New to Freight? Your Top Freight Questions Answered

This article originally appeared in Emerge.
  1. What’s the difference between LTL and FTL?
    2. Typically LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipments range from 150-10,000 lbs. taking up no more than 10-12 linear feet of deck space, while FTL (Full Truckload) shipments can scale significantly more weight and will usually take up most, if not all, of the deck space of a standard trailer. (53 feet, 45,000 lbs).
  2. What is a BOL?
    3. A BOL (Bill of Lading) acts as a receipt for freight services which will also include important shipment information like pickup/delivery, contact information and specific load details.
  3. What is an NMFC number?
    4. NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) is the number associated with the commodity of LTL shipments. This number allows for systematic and uniform pricing on LTL shipments based on the class of the shipment.
  4. What is a freight classification?
    5. Freight classification is utilized for structuring LTL pricing. This classification is essentially a number associated with the weight, density and dimensions of a shipment.
  5. What does FAK stand for?
    6. FAK (Freight of All Kinds) is a term typically utilized by shippers and their vendors when pricing out shipments containing multiple commodities. This typically allows shippers to ship higher class freight at discounted prices.
  6. What is a double drop trailer?
    7. A double drop trailer is typically utilized for over-dimensional freight. Double drop trailers have a deck that sits lower to the ground than a standard flatbed trailer allowing for taller freight to be moved while adhering to standard driving regulations.
  7. What is an RGN?
    8. A Removable Gooseneck Trailer is essentially the same thing as a double drop trailer but allows for cargo that can be driven on to a trailer.
  8. What is the maximum amount of weight that can be on a dry van?
    9. 45,000 lbs
  9. What is the maximum amount of weight that can be on a standard flatbed?
    10. 48,000 lbs
  10. What are accessorial fees?
    11. Accessorial fees are charges added on to a freight bill (ie. tarps, straps, lift gate, driver assist, etc).
  11. What is a marketplace?
    12. In the freight industry, a marketplace is a platform in which shippers have the ability to source for untapped, cheaper capacity while at the same time enabling service providers to operate far more efficiently by moving freight on lanes most suitable for them. Discover the Emerge Private Freight Marketplace and how it can help reduce your freight spend.
  12. How are shipping rates determined?
    13. Freight shipping rates are determined by a variety of things including size, weight, distance, pickup/delivery, mode of transportation and the actual goods being shipped.
  13. What’s the difference between freight and parcel?
    14. Parcel or small packages typically weigh no more than 150 lbs. LTL ranges from 150-10,000 lbs. while FTL is 10,000 lbs+.
  14. How do I find the best carrier for the job?
    15. There are many factors to take into account when searching for the right carrier for your freight, check out our post on how to hire the right carrier.
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