What is LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) vs. FTL (Full Truckload)?

Think of it like booking a ride. With FTL (Full Truckload), you book the entire truck — ideal for large, time-sensitive, or high-value freight that needs direct delivery. With LTL (Less-Than-Truckload), you share space with other shipments, making multiple stops along the route — perfect for smaller loads (under 15,000 lbs) at lower cost. Use FTL for speed and security; use LTL for flexibility and savings. Rolls Right offers both through our dedicated and consolidated freight network.

How are shipping rates calculated?

Freight rates aren’t one-size-fits-all, they depend on several factors. Weight & Dimensions: Heavier, bulkier shipments cost more. Density & Freight Class: In LTL shipping, weight and size determine your freight class; lower classes mean lower rates. Distance: Longer hauls cost more. Type of Goods: Special handling (e.g., temperature-controlled or hazardous freight) adds to the rate. Pickup & Delivery Details: Residential areas or locations without docks may require extra equipment or time, affecting cost.

What surcharges or extra fees should I expect?

Surcharges, or accessorial fees, cover services beyond standard dock-to-dock delivery. Common examples include fuel surcharges tied to diesel prices, residential delivery and liftgate fees for non-dock locations, inside pickup or delivery charges, and oversize freight fees for shipments exceeding standard pallet sizes.

How long does shipment take (transit time)?

Transit time is always an estimate, especially for LTL freight. FTL is more predictable since the truck goes directly from pickup to delivery, while LTL takes longer due to multiple stops and transfers. Cross-border shipments also face delays from customs. Rolls Right provides realistic ETAs using advanced transportation software that accounts for route, service type, and current conditions.

What is the minimum or maximum size/weight for shipments?

FTL (Full Truckload): The maximum weight is determined by legal road limits, typically around 45,000 lbs. The maximum size is the interior volume of a standard 53′ trailer. LTL (Less-Than-Truckload): There is often no strict minimum size or weight. However, shipments are typically over 150 lbs (below that is parcel territory). While LTL can handle large shipments, it often becomes more cost-effective to book a full truck once a shipment exceeds 15,000 lbs or about 6-8 pallets.

• What documentation is required for cross-border shipping between Canada and the U.S.?

   

Shipping between Canada and the U.S. is simple when documentation is accurate. Missing or incorrect paperwork is the leading cause of border delays. Key documents include the Bill of Lading (BOL), Commercial Invoice, Certificate of Origin (for USMCA duty-free eligibility), and Customs Broker details. Rolls Right’s team ensures all documents are correct before your shipment leaves, preventing costly holdups.

• How do duties, taxes, and import/export regulations work?

   

Duties and taxes are usually paid by the receiver (importer). Your customs broker uses the Commercial Invoice to declare the goods, pays the required duties and taxes to customs (CBSA or CBP), and then invoices you. Under the USMCA, most North American–made goods qualify for duty-free entry with a valid Certificate of Origin. Because customs rules can be complex, Rolls Right recommends working with a trusted customs broker for smooth cross-border shipping.

• What is freight class and how do I find the right one?

   

Freight class is a system used in LTL shipping to categorize goods from 50 (least expensive) to 500 (most expensive) based on density, stowability, handling, and liability. Heavy, durable items like steel have lower classes, while fragile or light goods like electronics have higher ones. Accurate classification is essential—errors can cause costly billing changes and delays. The best approach is to provide your logistics partner with precise shipment details and let them confirm the correct class. Rolls Right ensures your freight is classified accurately from the start.

• What services are available beyond simple shipping?

   

As a full-service logistics partner, we offer a suite of services designed to manage your entire supply chain. At Rolls Right, these include: Temperature-Controlled Transport: For goods that require a specific temperature range, like food or pharmaceuticals. Warehousing & 3PL: We operate over 200,000 sq. ft. of warehousing space, offering third-party logistics (3PL) services for storage and order fulfillment. Cross-Docking: Efficiently transferring goods from an inbound truck to an outbound truck with minimal storage time. Expedited Shipping: For when your freight absolutely has to get there as fast as possible.

• • How do I avoid extra charges or billing surprises?

     

  • The key to avoiding billing surprises is clear and accurate information upfront. Nearly all billing adjustments are caused by discrepancies between what was quoted and what was actually shipped. Common mistakes include: Incorrect Weight or Dimensions: Stating a pallet weighs 500 lbs when it actually weighs 700 lbs. Wrong Freight Class: Classifying your freight incorrectly, leading to a re-classification by the carrier at a higher rate. Forgetting Special Requirements: Not mentioning that the delivery is to a residential address or that a liftgate will be needed. The best way to avoid these charges is to work in partnership with your carrier. Provide accurate information, and we’ll provide an accurate quote.

     

  • How do I schedule pickups and deliveries?

     

  • Scheduling is about providing clear, accurate information. When you book a shipment, you will need to provide: The Address: Including whether it’s a business or residence. Pickup Window: The earliest the freight will be ready and the latest the location closes. Special Requirements: Does the driver need to call ahead? Is an appointment required? Will a liftgate be needed for pickup or delivery? The more detail you provide, the smoother the process will be. For complex facilities like major retail distribution centers, our team will often manage the appointment scheduling directly with the receiver on your behalf.

• How to pick the right carrier or 3PL partner?

   

• Choosing a partner is about more than just finding the lowest price. At Rolls Right, we believe you should look for a partner who will be a true extension of your team. Key factors include: Reliability: Do they have a proven track record of on-time, damage-free delivery? Technology: Do they offer a modern TMS portal for booking, and more importantly, real-time visibility and tracking for your shipments? Customer Service: Can you speak to a dedicated representative who understands your business, or are you just another number in a call center? Partnership: Do they act like a true partner, proactively solving problems and offering strategic advice, or do they just move boxes?
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  What happens if something goes wrong?

   

In logistics, issues like damage, loss, or delays can happen. How a partner responds is what truly matters. The process should be: Report Immediately: Contact your logistics partner as soon as you notice an issue. Document Everything: Take photos of any damage. Note it on the Proof of Delivery (POD) before signing it. File a Claim: Your partner will guide you through the formal claims process. It’s also important to understand the difference between Carrier Liability (which is limited and based on the weight and class of the goods) and separate Freight Insurance (which covers the full value of your goods). A good partner will help you understand these options.