SHIPPER’S GUIDE
END-TO-END TRANSPORTATION AND CUSTOM LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS
END-TO-END TRANSPORTATION AND CUSTOM LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS
We deliver LTL solutions throughout all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. And our nationwide terminal network connects nearly 750 million one- and two-day shipping points.
Estes provides one of the best Time Critical Guarantees in the LTL industry, with more included benefits than you’ll find with any other carrier. And we offer dedicated Time Critical customer support 24/7/365.
Estes provides a variety of services to meet our customers’ unique shipping needs, including home deliveries to your retail customers, and non-dock deliveries to locations without a loading dock, such as restaurants, retail stores, and construction sites.
Estes is committed to investing in technology that delivers a better customer experience and makes freight shipping easier. That’s why we’re proud to provide you with robust online solutions that give you all important shipment information you need, whenever you need it. From real-time pickup visibility, to enhanced shipment tracking, to digital tools and TMS options—we go above and beyond to simplify your shipping experience.
Need to make a larger shipment? Estes offers brokered freight options, as well as comprehensive, asset-based solutions fueled by the power of our robust terminal network and nationwide fleet.
Need to make an offshore shipment? Estes has you covered. We provide frequent, reliable sailings to and from Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. And because keeping your cargo safe is important to us, we make sure your freight is secured for optimal protection on the high seas.
Whether your freight is crossing borders or crossing oceans, our international network connects you with your customers wherever they are. Estes provides reliable shipping solutions to and from virtually all points in Canada and Mexico. And our freight forwarding options make it easy to ship just about anywhere in the world with confidence.
No two supply chains are alike. That’s why we have experts to help you design and manage your logistics—whether you’re looking for a more efficient way to connect one link of your supply chain, or you’re searching for a complete turnkey solution.
Our user-friendly, interactive website, estes-express.com provides access to all the tools and resources you need to manage your shipments at any time, from anywhere.
My Estes is a secure portal that houses account-specific applications to make freight shipping even easier. Once registered, you’ll have access to:
• Rate Quotes and History
• Create a Bill of Lading
• Pickup Visibility
• Shipment Tracking
• Shipment Manifest
• Document Retrieval
• Online Reporting
• Claims Filing and Inquiry
• Invoice Inquiry and Online Payments
• Rating and Billing Discrepancies
Our APIs are a fast and easy way to integrate our shipping functionality into your business applications and websites. Each API provides access to Estes functionality, allowing you to bypass
the traditional HTML forms process and make shipping with Estes a more convenient solution. Our APIs include Rate Quote, Bill of Lading submission and creation, Pickup Creation, Pickup Status Visibility, Shipment Tracking, Image Retrieval, and Transit Time Calculation.
Our Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) allows you to send and receive shipment and billing information automatically via a secure, direct connection between your computer system and ours.
Benefits include:
• Increased efficiency
• Reduced administrative costs
• Reduced paper flow and handling
• Fewer manual interventions
• No redundant data entry
We offer the following EDI sets:
• 204 – Send a shipment tender/pickup electronically
• 211 – Send a Bill of Lading electronically
• 210–Receive electronic invoices
• 214–Receive automatic messages regarding shipment status
• 820–Apply payments to your account electronically
Other data sets may also be available.
Estes handles thousands of hazardous material shipments on a daily basis, and we train our employees to treat these shipments with the same care you would expect from members of your own team.
Estes also uses the Hazmat Trucking Enforcer (HTE) software to ensure trailers carrying hazardous materials are properly placarded. Should an incident occur, visible placards can make all the difference in the quick containment of a hazmat emergency.
When you ship hazardous materials, how do you ensure you’re complying with federal regulations?
First , choose a carrier who knows the regulations and trains its employees in the proper handling of hazardous materials.
Second, make sure the carrier handles the hazardous material you wish to ship. Due to permitting requirements, many carriers are not handling every hazardous material. For a complete list of items Estes does not haul, go to estes-express.com/resources/haulingexclusions.
Third, properly prepare your shipping paper and mark and label your shipment.
Finally, be sure to investigate the qualifications of the carrier you choose.
This is only a general overview of Hazmat transportation. For specific requirements, be sure to consult the Hazardous Material Regulations issued by the Department of Transportation.
Hazardous Materials Certificate (below): (All certificates for Estes and Estes West can be viewed in our Shipping Forms and Documents page at our website)
Below:
The following services are covered by our basic pricing package for U.S. shipments:
• Direct shipping to all points in our service area
• Free time to load and unload based on the size of your shipment
• Limitation of Liability—varies with the class of the commodity with a maximum of $25 per pound per package, up to a limit of $100,000 per shipment
• Pickup and delivery at business locations during Estes’ business hours (Terminal hours vary—please contact your local terminal for pickup and delivery times.)
The shipper or receiver is responsible for loading and unloading shipments over 500 pounds or with difficult-tohandle configurations. In order to unload packages or units that weigh between 110 and 500 pounds, our driver needs direct access to the rear of our trailer and your dock. If there is no direct access, driver assistance is available for a fee.
Prices quoted by Estes are subject to tariffs . All rate quotes are conditioned upon the information provided by the requester.
