Answers to Common Questions Regarding Freight Services in Minnesota

Your new company may be seeking freight services for the first time, or perhaps you have been using our services for years. No matter where you are at with local and interstate commerce, you likely still wonder about the details of what we offer. Here are the most common questions we receive regarding freight services in Minnesota.

What is LTL?

LTL is the acronym for “less than truckload,” and it is our most common service. This is one step up from parcel shipping services like UPS which handle packages up to 150 pounds. Our LTL services are appropriate for shipments from 151 to 10,000 pounds. We offer this service on a local, intrastate, regional and long haul basis.

What if we need truckload services?

A truckload involves cargo of more than 10,000 pounds. We accommodate these shipments, too. Our fleet of 53’ air ride trucks and refrigerated trailers help you with a variety of needs related to handling these larger loads. You can consult with us first to find the most cost-saving shipment method.

How do you determine shipment rates?

Many elements go into providing you with a shipment estimate. Generally, these include type of cargo, mode of transport, distance, weight of cargo and other factors based on your unique situation.

If you are looking at LTL shipment, the rates are primarily dependent on class of freight. There are 18 classes based on length, height and weight of the items and their ability to fit on shrink-wrapped 4×4 pallets. The more complex the items, the higher the class and the shipping cost. Also, not all classes can ship together, so we need to consider that, too.

For example, auto sheet metal, metal parts and bookcases are in Class 150 because they have similar heights and their weight is generally six to seven pounds per cubic foot. The lowest class, clean freight, includes items that easily fit on 4×4 pallets and are durable. At class 50, these are the easiest items to ship. That would make Class 50 items less expensive to ship than Class 150. These classes could ship together as long as weight and dimensions add up.

The cost of truckload shipments focuses more on per-mile costs, which may not always include the fuel surcharge. If you opt for a flatbed shipment, type of equipment, mileage and weight will be the primary factors in determining the amount of your estimate.

Can I just provide approximate size and weight?

If you want a reliable shipment estimate, you need to provide details and avoid guesswork. It is better to be overly detailed when you first hire us than fail to provide enough information and face additional expenses.

Also, if you go with LTL shipping, carriers need exact dimensions because your shipment will likely accompany others. We need to know how much can fit in one truck, or costly carrier adjustments may apply. Loading multiple LTL shipments on one truck saves money, so knowing details is worth it in the long run.

What about fragile goods?

If you request a shipment of fragile goods, start by letting us know. We can take precautions and even limit package handling to prevent compromising your items.

Also, correct packing is essential. Wrap glass items separately and keep them separate from non‑fragile items. Choose good crates and pack as many of them as possible in one, so there is less movement during transit.

It is our goal to ship items safely and efficiently. For reliable freight services in Minnesota, call K-Way Express, Inc. today.