Freight Shipping
Ship smarter with FreightCenter – the trusted leader in freight solutions. Compare rates, book shipments, and track deliveries with ease. Whether you're shipping LTL, truckload, or specialized freight, we’ve got you covered.
Get a Quote Today and Keep Your Business Moving!
We provide competitive freight shipping prices and an all-inclusive, easy-to-use shipping experience for our customers. Exceeding our customers’ expectations results in thousands of satisfied customer reviews and repeat business. We believe in the power of our customer relationships. Check out FreightCenter reviews from real customers, and learn what they have to say about their freight shipping experience!
Awards and Endorsements
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Choose Freight Shipping for Your Business?
What is Freight Shipping?
Who Does Freight Shipping?
Freight shipping is handled by a wide range of companies, including freight carriers, third-party logistics providers (3PLs), and independent trucking companies. Large national and regional carriers manage extensive networks of trucks, trains, ships, and planes to move goods across different distances. Smaller, specialized carriers focus on niche markets, offering services for specific types of freight, such as oversized loads or temperature-controlled shipments. FreightCenter works with both large and small carriers, giving businesses access to the correct shipping solutions for any cargo.
Businesses of all sizes – from small retailers to large manufacturers – rely on freight shipping services to move products within the supply chain. FreightCenter acts as a bridge between shippers and carriers, helping businesses find the best rates and manage their shipments from start to finish. By leveraging a network of trusted carriers, FreightCenter ensures that companies have the flexibility and support they need to ship everything from a single pallet to full truckloads efficiently.
Why Choose FreightCenter for Your Freight Shipping Needs
8-Step Guide to Freight Shipping
Shipping freight isn’t complicated. Follow these eight simple steps to ensure a smooth and efficient shipping process.
1. Understand Your Freight Shipping Needs
Start by identifying what you need to ship. Determine the type, size, weight, and quantity of your items. This will help you decide whether you need less-than-truckload (LTL), Full-Truckload (FTL), or specialized shipping services.
2. Measure and Weigh Your Shipment
Accurate measurements and weight are crucial for getting an accurate freight quote and avoiding additional charges. Use a scale and measure the length, width, and height of your freight, including any pallets or packaging.
3. Choose the Right Packaging
Proper packaging protects your freight during transit. Use pallets, crates, or shrink wrap to secure your shipment. Ensure the load is balanced and packed tightly to prevent damage or shifting during transportation.
4. Get a Freight Quote
Use an online freight quote tool to compare rates from multiple carriers. FreightCeFreightCenter makes it easy to input your shipment details and receive instant quotes, helping you find the best shipping option for your budget and timeline.
5. Book Your Shipment
Once you’ve you have a carrier and rate, book your shipment through FreightCeFreightCenter’sned platform. Scheduling in advance can help you secure better rates and ensure timely pickup and delivery.
6. Prepare the Bill of Lading (BOL)
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a critical document that serves as a contract between you and the carrier. It contains shipment details, including origin, destination, weight, and freight class. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays.
7. Track Your Shipment
Stay informed with real-time tracking and visibility tools. Monitor your freight as it moves through the supply chain so you know where it is and when to expect delivery. FreightCenter offers shipment tracking to give you peace of mind.
8. Receive and Inspect the Freight
Upon delivery, carefully inspect your shipment for any damage or missing items. Note any issues on the delivery receipt before signing. If there’s a problem, file a claim immediately and contact FreightCenter for assistance.
Following these eight steps can simplify your freight shipping experience and ensure your goods arrive safely and on time.
FreightCenter offers a diverse range of freight shipping services to accommodate shipments of all sizes, shapes, and special requirements. Whether you need to move small parcels, oversized equipment, or temperature-sensitive goods, our solutions are designed to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation. Explore the 12 types of freight shipping we provide to find the right fit for your business needs.
Ideal for smaller shipments that don't require a full trailer, combining multiple shipments to save on costs.
For larger shipments that fill an entire truck, providing faster transit times and less handling.
Combines multiple modes of transportation (trucks, trains, and ships) for cost-effective and efficient long-distance shipping.
Freight is transported by air, offering fast transit times for time-sensitive shipments, especially for long distances or international routes.
Cargo is transported by cargo ships for long-distance or international shipments, often in shipping containers. It is a cost-effective option for transporting large quantities of goods.