Please contact your account manager if you have specific pricing questions.
The following explains how to determine a minimum shipment charge for shipments that exceed 350 cubic feet:
• Multiply the cubic feet by six pounds to determine the calculated weight
• Multiply the calculated weight by the current Class 125 rate for the origin to destination on the shipment to determine the gross charge
• Subtract your discount percentage (or 50% if you don’t have a discount) to determine the net minimum charge, which applies if it’s greater than the otherwise applicable charges
Capacity Loads –If the weight of your shipment matches the maximum legal weight on our trailer, or if an additional unit of the largest item in the shipment would not fit on the trailer (even if an additional unit is not tendered as part of the shipment), we consider your shipment a capacity load. Charges for capacity loads will be governed by Item 390, EXLA 105 series. This includes:
• Quantities of freight which require the entire capacity of a pup, set of pups, or vehicle exceeding 28-feet in length
• Quantities of freight which occupy 20 linear feet or more of a vehicle, or exceed 20,000 pounds
• Quantities of freight which meet the maximum legal weight or size requirements allowed by state or regulatory bodies
Shipments Originating and/or Destined for:
Alaska and Hawaii
Canada’s Alberta Oil Sands
Harbor Points in WA Islands requiring ferry service
Jacob Javitz Center
Las Vegas Convention Centers
McCormick Place
Points in Mexico
Remote points in Canada
Richard J. Daley Center
Select ZIP Codes
Household Goods
Pieces 8 Feet or More in Length
Pickups or Deliveries:
Please refer to our Rules Tariff, Item 751-10
For complete details about these additional charges, please view the Estes’ Rules Tariff, located in the Resources section of our website at estes-express.com. Or feel free to contact the LTL Rate Quote Department at 804-353-1900, Ext. 2269 .
Accessorials are additional services Estes can provide which go above and beyond those included in our standard delivery service. Accessorial services are usually not included in our standard shipment rates, and are billed as additional charges, with any exceptions noted in specific pricing agreements or contracts for individual Estes customers. Please see our Rules Tariff for more comprehensive accessorial details as well as any limitations or restrictions.
A few of our most commonly applied accessorial services are:
California Compliance Surcharge: Shipments to or from the state of California will be subject to a standard fee per shipment, in addition to all other applicable charges
Hazardous Materials Charge: Estes can handle shipments containing hazardous materials, subject to DOT regulations
Liftgate: The consignee can request a power-operated tailgate, capable of lifting a load from street level to the level of a truck or trailer floor, or vice versa
Residential/House Delivery Charge (Prepaid and Collect): The shipper can request a pickup or delivery at a non-commercial or residential location
Appointment/Notification: Estes can accommodate shippers who need to be notified of delivery prior to their scheduled delivery time
Overlength: When a handling unit equals or exceeds eight feet in length, Estes can configure the load to accommodate
Remote Access: Pickup or delivery to points that due to geography (deserts, islands, lakes, mountains), limited highway access, or sparse populations, require the use of an agent
Unloading Service Requested By Consignee: When the consignee requires the carrier to purchase contract labor to perform the unloading service, the carrier will be reimbursed for any expenses, charges or fees assessed by the contractor
Estes is committed to meeting each of our customers’ unique shipping needs. That means we do our best to
accommodate any special requests we receive. For a more detailed list of our most commonly used accessorial services,visit the Accessorials page in the Fees and Surcharges section of our website, estes-express.com
The cost of diesel fuel is a major source of concern for everyone in the trucking industry. Diesel fuel is a commodity vital for operation, yet its cost is variable. When fuel prices increase dramatically, operating costs reach levels that cannot be absorbed without serious financial consequences.
To mitigate this risk, companies in the transportation industry typically implement a fuel surcharge. Although we regret having to apply this extra fee, it is necessary to preserve the financial viability of our company, and maintain our excellent service standards when diesel prices become volatile.
At Estes, we note the fuel surcharge separately on our freight bill so that when there is an increase, the exact cause and amount of the increase is clear to our customers. The National Average On-Highway Diesel Price is the figure upon which we base the fuel surcharge.
The U.S. Department of Energy updates the figure every Monday. When the diesel price changes, increases or decreases in the surcharge will be effective the following Wednesday.
Please note there are different charges for less-than-truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) shipments. For more information on our fuel surcharge, visit the Fuel Surcharge page in the Fees and Surcharges section of our website, estes-express.com
Two of the most important factors that affect your shipping costs are the freight classification and the density of the shipment.
To correctly rate your shipment, it must be classified in accordance with the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) publication number 100. The NMFC is a standard that compares commodities moving in commerce, and lists classification codes and packaging requirements for each. The NMFC also considers shipping characteristics such as density, storability, ease of handling, and liability.
To ensure your shipment is rated properly and Estes is able to determine which commodities are being shipped, you should identify each commodity, its NMFC item number, or its classification on your Bill of Lading. (Some classifications require that the shipper either declare the density on the Bill of Lading or include a statement of the released value.) With the correct classification information, Estes will be able to offer you the best possible service and most accurate rates.
