Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping is the standard method for moving freight that is too large for parcel services yet does not require the entire space of a semi-trailer. Since LTL shipments from multiple companies share space on one truck, the process requires careful coordination and communication. The pallet pickup request is the formal communication mechanism used to initiate the movement of these palletized goods and serves as the starting point for the entire transportation process. This request ensures the carrier has all the necessary information to efficiently route and handle the freight from its origin to its final destination.
Defining the Pallet Pickup Request
A pallet pickup request is an official instruction submitted to a carrier or freight broker to retrieve a specific shipment from a designated location on a scheduled date. This request transforms a rate quote into a live, scheduled transportation event. It acts as the carrier’s dispatch order, providing the driver with the necessary details to locate the freight and confirm its specifications. LTL services require this explicit scheduling because the carrier must plan a route with multiple stops to maximize trailer capacity. Submission of this request formalizes the shipping contract between the shipper and the transportation provider.
Key Information Required for the Request
Submitting a pickup request requires the shipper to provide a detailed snapshot of the freight and its journey. Accurate origin and destination addresses are mandatory, including specific contact names and the operating hours of both facilities. This detail helps the carrier schedule the pickup within the facility’s available window, often a two-hour period in the LTL industry. The physical characteristics of the freight must be precisely detailed, covering the number of pallets, the total weight, and the dimensions of each pallet (length by width by height). Inaccurate measurements can lead to reweigh or reclassification fees later. The request must also include a clear description of the commodity, its declared value, and the required service date.
Understanding the LTL Pickup Process
The LTL pickup process begins immediately after the request is submitted and confirmed by the carrier or broker. Confirmation results in the assignment of a unique tracking number, often called a PRO number, which allows all parties to monitor the shipment’s status. The carrier’s dispatcher then assigns the pickup to a specific driver and truck, integrating the new stop into the day’s optimized route. The driver arrives at the origin facility within the scheduled pickup window, which is usually a non-guaranteed time frame. Upon arrival, the driver performs a physical inspection, verifying the pallet count and condition against the documentation, and signs the Bill of Lading (BOL), officially transferring custody of the goods to the carrier.
Essential Terminology and Accessorials
Dealing with LTL freight requires understanding specialized language, particularly the function of the Bill of Lading (BOL). The BOL is a legally binding document that serves as a contract of carriage and a receipt of goods. It contains all shipment details, including the freight class, a standardized system that determines shipping cost based on the item’s density, stowability, liability, and handling. Services extending beyond basic dock-to-dock pickup and delivery are categorized as accessorials and result in additional charges. Common accessorials include the liftgate requirement, needed if the facility lacks a loading dock or forklift. Other frequent charges are for limited access or residential pickups, detention fees for excessive waiting time, or appointment requirements for delivery.
Tips for a Successful Pallet Pickup
Shippers can maximize pickup efficiency and avoid unexpected costs by focusing on preparation and accuracy. Ensure the freight is properly packaged and secured by wrapping the pallet tightly to prevent shifting or damage during transit. This preparation reduces the carrier’s liability and the likelihood of a freight claim. All documentation, especially the Bill of Lading, must be completed accurately, ensuring the pallet count and weight match the freight staged for the driver. Staging the freight and making it accessible at the designated pickup area before the carrier’s arrival prevents detention charges, which accrue when the driver is delayed. Clear communication with the facility contact and the driver ensures a smooth transfer of custody.