How to Drop off Pallet at LTL Freight Terminal?

Dropping your freight at an LTL terminal can save you a lot of time and effort. Keeping a few things in consideration while delivering the package can make your delivery easy and smooth. 

In the blog, you will find all the important steps while delivering the freight:

Understanding LTL Freight Terminals

LTL (less than a truckload) freight terminals are facilities where less than a truckload arrives. They combine multiple small loads to make a big consolidation. At  LTL terminals, they reload and distribute the freight before it reaches its final destination.

These terminals are operated by LTL carriers. These hubs are normally located near highways. Dropping off at the facility can save a lot of time and help you save pickup fees.               

Preparing Your Pallet for Drop-Off

Before delivering your pallet to drop off at a terminal, here are some things you need to keep in mind: 

Safety of freight 

Before delivering, make sure it’s fully secure with straps or load bars to prevent any damage. 

Ready BOL 

The BOL is the proof of delivery and contains all important information regarding the load, such as weight, quantity, and dimensions. 

Label clearly 

Make sure each package has a clear label of the customer’s address and phone number. 

Scheduling Your Drop-Off at the Terminal

Every terminal has its own timing and rules. Some will accept you at any time, and some will unload you at an appointed time. Before dropping the trailer, call the terminal and make sure they are ready to receive it.

You can get your appointment through TAS (truck appointment system). These will help you from any delays and will save your time. 

Arriving at the LTL Freight Terminal

When you arrive at the terminal, here are the things you need to do:

Go to the office

When you first arrive at the terminal, go to the office directly. Take the BOL with you and any other necessary documents.

Follow guidance 

The terminal staff will guide you through the process. They will tell you on which dock door you need to go. Follow all their instructions for smooth delivery. 

Wear security gear 

Some terminals require you to wear PPE ( personal protective equipment) for safety reasons. Before delivering your freight, make sure whether the terminal requires you to have your safety measures. 

Finalizing the Drop-Off Process

Once you have reached the dock door, here are things you need to keep in mind: 

Smooth unloading

At the terminals, normally, staff take care of all loading or unloading by using a pellet jack or a forklift. In some terminals, the driver needs to assist the staff or help with unloading. Make sure you have your pallet jack with you. 

Sign BOL 

After unloading, make sure you get your BOL signed from the receiver. 

Take photos

Once you deliver the freight, take photos of the truck and terminal. Some brokers and shippers do require photos as proof of delivery. 

Types of Freight  Dropped at LTL Terminals

LTL terminals handle a wide variety of freight. These terminals do not support full truckloads. The freight that is dropped here is under 10000 lbs. Here are the common types of freight that are dropped at LTL terminals: 

Automotive Parts 

Automotive freight includes tires, body parts, parts of engines, bumpers, and radiators.

Consumer Goods 

In consumer goods, a wide variety of items is included, such as food and beverages, clothes, furniture, crockery, home appliances, and cleaning products. 

Electronics 

Electronics include computers, security systems, and other electronic machinery. 

Retail Products 

In retail products, it often includes advertisement material and bulk inventory. LTL terminals are the best for restocking the product across different locations. 

Industrial Equipment 

In industrial settings, small tools are used to fix machinery in the business, and power tools and various small machinery are included. 

Construction Material  

In construction material tiles, paint and wallpapers, and plumbing materials are added. It’s easy to deliver material directly to the working sites and warehouses from the LTL terminals. 

Medical Supplies 

Medical supplies include medical diagnostic equipment, hospital inventory such as text kits, beds, and stretchers. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Here is the list of common mistakes that you need to avoid while delivering at the LTL terminal: 

Incomplete BOL

Heading towards the terminal without a BOL can cause problems. BOL is an important document for you to get paid by the broker. Always carry an additional copy with you with accurate information regarding the load. 

Missing labels 

Unclear information regarding the package or missing labels can cause problems for both the carrier and the receiver. Before loading, make sure all labels are accurate and secure on the package. 

Arriving without an appointment 

If you are arriving at the terminal without the delivery appointment, it can take several hours. Every terminal has its own policies. Before dropping the trailer, make sure to call the facility to book your appointment. 

PPE 

Many facilities require carriers to wear proper PPE, including boots, hat, gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, a helmet, and goggles to protect their eyes. Before delivering the load, make sure you need to wear any security gear. 

Not getting proof of delivery 

Leaving the terminal without getting your BOL signed can cause further problems with your payment. Make sure to get your BOL signed by the receiver and take pictures as proof of delivery. 

Poor communication 

When you arrive at the terminal, always go to the office for any guidance or concerns. Follow all the instructions of the staff. Poor communication can cause different problems.  

Damaged packages

While loading, there can be products that get damaged. Wrap them or secure them with straps or load bars. Make sure you have all the necessary equipment to secure the load. 

Tips for a Smooth and Efficient Drop-Off

1. Here are some tips for a smooth and efficient drop-off:
2. Maintain clear communication with the facility 
3. Make sure the package is fully secured
4. Keep all your important documents with you 
5. Make sure whether the facility needs your assistance, so you can bring your pallet jack 
6. Book an appointment before delivery to avoid any delays
7. After dropping the freight, make sure you get signed all the needed paperwork 

Who to Contact in Case of Problems

While dropping off the trailer at the terminal, there are various problems that can occur, such as damaged products, missing documents, or being late for appointments. Here is what you need to do in case of any problem:  

LTL office 

If you are late or early for your appointment, or you are facing any difficulty in finding your dock door or have any security concerns, visit the LTL office. 

Contact your dispatch team 

If there is any problem in loading or unloading, or if you have lost the needed documents, contact your concerned dispatch team. 

Contact the broker or shipper 

If upon your arrival at the terminal, they require additional documents, refuse to load or unload you, or need specific equipment, contact your concerned broker or shipper. 

Call LTL customer care 

If any product is damaged or missing, or if you need to claim regarding any situation, or you need to reschedule your appointment, contact the LTL customer care. 

Conclusion

Dropping off freight at LTL terminals is not that hard. You need to maintain clear communication with the terminal. Follow all rules and guidance, and you can make an easy and smooth delivery. Keep all needed documents, including your identity card. For the proof of delivery, get your BOL signed and take photos of the freight, your truck, and the terminal.