Shipping Special Items

A special item is any shipment that requires more than standard handling or equipment to move safely. This may include fragile, valuable, oversized, hazardous, or temperature-sensitive goods that cannot be boxed and shipped through typical LTL channels. Common examples include fine art, laboratory equipment, refrigerated goods, and machinery. These shipments often need custom packaging, specialized carriers, or extra protection during transit to prevent damage or loss.

You can usually tell your item qualifies for special shipping if it’s cumbersome, large, delicate, or has specific environmental or handling needs. If it cannot fit within standard freight dimensions or could be damaged by vibration, temperature shifts, or stacking, it likely requires specialized care. FreightCenter’s shipping experts can evaluate your shipment details and advise on whether a standard or specialized service is the most cost-effective and safest option for your needs.

Yes. FreightCenter partners with carriers who are trained and equipped to transport fragile items such as glass, electronics, sculptures, and high-end displays. These shipments often require custom crating, foam-in-place packaging, or climate-controlled environments to maintain stability and prevent damage. FreightCenter helps you compare carrier options, packaging recommendations, and coverage levels to ensure your fragile freight arrives in perfect condition.

When a shipment exceeds typical size or weight limits, it transitions from less-than-truckload (LTL) to full truckload (FTL) or heavy-haul freight. In these cases, specialized trailers—such as flatbeds, step decks, or removable goosenecks (RGNs)—are used to move large items safely. FreightCenter simplifies the process by coordinating with carriers that specialize in oversized loads, managing permits, escort vehicles, and route planning to ensure compliance and smooth delivery.

While not always mandatory, freight insurance is highly recommended for any shipment with significant monetary or sentimental value. Even when handled by experts, accidents or external factors can occur. FreightCenter offers access to trusted third-party freight insurance providers so you can protect your investment against loss, theft, or damage during transit. Having proper coverage provides peace of mind and allows you to recover value quickly if an unexpected issue arises.

Packaging is one of the most critical parts of protecting special items in transit. Use double-walled boxes or custom-built wooden crates to absorb shock and prevent shifting. Wrap items in bubble wrap or foam padding, and secure them with bracing materials to prevent movement. If your shipment is unusually valuable or delicate, FreightCenter can connect you with professional third-party crating and packaging services to ensure your items are prepared to carrier standards.

Yes. Many shipments of special items, such as furniture, artwork, or collectibles, originate from or are delivered to residential locations. FreightCenter partners with carriers to offer residential pickup and delivery options, including white-glove service for items that require setup, unpacking, or placement in a room of choice. This makes the process easy for customers who don’t have loading docks or business facilities.

Yes, FreightCenter collaborates with a network of refrigerated carriers and insulated transport providers that specialize in temperature-controlled freight. This service is ideal for items such as pharmaceuticals, food, beverages, or sensitive electronics that require maintaining a specific temperature range. We help you select the correct type of refrigerated equipment and ensure that temperature logs, compliance documentation, and routing meet the exact requirements of your shipment.

Absolutely. Fine art, antiques, and other irreplaceable items often demand specialized care and controlled environments. FreightCenter connects you with carriers who have experience transporting high-value freight using air-ride suspension trucks, custom crating, blanket wrap services, and even white-glove delivery. Our team can also help you evaluate insurance coverage options to provide full protection from pickup to final placement.

The cost depends on several variables, including the item’s size, weight, packaging requirements, distance, and any special handling or equipment needed. For example, shipping a delicate sculpture across state lines may cost a few hundred dollars, while transporting industrial machinery could exceed several thousand dollars. FreightCenter’s free online quoting tool offers instant rate comparisons across multiple carriers, enabling you to find the most competitive price without compromising service quality.

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the primary document for any freight shipment, detailing what is being shipped, where it’s going, and who is responsible for it. Depending on the item, additional documents, such as permits, certificates of authenticity, or Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), may be required. FreightCenter helps shippers prepare and organize all necessary paperwork to ensure compliance and avoid shipment delays.

FreightCenter provides complete shipment visibility through its Transportation Management System (TMS). You can track your freight in real time, view carrier updates, and receive notifications about delivery milestones. This technology ensures you’re always informed about your shipment’s location, estimated arrival time, and any status changes, regardless of the complexity or sensitivity of the freight.

Yes, certain items are restricted or regulated by law. This includes hazardous materials, firearms, chemicals, and specific electronics with lithium batteries. Each category has its own documentation and packaging requirements. FreightCenter’s agents can help verify what is allowed, secure the proper permits if needed, and connect you with carriers certified to transport regulated or hazardous freight safely.

Yes. If your business regularly ships special items—such as medical equipment, industrial parts, or consumer goods—FreightCenter can establish a recurring shipping program. This includes negotiated carrier rates, automated scheduling, and personalized account management. Our TMS platform streamlines repeat orders, saving time while ensuring consistency in quality and cost.

Getting started is easy! You can request a free quote online through FreightCenter’s platform by entering your shipment’s dimensions, weight, and destination. Our system instantly compares rates from multiple carriers that specialize in handling special freight. Once you’ve chosen your preferred option, a FreightCenter logistics expert will guide you through packaging, documentation, and pickup scheduling to ensure your shipment moves smoothly from start to finish. You can also obtain your quote directly from our experts by calling (800) 716-7608.