Cost to Ship
Learn how to get cheap freight rates, how freight rate is determined, what an NMFC code is, and how much it costs to ship freight.
Can I Get Cheap Freight Rates?
Cheap freight rates are largely dependent on shipping volume. If you’re not a high-volume shipper with a long-term contract, it can be difficult to get discounted rates. Working with a 3rd party logistics (3PL) provider like FreightCenter will help you avoid the hassles of searching for the right services at the right price because FreightCenter’s large customer base and nationwide carrier network allow us to receive high volume discounts that we can pass onto you.
Booking a freight shipment isn’t always easy. There are many factors that go into determining freight transportation costs. Some of those factors include the size and weight of the shipment, freight class, lane, and any necessary accessorials. It’s very important that you provide the correct information when requesting a freight quote. Even the slightest mistake can add expensive billing adjustments to what started out as a cheap freight quote.
Our Freight Experts are trained to ask all of the questions necessary to help ensure the information you provide is correct and that you’re receiving the necessary services from the best carrier to match your individual freight shipping needs. With FreightCenter as your logistics partner, you can be sure you are receiving not just cheap freight rates but the best combination of price and service.
How Is My Freight Rate Determined?
There are many things to consider when determining your cost of shipping freight. The following is a list of factors that determine cost:
-
Weight Size and Density or PCF (dimensions, including height)
-
Is it stackable? (e.g., will it get crushed with weight stacked on top?)
-
Distance (zip code to zip code)
-
Location type (business or residential? dock or no dock? limited access? etc.)
-
Accessorial (do you need a call before pickup? liftgate? temperature controlled truck? etc.)
-
Commodity (what type of product are you shipping?)
-
Freight Class and NMFC Code (ask your freight agent)
NMFC Code
The Processing Department at FreightCenter utilizes all the above information you provide to identify the NMFC Code. NMFC codes were developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NAFTA), and they are used industry-wide to classify shipments. There are 18 classes from 50 to 500. They are based on the following characteristics: density, stowability, handling, and liability.
All items shipped within the United States that are considered LTL or less-than-truckload will be classified this way. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the freight class, the higher the rate. It is important to be accurate with your weight, size, and description, as well as your freight class. Upon pick-up, the carrier will double-check these qualifiers, and any discrepancies will cause either a delivery refusal or a billing adjustment. Get Your Free Online Quote Now
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!
