in this case the shipment does not have to arrive at a specified time.

Residential Pick-Ups & Deliveries When freight carriers deliver or pick up at a residence, they must often use a 28-foot trailer. Since these trailers are subject to local law restrictions, this can take them off of their regular route. There is an added cost when this occurs.

Delivery Appointment Appointments cannot be set until the freight arrives at the destination terminal and contact is made with the consignee to deliver. This typically delays transit by 1-2 days with the freight sitting on the dock, increasing the likelihood of claims. The specific delivery window can also cause a driver to take an inefficient route. Appointment delivery is different than a guaranteed shipment.

Redelivery or Reconsignment Fees After a failed delivery attempt, the carrier will assess a redelivery fee for having to deliver the freight again. This fee is usually minimal and based on weight. A reconsignment fee may also be assessed when the freight is rerouted in transit or when the shipper did not use the Plunder Logistics LLC bill of lading.

Tradeshow Freight Tradeshow freight defaults to class 125 and should always be selected as an accessorial. It is important to use a union carrier and a preferred vendor at many exhibition halls and convention centers. Because tradeshow freight is usually time sensitive, it is highly recommended that you purchase a guarantee, even though this is not required.

Limited Access Limited Access refers to a location that is difficult for the truck driver to reach such as: amusement parks, construction sites, farms, mines, mini storage, places of worship, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, correctional facilities and military bases. Due to the inconvenience and resulting delay in transit, you are charged a Limited Access accessorial fee.

Carrier Liability & Extra Insurance Each carrier has different limits of liability. They vary based upon the declared value, actual value of a product, the weight and the class of the shipment, and whether there is an FAK applied as well. When extra insurance is required, a quote must be obtained through the customer service desk.

Sorting and Segregating When the driver is requested to sort or segregate a shipment by marks, brands, sizes, flavors or other distinguishing marks, a fee will be assessed.

2) What is an NMFC number?

The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) allocates a specific number to each product that could be shipped. That is the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) that pairs to the freight class best suited for the product. It’s important to include the NMFC number on the bill of lading to reduce chances of reclassification.

3) What does expedited shipping with Plunder Logistics entail?

Many of our LTL freight carriers offer expedited solutions to allow for faster service than their standard transit times. These carriers offer a range of services, including:

Overnight

Next Day

Second Day

Ground Expedited

Time Sensitive

Time Specific

Team Service Truckloads and Flatbeds The standard service for truckloads and flatbeds is limited to the Hours-of-Service regulations passed down to all carriers. Many of our carriers offer team service, where multiple drivers work as a team to cut transit time in half. Expedited Air Freight Through the use of multiple modes of transportation, specifically air and truck trailer, we are able to offer our customers expedited transit times. Air freight carriers use a network of trucks to transport to and from their air terminals, while using their air cargo planes to transport goods much quicker than standard truck transit times.

4) What is the difference between standard and volume shipping?

*Stackable freight receives a better rate than non-stackable freight.

Standard LTL Standard LTL shipments range from about 100 lbs. to 10,000 lbs. The average LTL is 1,200 lbs., the size of the standard pallet (48x40x96). They are limited to around six standard-size pallets. If the weight exceeds 10,000 lbs., a new volume pricing structure typically applies.

Volume LTL Shipments greater than 5,000 lbs. or six standard pallets may qualify for a different pricing structure called “volume” loads, based upon the size, density, and cubic capacity of the shipment. The price varies from carrier to carrier and must be quoted manually with the carriers.

*Sometimes volume loads can be picked up and transported in a 28.5-foot (8.7 m) trailer, known as a “pup” trailer

5) What are some rules of thumb when shipping LTL freight?

To reduce re-classes, customers should always enter the product description, weight, dimensions, class and proper NMFC.

If a shipment is over 10,000 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 pickup.

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 Aesir Logix. 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.

6) How do I determine freight class?

There are 18 freight classes. They are determined by weight, dimensions, density, storage capability, ease of handling, value and liability from instances like theft, damage, breakability and spoilage.

7) How do I calculate a shipments density?

Step 1. Measure the height, width, and length of the shipment in inches. Measure to the farthest points, including skids or other packaging. On shipments with multiple pieces, repeat Step 1 for each piece.

Step 2. Multiply the three measurements (height x width x length). The result is the total cubic inches of the shipment. If you have multiple pieces, multiply the height x width x length for each piece. Take the results for each piece and add them together to get the total cubic inches.