Measure the shipment’s height, width and length. Multiply those dimensions to obtain the cubic dimension of the shipment in inches.
For example: If the length is 25”, the width is 24”, and the height is 23”, multiply them as follows: 25 X 24 X 23 = 13,800 cubic inches.
Next, convert cubic inches to cubic feet by dividing the cubic inch total by 1,728—the number of cubic inches in one cubic foot.
For example: 13,800 ÷ 1,728 = 7.98 cubic feet.
Dividing the weight of the shipment
by the number of cubic feet will provide the density.
For example: 90 pounds ÷ 7.98 = 11.27 pounds per cubic foot.
To determine the cubic dimensions of a palletized shipment, combine the pallet dimensions with the shipment.
For example: If the pallet is 46” long, 42” wide, and 6” high, add the height of the pallet to the height of the shipment (23”) for a combined height of 29”.
Then multiply as before: 46 X 42 X 29 = 56,028 cubic inches.
Next, convert the total cubic inches to
To determine the density of a cylindrical object, or any article that is not square, rectangular or elliptical, multiply the greatest dimension on the cylindrical plane by itself, then multiply that result by the object’s height or length. If the value is in cubic inches, divide the number by 1,728 cubic inches, and that answer will provide your cubic dimension. As mentioned above, dividing the weight by cubic dimension (the number of cubic feet) will provide the density.
For example: A drum that is 24” in diameter and 36” tall would have the following density:
24” X 24” X 36” = 20,736 cubic inches. 20,736 ÷ 1,728 = 12 cubic feet.
100 pounds ÷ 12 cubic feet = 8.33 pounds per cubic foot.
Any shipment that exceeds 350 cubic feet of a trailer will be subject to a minimum charge based on 6 pounds per cubic foot at the customer’s applicable class 125 rate, and using the customer’s discount. A minimum discount of 50% will apply if the customer does not have one.
For example: A shipment occupying 300 cubic feet and subject to Rate Basis Number 500 would be subject to a minimum charge as follows: 300 cubic feet @ 6 pound per cubic foot equals 1,800 pounds.
cubic feet by dividing 56,028 by 1,728, which equals 32.42 cubic feet.
The density then equals the weight 120 (90 pounds for the shipment and approximately 30 pounds for the pallet), divided by the number of cubic feet.
For example: 120 ÷ 32.42 = 3.70 pounds per cubic foot.
The Class 125 rate for Rate Basis Number 500 equals $67.71 per 100 pounds.
18 X $67.71= $1,218.78.
$1,218.78 – 50% discount equals a $609.39 minimum charge.
These figures are used for example only and may not reflect actual charges for any shipment. Charges are subject to
change. Contact our LTL Rate Quote Department for current rates at 804-353-1900, Ext. 2269 . Questions specific to cubic capacity guidelines should go to your local account manager.
To learn more about dimensioners and how we use them to measure the cubic capacity of your freight, see our Dimensions and Weights FAQs on our website, estes-express.com
If you’re shipping freight that takes up a lot of space in the trailer, you may be subject to an Overlength Charge. At Estes, shipments containing an article (or articles) with dimensions that:
• equal or exceed eight (8) feet in length but are less than twelve (12) feet in length are subject to a charge of $225.00 per shipment
• equal or exceed twelve (12) feet in length but are less than sixteen (16) feet in length are subject to a charge of $400.00 per shipment
• equal or exceed sixteen (16) feet in length but are less than twenty (20) feet in length are subject to a charge of $750.00 per shipment
• equal or exceed twenty (20) feet in length are subject to a charge of $1000.00 per shipment
These charges are billed in addition to all other applicable charges, and will be collected from the party responsible for paying the freight invoice.
When preparing your freight for transit, you must properly mark each package, bundle or loose piece of freight in a legible fashion and be sure to place the shipping label in a noticeable area on the shipping container.
The label information should include the name and address of the shipper, supplemented by the consignee’s physical address to include the city, state, and ZIP Code.
The shipping label information should be synchronized with the Bill of Lading document. Any discrepancies should be corrected prior to pickup, and any out-of-date labels should be removed or sufficiently covered to reflect the most recent destination information. DOT hazardous material labels and marking requirements must be used when shipping DOT hazardous materials. Below is an example of proper container marking and labeling.
Current insurance certificates can be obtained by contacting the Estes Safety Department. You can call 804-353-1900, Ext. 2243, or email safetydepartment@estesexpress.com.
The Safety Department will contact the insurance company and have the insurance certificate sent directly to you. Therefore, you must include your complete mailing address in order for the certificate to be issued. The insurance company can fax a copy, but the original must be mailed to the certificate holder. The approximate time for the certificate to be issued is 48 hours.
If you are shipping goods that need to maintain above freezing temperature throughout transit to
preserve quality, Estes can keep your freight above freezing for an additional charge.
Estes offers PFF services:
• November 1 through March 31 (Service periods may be extended depending upon weather conditions)
• when suitable equipment is available
• when the outside temperature is above 10 degrees Farenheit for shipments moving in all direct lanes
• the BOL and freight are clearly labeled, indicating the need for protection from freezing
• the commodities being shipped have a freezing point of 32 degrees or less Charges for PFF services will be $3.50 cwt , subject to a minimum charge of $45.00, in addition to other applicable rates and charges.
