FAQs - accuFRATE

When should I use air freight?

Air freight is best for time-sensitive shipments, high-value goods, or lightweight cargo that needs fast international delivery.

How are air freight costs calculated?

Costs are based on the greater of actual weight or volumetric weight (length × width × height ÷ volumetric factor). Other factors include destination, priority level, and surcharges (fuel, security).

What is the difference between direct and consolidated air freight?

Direct air freight involves booking space on a single flight for faster delivery. Consolidated air freight combines shipments from multiple shippers, which reduces costs but may involve longer transit times.

How long does air freight take?

Air freight is much faster than ocean or ground transportation, with most international shipments delivered within 1-7 days, depending on the service level.

What documentation is required for air freight?

Required documents include a commercial invoice, airway bill (AWB), packing list, and any customs declarations for international shipments.

What is an Airway Bill (AWB)?

An AWB is a non-negotiable document that acts as a receipt, contract of carriage, and guide for handling and tracking the shipment.

Can air freight handle hazardous materials?

Yes, but the shipper must comply with IATA regulations, provide necessary documentation, and properly label and package the hazardous goods.

Is there a weight or size limit for air freight shipments?

Weight and size limits vary by carrier and aircraft type. Most carriers have weight restrictions per package (typically 70-100 kg) and size limits based on cargo hold dimensions.

Is insurance available for air freight?

Yes, although carriers offer limited liability based on weight, it is advisable to purchase additional insurance to cover the full value of the goods.

How does tracking work for air freight?

Air freight offers real-time tracking through the carrier’s system, showing the status from pickup to delivery, with updates at key checkpoints during transit.

What is LTL freight and when should I use it?

LTL freight is ideal for shipments that don’t require a full trailer and typically range from 1 to 6 pallets. It’s cost-effective for businesses with smaller loads.

How are LTL freight rates calculated?

Rates are based on freight class, weight, distance, and any additional services required (e.g., liftgate, residential delivery).

What is freight class and why is it important?

Freight class is determined by factors like density, stowability, and handling requirements. It ensures accurate pricing and proper handling by carriers.

What accessorial fees apply to LTL shipments?

Common fees include liftgate service, residential delivery, inside delivery, and limited access locations.

How long does LTL delivery typically take?

Transit times depend on distance, carrier network, and service type (standard vs. expedited). Typical times range from 1 to 5 business days.

Do LTL shipments come with tracking?

Yes, carriers offer tracking, but updates may only be available at terminal checkpoints rather than real-time location tracking.

What’s the difference between LTL and parcel shipping?

LTL is used for larger, heavier shipments that are palletized, while parcel shipping is intended for smaller, lighter packages.

Can I ship hazardous materials via LTL?

Yes, but the shipment must comply with DOT regulations, and the carrier must be authorized to handle hazardous materials.

What packaging is required for LTL freight?

Palletizing your shipment is recommended to prevent damage, and all items should be properly secured and labeled.

How does LTL insurance work?

Carriers offer limited liability coverage based on weight. Additional insurance can be purchased for high-value shipments.

What types of goods are shipped via ocean freight?

Ocean freight is ideal for large, bulky shipments such as consumer goods, machinery, raw materials, and vehicles. It is commonly used for international trade.

What is the difference between FCL and LCL shipping?

FCL (Full Container Load) means a single shipment occupies the entire container, while LCL (Less than Container Load) involves sharing a container with other shipments, which can reduce costs but increase handling time.

How long does ocean freight take?

Transit times vary based on the origin, destination, and route, but international shipments typically take 20-45 days, depending on whether it’s direct or involves multiple ports of call.

How are ocean freight costs calculated?

Costs are determined by the size of the container (e.g., 20-foot, 40-foot), weight, shipping route, surcharges (fuel, port fees), and any additional services like customs clearance.

What is a Bill of Lading (BOL) in ocean freight?

A BOL is a legal document issued by the carrier that serves as a receipt of goods, contract of carriage, and title to the goods being shipped.

What is the difference between port-to-port and door-to-door service?

Port-to-port covers transport between two seaports, while door-to-door includes pickup from the origin and delivery to the final destination.

How does customs clearance work for ocean freight?

Customs brokers handle the clearance process by ensuring all necessary documentation is in place, duties are paid, and the shipment complies with local regulations.

What is demurrage, and how can it be avoided?

Demurrage is a fee charged when containers are not picked up from the port within the allotted free time. It can be avoided by promptly arranging transportation and clearance.

What types of containers are used for ocean freight?

Common containers include dry containers, reefer containers (for refrigerated goods), and open-top or flat-rack containers for oversized cargo.

Is insurance necessary for ocean freight?

