LTL Carriers Trigger Wave of Fees with Crackdown

Until recently, LTL carriers tolerated some “bending of the rules” regarding freight weights, classifications, and dimensions.  But no more.  Financial woes have carriers pursuing every penny of revenue.  As a result, carriers industry-wide are strictly enforcing terms, triggering a wave of reweigh and inspection fees for shippers.

New tools are helping carriers efficiently and objectively assess freight.  Many LTL terminals now use forklifts with imbedded scales.  Terminals are also installing ceiling-mounted systems that measure the dimensions and density of every piece of freight.

Please be aware that the LTL industry is now policing discrepancies between reported and actual freight characteristics.  Freight descriptions that you may have used for years without problems might start triggering fees if they under-report any aspect of your freight’s true profile.

An accurate bill of lading is your best defense against reweigh and inspection fees.  And make sure to measure the dimensions of your freight to the furthermost point in each direction.  Some shippers, measure the pallet rather than the freight when calculating dimensions. If the freight overhangs the pallet, the overhang must be included in the measurements.

UTS is happy to help with any questions or issues regarding freight characteristics.  You’re welcome to contact our Risk Management & Audit Services department at (866) SHIP UTS or audit@UTSnet.com.