When shipping your goods, be sure to use proper packaging techniques to avoid damages and claims:
• Stack the pallet vertically to maximize carton strength
• Stack cartons squarely on the skid with minimum overhang
• Add sheets of cardboard between each layer for additional strength
• Make sure the top surface is flat
• Secure cartons to the pallet with banding, stretch-wrap, or breakaway adhesive
Crating
To
ensure safe and damagefree transit, crate your shipments. Please be sure your crates are constructed to withstand the normal rigors of freight transportation.
• Fasten crated contents to the base
• Fully enclose the product, and show how the product should be loaded with arrows or other directional indications
• Nail or screw into the side grain of the crate
• Staple labels to crates instead of using gummed labels, as these do not adhere to wood
To prevent freight from shifting, uneven surfaces should always be leveled before more freight is stacked. Freight can be leveled
by using:
• Flattened cardboard
• Other freight
• Two-by-fours
Logistic bars are used to brace freight from damaging itself, other freight, or the trailer.
These illustrations are only meant to provide a general overview of best practices in freight preparation. For more detailed information on how to package your freight, be sure to consult the Estes Rules Tariff, EXLA-105 and the NMFC.
Estes will accept drums from a shipper if there are three or four drums on a pallet, and the drums are secured on the pallet by banding and/or stretch-wrap. Banding ONLY is not acceptable. Here are some rules to follow when shipping drums, pails and bags:
DO:
• Cover the trailer floor with a layer of cardboard for protection
• Cover all sides of the freight with cardboard for protection after loading
• Label the containers as well as the stretch-wrap or banding if the drums, pails, or bags contain DOT hazardous materials
DON’T:
• Stack pails more than two high
• Place pails between two skids
• Load stacked pails in the rear 7 to 10 feet of the
trailer
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is a legal document that transfers the responsibility of your freight over to Estes during its shipping journey. A BOL is required for all freight shipments and plays a crucial role in making sure your freight is routed and transported legally, quickly, and efficiently. It’s the shipper’s responsibility to complete the BOL, and to read and understand all rules, regulations, contracts, and tariffs in effect on the date of the shipment.
When filling out a BOL, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
• If your freight charges are being billed to a third-party payer, be sure to provide the name and address of the third party.
• Be as accurate and specific as possible in the description of your shipment contents. Include the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) item number, if known.
• Be sure to provide an accurate weight and class for your shipment. If inaccuracies are found on the BOL, these details are subject to correction by Estes.
• If your shipment isn’t marked as prepaid or collect, your shipment will automatically move as prepaid.
Estes provides you two BOL options:
1. Our online BOL is available through our secured portal, My Estes, and can be completed and submitted online.
2. A downloadable BOL form is available in the Resources section of estes-express.com in our Shipping Forms and Documents page.
On the Bill of Lading page on our website, you’ll have the option to “Create a Bill of Lading.” Our online BOL is designed to simplify your shipping experience by providing you with access to convenient options and features not available on a traditional BOL. When you submit a BOL online, you can:
Auto-assign a PRO number to your shipment
Print shipping labels quickly and easily
FVC can be ordered currently in one of two ways:
• Clearly write “Full Value Coverage” as well as the total shipment value on your Bill of Lading, and pay the commensurate rate for the value declared, or
• Check the box that reads “I would like Full Value Coverage” and enter the coverage amount in the Freight Information section of our online Rate Quote application
Opt-in to receive email notifications
Full Value Coverage offers several benefits:
• Your shipment will be covered at the invoice value + freight charges + 10%
• Your shipment will be protected from losses caused by Acts of God or natural disasters
• Concealed damage will be covered when reported within five days of delivery
Full Value Coverage applies to Item 350, Section 3 of Estes Rules Tariff EXLA 105 . However, it does NOT apply to Item 350, Section 2 (Do Not Haul items). Additional and/or maximum liability limitations or other restrictions may apply.
Save your existing BOL as a template for future shipments
Downloadable BOL Form
If you don’t have a MyEstes account, or prefer to complete your Bill of Lading by hand, you can download a copy of our BOL by visiting the Shipping Forms and Documents page in our Resources section at estes-express.com
Estes BOL (All certificates and forms can be viewed in our Shipping Forms and Documents page on our website)
Accessorial Charges: Extra charges applied for services performed above what is considered standard.
ACE (Automated Commercial Environment): The online system developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to process international trade. Through ACE, a partnership between select carriers and U.S. Customs facilitates prompt and timely freight crossing between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico. Its secure data portal allows brokers and carriers to file manifests electronically and create reports using real-time data.
ACI (Advanced Commercial Information): The ACI program is a project of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) that requires all commercial cargo entering Canada to be electronically registered with the Agency to improve border security and efficiency. It specifies requirements for marine ports, airports and land-crossing points along the U.S.-Canada border. ACI provides CBSA with electronic pre-arrival information so the Agency can identify health, safety and security threats related to commercial goods before the goods arrive in Canada. Since the arrival of information is very timesensitive, all advance cargo and conveyance information from carriers must be sent via the eManifest system.
