What Is Freight Shipping? Everything You Need To Know!

If you’re not so familiar with the world of shipping, you may need help understanding what freight shipping entails. Learn about the basics of freight shipping, the different types of freight shipments, and more in this comprehensive guide! Find out everything you need to know now!

When talking about moving goods from one place to another, it is almost impossible not to mention freight shipping. This method of shipment is the most cost-effective way to transport large volumes of goods, which makes it a great choice for businesses. It is also the preferred choice of shipment when dealing with bulky items that cannot be packed efficiently into smaller packages. So, what is freight shipping exactly? 

What is Freight Shipping?

Freight shipping refers to the transportation of cargo via land, air, or sea. The goods are usually loaded onto pallets or containers, which are then transported via trucks, ships, railcars, and airplanes. Freight shipping is mostly used to move large cargo shipments from one place to another.

eCommerce businesses rely on freight transportation to ship their products to customers, as it offers cost-saving and efficient shipping options. With freight shipping companies, businesses can also track the package online and adjust their inventory accordingly. Trucks, planes, ships, and trains all play a role in freight shipping, making it a much faster and more secure way to transport goods. 

What is The Process Behind Freight Shipping?

You may be wondering, ‘how does freight shipping work?’ Freight shipping has to do with bulky items, usually items that are larger than can be transported by regular mail services. An eCommerce business may need to use freight shipping to transport a large number of items in one go.

The process starts with an order being placed either online or through a phone call. Once the order is placed and accepted, the freight shipping company will then arrange for the items to be picked up. The goods are then carefully loaded onto a truck or packed in pallets for transportation.

Pallets are wooden platforms or skids that are used to stack and transport goods. Each pallet is usually 48″ by 40″ or 48″ by 48″. About 26 of these pallets can go into the average trailer. The pallets are then loaded onto trucks for shipment or transfer by other means of transportation, depending on the type of freight. 

What Are The Benefits of Freight Shipping?

Freight shipping has several benefits for businesses, including cost-saving, fast delivery times, and increased efficiency.

Cost Savings 

Businesses can save a lot of money when using freight shipping services as they offer lower costs than other traditional shipment methods. One way to save on costs is to opt for the LTL or Less-Than-Truckload option, which allows businesses to combine several shipments into one truck.

Fast Delivery Times 

Thanks to the different modes of transportation used for freight shipping, eCommerce businesses can expect shorter delivery timelines than with other more traditional shipment methods. This is especially beneficial if you are dealing with perishable goods or items that have to be delivered quickly.

Safety 

Shipments in pallets and other freight shipments are carefully monitored, which means that you can rest assured knowing your items are in safe hands. With tracking and notification tools, businesses can also keep an eye on the progress of their package.

Top Class Carriers 

Freight service providers use top-class carriers to ensure the safe delivery of your items. Many freight companies offer insurance services as well, providing additional peace of mind in case of loss or damage.

These are just some of the benefits businesses can reap from using freight shipping services. 

Freight Shipping Methods

If you are looking for a reliable and cost-effective way to transport goods, freight shipping is the answer. There are several methods you can choose from depending on your needs.

Less Than Truckload or LTL 

LTL is the option of choice if you have a shipment that is too big to be classed as a parcel but too small to be classed as a full truckload. Multiple orders will be combined into one truck, providing cost savings for the business. LTL shipments are usually between 150 and 15,000 pounds.

Full Truckload or FTL 

This is ideal for large shipments that are too big to fit in an LTL shipment. With this option, an entire semi-trailer is dedicated to your shipment. This shipment often weighs about 15,000 pounds and is an ideal way to save on costs.

Partial Truckload or PTL 

PTL is just like LTL and is ideal for businesses that have smaller shipments that can not fill a full truck. With this method, there are multiple shipments on one truck, and the shippers share the cost of the truck.

Expedited Shipping 

This is the best option for businesses that need their goods delivered quickly. The method employs air or ground transportation to ensure that the goods are delivered on time.

Intermodal Shipping 

This method combines two or more modes of transportation, such as rail and trucking, to deliver your goods. This is a great option if you need to cut down on delivery costs without compromising on the speed of delivery. 

Types of Freight Shipping Transportation

By now, you should have realized that there are various types of transportation that are used for freight shipping.

Flatbed 

Although not the best option for fragile and hazardous items, flatbeds are used for large and oddly shaped items. Machinery and lumber are usually shipped in flatbeds.

Dry Van 

This is the most common type of freight shipping and is used for general cargo such as food products, electronics, and other dry items. A dry van is about 48 to 53 feet long and is a good option for goods not more than 15,000 pounds in weight.

Temperature Control 

This is ideal for food products and other perishable items that require special storage conditions. Temperature-controlled containers are usually refrigerated and maintained at a certain temperature throughout the entire journey.

What Factors Affect Freight Shipping Rates?

If you are concerned about freight shipping rates, there are several factors that you need to consider.

Weight 

The weight of the package is one of the most important elements in determining the cost of freight shipping. The heavier your goods are, the more it will cost you to ship them.

Size 

The size of your package also plays a role in calculating freight shipping rates. Larger packages will cost more to ship than smaller ones.

Distance 

The distance that the goods have traveled also affects the rate. Longer distances often result in higher costs.

Mode Of Transport 

Different modes of transport, such as air or sea, can affect the price you pay for freight shipping services. Air freight is usually more expensive than ground or sea transport.

Special Care 

If your shipment requires special care and handling, such as temperature control or hazardous material packaging, you may have to pay more for the service.

How Do You Prepare a Freight Shipment?

To ensure that your freight shipment is delivered on time and within budget, you need to prepare the shipment carefully.

Package Well-Sized Pallets 

You need to consider size and space when packaging your shipment. If the items you send cannot fit in a pallet, try to combine them. Place only a few items on one pallet, as this can make it difficult for the shipper to handle.

Shipping Without Pallets 

If you are shipping without pallets, make sure that the items you are sending are wrapped with foam or tape and secured properly. You should also be aware of how your shipment will fit in the container to avoid any delays. You can use boxes and containers in place of pallets.

Label Packages 

Make sure that each package is clearly labeled, including your name, phone number, address, a destination address, and any special instructions required. The label should be on all sides of the shipment.

Obey Freight Shipper Instructions 

Read the documents provided by the freight shipper carefully and obey their instructions. This includes any requirements for packing, handling, insurance, and shipping. Any additional fees required should also be discussed with the shipper before you proceed.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your freight shipment will be delivered safely and on time. With the right preparation, you can get the most out of your freight shipping services and save money.

Final Thoughts

Freight shipping is an integral part of business operations that require the transportation and delivery of goods to customers in a timely and cost-effective way. Knowing what type of freight services are available, as well as understanding the factors that affect the rate, will help you make the right decisions when it comes to your shipment needs.

Reach Out to SFI Today to Enjoy Our Affordable And Reliable Freight Shipping Services

At SFI, we offer a variety of freight shipping services to meet all your needs. We provide comprehensive LTL + FTL services. Our experienced team is here to help you find the best solution for an efficient and cost-effective shipment. Contact us today at [phone] to learn more about our services!