Shipping Rooftop Tents

9 Essential Steps for Shipping Rooftop Tents Safely

When shipping rooftop tents, they often require LTL freight shipping. These tents and large accessories may have to be banded onto a pallet to maximize product safety. Below are 9 Easy ways to ship a rooftop tent.

1. Packaging & Preparation: Before packaging up the rooftop tent for shipment, ensure the tent is clean, free of any damage, and in good condition. If possible, remove any detachable components to reduce overall dimensions and weight. Remember to consider the types of cushioning material used. Opting for bubble wrap, foam, and padding helps protect delicate tent parts. Next, secure the tent inside a robust crate or sturdy box to prevent movement. The package you select should have plenty of room for cushioning materials. Label the packaging with the proper addresses, contact info, and other relevant details. 
2. Weight and Measurements: It is essential to take time to measure and weigh your shipment correctly. Doing so will ensure a more accurate shipping process and help prevent unexpected fees. Measure the length, width, and height of the packaged tent, and weigh it to determine the exact weight. Only weigh the tent after packaging because the official weight must account for the packaging materials.
3. Freight Carrier Selection: When making a freight carrier selection, it can pay off to do your research. Experience can make all the difference when shipping large or heavy packages, so shop for carriers specializing in handling these items. Once you have found a potential carrier, contact them to discuss the details of your shipment, along with quotes and pricing. As mentioned above, providing the carrier with accurate weight and dimensions is crucial to providing you with accurate and competitive quotes.
4. Final Quotes/Pickup Arrangements: Do not be afraid to ask questions when booking with your freight agent. Clear and accurate communication is essential when booking a shipment; the agent and shipper must be transparent. Once your agent has obtained all the necessary details, they will provide you with a detailed quote that includes the shipping cost, estimated delivery time, and any additional services required, such as liftgate service or residential delivery. Your freight agent will then schedule and book the pickup.
5. Complete the required documentation: To ship a package, you must be willing to fill out some paperwork accurately. Your freight agent will provide you with documents such as the (BOL) Bill of Lading, which outlines the shipment terms and conditions and acts as a receipt for the shipment. Double-checking your paperwork is critical to ensure you have completed everything correctly, especially for details like addresses, contact info, and special instructions.
6. Insurance: Purchasing insurance for your shipment is always a good idea. Damages can still occur even with the most secure of loads with the most reputable carriers. We all do our best, but sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise. It is far better to be proactive and purchase your shipment’s insurance rather than regret going without it later in shipping. Freight insurance provides financial protection against loss in case of damage or loss during transit. Your FreightCenter agent can help you obtain full or partial insurance coverage on your shipments and for the best rates on the market.
7. Tracking/Communication: Your agent will provide you with a tracking number so that you can stay informed of your shipment throughout the entire process. Your agent will also track the shipment closely and keep you informed throughout transit. If you are shipping directly to a customer, provide them with all the information they need about the shipment. This includes the carrier’s contact details and tracking number. And remember to inform your customer to be available for pickup if necessary.
8. Delivery/Inspection: The recipient should inspect the tent for damages or discrepancies. If any issues are found, be sure to document them with photos/notes about the condition of the roof tent. The evidence of the damage will prove crucial when trying to file a claim. It is also wise to request delivery confirmation or a signature upon delivery; this helps get the tent to the intended recipients and provides proof of delivery. Gathering evidence at every step will come in handy if a claim needs to be filed.
9. Follow up: As an essential customer service mark, you should follow up with recipients post-delivery to ensure satisfaction and remedy any issues.