Assembly: Also known as kitting, this is the process of packaging bulk components into finished goods at a warehouse or an outsource facility. The product’s components are picked and inserted into end-use packaging.
Asset-Based Provider: A carrier that has the assets (e.g., trucks, terminals, warehouses, etc.) to provide physical pickup, line-haul and delivery service.
Authorized Party: The entity that can legally provide instructions that override those contained on the BOL. This is usually the shipper but occasionally the third party or consignee.
Backhaul: The return trip of a commercial truck that is transporting freight back over all or part of the same route it took to get to its current location.
Bill No Freight (BNF): The entire shipment is short. No freight is found on the trailer to match the shipment manifest.
Bill of Lading (B/L or BOL): A legal document signed by the shipper and carrier tendering the responsibility for the freight to the carrier. The BOL states pertinent information for the shipment such as the complete address of the shipper and consignee, number of pieces, description, class, and any hazardous material information. The dimensions of the
shipment are required if the freight is being shipped offshore.
Break Terminal (Breakbulk): When the pickup terminal does not have enough volume to transport full capacity loads direct to a final destination, the product is moved into Breakbulk. There, freight is consolidated from several terminals to build full loads for longerhaul lanes.
Certificate of Origin: A document attesting to the country of origin for goods. Customs authorities often require it as a part of the entry process into another country.
City Driver (P&D Driver): A driver responsible for making pickups and deliveries from a specific terminal location. These drivers usually operate within a defined geographical area. They make deliveries in the morning and pick up freight in the afternoon.
City Run (Pedal Run): A route in which the driver stays within the boundaries serviced by the terminal.
Class: A rating assigned to products based on their value/liability, packaging, density, and handling characteristics. A system of 17 classes, from class 50 to 500, determines the rate.
COD (Cash on Delivery): Refers to payment for the goods being shipped. If this section of the Bill of Lading is completed, the carrier cannot deliver the goods unless payment is collected at the time of the goods’ delivery. This money is collected on behalf of the shipper.
Collect (COL): Freight charges to be paid by the consignee upon delivery or charged to their established account.
Commercial Invoice: A document identifying the seller and the buyer of goods or services. It cites dates, payment terms and a complete listing and description of the goods or services being sold. For freight crossing national borders, customs officials often use a commercial invoice to determine the true transaction value of goods for assessment of customs duties.
Commodity: Goods shipped. Common Carrier: Any person or company available to the general public for transportation of property by motor vehicle over regular or irregular routes in interstate and/or intrastate commerce.
Concealed Damage/Shortage: A situation when a customer calls the carrier to declare an exception to their shipment after delivery has occurred and after the carrier has received a clear delivery receipt. The industry standard for reporting concealed damage is within 5 days after delivery.
Consignee: The designated recipient (customer) of a shipment as indicated on the Bill of Lading.
Consignor: Synonym for shipper.
Consolidation: The act of combining multiple shipments into one larger shipment going to a common destination.
Container: A large standard-sized transportation “box” for unitized freight handling with standardized equipment. The most common sizes are 20’, 40’, 45’ and 48’. Containers are lifted by crane and mounted on a chassis for road movement. When being transported on ocean vessels (ship or barge) or rail cars, containers are most often removed from the chassis and stacked.
Contract: A legal document describing the services to be rendered (and the charges and rates for such services) that must be approved and signed by an authorized Estes representative and signed by the customer. This pricing contract takes precedence over tariff rates.
Cross Dock: Typically, the unloading of materials from an inbound trailer or rail car and the immediate loading of these materials in outbound trailers or rail cars. This eliminates the need for warehousing/storage.
Cube: A term describing the space used in a trailer based on floor space and height.
Customs Broker: A licensed individual or firm generally required to act on behalf of the importer to handle the sequence of customs formalities and other details critical to the legal and expeditious exporting and importing of goods.
Customs Invoice: A special invoice prescribed by the customs authorities of the importing country.
Custom Solutions: One of the Core Services at Estes, this covers a wide array of services, including domestic freight forwarding, supplychain management, special services and technology solutions. Using the services of our divisions, Estes can arrange for virtually any shipping or logistics solution.
CWT: Per hundred weight. Hundred weight is equal to exactly 100 pounds.
Damage: Goods that sustain injury before, during or after transit, which can result in the shipper’s, consignee’s or carrier’s liability.
Dead Head (Dead-Heading): A shipment from one terminal to another with no applicable freight charges. This term also describes the return of an empty transportation container/ trailer to a terminal or facility (empty backhaul).
Declared Value (Code: “DEC”): Documents the total dollar value of the goods being shipped by the shipper. This is necessary when the rates applied to a shipment are based on the value of the goods.
Delivery Receipt (DR): A legal document signed by the consignee and Estes that completes the contract of carriage when the freight is received.
Density Calculation: Density of a shipment is equal to the length, times the height, times the width of the freight in inches. The product is then divided by 1,728 to convert the units to cubic feet (12’’ × 12’’ × 12’’ = 1,728 ÷ 1,728 = 1 cubic foot).
