When delving into the world of freight shipping, you’re likely to encounter a lot of lingo and acronyms. At Say Cargo Express, we’re committed to providing you with exceptional service and a clear understanding of the key terms we use. By the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions for your business.
Bill of Lading (BOL)
The bill of lading is a crucial document that acts as a receipt for your shipment. It contains details about the goods being shipped, the origin and destination, the carrier’s information, and the terms and conditions of the shipment.
Cubic Capacity
Cubic capacity refers to the amount of space within a container or truck that can be utilized to carry cargo. It’s important to consider cubic capacity when loading irregularly shaped items or trying to optimize space within a shipment
Dimensional Weight
Dimensional weight (DIM weight) takes into account both the weight and size of your shipment. If your shipment is lightweight but occupies a lot of space, you might be charged based on its dimensional weight rather than its actual weight.
Freight Broker vs. Freight Forwarder
A freight broker acts as an intermediary between shippers and carriers, helping to find suitable carriers for shipments. A freight forwarder, like SayCargo Express, takes a more comprehensive approach, managing the entire shipping process from start to finish, including documentation, customs clearance, and more.
Freight Class
Freight class determines the pricing structure for your shipment. It’s assigned based on the density, value, stowability and handling requirements of your cargo. There are different classes ranging from 50 to 500, with lower numbers indicating higher density and easier handling.
Full Truckload (FTL)
FTL, on the other hand, involves booking an entire truck for your shipment. This is suitable for larger loads that require the entire capacity of a truck and offers a faster transit time since there are no stops in between.
Intermodal Transportation
Intermodal transportation involves using multiple modes of transportation (such as trucks, trains, ships, and planes) to move cargo from its origin to its destination. This approach optimizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Less-than-Truckload (LTL)
LTL shipping is ideal for businesses with smaller shipments that don’t require an entire truck’s space. In an LTL shipment, your cargo shares the space with shipments from other businesses heading in the same direction, helping you save costs.
Transit Time
Transit time refers to the duration it takes for your shipment to travel from the point of origin to its destination. It’s an important consideration when choosing between shipping options, as it impacts your business’s ability to meet deadlines and customer expectations.
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