Truck
Container Drayage;
Transload services;
LTL & Express delivery;
Do I Need a Liftgate?
If you’re shipping to or from a location that will not have an available loading dock upon pick-up or delivery, then the answer is probably “yes.” Liftgates are mechanisms at the backs of trucks that can raise and lower the freight so that it can easily be picked up by a forklift or hand truck. A liftgate incurs an extra fee of USD100.
Is Residential Shipping More Expensive?
Yes, it is generally more expensive and problematic to ship to and from houses than it is to ship to and from commercial or retail buildings. To be considered a business, your pick-up or drop-off point must open and close at regular times. Be aware: in some cases, businesses, schools, churches and other organizations in residential areas are treated as residential pickups or destinations for purposes of shipping. The higher cost has to do with more complicated access issues and a greater degree of risk. However, that’s just one of many factors carriers consider in determining the cost for shipping freight.
What if the Truck Arrives and We’re Not Ready?
While an appointment shall be made before truck showing up, you need to be ready when the truck really arrives in time. Your pick-up/delivery point is probably not the only one on the driver’s schedule, so a late pickup/delivery can affect everyone. Some clients may even have a transit time guarantee. If you’re not ready on time, then your pickup/delivery will likely be delayed for at least a day, and you may also be subject to fees for Truck Order not Used (TONU) and/or for cancellation.
What Are Accessorial Fees?
“Accessorial” is a derivative of “accessory,” so its meaning makes pretty good sense; it means “add-on.” Accessorial fees are extra charges for things that make your shipment more complex for the trucking company, things like pickups or drop-offs in residential neighborhoods, lift gate service, loading or unloading from a building interior and last-minute rescheduling of the pick-up time or date. In our quotation system, several of these fees are applied based on the options you choose at the top of the form.
What’s the difference between LTL and Full Truckload?
LTL is “Less Than Truckload,” so the fundamental difference is fairly obvious. However, not every truck has the same capacity and not every load is clearly appropriate for one shipping method based on weight and size alone. Obviously, if you’ve got 200 pounds of freight to transport, you’ve got an LTL shipment and if you have 10,000 pounds of freight, that’s a full truckload, but what if you’re not sure? If it’s not clear what type of service is best, then price out both options and consider whether or not there would be benefits to a dedicated truckload. Some Full Truckload services will combine two shipments into one large truckload. This is usually referred to as “partial truckload” rather than LTL, and it tends to be less expensive.
Should I Use a Parcel Delivery Service or a Less Than Truckload Service?
Our rule of thumb is that if you need to ship over 150 pounds, you will almost certainly find it more cost effective to arrange for LTL (less than truckload) service. We will find you a low rate on a common carrier, and it will cost you less than you’d pay for parcel delivery. If your shipment is between 100 and 150 pounds, then we recommend that you price out both options before deciding.
Do You Have Packaging Guidelines?
When you use AEB for your shipping logistics, you are expected to follow standard business practices in regard to packaging and packing. That usually means that your shipment will be in boxes that are individually labelled, then bound together onto pallets with straps, breakaway adhesive and/or plastic wrap. The boxes should be arranged on the pallet with a flat top and no overhang. Larger and heavier items may be shipped in crates. If you have questions about proper packaging, then don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can contact us by phone or e-mail.
Is AEB Logistics the Company That Will Transport My Shipment?
No, AEB Logistics does not own any trucks. We’re a shipping logistics company. Our job is to negotiate low, bulk shipping rates for our customers and coordinate loads, scheduling and carriers. We manage your shipments, but we aren’t the ones who move them. We work with some of the top carriers in North America, and we can get your shipment where it needs to go at the lowest cost in the industry. We have trusted carriers like Schneider, J.B.Hunt, YRC, Landstar, North American, UPS Freight, FedEx Freight and many more on our team.
Should We Confirm Directly With the Carrier?
You do not need to confirm with the carrier, and calling them directly after booking with us could result in a double-booking. At AEB Logistics, it is our job to coordinate logistics, and you can depend on us to manage the carrier(s). Feel free to confirm with us by phone.
Are Shipments Automatically Insured?
Your shipment will be insured by the carrier, not by AEB Logistics. The Industry standard level of coverage for freight starts off at 10¢ a pound for used goods, and is significantly higher but does vary if you are shipping new goods. If you require additional insurance, you will need to arrange for it separately.
What’s the Procedure For Insurance Claims on Lost or Damaged Shipments?
Lost and damaged items are generally handled through you, the carrier and the insurance company. For a smooth recovery, make sure that the shipment is confirmed and inspected before the truck leaves and that any missing or damaged items are recorded. Always file the claim as soon as possible; it must be filed within 90 days of delivery. If you need advice on how to file a claim, don’t hesitate to contact us.