First Time Shippers
If you’ve never shipped freight before or even if you are a seasoned professional, the process and requirements can be somewhat confusing and hard to wrap your head around. You’ll run into questions like:
What’s the freight class?
Can we put this on a dry van or do we need another type of trailer?
Do you have a Bill of Lading ready?
So before you begin to ship any freight, this section will help you with the basics of shipping freight so that you have an idea of where to begin. You can also contact us directly and one of our qualified representatives will be more than happy to assist you in the process.
The first step in shipping is getting the freight ready so that it can be shipped and determining how you are planning on preparing it for transportation. How you should prepare is influenced by a variety of factors.
Generally when using a dry van, you’ll want to place and secure the freight onto a skid or a number of skids. Although it isn’t necessary to place the freight on skids, it reduces the likelihood of mishandling, creates easier loading, and the cost of shipping is generally lower.
Remember to also label every piece of your shipment with the names and addresses of both the shipper and the reciever. You can download a free, fillable Bill of Lading and Packing List here.
If you’re shipping via an open deck, there are many aspects to consider and you should contact a Calo Logistics representative to assist you in this matter for your first time.
As mentioned in the last step, the first piece of paperwork that needs completing is the Bill of Lading. This is the contract between you and the carrier. It is important that the Bill of Lading is completed correctly and has an accurate description of what is being shipped.
If there are any special considerations for the shipment, they should be specified here. This form is signed at pick-up and delivery in order to communicate any discrepancies or damages that have occurred. Your signature states that you agree with what is on the paperwork, therefore it’s crucial all things are marked on the Bill of Lading.
If the shipment is going cross-border, you will need to complete separate customs paperwork including a commercial invoice and certificate of origin. It is important that this paperwork is completed correctly and will require a customs broker to ensure that the paperwork is correct. They will then forward the paperwork to the relevant border crossing to ensure the freight will clear the border.
You can discuss customs with your Calo Logistics representative, and they will get you in contact with a customs broker.
Have your Calo Logistics representative schedule a pick-up time.
Request a quote here.
The final step is to track your shipment. This can be done in two ways:
Contact your Calo Logisticsrepresentative directly via email or phone
Use your customer login on our website
When the shipment is delivered, you will receive a copy of the proof of delivery (a signed Bill of Lading) with your invoice.
You’ve Completed Your First Shipment with Calo Logistics!
If you have any feedback about your experience with Calo Logistics, please contact us via email or write a review on one of our social media platforms.