Step 3. Divide the total cubic inches by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in a cubic foot). The result is the cubic feet of the shipment.

Step 4. Divide the weight (in pounds) of the shipment by the total cubic feet. The result is the pounds per cubic foot, i.e., density.

For multiple pieces, add the weight of each piece together before dividing by the total cubic feet of the shipment.

Round fractions to the nearest full cubic foot number.

For example, if the skid weighs 500 pounds with dimensions of 42 inches x 48 inches x 48 inches:

Multiply 42″ x 48″ x 48″ = 96,768 cubic inches

Divide 96,768 by 1,728 = 56 cubic feet

Divide 500 pounds by 56 cubic feet = 8.9 pounds per cubic feet (PCF), i.e., the shipment density

1) Do I need LTL or full truckload?

Great question and something our team of experts can help you determine. LTL is typically ideal for freight shipments larger than parcel or small package, but short of the space required of a full truckload shipment. However, other factors like distance and value may play into the decision.

2) What equipment options are available?

When you think of truckload equipment, the standard 53-foot semi-trailer may be what comes to mind. However, several other options are available. Some examples include:

Dry vans. Dry vans are enclosed trailers that are used to transport dry goods and other nonperishable items. Dry vans protect freight from the elements of the road and weather.

Flatbed trailers. Flatbed trailers allow cargo to be loaded or unloaded from the top, sides or back. There are several kinds of flatbed trailers, each with unique dimensions to accommodate the needs of any shipment. Tarps may be used to cover the freight while in transit.

Refrigerated “reefer” trailer. A refrigerated trailer is a specialized piece of equipment used to transport temperature-sensitive cargo. The temperature inside the trailer can be set to stay within a particular range, regardless of the outdoor temperature.

Power only. Power-only trucking is used when you already have a trailer but need to hire a driver to move your freight. Power-only hauling can be a good way to manage your supply chain if you have a limited amount of warehousing space.

3) What is the average transit time?

While transit times depend on factors such as the origin and destination, truckload typically allows for faster shipping times than services such as less-than-truckload (LTL). That’s because truckload freight travels directly without stopping off for loading and unloading during transit. Most providers offer a shipping time calculator to give you an idea of how long it will take.

4) What affects truckload freight rates?

FTL rates are usually based on a per-mile basis, with a minimum charge per load. Rates depend on trailer type, any special services, and can vary depending on the supply and demand of the market, as well as the time of the month, the season, the weight of the shipment, equipment availability, weather and its destination. For example, if you’re hauling or picking up from an area with limited or restricted access, a service fee could be applied.

5) What are the best practices for shipping truckload freight?

Along with understanding how the process works, you’ll want to follow some general guidelines to ensure a smooth experience:

Streamline loading and unloading. You’ll most likely be responsible for loading and unloading and having a plan in place will help create a faster and more efficient process. This can be accomplished through load planning and dock scheduling.

Give precise information. In order to receive accurate rates and transit times, you’ll need to provide specific details. Knowing the exact weight and dimensions will help with pricing and providing accurate details on shipping documents (such as contact information for the shipper and consignee) can help the carrier deliver on time.

Use proper packaging. Using the right type of pallet, box or other packaging material will help protect goods during transit. Keep in mind that failing to package items properly can result in voided carrier liability coverage

1) What shipping option is best for me?

Full truckload (TL) is generally best suited for those looking to move more than 15,000 pounds, or enough to justify the entire use of a semi-trailer. If you’re looking to ship more than 150 pounds of freight, but less than 15,000, less than truckload (LTL) might be the best choice. Getting items quickly from one point to another may call for expedited shipping services. Intermodal shipping uses multiple modes of transportation and is great for long distances between metro areas.

2) What is temperature-controlled freight shipping?

If you have goods that are sensitive to climate conditions (produce, flowers, chocolate, etc.), you will want to consider temperature-controlled shipping. Freight service providers will assist you throughout the process.

3) What is a bill of lading?

The bill of lading (BOL) acts as an invoicing receipt in the shipping industry, and with many motor carriers, the BOL is the contract of carriage between that motor carrier and the shipper. It includes important information related to the shipment such as addresses, packaging type, freight class, description of the goods and any special instructions.

4) How are freight shipments tracked?

Freight service providers offer tracking services online to access a shipment’s status 24/7 from your computer or mobile device. You can track a shipment with a BOL number, but you can often access the shipment’s location with the pro number, PO number, shipment reference number and shipment number as well.