Ship Large Items with FreightCenter!
We understand that packaging is crucial when shipping large items. That’s why we offer comprehensive packaging solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our network of packaging centers specializes in different types of shipments, ensuring your items are protected and secured during transit. Our dedicated agents will work closely with you to determine the best packaging center for your shipment, ensuring everything is coordinated seamlessly within your shipping order.
Consider Packaging Yourself
If you prefer to handle packaging yourself, here is a checklist to ensure your items are safe and secure:
Use sturdy materials: Opt for high-quality boxes, crates, and padding materials.
Secure a parsell: Ensure all components are tightly packed and immobilized to prevent movement during transit.
Label clearly: Mark your packages with handling instructions and destination details.
Consult with Our Experts
While self-packaging is an option, consulting with our experts is often beneficial. Every shipment is unique, and our dedicated agents can help determine the best packaging center and method for your specific needs. This ensures that everything is coordinated seamlessly within your shipping order, providing peace of mind and optimal protection for your items. To learn more about the best way to ship your freight, chat with one of our expert shipping agents at 800.716.7608.
Overlength and Oversize Freight Service
Some oversized items require specialized shipping services, such as overlength and oversized freight. Overlength shipments are suitable for unusually long freight that doesn’t take up much room in the trailer.
Understanding Overlength Freight
Overlength shipments refer to freight that is longer than standard dimensions but doesn’t necessarily occupy much space in terms of width or height. These items typically range from 96 to 144 inches (8 to 12 feet) in length. When planning to ship overlength items, it’s crucial to:
- Check Carrier Limitations: Different carriers have varying limits on the length of items they can transport. Verify these limitations beforehand to avoid any logistical issues.
- Packaging and Handling: Properly securing overlength freight is essential to prevent damage during transit. Specialized packaging and handling procedures may be required.
Dealing with Oversized Freight
Oversized freight poses additional challenges due to its dimensions and weight, often exceeding standard shipping regulations. Here are some general guidelines:
- Width: Exceeds 8 ft. 6 in. (2.59 m)
- Height: Exceeds 13 ft. 6 in. (4.11 m)
- Weight: Ranges from 34,000 to 80,000 lbs, depending on the number of axles on the transport vehicle.
Special Considerations for Oversized Freight
- Transportation Equipment: Oversized freight often requires specific types of transportation equipment, such as flatbed trucks, step decks, or double drop trailers. Each type of equipment is designed to handle different aspects of oversized cargo, from extra-long items to heavy machinery.
- Route Planning: Certain areas’ infrastructure may not support oversized shipments. This includes considerations like bridge heights, road widths, and weight limits. Proper route planning ensures the consignment can travel safely and legally from origin to destination.
- Permits and Regulations: Transporting oversized freight typically requires special permits. State or local authorities issue these permits, which must be obtained before the shipment can proceed. Regulations vary significantly between regions, so working with your freight agent to ensure compliance is essential.
- Escort Vehicles: In some cases, oversized loads may require escort vehicles to ensure safe transit. These vehicles help navigate traffic and provide additional safety measures during transport.
- Safety and Compliance: Adhering to safety standards is crucial. This includes properly securing the load, following all transportation regulations, and ensuring that the vehicle and driver meet all legal requirements.
Consider Help From a Freight Agent
While it is possible to handle the preparation and planning for overlength and oversized freight on your own, consulting with a freight agent can simplify the process and ensure better outcomes. Here’s why:
- Expert Guidance: Freight agents have experience and knowledge in handling oversized shipments, including understanding the best practices for packaging, securing, and transporting your freight.
- Customized Solutions: Every shipment is unique. A freight agent can provide tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of your cargo, from choosing the right type of transportation equipment to navigating regulatory requirements.
- Efficiency: Working with a freight agent can streamline the process, reduce the risk of delays, and ensure that all necessary documentation and permits are in place.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Although additional costs might be associated with using a freight agent, their expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes and inefficiencies.
Don’t Break Your Back Shipping Large Items
Shipping large items means that you will likely need accessorial services. Make sure you choose the right services to help handle the load. There are several to consider:
First Mile—This service includes anything from dismantling and packaging a piece of freight before it’s moved from point A to point B to inside pickup, the labor of lifting and carrying it, the liftgate, etc.
Final Mile—Final Mile is a service that can include unpacking an item, carrying it where it needs to be, removing packing materials, etc. This can be paired with white glove services.
White Glove—If you’re shipping large items like furniture, antiques, or any other valuable items, white glove service would be your best option because you will receive packaging, moving, and loading of your cargo and inside pickup and delivery.
Understanding accessorials and their importance in the shipping process before filling out a freight quote will help you avoid a surprise billing adjustment after the shipment is delivered and completed. We’re the pros you can rely on to find the right solutions for shipping large items.
To learn more about the best way to ship your freight, get a free online quote or chat with one of our expert shipping agents at 800.716.7608.
