A: A bill of lading is standard, mandatory paperwork providing the carrier and driver with all pertinent information related to the shipping costs and information. It's a required document to move a freight shipment.

The bill of lading (BOL) works as a receipt of freight services, a contract between a freight carrier and shipper and a document of title. The bill of lading is a legally binding document providing the driver and the carrier all the details needed to process the freight shipment and invoice it correctly.

A: Please make sure that all items being shipped are properly and securely packaged to prevent damage. All freight should be packaged, crated, or stacked and secured onto pallets with banding, shrink-wrap or breakaway adhesive. Labels should be placed on every freight piece. Improper packaging may decrease or nullify the carrier's liability for damage claims or loss.

A: An important factor in correctly quoting a shipment is the freight dimensions. Dimensions should be rounded to the nearest inch and include width, length and height. Inaccurate freight dimensions will result in an adjustment from the carrier and may be costly.

A: Freight weight is another important factor in accurate freight quoting. Carriers use freight weight to predetermine the number of individual loads for a specific truck. The Department of Transportation regulates the weight of trucks on the road and accurate freight weights allow carriers to manage their truck weights. An incorrect freight weight will result in a carrier adjustment.

A: Freight transit times are not guaranteed unless specifically noted on the freight quote option you select when booking you shipping rates. All other delivery times are estimates only that cannot be guaranteed, though they are normally reliable. Freight shipping transit times begin the day after picking up your freight.