Cheapest Freight Quote

Factors That Affect Getting the Cheapest Freight Quote

Transit Time

For some quotes, the transit times can vary by two weeks or more. Why the big difference?

When quoted transit times are measured in weeks, it often is because the freight will be transported (at least partly) by train. Shipping by train can be the least expensive and most environmentally friendly way to ship, but it usually takes longer than shipping by truck. If you have the time to ship by train, it’s a great way to save money. Otherwise, stick with exclusively truck carriers.

Even with truck carriers, there will be differences in transit time estimates. Note the word “estimates.” Pickup and delivery estimates are not guaranteed. Also, transit times are measured in workdays, not consecutive days. Freight does not move on the weekend.

Here’s a real-world example. One carrier is estimating a two-day transit time. A different carrier estimates a three-day transit time with a less expensive quote, but the third day falls on a Saturday. The costlier quote anticipates delivery on the previous Friday, but the less expensive quote will be scheduled to be delivered on Monday.

Working with a third-party logistics company (3PL) and dedicated experts can help explain all of this so you can make an educated choice.

Do the Best Shipping Savings Come from a Dimensional-Weight Carrier?

While most carriers charge based on the standardized national freight class system, some have switched to a dimensional-weight-based system that considers how much space the shipment takes up on the truck.

With a dimensional-weight carrier, the shipment’s actual weight may not matter. The carrier will determine the weight of the package based on its dimensions. If the dimensional weight exceeds the actual weight, the carrier will use the dimensional weight to calculate your bill.

If you choose a dimensional-weight carrier but use the actual weight, you could receive a costly billing adjustment after the delivered shipment. Like all billing adjustments, the carrier will generate this, not FreightCenter.

Once again, speak with an account manager to determine the type of carrier you’ve selected. It could be that the cheapest freight quote you received was from a carrier that will raise the price once they know that the dimensional weight is greater than the actual weight.

Special Requirements Can Cut Down Shipping Savings

Your shipment may require a refrigerated truck, a reefer trailer, or one with an air-cushion suspension. Not all carriers will have this equipment available, so you’ll need to make sure you select a carrier that uses the specialized equipment you require for your shipment.

In addition to these services, any extra add-ons or shipping accessorials will come at an increased price. For example, lift gates are helpful for shippers who do not have a traditional loading dock or loading equipment on hand. If you do not order one and the driver has to use it during pickup, you will be charged extra. Include accessorials and other add-ons during booking to avoid paying extra.

Also, most carriers will charge an overlength fee if you ship something over eight feet long. Again, when working with a shipping partner like FreightCenter, our experts will help walk you through the ins and outs of overlength or oversized shipping.

Terminal Distance from Pickup and/or Delivery Locations

Sometimes, the cheapest freight quote comes from a carrier whose nearest shipping terminal is far from the pickup or delivery location. In those cases, they may sub-contract that part of the shipment to a regional carrier rather than send one of their trucks to an area where they will make only one stop and return to the terminal with nothing to show for the trip.

You may be uncomfortable with having a second carrier handling one of the legs of your shipment, especially a long leg. Some carriers will indeed hire partners to do pickups and deliveries even for a short distance, but would you rather the partner carrier handle your cargo for 12 miles or 120 miles? Choosing a carrier that charges a little more but handles all but a small portion of the shipment might be preferable for you.

Find Your Shipping Savings By Working with an Expert

Your first look at your freight quote may show you 20 carriers or more that can handle your shipment. By working with a shipping partner like FreightCenter, you can receive the help you need to filter your options and whittle your choices down to two or three. The provider of the cheapest freight quote might be among those two or three finalists, but not necessarily. It is always important to weigh your options and consider the pros and cons of each available carrier.

We are always here to help you determine the most cost-effective way to ship your freight. Get started comparing freight rates with an instant freight quote, or call us at 800.716.7608.