Preparing to Get a Freight Shipping Quote: Key Information to Gather

A brief introduction

When you're looking for freight transportation services, preparation is key to getting accurate quotes and finding the right logistics partner.

As someone who works with shippers daily, I've seen firsthand how having the right information ready can streamline the quoting process, lead to more accurate pricing, and help establish a productive relationship with your transportation provider.

This guide is based on our experience working with thousands of shippers across diverse industries. If you're uncertain about any information requirements for your specific shipment, don't hesitate to ask your logistics provider for guidance. At Badger Logistics, we're always happy to walk you through the information-gathering process to ensure we provide the most accurate and competitive quote for your specific needs. Contact us.

Why preparation matters

Logistics providers need specific details about your shipment to provide accurate quotes and service recommendations. When you contact a transportation company without this information, it often leads to:

• Multiple follow-up calls and emails
• Delayed quotes
• Less accurate pricing estimates
• Mismatched service recommendations
• Potential surprises or additional charges later

When you come prepared with comprehensive shipment details, you enable your logistics provider to match the right equipment, select appropriate carriers, identify potential challenges, and offer the most competitive rates for your specific needs.

Essential information to gather

Here's a comprehensive checklist of information you should have ready before contacting a logistics provider for a quote:

Special considerations by freight type

Different types of freight have unique information requirements. Here are specifics to gather based on your freight type:

For Full Truckload (FTL) shipments:

• Total weight and dimensions of the entire shipment
• Whether the freight will fill the entire trailer
• Specific equipment requirements (trailer age, team drivers, etc.)
• Whether you need trailer drop services or live loading

For partial or LTL shipments:

• Detailed information on dimensions and weight
• Whether freight is over 4-5 pallets or 4,000-5,000 pounds (which might qualify for partial service)
• National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) code if available
• Whether items are irregularly shaped or require special handling

For flatbed shipments:

• Precise dimensions including any overhangs
• Whether the freight requires tarping
• Whether securement materials are provided or needed
• Loading method (overhead crane, forklift, etc.)
• Need for specialized equipment like step decks, RGNs, or Conestoga trailers

For temperature-controlled shipments:

• Required temperature range
• Whether temperature needs to be continuous or cycling
• Whether temperature monitoring/recording is required
• Need for pre-cooling the trailer

For intermodal shipments:

• Whether freight can handle additional transit time
• If freight is suitable for container shipping
• Total shipment weight (must be within container limits)

Putting information in context: what your provider really needs to know

Beyond just collecting data points, understanding why this information matters helps you provide the most relevant details:

• Why origin/destination details matter: A shipment going to a residential area requires different equipment than one going to a commercial dock. Access restrictions might necessitate smaller trucks or special equipment.
• Why exact dimensions matter: If your freight is 8'2" wide rather than 8' wide, it may require permits, escort vehicles, and specialized carriers—completely changing the cost structure.
• Why facility capabilities matter: If your loading dock can't accommodate standard trailers, or if you don't have a forklift, your provider needs to arrange appropriate equipment and service.
• Why timeline flexibility matters: Having flexibility on pickup or delivery times might allow your provider to offer significantly better rates by optimizing their network.

What happens after you provide this information

When you provide complete information to your logistics provider, here's what happens next:

1. Analysis of Requirements: The provider evaluates your needs to determine appropriate equipment, routing, and service options.
2. Carrier Matching: For brokered shipments, your information helps match your load with carriers specifically suited to your requirements.
3. Rate Calculation: Detailed information allows for accurate pricing that accounts for all necessary services.
4. Quote Preparation: A comprehensive quote should include base transportation costs and any additional services required.
5. Service Recommendations: A good provider might suggest alternatives or optimizations based on your specific needs.

Final thoughts: better information leads to better service

The time you invest in gathering complete shipment information before contacting a logistics provider pays dividends throughout the shipping process. With comprehensive details in hand, you enable your provider to:

• Match your shipment with the right equipment and service
• Provide more accurate pricing
• Plan for any special requirements
• Avoid unexpected issues and delays
• Deliver a smoother overall experience

Remember that logistics providers want to serve you well, but they can only do so when they fully understand your needs. By coming prepared with the right information, you're taking the first step toward building a successful shipping partnership.

Talk to us for a better Wisconsin logistics experience

At Badger Logistics, we combine asset-based trucking with extensive brokerage capabilities, warehousing, and maintenance services to provide integrated logistics solutions for Wisconsin shippers. This guide reflects not just my personal experience but the collective wisdom of our team, which brings over a century of combined Wisconsin logistics experience to every shipment we handle.

While freight transportation will always involve challenges, the right approach and partnerships can transform logistics from a constant struggle into a sustainable competitive advantage. I hope this guide helps you navigate Wisconsin's unique shipping environment more effectively.

For specific questions or to discuss your particular freight challenges or to get a competitive quote, feel free to reach out directly or submit the quote request form below. We'll be in touch within one business day.