Know the terms.
Move freight with confidence.

The shipment document identifying the parties, freight, and transportation instructions. Review it before pickup.

Example: Confirm pallet count, weight, and destination before the driver signs.

A record of delivery, commonly including a receiver signature and any noted exceptions.

Example: Note visible carton damage on the delivery receipt.

A carrier tracking reference commonly assigned to an LTL shipment.

Example: Use the PRO number to request a shipment status update.

Freight service that combines shipments from multiple customers in the same transportation network.

Example: Two pallets may travel through several terminals before delivery.

Transportation using dedicated trailer capacity for a shipment.

Example: A large shipment can move directly from shipper to receiver.

An option for larger LTL shipments that may qualify for volume-based pricing.

Example: Ask for volume options when a shipment occupies substantial trailer space.

Open-deck equipment used for freight that needs side loading, crane loading, or additional loading flexibility.

Example: Share machinery dimensions and loading requirements when requesting a quote.

Freight moved in temperature-controlled equipment.

Example: Provide the required temperature range and handling instructions.

Transportation arranged to prioritize a time-sensitive shipment.

Example: Tell the team the exact delivery deadline before booking.

Transportation that combines modes, commonly truck and rail.

Example: A container travels by rail with truck pickup and final delivery.

A shorter container move associated with a port, rail terminal, or nearby facility.

Example: Coordinate the container availability date and pickup appointment.

Freight requiring additional planning, equipment, permits, or handling.

Example: Provide drawings and dimensions for oversized machinery.

A classification used in LTL rating. Verify the applicable NMFC item and any conditions rather than relying on density alone.

Example: The same density does not guarantee the same class for every commodity.

A commodity or rule reference in the National Motor Freight Classification. It is distinct from the freight class.

Example: Provide both the item and applicable subprovision when required.

Shipment weight divided by its occupied volume, expressed in pounds per cubic foot. Include packaging and pallet dimensions.

Example: 480 lb ÷ 40 cubic feet = 12 PCF.

A change to the class assigned to a shipment after review or inspection.

Example: Confirm the product description and packaged dimensions before booking.

A carrier check of shipment weight that can lead to a billing adjustment.

Example: Include the pallet and packaging when weighing freight.

An additional service or charge beyond the standard transportation service.

Example: Request liftgate and residential delivery at the quote stage.

A platform on a truck used to raise or lower freight when an appropriate dock or forklift is unavailable.

Example: Confirm pallet dimensions and weight fit the carrier’s equipment.

A service to move freight beyond the carrier’s standard delivery point, subject to carrier rules.

Example: Confirm the exact placement; it may not include stairs or unpacking.

A location requiring extra effort or restrictions for pickup or delivery under a carrier’s rules.

Example: Tell the team if the address is a school, construction site, or secured facility.

Delivery to a residential location as defined by the carrier.

Example: A home-based business may still require residential service.

A scheduled delivery window coordinated with the receiving location.

Example: Share receiving hours and contact details before pickup.

Time-related charges when equipment or a driver is delayed beyond the agreed allowance.

Example: Have loading staff and paperwork ready at the appointment.

A second delivery attempt after the initial attempt cannot be completed.

Example: Confirm the receiver is open and able to unload.

A separate rate component used to account for fuel costs under the carrier’s pricing terms.

Example: Compare quotes using the same included charges.

The primary transportation portion of a freight move or charge.

Example: A linehaul price may exclude fuel and accessorials.

A purchased service commitment subject to the carrier’s terms and exclusions.

Example: Confirm eligibility and the remedy before booking.

The expected transportation duration for a shipment, subject to the service’s terms.

Example: An estimated two-day transit is different from a purchased guarantee.

The party designated to receive the shipment.

Example: List the receiving business and a reachable delivery contact.

The party sending or tendering the freight.

Example: Confirm the pickup address and loading hours.

NMFTA’s online platform for finding NMFC information and tracking classification changes. Access may require a subscription.

Example: Check the effective date of the applicable item before shipping.