Freight prep is critical for complex shipments
Every shipment requires care and coordination. But shipping something heavy, oddly shaped or fragile demands even more attention because it’s more vulnerable to tipping, shifting and breaking. If these loads are not secured and packaged correctly, the risk of damage during transit, delays at pickup/delivery and unexpected costs rises. Whether your freight is shipping using LTL or taking up a full truckload, how you prepare it matters.
Common challenges to prepare for
Freight becomes challenging when it doesn’t fit the standard pallet shape or weight profile. Common challenges include protruding parts that can break, heavy or top-heavy items prone to tipping over and freight that can't be safely stacked.
Best practices for blocking and bracing nonstandard loads
Ensure your freight is protected in transit with these tips:
Use wooden blocking, shims or straps to brace and stabilize heavy or unbalanced freight.
Protect exposed or fragile parts by padding and wrapping them securely.
For freight that won’t sit properly on a standard pallet, consider custom crates or pallets to add stability and simplify handling.
Clearly label your freight on at least two sides with handling instructions, orientation and weight info to guide handlers through loading and unloading.
These steps help keep freight safe and make handling processes easier, no matter the shipment size or mode of transportation used.
Find tips on packing your LTL freight.
Documentation tips to help things go smoothly
Good documentation is just as necessary as proper packaging. Proper documentation helps ensure carriers understand how to handle your freight and can help you avoid delays or disputes.
Include special handling instructions
Make sure your bill of lading (BOL) and packaging lists any special requirements for the shipment. This could include things like “do not stack,” “keep upright” or “requires side loading.”
Use correct NMFC classification
For LTL shipments, using the right NMFC code is key. It helps ensure your freight is rated properly while avoiding reclassification charges and disputes. If your freight is difficult to categorize, contact your transportation provider for guidance.
Note: Due to recent NMFC changes, it’s a good idea to double-check classifications for your shipments.
Communicate accessorial needs
If your freight needs special services like liftgate, residential delivery, limited access or driver assistance, it’s essential to include these details on your paperwork and notify your carrier in advance. This helps ensure the equipment and labor are available for pickup or delivery and prevents delays and unexpected accessorial charges.
How ArcBest makes shipping tough freight easier
A trusted logistics partner makes all the difference when your freight doesn’t fit standard guidelines due to shape, size, fragility or weight. ArcBest brings experience and a hands-on approach to help you navigate it with confidence, backed by the specialized knowledge of our ABF Freight packaging experts. ArcBest helps you with:
Freight evaluation and risk assessment
Custom packaging and crating solutions
Guidance on proper blocking, bracing and securing
Help with classification and documentation
Coordination across all shipping modes to ensure the best fit for your complex freight
Our goal is to keep your freight safe, compliant and moving smoothly through transit regardless of the complexity of your shipments.
Ready to ship with confidence?
With ArcBest as your trusted transportation provider, you’ll have the tools, knowledge and support to move your complex shipments without the stress. Contact us today for a custom plan for your difficult-to-ship freight.
