The plain-English playbook on freight class, BOL paperwork, accessorials, transit times, and how to pick the right freight broker. Updated 2026.
Shipping basics
Pick the right mode.
FTL or LTL?
FTL if you have 10+ pallets, anything time-sensitive, or anything fragile. LTL if you have 1–6 pallets that can ride with other freight. Six pallets is the typical break-even — ask us if you’re close.
Reefer or dry van?
Reefer for anything temperature-sensitive (produce, dairy, frozen, pharma). Dry van for everything else. Pulp temp matters — tell us the setpoint and the commodity, not just “frozen”.
Flatbed or step-deck?
Flatbed for standard heights (under ~10\’). Step-deck for anything taller, oversized, or that needs to clear bridges. Permits handled state-by-state.
Standard or expedited?
Standard transit is fine for stock-replenishment freight. Expedited (team driver, dedicated truck) is worth it when missing the delivery costs more than the rate — e.g. line-down auto parts.
Paperwork & pricing
What every shipper should know.
What is a Bill of Lading (BOL)?
The BOL is the legal contract between shipper, broker, and carrier. It lists pickup/delivery addresses, commodity description, freight class, weight, accessorials, and special instructions. Errors on the BOL cause re-classification, delivery delays, and surprise charges — we send you a clean template.
What is freight class?
A standardized 1–500 NMFC classification used to price LTL freight. It’s based on density, stowability, handling, and liability. Get it wrong and the carrier re-classes mid-trip with a surcharge. We help you classify before booking.
What are common accessorials?
Charges beyond line haul: liftgate ($60–$120), residential ($80–$200), inside delivery, appointment scheduling, limited access (schools, churches, military bases), and detention beyond free time. We quote them up front so you know the all-in rate.
What is detention?
When the driver waits beyond the agreed “free time” (usually 2 hours pickup + 2 hours delivery). Detention is paid hourly to the carrier. Schedule realistic pickup windows and have the freight ready to load — saves you and the driver.
What questions should I ask a freight broker?
Are you FMCSA-licensed? (Skyline: USDOT 4232458, MC 1637675). What’s your bond? (BMC-84 $75K). Can I see proof of carrier insurance before you book my freight? (Yes — ask). Do you handle damage claims? (Yes — we file with the carrier on your behalf).
Have a load to move?
Submit it — a real Fresno dispatcher prices it in under 4 minutes.
