Shipping Automotive Lubricants
Ship your Lubricants with Ease!
When it comes to your automotive lubes and oils, these wheels come pre-greased! Safely ship your lubricants with us, and trust FreightCenter for reliable and secure shipping solutions.
Shipping Automotive Lubricants
Shipping automotive lubricants requires careful handling to prevent leaks, contamination, or hazardous incidents during transit. Whether you’re shipping motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or gear oils, all containers must be tightly sealed, properly labeled, and packed in leak-resistant, upright-compatible packaging. Use UN-rated drums, pails, or jugs where applicable, and ensure all containers are placed in sturdy, reinforced boxes with sufficient absorbent materials to contain spills. Labeling should clearly identify the contents, including hazard classifications if applicable, and each package should meet DOT and carrier requirements for transporting liquids and lubricants.
For bulk lubricant shipments, FreightCenter provides Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) freight shipping that’s both efficient and compliant. Whether you’re moving a pallet of motor oil to a distributor or shipping brake fluid to a repair shop, we connect you with reliable freight carriers, offer competitive rates, and support you with shipment tracking. Get a free freight quote today and trust FreightCenter to simplify the shipping of automotive lubricants with safety, speed, and expert coordination.
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.
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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 Shipping Automotive Lubricants?
FreightCenter specializes in secure, cost-effective shipping for automotive lubricants, including motor oil, transmission fluid, gear oil, and grease. With 25+ years of logistics expertise, we simplify the process by connecting you with trusted carriers and offering tailored freight solutions for both individual and bulk shipments. Our competitive rates ensure affordable shipping without sacrificing quality, whether you need specialized handling for hazmat or expedited delivery for urgent orders. Backed by personalized customer support, we manage everything from quotes and tracking to paperwork and carrier coordination, so you can focus on your automobiles while we handle your shipping needs.
Trust FreightCenter for reliable, secure, and cost-effective lubricant shipping.
Can You Ship Automotive Lubricants by Freight?
Yes. Automotive lubricants can be shipped via freight, typically as LTL or FTL shipments, depending on volume. However, most lubricants are classified as hazardous materials by the DOT due to their flammability, so:
- Proper packaging, labeling, and documentation are required
- Only hazmat-certified carriers can legally transport certain products
- Shipping quantities may be regulated by state or federal law
FreightCenter helps ensure you select the right carriers and services for compliant, worry-free transport.
Special Steps to Take when Shipping Automotive Lubricants
Shipping automotive lubricants requires strict attention to packaging, labeling, and compliance to ensure safety and prevent costly incidents. Since many lubricants—such as motor oil, brake fluid, and gear oil—are classified as hazardous materials, they must be shipped in containers that are leak-proof, sealed tightly, and resistant to puncture or corrosion. It’s crucial to use UN-certified drums, jugs, or pails when applicable and to secure them in heavy-duty boxes or on pallets with absorbent materials in case of spills. Containers should be stacked securely to prevent tipping during transit.
Proper labeling and documentation are also essential. Each container must be clearly labeled with the correct product name, hazard class (if applicable), and any handling instructions like “This Side Up” or “Keep Away from Heat.” If the lubricant is considered a hazardous material under DOT (Department of Transportation) or IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) regulations, a shipping paper, such as a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), and proper placarding for freight carriers may be required. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in delays, fines, or rejected shipments.
Additionally, choosing the right freight service plays a key role in safe and cost-effective delivery. Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is ideal for businesses transporting smaller quantities of lubricants, while Full Truckload (FTL) may be better for large-volume or dedicated shipments. It’s essential to collaborate with a logistics partner like FreightCenter, which understands the specific handling requirements of automotive lubricants and can help coordinate carriers, ensure regulatory compliance, and track shipments in real-time for seamless delivery from origin to destination.
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.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping is ideal for businesses moving smaller quantities of automotive lubricants, such as cases of motor oil, brake fluid, or gear oil. By combining multiple shipments from different customers on one truck, LTL allows each shipper to share transportation costs without sacrificing reliability. FreightCenter connects you with top-rated LTL carriers, offering competitive rates and flexible pickup options to ensure your lubricants are shipped safely and efficiently.
When you're shipping bulk volumes of automotive lubricants, full truckload (FTL) shipping is the most efficient option. FTL shipping reserves the entire trailer for your freight—ideal for large palletized loads or drums that exceed LTL weight and space limits. Whether you're transporting motor oil, transmission fluid, or other lubricant products, FreightCenter offers optimized FTL solutions, including dry van, flatbed, and temperature-controlled options tailored to your cargo's specific needs.