Department of Transportation (DOT): The U.S. governing body concerned about commerce that crosses state lines. Principally, this segment of the government regulates interstate truck operations.
Direct: The territory serviced directly by the Estes terminal network.
Direct Loading: Loading of shipments direct from one service center to another without an intermediate stop for rehandling.
Dispatch/Dispatcher: The scheduling and control of intercity traffic and intracity pickup and delivery. Also, the individual tasked to assign available transportation loads to available drivers.
Disposition: Authorized instructions given to a common carrier regarding the movement of a shipment.
Dolly: An auxiliary axle assembly equipped with a fifth wheel (coupling device) used to convert a semitrailer into a full trailer (or for hauling multiple trailers behind a single power unit). The dolly, or converter dolly, is towed by a semitrailer and supports the front of, and tows, another semitrailer. Also referred to as a bogie.
Drop Trailer: A situation where the carrier spots, or drops off, a trailer at the customer’s location for loading and/or unloading of freight without the presence of the carrier’s driver.
Drop Trailer Agreement: A mutual agreement in writing between the customer and Estes when a trailer is spotted for loading and/or unloading purposes.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): The electronic interchange of business information using a standardized format, allowing one company to send bulk information to another company electronically. Estes utilizes EDI to exchange data with customers adhering to EDI ANSI X12 guidelines. Several types of transportation documents exchanged via
EDI include (204) Pickup Tender, (211) Bill of Lading, (214) Shipment Status, (210) Invoice and (820) Remittance Advice.
Electronic Export Information (EEI): As of June 2008, freight forwarders and U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPIs) must file all commodity information for exported goods via the Automated Export System, the free online filing system at www.cbp.gov/ace.
eManifest: A condition of the Canada Border Services Agency that requires trade partners in all modes of transportation (air, marine, highway and rail) to submit cargo, crew/ passenger, conveyance, secondary and importer data to the Agency no later than one hour prior to arrival at the border.
Employer Identification Number (EIN): The federal tax identification number that is the corporate equivalent to an individual’s Social Security number, issued to entities or individuals who have to pay withholding taxes on employees. Including the EIN is a requirement for many cross-border freight activities; specifically, it is required for documentation for all Puerto Rico-bound shipments coming from the U.S. Entryway Delivery: One of our premium service levels for residential delivery. The shipment will be placed through a front door into a foyer or similar area.
EXLA: The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) or owner code for Estes.
Fifth Wheel: A coupling device mounted to a tractor or a dolly for connecting a semitrailer and a tractor, or two semitrailers. A semitrailer is supported at the rear by its own wheels and at the front by the fifth wheel, which is mounted to a tractor or dolly.
Forwarder: A non-asset-based transportation management team that specializes in arranging shipping of domestic and international cargo of all kinds on behalf of its shipper customers. Forwarders provide a full range of transportation service options including ground, air and ocean. A forwarder also provides many value-added services including tracking, shipping and export document preparation, warehousing, booking cargo space, negotiating freight charges, freight consolidation, cargo insurance and insurance claim filing. Freight forwarders usually ship under their own Bills of Lading or Waybills.
Free on Board (FOB): The point at which the title of the goods passes from the shipper to the consignee.
Front Door Delivery: Our standard service level for residential delivery. The shipment will be delivered from the truck to the driveway, garage, or parch (covered area).
This service includes text message alerts, online shipment tracking, as well as a convenient No Appointment / No Signature Required delivery experience for residential consignees.
Fuel Surcharge (FSC): An additional charge added to the freight bill for the price of fuel (according to the National Fuel Index) to offset high fuel costs.
Full Trailer: Indicates the use of an entire trailer.
Global: One of Estes’ Core Services, Global includes airfreight, ocean services, international consolidation and deconsolidation, customs brokerage and international freight forwarding.
Gross Weight: The entire weight of a shipment including containers and packaging materials.
Hazardous Materials (Hazmat): The Transportation Safety Act of 1974 defines hazardous material as “a substance or material in quantity and form which may pose an unreasonable risk to health and safety or property when transported in commerce.”
Hazmat Regulations: Standards set by the Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) Office of Hazardous Materials Transportation (OHMT) that regulate how hazardous materials are shipped.
Head Haul: The term defining shipping lanes from shipper to consignee where there typically is significant freight moving into the destination (A to B) and less freight moving out. It is the opposite of Backhaul (B to A).
High-Value Freight: Freight with a value exceeding the limitations set in the EXLA 105 series rules tariff.
Hours of Service (HOS): A ruling that stipulates the amount of time a driver is allowed to work. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration enforces this ruling.
Hub: A terminal in the center of a region where freight can be loaded and unloaded to accomplish next-day delivery.
Image: An electronic visual impression of a document such as a Bill of Lading and/or a delivery receipt.
Inbound: Freight or trailers moving to or through a terminal.
Inland Charges: Rates for moving shipments within the contiguous 48 states, Canada and Mexico. Discounts and accessorial charges typically apply.
Inspection: An examination, viewing or checking over for the purpose of ascertaining the quality, authenticity or conditions of an item or product.
Interline Agreement: An arrangement between two or more road transport companies joining operations to bring cargo to a certain destination.
