SHIPPER GUIDE · 4 MIN READ
Start with the two locations
Provide the pickup and delivery cities, provinces or states, and postal or ZIP codes. Identify whether each site is a warehouse, manufacturing facility or another type of location. A city name alone does not reveal dock access, travel distance or receiving restrictions.
Describe the freight as it will travel
Include the commodity, pallet or piece count, total gross weight and dimensions of each handling unit. Measure the packaging as well as the product. Mention overhang, fragile items, non-stackable freight and anything requiring a particular loading method.
State timing and equipment requirements
Give the date and time the freight will be ready, the shipping hours, and any fixed delivery appointment. Separate a preferred date from a firm deadline. If you know the equipment required, name it; otherwise describe the loading and unloading facilities so the requirement can be reviewed.
Disclose extra services before booking
Tell us about tailgate needs, limited-access sites, inside delivery, waiting, multiple stops or customs requirements. Do not assume these services are included. Ask the rate provider to identify exclusions and charges that depend on actual time or services used.
Check the written confirmation
Review the route, commodity, weight, equipment, dates and rate conditions. A quote request is not a booking. Notify dispatch if the actual load changes, rather than waiting until the truck arrives.