Professional Lumber Shipping Services
Get fast quotes, reliable service, and expert support for your lumber shipments. Whether it’s local or cross-country, FreightCenter simplifies shipping lumber.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 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 FreightCenter for Your Lumber Shipping Needs?
- Extensive Carrier Network: Access to a vast network of reputable carriers specializing in lumber transportation.
- Competitive Rates: Leveraging partnerships to provide cost-effective solutions.
- Real-Time Tracking: Stay informed with our advanced shipment tracking system.
- Expert Support: Dedicated freight agents to assist with planning and execution.
How Our Lumber Shipping Process Works
Getting your lumber shipped with FreightCenter is simple. First, tell us about your shipment—either through our easy-to-use online quote tool or by speaking directly with our friendly team. Once we’ve set you up with the right shipping option, we’ll help you pick a convenient pickup time and place that fits your schedule.
We’ll even guide you through packaging your lumber securely, so it stays protected during the entire journey. Plus, you’ll always know where your shipment is with real-time tracking until it arrives safely at your destination.
Tips for Preparing Your Lumber for Shipment
Preparing lumber properly before shipping is crucial to ensuring it arrives safely and in excellent condition. Whether you’re shipping via truckload or LTL, these tips will help protect your lumber every step of the way.
Start by stacking your lumber neatly and evenly, aligning boards by length and width to keep the shipment balanced and prevent shifting during transit. Using dunnage—spacers placed strategically between layers of lumber—helps forklifts and loading equipment easily handle your shipment, minimizing potential damage during loading and unloading.
Always secure your lumber tightly with heavy-duty straps or metal bands, making sure they are evenly spaced across the entire load. This prevents shifting, tipping, or sliding during transport. Additionally, consider placing edge protectors where the straps contact the lumber, especially for delicate or finished wood, to avoid any indentations or markings.
Protect your shipment from rain, moisture, dirt, and debris by applying a weather-resistant covering, such as heavy-duty tarps or plastic wrap. This extra layer of protection is essential, particularly for longer trips or when inclement weather is expected.
For smaller LTL shipments, clearly label each bundle with your destination address and contact information. Clearly marked shipments significantly reduce the chances of misplaced or delayed deliveries. For full truckloads, confirm with your carrier that the load meets weight and size requirements and communicate any special instructions clearly.
By following these guidelines, your lumber will be prepared securely and professionally, ensuring a smooth shipping experience from pickup to delivery.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
Trust the experts at FreightCenter to provide you with the best prices and comprehensive options when shipping lumber and handling all your LTL freight shipping needs.
We deliver optimized solutions for shipping lumber, whether you have full or partial truckloads. Our competitive pricing covers dry van, flatbed, and refrigerated freight, ensuring we meet all your truckload shipping lumber needs.
Our nationwide expedited trucking services ensure your freight arrives securely and rapidly. Whether you're shipping lumber in a single large box or a full truckload, our freight shipping experts guarantee fast and reliable delivery.
The most reliable rates for specialized freight services, including shipping lumber, from all the top carriers are just a few steps away. Whether you need white glove service or international shipping lumber solutions, we've got you covered.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lumber Shipping
Q. What is the best way to ship lumber?
The best way to ship lumber depends on your priorities. For fast delivery, air freight is ideal but more expensive. Truckload shipping is the most common method for domestic transport, offering a balance of cost-efficiency and reliability. Consider your budget and delivery timeframe when choosing the optimal shipping method.
Q. How much does it cost to transport wood?
The cost to transport wood varies by weight, distance, and method. For example, shipping 150 lbs of lumber over 850 miles typically costs around $350. Prices can differ based on fuel rates, specific transport requirements, and additional services, so it’s advisable to get quotes from multiple carriers for precise pricing.
Q. What is the typical transit time for lumber shipments?
Transit times vary based on shipment size, destination, and the type of service selected. Typically, regional shipments can arrive within 1–3 days, while cross-country shipments can range from 5–10 days or more.
Q. Are there specific regulations for shipping treated wood?
Yes, treated lumber often requires special handling due to chemical treatments. Especially when shipping internationally. Be sure to clearly document the type of treatment applied, and check with your carrier to comply with all applicable local, federal, and international regulations.
Q. How do I determine the freight class for my lumber?
Freight class for lumber depends on density, dimensions, and type of wood. Lumber typically falls between freight classes 50–70, with denser, more compact loads usually having lower freight classes. Our team can help you accurately classify your shipment. For more information on density…
Q. Can I ship lumber via less-than-truckload (LTL)?
Absolutely. LTL shipping is ideal for smaller shipments of lumber that don’t require a full truckload. It’s cost-effective and flexible, allowing you to ship smaller volumes alongside other goods.
Q. What is the best way to package lumber for shipment?
Stack lumber evenly, use dunnage between layers, secure with heavy-duty straps or bands, and protect the shipment from weather using durable tarps or wraps. Proper labeling for LTL shipments is also essential.
Q. Does FreightCenter provide loading and unloading equipment for lumber shipments?
Typically, customers are responsible for arranging loading and unloading. However, we can assist you in finding carriers or terminals that offer loading/unloading equipment like forklifts or cranes if needed.
Q. Are there size or weight limits for lumber shipments?
Size and weight limits vary depending on the carrier and shipping method. Standard flatbed trucks generally accommodate loads up to 48,000 pounds. Oversized shipments may require special permits or specialized equipment.
Q. 9. Do I need insurance coverage for lumber shipments?
While most carriers offer basic liability coverage, additional freight insurance is strongly recommended, especially for high-value lumber shipments. We offer affordable insurance options to fully protect your shipment.
Q. What happens if my lumber is damaged during shipping?
If damage occurs, promptly document it with clear photographs and note it on the delivery receipt at the time of arrival. Then, contact FreightCenter immediately to start the claims process. Our dedicated team will help you resolve the situation quickly.
Q. Can FreightCenter handle international lumber shipments?
Yes, FreightCenter has extensive experience managing international lumber shipments, including navigating customs paperwork and regulations and ensuring compliance with international shipping standards.
Advantages of Shipping Lumber with FreightCenter
Reliable Nationwide Network
With FreightCenter, shipping lumber is easy, thanks to our extensive network of reputable carriers across the country. We ensure your lumber shipments are handled professionally and delivered safely and promptly—no matter the destination.
Competitive Pricing and Transparency
Shipping lumber affordably is simple with FreightCenter. Our transparent pricing model lets you instantly compare rates from multiple carriers, helping you choose the best service for your budget and shipment size.
Expert Support & Shipment Tracking
Gain peace of mind knowing our experienced freight specialists are here to assist you throughout the entire process of shipping lumber. Plus, you'll stay informed at every step with our convenient real-time shipment tracking.
