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uShip for Freight Shipping



Let uShip help relieve the stress of freight shipping. We can help you find the best freight shipping companies at the best rates. uShip will help you figure out how to ship freight, help you get the best freight shipping rates, and give you some tips along the way. If at any point, you feel weighed down, don’t worry! Contact us and we’ll help lighten the load.

uShip’s marketplace makes it easy to find the best freight shipping companies to meet your needs and your budget. Create your listing, detailing the needs of your shipment. Then, freight shipping companies will provide you with rates as they compete for your business. You can talk to the shipping companies and review their carrier profiles so you know you’re working with the best freight transport company.

Freight shipping in the mountains

What is Freight Shipping?



Referred to as large quantities of goods, freight is ordered and loaded onto pallets and crates to later be moved through various transportation modes. Freight shipping is the process of physically transporting these substantial amounts of merchandise goods, cargo, or commodities. Through land, sea, or air, freight itself is most commonly moved using trains, trucks, ships, and planes. Additionally, freight companies offer several mode options, including less than truckload freight (LTL), truckload freight (TL), intermodal, and expedited freight services. Using a freight forwarder, you can even ship freight internationally.

How Much Does it Cost to Ship Freight?



The cost to ship freight is dependent on many aspects. While deciding which freight company to use for transportation, you should review and compare pricing each company offers. The following are the main factors that determine shipping freight costs:

  • Dimensions
  • Mode of transportation
  • Density
  • Weight
  • Stowability
  • Liability
  • Freight class
  • Packaging
  • Facility type at shipment’s origin and destination
  • Time sensitivity

For a closer look at what it costs to ship freight, visit our cost to ship freight page. You’ll find freight shipments completed through the uShip marketplace and get a better idea of how we work.

How to Prepare Freight for Shipment



Before your carrier arrives, you'll need to prepare your freight for shipment. Depending on the type of goods you are transporting, your freight will either be palletized or non-palletized. Loose items not needing to be secured to a pallet is considered non-palletized freight. Multi-piece items that need to remain together and are secured on a pallet is a palletized freight. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when preparing freight:

1. Select an appropriately sized pallet, large enough that the shipment pieces will not overhang.

  • Choose sturdy pallets with closely spaced deck boards and zero broken pieces.
  • Use pallets with four-way entry points to improve handling and reduce damage from forklifts.

2. For stackable items and boxes, stack the cartons on the pallets.

  • Make sure newer cartons are used and that each item can withstand stacking.
  • Avoid interlocking, pyramiding, and rotating layer patterns when stacking.
  • Do not extend cartons beyond the pallet edge.
  • Use proper dunnage between the carton to avoid excess space between cartons.
  • Use load protectors to evenly distribute weight.

3. For non-palletized freight, shipment should be in shipping containers, crates, or corrugated boxes when possible.

  • Use strong containers capable of supporting large weights and double box when needed.
  • Protect from bending by reinforcing edges.
  • Ensure internal items are protected by using appropriate cushioning material.
  • Seal seams and closures using reinforced tape.

4. Create labels with complete address information, including phone numbers and postal codes, and attach to each piece.

5. Secure freight to pallet by using straps or banding and then use stretch wrapping to keep all the pieces together.

6. Ensure each side of every pallet has complete address information as well, including numbers and postal codes of the shipper and consignee.

Remember, make sure to follow your freight carrier's instructions and guidelines very carefully in order to protect your shipment from damage and avoid surcharges.

For more on crate shipping, see our guide about crating and shipping freight

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How to Ship Freight Using uShip's Marketplace



Save time and money when you ship your freight with uShip

1 | Create Your Listing

It's important to properly list your items for the most accurate quote. In order to determine what kind of freight service you need, first prepare and measure your freight shipment, listing the number, size and weight of the individual units. Pallets, drums, crates and boxes are all commonly shipped by carriers and can be used to better describe your shipment. Include any special requirements your shipment may have, such as the handling of your freight or permits needed.

Whether you choose to list your freight shipment for quotes in our marketplace or book an instant quote, having a detailed listing will earn you a more accurate shipping price every time.

Woman with pallet jack in warehouse
Truck driver and warehouse manager at pallet delivery

2 | Choose the Best Freight Shipping Company

Once your listing is complete, instant rates may appear as an option for your freight shipment. If you select one of these rates, you will receive direct contact information from the freight shipping company. Note that these published rates may not be available for all freight shipments. When your shipment listing goes to auction, you’ll receive quotes from freight shipping companies as they compete for your business. You’re able to maintain your privacy while you ask questions and talk directly to the shipping companies providing you with freight quotes. When deciding which service provider to use to ship freight, here are some factors that need to be asked and considered:

  • Insurance policies
  • Mode of service offered
  • Amount of experience
  • Service contracts
  • Type of cargo needing to be shipped
  • Procedures
  • Locations
  • Tracking

Each freight shipping company also has their own carrier profile on uShip. You can find their customer rated feedback, safety records, and transportation history all in one place. Review the transportation history and see if they have moved anything like your freight before. See the experience their previous customers had with them. Most carriers add some photos of their equipment so you can see what your freight will be moved in. Reviewing these profiles and talking to the shipping companies will help you feel confident you’re choosing the best freight shipping company for your shipment.

3 | Freight Shipping & Delivery

After you have chosen your freight shipping company, contact them directly with any questions, concerns, or additional details you may have regarding your shipment. Coordinate details for pick up and delivery times and locations with your carrier. Share any third party contact information that may help the shipment run smoother with your freight shipping company. Have payment ready at the agreed upon time and please let us know if you have any trouble contacting your freight service provider.

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Freight hauling in a line on the road
Freight hauler and warehouse manager in warehouse

4 | Freight Insurance Options

Ask freight shipping companies about their cargo insurance. Your transporter should be able to provide you with written proof of insurance that details your shipment's coverage. Make sure you obtain this document prior to shipment.

We also recommend that you obtain your own third-party insurance coverage for added protection. Visit the uShip Cargo Insurance page for more information on this.

uShip Freight Case Studies



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