Freight is transported by rail, offering a reliable and efficient mode of long-distance shipping, especially for bulk or heavy cargo.
For shipments larger than LTL but not enough to fill a full truck, providing a middle ground between the two.
Used for perishable goods or temperature-sensitive items that need to stay within a specific range during transit.
Suitable for oversized or irregularly shaped freight that can’t fit in a standard trailer.
Facilitates freight movement between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, managing customs and documentation.
Designed for extremely large or heavy equipment and materials that exceed standard size and weight limits.
A priority shipping option for time-sensitive deliveries that need to arrive quickly.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Who Does Freight Shipping?
A variety of companies carry out freight shipping, each playing a vital role in transporting goods across the country and internationally. Freight carriers handle the physical movement of shipments using trucks, trains, ships, and planes. These carriers range from large national companies with extensive fleets to smaller, specialized carriers that focus on specific types of freight, such as oversized loads or refrigerated goods.
In addition to carriers, third-party logistics providers (3PLs) like FreightCenter act as intermediaries, connecting shippers with the right carriers to meet their specific needs. By leveraging relationships with multiple carriers, 3PLs provide businesses with access to better rates, flexible shipping options, and the convenience of managing shipments through a single platform. This collaboration helps businesses of different sizes find cost-effective and reliable freight solutions.
From manufacturers and retailers to construction companies and small businesses, anyone with large, heavy, or bulk shipments relies on freight shipping services. FreightCenter simplifies this process by offering access to a vast network of trusted carriers, ensuring that businesses can find the right shipping solutions, no matter the size or scope of their freight.
How FreightCenter Can Help
Now that you have a better understanding of the different shipping freight costs contact FreightCenter today to plan out your next shipment. Call one of our expert freight agents at 800.716.7608 to get started!
Freight Shipping FAQs:
Q. What is freight shipping?
Freight shipping refers to transporting goods or cargo in large quantities using various modes of transportation such as trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes. It is typically used for commercial purposes and involves shipping goods from one location to another.
Q. What types of freight can be shipped?
Freight shipping accommodates the transportation of a wide range of cargo, including, but not limited to, palletized goods, machinery, equipment, raw materials, finished products, automotive parts, electronics, and household goods.
Q. How is the cost of freight shipping determined?
Several factors determine the cost of freight shipping, including the weight and dimensions of the shipment, the distance to be traveled, the mode of transportation used, any additional services required (such as liftgate or inside delivery), and the current market rates. Freight carriers calculate shipping costs and provide quotes based on these factors.
Q. What are the different modes of freight transportation?
The different modes of freight transportation include trucking (via full truckload or less than truckload), rail, air, and sea. The mode choice depends on the destination, urgency, cost, and shipment type.
Q. How long does freight shipping take?
The transit time for freight shipping varies depending on the distance, mode of transportation, and other factors, such as customs clearance for international shipments. Freight carriers typically provide estimated delivery times, but they are subject to factors like weather conditions and unforeseen delays.
Q. How can I track my freight shipment?
Most freight carriers offer tracking services that enable customers to monitor the progress of their shipments. They provide a tracking number that customers can enter into the carrier’s online tracking system or access through customer service to see real-time updates on the location of the freight.
Q. Do I need to package my freight?
Yes, proper packaging is crucial for freight shipping as it helps prevent damage and ensures the safety of your shipment. It would be best if you securely packaged the cargo to protect it during transportation. Depending on the nature of the goods, this may include palletizing, shrink-wrapping, or using suitable containers.
Q. Do I need freight insurance?
Freight carriers offer limited liability coverage for lost or damaged shipments, but it may not be sufficient to cover the full value of your goods. Freight insurance is advisable as it provides additional protection and peace of mind. You can arrange insurance through the freight carrier or a third-party insurance provider.
Q. How do I choose a suitable freight carrier?
Choosing a suitable freight carrier involves considering factors such as their reputation, reliability, service quality, coverage area, transit times, pricing, and the specific requirements of your shipment. Researching and comparing multiple carriers is recommended to find the one that best meets your needs.
Q. Can I ship internationally with freight shipping?
Yes, freight shipping allows for the international transportation of goods. However, international shipments may require additional documentation, customs clearance, and compliance with specific regulations and requirements of the destination country. Working with an experienced freight forwarder or customs broker can help you navigate the complexities of international freight shipping.