Intermodal: Relating to transportation by more than one means of conveyance. For example, transportation by both truck and rail is referred to as intermodal transportation.
Internal Transaction Number (ITN): The number generated by the Customs Automated Export System (AES) that identifies individual shipments for the Electronic Export Information (EEI) filing.
Interstate: Freight moving between states.
In-Transit Upgrade: The act of expediting LTL shipments already in transit.
Island Delivery: This includes charges for delivery of cargo to island markets such as Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
Just-In-Time (JIT): An inventory control system that manages material flow into assembly and manufacturing plants by coordinating demand and supply to the point where desired materials arrive just in time for use. This also refers to an inventory reduction strategy that feeds production lines with products delivered “just-in-time.”
Left on Board (LOB): Freight that has not been worked or taken off of a trailer.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL): Less than a truckload. An LTL carrier generally moves shipments from multiple customers on one truck.
Liftgate (Code: “LGATE”): A power-operated tailgate capable of lifting a load from street level to the level of a truck or trailer floor or vice versa.
Logistics: All activities involved in the management of product movement. This includes delivering the right product from the right origin to the right destination—with the right quality and quantity—at the optimal schedule and price.
Manifest: A document that lists and describes in detail the goods in a load on a vehicle. As a rule, agents at the place of loading draw up the manifest. Also referred to as the shipping document.
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): A document prepared by the manufacturer that provides detailed information on hazardous as well as nonhazardous materials. It cites potential hazardous effects, their physical and chemical characteristics, recommendations for appropriate protective measures, plus cleanup and disposal methods.
Maximum Charge: The highest amount of freight and/or accessorial charges Estes will bill the customer.
Milk Run: A pickup and/or delivery route with several sequential stops. A milk run usually refers to a regularly run route, but it may also mean a one-time run with several stops. Some consider a milk run to mean a route where shipments are delivered and inbound materials are picked up in the same run. Also known as dedicated delivery.
Minimum Charge: The least amount of freight and/or accessorial charges Estes will bill the customer.
My Estes: The password-protected portion of the Estes website that gives quick access to information specific to a customer’s account. This personalized resource gives customers the convenience of a secure, one-stop shop where they can easily manage their shipping projects.
National Fuel Index: Fuel surcharges are generally based on the National Fuel Index published each Monday by the U.S. Department of Energy. The index is based on several factors, including the average fuel costs by region. Whenever the cost of fuel exceeds a base range established by a carrier, a fuel surcharge may be added to base freight charges (before any accessorial charges).
National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC): The NMFC item number is assigned according to commodity type and used by LTL carriers to determine the level of rates for a shipment.
Ocean Charges: Rate formats for charges associated with ocean transportation (price per cubic foot, price per hundredweight, etc.) vary on the freight’s destination.
On-Hand: A shipment that has been refused by the consignee for which a legal notice of undelivered freight has been mailed to the shipper.
OS&D: Overages, shortages and damages. Overage: A situation where there is more freight than is specified on the freight bill.
Overflow: Added freight that could not be loaded on the original capacity load.
Overlength: When a handling unit exceeds eight feet in length and requires special load configuration to accommodate.
Packing List or Packing Slip (Code: “PSA”): A document provided by the shipper that travels with the freight and usually lists the contents of the shipment. It may be attached to the freight and/or the Bill of Lading.
Pallet: A wooden, plastic or sometimes metal frame, typically 48”× 48”, used for unitizing freight.
Palletized Freight: Freight that’s being shipped on a pallet.
Pallet Jack: A manual device with fork extensions that can be positioned under a pallet to lift and move it from one location to another.
Perishables: Any transported goods that are subject to deterioration or spoiling if not used for their intended purpose within time constraints. Examples include foodstuffs, drugs, flowers and flower bulbs.
Pick Up: The act of transferring freight from the shipper to the carrier.
Pickup & Delivery (P&D): The local movement of freight between the shipper (or pickup point) and the origin terminal or between the destination terminal and the consignee (or delivery point).
Placards: The square-on-point symbol posted on each side of a trailer signifying the hazardous materials onboard.
Pool Distribution: To help avoid excessive offloads, multiple LTL shipments headed for a common marketplace are combined onto one trailer. The freight is then delivered to a central distribution facility for local or short-route delivery. This process generally reduces handling, lowers costs and shortens transit times.
Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS): Allows customs paperwork for shipments going from Canada into the U.S. to be processed before it reaches the Canada-U.S. border, helping to speed up the actual bordercrossing process.
Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS): Allows the carrier to process customs paperwork before northbound freight reaches the Canada border, helping to speed up the actual bordercrossing process from the U.S. into Canada. Prepaid (PPD): Freight charges that have been or will be paid by the shipper and/or a third party.
Proof of Delivery (POD): Information supplied by the carrier citing the name of the person who signed for the shipment, the time and date of delivery and other delivery-related information.
PRO Labels: Self-adhesive stickers used to identify shipments. They are placed on the customer’s Bill of Lading, the freight bill and the freight itself.
PRO Number (Progressive Rotating Order): A pre-assigned 10-digit freight bill number given
to each shipment as a tracking number.
