Quoting & Booking Support

Quoting & Booking frequently asked questions

Do I need to know the exact weight and dimensions of my freight?

• To receive the most accurate quote, please enter the precise weight and dimensions of your fully packaged freight.
• Weight should always include any pallet and packaging weight; likewise, dimensions should also include the dimensions of the pallet and any packaging you’re using.

How do I determine freight class?

To help you determine freight class, use our freight class & density calculator, or simply start a quote and freight class will be calculated for you in our online tool.

Can I calculate weight without a freight scale?

• There are several creative ways to calculate freight weight that don’t require a dedicated freight scale. Moving several of the same item? Weigh one and multiply it by the total number of items in your shipment.
• Watch our video to learn creative ways to calculate weight without a freight scale.

Do I need an NMFC number?

• When using our online quoting and booking tool and allowing our system to assign a dimensional freight class for you, you do not need an NMFC number.
• Learn more about the role NMFC numbers play in traditional freight classification.

What is a bill of lading (BOL), and what do I do with it?

• The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a document that states what you’re shipping, where you’re shipping it to, and who is responsible for it.
• At the pickup location, the BOL must be presented to, and signed, by the driver to ensure your selected carrier is working off the correct shipment information. It is important to be sure the party who will load your shipment at the pickup location has a copy of the BOL.
• Freightquote will include a copy of the BOL in the confirmation email you receive after you book your shipment; you can also download the BOL or share it via email from your Freightquote account dashboard.

What is shipper’s insurance, and do I need it?

• Shipper’s Interest Insurance is a policy held by the shipper to protect from the financial impact of lost or damaged cargo in transit. Coverage exclusions and limitations may apply.
• This coverage is broader than the carrier’s required liability coverage:
• Deductibles are $500 (unless otherwise specified)
• The declared product value is used to determine the insurance premium amount
• It is wise to consider shipper’s insurance for items of value or used goods.

What is a volume quote?

• Volume quotes are one-time rate or spot quotes from carriers for large less-than-truckload (LTL) loads.
• Simply enter your specific weight and dimensions into our quoting tool and our Carrier Selection page will automatically display volume quotes for your shipment if available.
• In general, a volume quote may appear in your carrier results when:
• Total weight is equal to or greater than 5000 pounds
• Shipment takes up 10 linear feet or more
• Shipment is the size or weight of a full truckload, but requires special services like residential pickup/delivery or liftgates

How do I get a Freightquote shipping quote?

Getting a quote with Freightquote is quick and easy. Here’s how:

1. Start a quote: Access our online booking tool
2. Enter shipment details: Provide your origin and destination ZIP codes, shipment weight, and dimensions. Accurate details help ensure your quote matches the final price.
3. Choose your freight type: Select whether you’re shipping LTL (Less Than Truckload), Truckload, or another service.
4. Review carrier options: You’ll instantly see multiple carrier choices with real-time rates, estimated transit times, and service levels.
5. Compare and book: Pick the option that best fits your budget and timeline, then proceed to booking.

Why is my Freightquote quote different from the final price?

Your initial quote is based on the shipment details you provide—such as weight, dimensions, origin, and destination. If any of those details change or are inaccurate, carriers may apply additional charges. Common reasons for price changes include:

• Accessorial charges: Services like liftgate delivery, residential pickup, inside delivery, or limited access locations often add extra fees.
• Incorrect shipment details: If the actual weight or dimensions differ from what was quoted, carriers adjust the cost.
• Reclassification: Freight class changes can impact pricing.
• Unexpected delays or special handling: Situations like missed pickups or repackaging needs may result in added costs.

How to avoid surprises:

• Double-check your shipment’s weight, dimensions, and freight class before booking.
• Confirm if your pickup or delivery location requires special services (e.g., liftgate, residential).
• Review the quote details carefully and ask questions before finalizing.

Step-by-Step User Guides to Booking with Freightquote

How to book an Amazon delivery

Get step-by-step instructions to quote and book your Amazon delivery. Learn how to book an Amazon warehouse shipment in minutes.

How to book an LTL freight shipment

Get started with step-by-step instructions to book your standard less-than-truckload (LTL) shipment. See how to book an LTL shipment in minutes.

How to book a full truckload shipment

Become an experienced shipper in minutes with Freightquote's easy online tool! Get started with step-by-step instructions to book your truckload/dry van freight shipment.

How to book a flatbed shipment

This guide will help you navigate and utilize the features to successfully book a flatbed truckload shipment in minutes. Learn how to book a flatbed shipment.

How to ship Canadian freight

This guide will help you navigate the Freightquote online tool to book freight to, from, or within Canada. See how to book a Canada freight shipment.