Yes, while carriers offer limited liability, additional cargo insurance is recommended to protect against loss, damage, or delays during transit.

When should I use rail freight?

Rail freight is ideal for long-distance bulk shipments and heavy cargo that isn't time-sensitive.

How are rail freight rates determined?

Rates depend on distance, weight, type of cargo, and accessorial services.

What types of cargo can be shipped via rail?

Rail can transport bulk commodities, machinery, and containers.

How does rail freight tracking work?

Tracking is available, but updates are less frequent than truck or air freight.

What is intermodal shipping?

Intermodal combines rail and truck transport to move cargo efficiently over long distances.

How long does rail freight take?

Transit times vary but are generally longer than truck or air freight.

Is rail freight secure?

Yes, but additional security measures may be needed for high-value shipments.

What are rail accessorial charges?

Charges may apply for loading, unloading, and specialized handling.

What weight limits apply to rail freight?

Railcars can carry much heavier loads than trucks, often exceeding 200,000 lbs.

Can rail handle oversized freight?

Yes, rail is well-suited for oversized and heavy freight.

What qualifies as a small package shipment?

Small package shipments are individual parcels typically weighing less than 150 lbs and handled by couriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS.

How are small package rates calculated?

Rates depend on weight, dimensions, destination, and service speed (e.g., ground, 2-day, overnight).

What’s the difference between ground and express services?

Ground shipping is slower but more economical, while express services offer faster delivery for time-sensitive shipments.

Do small packages require special packaging?

Yes, proper packaging protects the contents and ensures safe delivery. Carriers often have packaging guidelines.

Is tracking available for small packages?

Yes, real-time tracking is standard for most small package shipments.

Can I insure my small package shipments?

Yes, carriers offer insurance, and additional coverage can be purchased based on the package value.

What happens if my package is lost or damaged?

Carriers have claims processes for lost or damaged packages, but proof of value may be required.

Are accessorial fees applied to small packages?

Yes, fees may apply for Saturday delivery, signature confirmation, or special handling.

Can I ship hazardous materials via small package?

Some hazardous items can be shipped, but they must meet carrier and regulatory requirements.

What are dimensional weight charges?

Dimensional weight pricing applies to large but lightweight packages to account for the space they occupy.

What is full truckload (FTL) freight?

FTL freight involves the use of a full trailer dedicated to one shipment, providing faster and more secure transportation.

When should I choose FTL over LTL?

Choose FTL if your shipment fills most or all of a trailer or if speed and minimal handling are priorities.

How are truckload rates calculated?

Rates depend on market demand, distance, weight, type of cargo, and any special requirements (e.g., refrigerated trucks).

What types of trailers are available for FTL?

Options include dry vans, flatbeds, reefers (refrigerated), and specialized trailers for oversized loads.

Is FTL faster than LTL?

Yes, since the shipment travels directly from origin to destination without being consolidated or transferred.

What are the weight limits for truckload freight?

Typically, the weight limit is 45,000 lbs, but it varies based on the type of trailer and local regulations.

Do I need a loading dock for FTL shipments?

A dock is ideal, but carriers can provide liftgate services if needed for locations without a dock.

Can I schedule multiple stops with FTL freight?

Yes, multi-stop deliveries can be arranged but may increase transit time and cost.

How does FTL insurance work?

Carriers provide limited liability, and additional insurance can be purchased for high-value cargo.

Is tracking available for truckload shipments?

Yes, most carriers offer real-time GPS tracking for FTL shipments.

What is volume freight?

Volume freight covers shipments that don’t fill a full trailer but exceed the size limits of LTL, typically more than 6 pallets.

How are volume rates different from LTL rates?

Volume rates are negotiated based on space occupied, weight, and lane availability, offering better rates for larger shipments.

When should I consider volume freight instead of LTL?

Use volume freight when your shipment is large enough to secure a discounted rate compared to multiple LTL shipments.

Is volume freight faster than LTL?

It can be, depending on lane availability, but it doesn’t guarantee expedited service unless specifically requested.

Can volume shipments include multiple stops?

Yes, volume freight can accommodate multi-stop deliveries, though additional fees may apply.

Do volume shipments require special equipment?

It depends on the cargo. Some shipments may need reefers, flatbeds, or other specialized equipment.

How does volume freight insurance work?

Coverage is similar to LTL but may need to be negotiated depending on the shipment value and carrier policy.

Is volume freight subject to accessorial fees?

Yes, services like liftgate, residential delivery, or inside delivery can incur extra charges.

Do I need to palletize volume freight shipments?

Palletization is recommended for easy handling, but loose or irregular shipments may be accepted if properly secured.

How does volume freight tracking work?

Tracking is available but may only show major checkpoints or terminal updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Air Freight FAQs