Protect from Freezing: For goods that need to maintain above freezing temperature throughout transit to preserve quality, Estes can keep shipments at the shipper’s desired temperature for an additional charge.
Pup: A 28-foot trailer.
Rates: The amount of a charge or payment with reference to some basis of calculation.
Reconsignment: Any changes made in the consignment of the shipment before the delivery, such as an in-transit upgrade.
Recovery Drum: An oversized container in which a damaged shipping container can be placed to contain leaks. A recovery drum can be plastic or metal.
Redelivery: An attempt to deliver the freight back to the consignee after the freight was originally refused.
Refusal: Freight for which delivery was attempted but the consignee was unwilling to accept for a number of potential reasons.
Release Value (Code: “RVNX”): A reduced transportation rate and maximum carrier liability applicable in the case of loss or damage on a high-value shipment.
Reserved PRO: A PRO number reserved for either a shipper or a shipment for freight to be tendered to Estes.
Rollout: A specialized supply chain project that typically involves the introduction of a new product to the market. Rollouts receive a dedicated Estes team to provide a higher level of expertise, planning, management and communication from beginning to end.
Said To Contain (STC): Usually used in conjunction with shrink-wrapped skids. A term in a Bill of Lading signifying that the carrier is unaware of the nature or quantity of the contents of a carton, crate, container or bundle and is relying on the description furnished by the shipper.
Section 7 of the Bill of Lading (SEC 7): If signed, it relieves the shipper of the responsibility of the freight charges if the carrier is unable to collect said charges from the consignee.
Shipper: The person/company that gives the shipment to the carrier for delivery to the consignee; the person/company shipping the freight.
Shipper Load and Count (SLC): A situation where Estes drops the trailer at the shipper’s location without a driver to observe the trailer’s loading.
Shipper’s Load and Count Agreement: A written mutual agreement between the shipper and Estes. It is signed when a trailer
is dropped for the shipper to load freight without a driver’s presence.
Shortage: When a shipment has fewer pieces than called for on the freight bill.
Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC): A unique two-to-four-letter code for identifying transportation companies. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association, Inc., (NMFTA) developed these identification codes in the late 1960s to facilitate computerization in the transportation industry. The NMFTA assigns the codes, which are the recognized transportation company identification codes used in all motor, rail and water carrier transactions that require carrier identification. Certain groups of SCACs are reserved for specific purposes. Codes ending in “U” identify freight containers, codes ending in “X” identify privately owned railroad cars, and codes ending in “Z” identify truck chassis and trailers used in intermodal service.
Stop-Offs: Truckload shipments with multiple stops delivered in sequence.
Storage Charges: Costs that begin to accrue after the shipper has been notified of nondelivery and has not provided disposition instructions (what to do with the freight).
Straight Truck: A vehicle with the cargo body and cab mounted on the same chassis.
Stretch- or Shrink-Wrapped Skids (SWS) : Unitized freight on skids wrapped in plastic. Stretch-Wrap (Shrink-Wrap): A protective layer of stretchy plastic wrapping, usually clear, for holding together cartons and products in transit. Shrinking slightly after application, it’s often used to secure product to skids.
Tare Weight: The weight of a container and/ or packing materials without the weight of the goods it contains (the actual weight of the empty container).
Tariff: Legally published rates and charges to price shipments.
Third Party: The paying party other than the shipper or consignee. Terms can be prepaid or collect.
Time Critical Guaranteed: One of Estes’ Core Services, time critical includes guaranteed shipping on standard transit times, expedited services and time- or date-definite services.
Tractor: The cab or the engine-powered vehicle used to pull a trailer.
Trailer: The vehicle for hauling goods that’s pulled by a cab or other engine-powered vehicle.
Truckload: An Estes truck is considered full when the freight weighs out at 45,000 lbs. or
takes up all of the cubic footage in the trailer.
UN/NA Number: Hazardous materials classification numbers specific to types of hazardous commodities. “NA” stands for North American and “UN” stands for United Nations.
Unattended Delivery: Delivery of a residential shipment without the residential consignee having to be there.
Volume: Shipments of at least 5,000 pounds or that take up at least 8 linear feet of the trailer.
Volume LTL and Truckload: One of Estes’ Core Services, Volume LTL and Truckload includes asset-based volume or truckload, as well as truckload brokerage services and dedicated truckload solutions for your ongoing, regular delivery needs.
Waybill: A document containing the description of the goods that constitute a single shipment. The waybill shows origin, destination, consignee/consignor and amount charged. Copies of this document travel with the goods and are retained by the originating/ delivering parties. Carriers use the waybill for internal records and control, especially during transit. It is not a transportation contract.
Weight and Inspection: A carrier’s internal inspection of shipped goods to verify the accuracy of the shipper’s description of the cargo’s weight, class and density.
White Glove Delivery: One of our premium service levels for residential delivery. The shipment will be placed in a room or area of choice, up to one flight of stairs, plus debris removal when requested.
White Glove with Assembly: One of our premium service levels for residential delivery. This includes light assembly of the shipment, defined as assembly require 15 minutes or less using basic hand tools.