Guaranteed Delivery Service
Freight Shipping You Can Count On
Guaranteed Freight Shipping is designed for shippers who prioritize certainty in delivery schedules. This service offers a committed timeframe, assuring customers that their shipments will reach the destination on or before a specified date.
Priority Shipping Levels
Specialized Freight Expedited Freight Dedicated Service Time-Critical Overnight Shipping
Priority Shipping Levels
Specialized Freight Expedited Freight Services Dedicated Service Time-CriticalShipping isn’t just about moving goods. It’s about meeting promises.
Whether you’re shipping a single pallet or managing a supply chain with multiple touchpoints, you likely know this truth: delivery delays don’t just cause headaches — they disrupt operations, upset customers, and cost money. That’s why guaranteed delivery services exist — to give you confidence that your freight will arrive when you need it to, no guesswork involved.
Let’s break down what guaranteed delivery service actually means, when it makes sense to use it, and how you can set it up for your next shipment.
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
FreightCenter Makes It Easier
Guaranteed delivery service is only as good as the network behind it. At FreightCenter, we’ve spent 25+ years building relationships with the nation’s most reliable LTL and FTL carriers — the ones that offer guaranteed transit options and follow through on their commitments.
When you work with us, you’ll get:
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Access to top carriers that provide guaranteed shipping
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Transparent options and pricing for your specific route and freight type
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Shipment tracking and visibility so you’re never left in the dark
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Help with claims or refunds, if something goes wrong
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Real humans to answer questions, not automated runarounds
We’re here to help you navigate delivery guarantees without the stress.
What Is a Guaranteed Delivery Service?
Guaranteed delivery service is an add-on in freight shipping that provides a delivery commitment — typically by a specific date or time window. If the shipment misses that target, you may be eligible for a partial refund or credit, depending on the carrier’s policy.
It’s commonly used with LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) and parcel freight, though some carriers also offer guarantees for time-sensitive full truckload shipments.
It’s not the same as “expedited shipping,” though the two often go hand in hand. With expedited shipping, your freight is prioritized in transit. With guaranteed shipping, the arrival time is contractually promised.
When to Use Guaranteed Delivery
Not every shipment needs a guarantee — but some absolutely do. Here are a few situations where guaranteed freight delivery makes sense:
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Critical deliveries tied to production schedules, installations, or events
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Retail shipments that must arrive before a promotion or launch
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Legal or contractual obligations where timing matters
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Trade show freight with fixed setup dates
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Perishable or regulated items with tight handling windows
If missing the delivery window causes real downstream issues, it’s worth considering guaranteed service. You’re not just paying for speed — you’re paying for peace of mind.
Guaranteed Service Shipping Timeframes
The two most common delivery timeframes to choose from when booking your guaranteed shipments are:
- Guaranteed delivery by 5:00 p.m.
- Guaranteed delivery by 12:00 p.m.
Guaranteed Service Key Features:
- Delivery Certainty:
- The hallmark feature of guaranteed shipping is the commitment to a specific delivery date.
- Shippers benefit from a heightened level of predictability in their supply chain.
- Time-Sensitive Shipments:
- It is ideal for time-sensitive cargo or projects where adherence to a precise timeline is critical.
- Guarantees peace of mind for shippers with stringent delivery requirements.
- Premium Service Level:
- Recognized as a premium service level, guaranteed shipping justifies its cost through reliability.
- Shippers receive a higher level of service, ensuring their freight’s timely arrival.
- Strategic Planning:
- Guarantees require meticulous planning to synchronize pickup, transit, and delivery within the specified timeframe.
- Collaboration with carriers is essential to meet the commitment without disruptions.
Considerations:
- Cost vs. Certainty:
- While offering certainty, guaranteed shipping comes at a higher cost than standard options.
- Shippers should evaluate their budget against the imperative of a guaranteed delivery date.
- Lead Time for Booking:
- Booking in advance is often necessary to secure space within carriers committed to guaranteed timelines.
- Shippers should be proactive in scheduling to align with their preferred delivery dates.
Common Pitfalls:
- Assuming Instant Availability:
- Some shippers assume guaranteed services are readily available for last-minute bookings.
- Planning and booking ahead are crucial to secure this premium service.
- Failure to Communicate Constraints:
- Shippers must communicate any constraints or limitations to carriers when opting for guaranteed shipping.
- Clear communication ensures realistic commitments and successful deliveries.
At FreightCenter, we understand that in today’s fast-moving world, on-time delivery isn’t just important—it’s everything. That’s why we don’t just move freight—we craft finely-tuned, guaranteed shipping solutions designed to meet your deadlines with unwavering precision. Whether your needs are simple or complex, our experts work closely with you to ensure each shipment arrives right on schedule.
Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a smart logistics solution for businesses with smaller shipments. It combines multiple smaller shipments into a single truckload, optimizing space and reducing costs. LTL shipping offers affordability and efficiency while ensuring timely delivery, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to save on transportation expenses without compromising on service quality.
When your freight is too large for standard LTL but too small for a full truckload, volume LTL steps in as the perfect fit. And when every hour counts, FreightCenter takes it a step further—with guaranteed LTL volume shipping that gives you both space and speed.
Whether you're shipping sensitive equipment, oversized machinery, or high-value goods, our specialized freight team ensures everything is handled with expert care—and arrives on your timeline. From white glove service to time-critical transport, we’ve got it covered.
When the truck is all yours, your timeline should be too. FreightCenter’s FTL freight solutions are built around your delivery requirements. We secure the space, plan the route, and monitor performance—so your shipment arrives when you expect it.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
How to Get Started
Using guaranteed delivery is easier than you might think.
- Get a free quote online or talk to one of our logistics experts.
- Let us know your delivery requirements — we’ll handle the rest.
- We’ll match you with carriers offering guaranteed service on your route.
- You get peace of mind that your freight will arrive on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guaranteed Delivery Service
Q. What is a guaranteed delivery service in freight shipping?
A guaranteed delivery service ensures your freight arrives on or before a specific date and time, backed by a written commitment. If the shipment misses the window, the carrier may refund part or all of the shipping cost.
Q. How does guaranteed freight delivery work?
When you choose guaranteed shipping, the carrier prioritizes your freight to meet the deadline. At FreightCenter, we help you find trusted carriers who offer these services and monitor your shipment for on-time arrival.
Q. What are the benefits of using guaranteed freight services?
Guaranteed freight services reduce missed deadlines, avoid late fees, protect your supply chain, and provide peace of mind — especially during tight delivery windows or critical shipments.
Q. When should I use guaranteed delivery instead of standard shipping?
Use guaranteed delivery when shipping time-sensitive freight, coordinating with installation teams, avoiding production delays, or meeting seasonal deadlines. It’s ideal for retail launches, trade shows, and just-in-time deliveries.
Q. Does guaranteed shipping cost more than standard freight?
Yes, guaranteed delivery typically costs more than standard service, but the premium is often worth it for time-sensitive shipments or when delivery delays could result in greater costs.
Q. How do I get a quote for guaranteed delivery service?
You can request a guaranteed delivery quote directly through FreightCenter’s platform or speak with one of our shipping experts. We compare rates from multiple carriers offering guaranteed services.
Q. What happens if my guaranteed shipment is late?
If your shipment misses the guaranteed delivery window, the carrier may refund part of the freight charges, depending on the terms. FreightCenter advocates for you and helps file refund claims when needed.
Q. Can guaranteed freight services handle large or high-value items?
Yes. Guaranteed delivery can apply to oversized, heavy, or high-value items — provided the carrier has the right equipment and capacity. FreightCenter works with vetted carriers who specialize in these shipments.
Q. Are guaranteed delivery times available across all U.S. regions?
Guaranteed freight service is widely available across most U.S. regions. Rural or remote areas may have limited options, but FreightCenter helps find the most reliable service in any lane.
Q. Is guaranteed shipping available for weekend or holiday deliveries?
Some carriers offer guaranteed weekend or holiday delivery, but availability varies. Let FreightCenter know your delivery requirements early so we can confirm options and availability.
Q. Can small businesses use guaranteed delivery services?
Absolutely. Small businesses benefit from guaranteed services when shipping time-sensitive products, launching new items, or avoiding customer dissatisfaction. FreightCenter helps businesses of all sizes.
Q. How does FreightCenter help with guaranteed deliveries?
FreightCenter provides access to a network of trusted carriers offering guaranteed options. We handle quoting, booking, tracking, and communication — making it easier to meet delivery commitments.
Pro Tips for a Smoother Guaranteed Delivery Experience
Pickups Aren’t Guaranteed
While delivery times may be guaranteed, carrier pickups often are not. If your schedule is tight, consider dropping your freight off at the carrier’s terminal instead of waiting for a pickup window. This puts you one step ahead and helps the delivery clock start without delay.
Watch Out for Accessorials — They Can Void a Guarantee
Need a liftgate, inside delivery, or a call before delivery? These extra services — known as accessorials — can actually negate the delivery guarantee if they interfere with the carrier’s ability to deliver on time. When timing is critical, keep it simple and avoid unnecessary add-ons whenever possible.
Confirm Delivery Details
Incorrect delivery info is a common cause of missed deadlines. Double-check suite numbers, contact names, phone numbers, and receiving hours with the consignee before booking. Even a small detail can make the difference between an on-time delivery and a costly delay.