Automotive operations can’t afford to wait when critical lubricant supplies run low. Expedited freight shipping ensures that urgent deliveries of motor oil, hydraulic fluid, or brake fluid arrive on time, whether it’s one drum or a full truckload. FreightCenter’s expedited services are perfect for emergency resupply, unexpected maintenance needs, or time-sensitive shipments—offering rapid, secure transport nationwide through our trusted carrier network.
Some automotive lubricants—especially those classified as hazardous or high-value—require specialized shipping solutions. This might include temperature-sensitive synthetic oils, oversized lubricant containers, or hazardous materials that demand extra compliance and handling. FreightCenter provides access to specialized freight services, including white glove delivery, hazmat-certified carriers, and international transport, ensuring your lubricant shipment is handled with care from start to finish.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Ship Automotive Lubricants Safely with FreightCenter
Whether you’re shipping a few cases of oil or an entire truckload of lubricant drums, FreightCenter ensures your freight gets there safely, legally, and cost-effectively.
Get a Quote or call 800-716-7608 to talk to a shipping expert today.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shipping Automotive Lubricants
Q. Can I ship automotive lubricants through a freight carrier?
Yes, you can ship automotive lubricants through freight carriers, including LTL and FTL services. Depending on the quantity, packaging, and classification, certain lubricants may be subject to hazmat regulations.
Q. Are automotive lubricants considered hazardous materials?
Some automotive lubricants—especially those with flammable or chemical components—are classified as hazardous materials. Always check the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to determine proper labeling, documentation, and carrier requirements.
Q. What is the best way to package automotive lubricants for shipping?
Use sealed, leak-proof containers rated for transport (such as UN-certified drums or jugs). Place them in sturdy boxes or on pallets, and add absorbent materials to prevent spill damage during transit.
Q. Do I need special labels to ship motor oil or brake fluid?
Yes. All containers must be clearly labeled with product names, hazard classifications (if applicable), and any required handling instructions, such as “Flammable” or “This Side Up.”
Q. Can I ship different types of lubricants in one freight shipment?
Yes, but each type must be packaged and labeled separately according to its individual requirements. Mixing incompatible chemicals in the same container or packaging is not allowed.
Q. What freight shipping service should I use for lubricants?
Q. Are there temperature requirements for shipping synthetic oils or specialty lubricants?
Some high-performance or specialty lubricants may require climate-controlled shipping to preserve their chemical integrity. If needed, FreightCenter can arrange temperature-controlled transport options.
Q. Can I ship lubricants internationally?
Yes, automotive lubricants can be shipped internationally, but they must comply with international shipping laws and hazardous material regulations like IMDG or IATA guidelines.
Q. How should I prepare a pallet of lubricants for shipping?
Secure all containers upright on the pallet using stretch wrap or straps. Use absorbent pads underneath, and clearly label each side. Make sure nothing overhangs the pallet to avoid damage.
Q. Do I need insurance when shipping automotive lubricants?
It’s highly recommended. While most carriers offer limited liability, purchasing additional freight insurance can protect you from financial loss in case of leaks, damage, or delays.
Q. What paperwork is needed to ship automotive lubricants?
At minimum, you’ll need a bill of lading (BOL). If shipping hazardous lubricants, you’ll also need Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and potentially hazardous materials declarations.
Q. Can I ship used or recycled automotive lubricants?
Shipping used or waste lubricants is subject to additional EPA and DOT regulations. Many carriers do not accept used oil due to its potential classification as hazardous waste.
Q. How can FreightCenter help me ship automotive lubricants safely?
FreightCenter connects you with experienced carriers, ensures regulatory compliance, and offers competitive rates and tracking tools. Our team helps guide you through every step of the process.
3 Special Tips for Shipping Automotive Lubricant
Consolidate SKUs to Lower Freight Class and Save on Costs
If you’re shipping multiple types of lubricants (e.g., motor oil, brake fluid, gear oil), try to group similar products in terms of packaging and hazard classification. By consolidating your SKUs onto the same pallet using uniform container sizes and weights, you can often qualify for a lower freight class, which directly reduces your shipping rate. Mixing light and heavy drums haphazardly? That could cost you more than you think.
Pre-Stage Spill Kits at the Receiving End
Spills can delay unloading and lead to unexpected fees or disposal costs. Having a spill containment plan isn’t just for the shipper—your receiving team should also be equipped with spill kits and disposal supplies in advance. This can drastically reduce downtime and limit liability if a container arrives compromised, especially in bulk lubricant deliveries.
Avoid Residential or Limited Access Fees by Shipping to a Business or Terminal
If you're a small operation or mobile mechanic ordering lubricants to a shop on private or residential property, consider shipping directly to a local freight terminal or commercial receiving partner. Freight carriers often charge limited access or liftgate fees for non-commercial deliveries—costs that can quietly eat into your margin. Terminal pickup can save both money and time.
