Just because you have filled out the paperwork, packed your goods, and arranged a pickup, you can’t always expect your shipment to run smoothly. An important factor in the success of your shipment relies on the details and specs you provide on the Bill of Lading (BOL).
One potential barrier to a smooth shipment is a freight adjustment. This occurs when the carrier has to correct inaccurate shipment weights or dimensions, resulting in additional charges for the shipper. When a carrier weighs a shipment at its facility, it receives a Weight Inspection Certificate. This document is the official weight for your shipment and it serves as the basis for any weight adjustment.
So how do you make sure that you provide accurate shipping weights to avoid additional charges?
- Use a certified scale and test it before each use
- Weigh the entire shipment, not individual packages
- Be sure to include the packaging and the pallet in your listed weight (this is a common mistake)
- Take a photograph of the scale as proof of weight
- Call Logistics Plus if you have any additional questions
Additionally, with the NMFC now designating more commodities for density-based classifications, preparing an accurate BOL is as important as ever. If you note the wrong weight for a density-based product on your bill of lading, there is a good chance that the LTL carrier will re-weigh your shipment and charge you the higher rate using the same freight class you designated on your BOL rather than adjusting the freight class according to the new weight and dimensions. Specifically, this is how one carrier has worded their new rules tariff item specific to this situation: “In the case where the weight is changed on a shipment that is a density-based item in NMFC, the freight classification on the original bill of lading will be used unless the shipper or consignee can produce irrefutable supporting documentation showing clear evidence of the LxWxH and corresponding weight of each handling unit of the shipment.”
The freight experts at Logistics Plus are happy to help you with any questions or issues regarding freight characteristics. Contact us using the button below or email us at nadops@logisticplus.net if you have any additional questions.
