6 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Freight Shipping Company

Shippers need qualified carriers to deliver their goods across the country, but choosing a carrier can be a confusing and stressful process. Knowing the right questions to ask your freight carrier or freight broker will set you up for success in the highly-competitive U.S. market.

Key Takeaways:

• A large carrier network ensures flexibility and capacity for your shipments.
• Freight technology integration makes it easier for shippers and receivers to track shipments and communicate in real time.
• Depending on the carrier, some commodities may require extra vetting during the rate quoting process, such as artwork and biological samples. 
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration compliance guarantees regulatory adherence and reduces the risk of fraud.

Whether you’re a shipper with freight to move or a carrier looking for new business partnerships, these six questions to ask freight carriers and brokers will help you determine their trustworthiness and expertise.

1. How Expansive is Their Carrier Network?

One of the most important factors in choosing a freight broker or shipping company is the size and strength of its carrier network. A larger carrier network gives shippers access to more transportation options across a greater area, minimizing barriers to operations and ensuring on-time delivery.

Well-established freight brokerage services should be equipped to offer:

• Full Truckload (FTL) and Less than Truckload (LTL): Depending on the size or urgency of your shipment, LTL could save money, while FTL dedicates an entire truck and trailer to your cargo. 
• Rail and Intermodal Options: For some shipments, especially bulk goods, rail is a cost-effective alternative to trucks and trailers. 
• Air Freight: While more expensive than terrestrial transport, air freight is a vital option for expedited shipments. 
• Drayage Services:Short-haul transport of cargo containers between ports, warehouses, and rail yards.

In the table below, you can see some of the most cost-efficient uses of different freight transport modes.

A large network of intermodal carriers lets brokers match loads with the most efficient and cost-effective modes of transportation. 

2. What Technology Do You Leverage for Shippers and Carriers?

As new advances in logistics technology arise, freight brokerage services integrate these to improve shipment visibility, efficiency, and communication for their clients. 

Look for a freight provider that offers:

• GPS-based load tracking for up-to-the-minute location updates.
• Warehouse management software (WMS) to help you achieve a lean inventory strategy.
• Rate negotiation platforms that provide cost transparency.

A broker or carrier with advanced freight technology integration helps reduce supply chain disruptions and enhances efficiency by automating key processes.

3. What Commodities Do You Ship?

Some commodities require special consideration during the shipping process. Knowing whether a freight provider has commodity-specific experience ensures your shipment won’t incur fees or get delayed due to its sensitive nature.

Before committing to a 3PL freight broker, ask about:

• Restricted or Prohibited Items: Some carriers avoid certain shipments due to liability concerns.
• Specialized Equipment Availability: Does the carrier provide refrigerated transportation for perishables, flatbeds for oversized loads, or tankers for liquids?
• High-value cargo handling: Ensure they offer cargo insurance and security measures for sensitive shipments.

An experienced freight broker will readily communicate which commodities they can handle and any special considerations required. Keep in mind that some goods will require further vetting from high-level decision makers before any pricing discussion can begin.

4. Can You Handle Hazardous Materials?

If your business ships hazardous materials (hazmat), you need a carrier that understands hazmat classifications and meets FMCSA compliance standards. Hazardous shipments must adhere to Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including proper documentation and emergency contact protocols.

Shippers should ensure their freight broker has experience with hazmat shipping, including access to properly certified carriers and emergency response plans.

Related: Guide to Hazardous Waste Transportation

5. What Does Your Pricing Include?

Understanding what’s included in your freight quote requires looking beyond the base rate to see what services are covered under your shipping contract. Transparent pricing avoids unexpected charges and ensures you’re getting the best value for your shipping budget.

Some key pricing factors you should keep in mind are:

• Line-Haul Rates: The primary cost of transporting freight from origin to destination.
• Fuel surcharges: Fluctuating costs based on the price of fuel within any given region of the U.S.
• Accessorial Fees: Additional costs for services like liftgates, reefer trailers, or white-glove delivery.
• Tracking and Communication: Are load tracking and data integration support included?

A reliable third-party logistics provider (3PL) should offer detailed pricing breakdowns and work with shippers to optimize costs without sacrificing service quality.

Related: What is a Fuel Surcharge?

6. Are They FMCSA Verified?

The FMCSA and DOT work together to regulate and enforce freight transport in the U.S. FMCSA verification is essential when selecting a freight broker or carrier. 

Before you work with a freight broker, check for the following information:

• USDOT and MC Number Status: Ensure the company is legally authorized to operate in the country.
• Carrier Safety Ratings: The FMCSA assigns safety scores based on performance.
• Surety Bond and Insurance: Brokers must carry a $75,000 surety bond to protect against non-payment to carriers and, in some cases, shippers.

You can check FMCSA verification status by searching the carrier’s MC number in the administration’s SAFER System. If a broker or carrier cannot provide proof of compliance, you’ll definitely want to do business elsewhere.

Find Your Carrier With USA Truckload Shipping

Choosing the right freight broker or carrier is an important step for shippers looking to balance delivery costs with the demands of their customers. 

At USA Truckload Shipping, we provide shippers a full suite of 3PL services, including:

• FTL and LTL freight services
• White glove shipping and delivery
• Expert logistics consulting sessions
• And more

Partner with a trusted 3PL provider that prioritizes on-time delivery performance, fair pricing, and compliance with all necessary freight shipment regulations. Call us at (866) 353-7178 or fill out a request for proposal online today!