LTL Freight Shipping Mistakes You Could Be Making

There’s a lot to remember when it comes to less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping — and making even simple mistakes can be costly. We know that no business owner wants to waste time or money dealing with shipping errors, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common freight shipping pitfalls (and how to avoid them).

Improperly packaging your freight shipping

If you package your freight shipments incorrectly, they may get lost or damaged in transit. LTL shipments can be handled numerous times en route, so it’s important to pack your goods securely — we recommend using pallets or crates. Check out more tips on how to prepare your freight shipments.

Estimating weight, dimensions or class

If you fail to accurately state the weight, size and class of your shipment, your quote will be incorrect and you run the risk of a reweigh or reclassification fee. Make sure to list the correct weight, dimensions, NMFC code and class on your shipment’s bill of lading — and it never hurts to double check it for accuracy!

Skipping freight shipping insurance

If you pass on freight insurance because you think your shipments are automatically insured by the carrier, you should think again. Carrier liability for loss or damage has limits, regardless of the actual value of your shipment. We recommend adding insurance to every shipment so your freight is fully protected if anything happens.

Not comparing freight shipping carriers

If you’re not comparing carriers, you may not be using the best or most affordable option for your freight shipping. Many third-party logistics (3PL) providers make it easy with online tools, like myUnishippers™, which helps you instantly compare costs and delivery options for LTL shipments.

Forgetting additional services and fees

When requesting a quote, it’s important to inform your carrier in advance if you need any additional services — for example, if you need a liftgate, are delivering to a limited access location or need a scheduled delivery. If you forget about these additional services, you may end up with unexpected fees on your final bill.

A 3PL can help you navigate the world of LTL shipping and make sure you’re getting the best rates for your freight. Contact us today to get started.