How to Prepare Your Shipment for Freight Pickup

A well-prepared shipment means faster pickup, fewer damages, and no surprise charges. After coordinating thousands of pickups, here's exactly how to get your freight ready.

The Pickup Checklist

Step 1: Palletize Your Freight

Most freight ships on standard 48" x 40" pallets. Here's how to do it right:

• Stack boxes squarely—nothing hanging over the pallet edge
• Place heaviest items on the bottom
• Fill gaps with dunnage or packing material
• Wrap the entire pallet with stretch wrap (at least 3 layers)
• Keep total height under 48" if possible for stacking

Step 2: Label Everything

Every piece of freight needs a label with:

• Shipper name and address (your info)
• Consignee name and address (destination)
• Number of pieces (e.g., "Piece 1 of 3")
• PO or reference number if applicable
• Special handling instructions ("Fragile", "This Side Up")

Put labels on at least two sides of each pallet. If one gets torn or covered, the other is still visible.

Step 3: Prepare Your Bill of Lading

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is your shipping contract. It should include:

• Shipper and consignee names/addresses
• Number of pieces, weight, and dimensions
• Freight class (for LTL shipping - see our freight class guide)
• Description of goods
• Special instructions
• PRO number (carrier's tracking number)

Print multiple copies—the driver takes one, you keep one, and the receiver gets one with delivery.

Step 4: Prepare the Pickup Location

If You Have a Loading Dock:

• Clear the dock area before the driver arrives
• Have a forklift or pallet jack ready
• Stage freight near the dock door

If You DON'T Have a Loading Dock:

• Request liftgate service when booking
• Make sure the driver can access your location with a 53' trailer
• Have freight ready at ground level

Step 5: Be Ready When the Driver Arrives

Drivers have tight schedules. When the truck arrives:

• Have someone available to sign paperwork
• Load the truck promptly (most carriers allow 30 minutes free time)
• Count pieces with the driver and note any damage on the BOL
• Get your copy of the signed BOL before the driver leaves

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating weight: Leads to reweighs and extra charges
• Wrong freight class: Can double your shipping cost
• No one available: Driver leaves, you get charged for missed pickup
• Freight not ready: Detention charges after free time
• Missing labels: Freight gets lost or delayed

The Bottom Line

Proper preparation takes 30 minutes but saves hours of headaches. Wrap it tight, label it right, and have your paperwork ready. Your driver—and your freight—will thank you.