Avoid common pitfalls
Shipping Tips
- It is always advised to label your freight with the pick-up and delivery locations to combat the misplacement of cargo.
- Changing delivery information once a shipment is in transit could result in additional fees. It is important to communicate any changes with your sales representative prior to placing a shipment in transit.
- In the event your freight arrives damaged, you must notate all damages on the delivery receipt. Failure to do so could result in the claim being dismissed.
- Stating a shipping commodity other than the commodity being shipped could result in a re-classification fee. If you are unsure about a particular freight class, feel free to contact one of our sales representatives. We have the resources to give quick and accurate freight classifications.
- If a carrier attempts to make a delivery and fails due to the actions of the consignee, a re-delivery fee could be charged. In most cases, a delivery window can be requested to aid in the prevention of these occurrences.
- Be careful to allow sufficient time for loading or unloading, and communicate your loading or unloading time estimates to Redhawk. Keep in mind for most modes of transport, loading time is limited to 2 hours (exceptions are drayage & LTL). Exceeding the allocated loading time for a shipment is known as “equipment detention” and can add substantially to your total freight charges. Communicate with your representative regarding your loading time needs to avoid unnecessary transit problems or additional charges.
- If you agree to pick-up a shipment from the terminal of an LTL carrier, this should be done within 48 hours. Beyond 48 hours, the carrier has the right to charge storage fees. It is possible for us to negotiate a longer pick-up window with the carrier, but this should be done prior to dropping off your freight.
- If a shipping or receiving site is stated to be a commercial location but later determined to be a residential location, you could be charged a residential fee. It is important to remember some business locations may be considered residences simply because they are located within a residential area. It is advised to check with one of our sales representatives if you are uncertain.
- Any changes to specific requirements of a shipment, including but not limited to dimensions, weight, number of items, available times/dates for pickup/delivery, types of equipment needed, or additional services could result in additional charges.
- Do not expect drivers to perform additional services that were not originally ordered from Redhawk such as operating a forklift or using a pallet jack. These additional services could add substantial costs to your shipment. Your sales representative has several options for additional services your shipment might require.
- It is usually a good idea not to discuss financial components of a shipment with drivers; typically they do not know all specifics agreed upon between you and your sales rep. These conversations cause confusion, and delay shipments.
- Quotes are based on spot-market factors unless otherwise noted; keep in mind unless a quote is booked at the time it is submitted, the final rate is subject to change.
- It is good practice to inform your sales representative of the value of your shipment, so we can match vendors having appropriate cargo coverage.
- Be sure to let your sales rep know about any equipment necessary to secure and/or protect a shipment such as straps, load bars, tarps, etc. to avoid potential damages or claims. Proper packaging, blocking, and bracing of a shipment is the responsibility of the shipper.
- Unless agreed upon ahead of time between yourself and your sales rep, pick-up & delivery dates and times are estimates, and therefore not guaranteed. Redhawk is not liable for costs (labor, equipment rental, etc.) incurred by shippers, consignees, or other parties as a result of transit delays.