How to Ship a Crate
Consider hiring a freight hauler or broker to ship a crate. During the holidays sending gifts can be frustrating. Many times there's an item needs to sent to a destination that's a locale not regularly served by parcel services and the cost to ship is exorbitant. Here's a few suggestions to tackle the task and ship a crate.
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Instructions
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Measure the crate; determine its weight and list the special services needed. A single crate is usually shipped as Less than Truck Load (LTL). Freight pick up, lift gates and residential deliveries cost extra.
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Talk to several freight carriers. Find out the on time delivery percentages. Ask about transfers and transit time. A lot of transfers or a long transit time increase possible damage or loss of the crate.
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Scrutinize prospective carriers. Haulers must have Department of Transportation authorization to haul freight or act as a broker; look up company credentials. Review transaction histories.
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Know a company's reputation in the industry and among their customers. Make sure the carrier has the required cargo insurance and ask about their claims-to-damage rate; it should be less than 1.5 percent.
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Insure the crate. The carrier's loss/damage liability is usually limited to 10 cents a pound. Determine the shipment's value and purchase a private policy to cover it.
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Prepare the crate for shipment. Follow all the carrier's packaging and labeling instructions. Freight carriers deny damage claims because of improper packing.
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Tips & Warnings
Business, homeowner's or credit card insurance may cover the crate. Check policy terms to be sure.
Over and under packed crates are more easily damaged; protect contents with 2 inches or more of padding all around.
