- It is ALWAYS advised to label your freight with the pick-up and delivery locations to combat the misplacement of cargo.
- Changing the delivery information once a shipment is in transit could result in additional fees due to re-consignment of the goods. It is important to communicate any changes with your sales representative prior to placing the shipment in transit.
- In the event that your freight arrives damaged, you MUST notate said damages on the delivery receipt. Failure to do so could result in the claim being dismissed.
- Stating a shipping commodity other than the commodity being shipped could result in a re-classification fee. If you are unsure about a particular freight class feel free to contact one of our sales representatives. We have the resources to give quick and accurate freight classifications, saving you the trouble.
- If the carrier attempts to make a delivery and fails due to the actions of the consignee, a re-delivery fee could be charged to the customer. In most cases a delivery window can be requested by the customer to aid in the prevention of these occurrences.
- Be careful to allow sufficient time for loading or unloading and communicate your loading or unloading time estimates to ATC. It is far better to order 4 hours of loading time in advance, and actually complete loading 2 hours, than to unrealistically estimate 2 hours and end up needing 4 hours. Keep in mind that for most modes of transport, loading time is limited to 2 hours (exceptions are drayage & LTL). Exceeding the allocated loading time for a shipment is known as “equipment detention” and can add substantially to your total freight charges. Communicate with your representative regarding your loading time needs to avoid unnecessary transit problems or additional charges.
- If a customer has agreed to pick-up their shipment from the terminal of an LTL carrier this should be done within 48 hours. Beyond 48 hours the carrier has the right to charge storage fees. It is possible for us to negotiate a longer pick-up window with the carrier but this should be done prior to dropping off your freight.
- If a shipping or receiving site is stated to be a commercial location but later determined to be a residential location, the customer could be charged for a residential fee. It is important to consider that some business locations could be considered residences simply because they are located within a residential area. It is advised to check with one of our sales representatives if you have any uncertainties.
- Any changes to the specific requirements of the shipment, including but not limited to size (i.e., dimensions, weight, number of items), available times/dates for pickup/delivery, the type of equipment needed, or any additional services could result in additional charges.
- Do not expect drivers to perform any additional services that were not originally ordered from ATC, such as a driver operating a forklift or using a pallet jack. These additional services could add substantial costs to your shipment. Your sales representative has several options for any additional services your shipment might require.
- It is usually a good idea to not discuss financial components of the shipment with the drivers; typically they do not know all of the specifics that are agreed to between the you and your sales rep, and often these conversations cause confusion and delay of your shipment.
- Quotes are based on spot-market factors unless otherwise noted; keep in mind that unless a quote is booked at the time it is submitted, that the final rate is subject to change.
- It is a good practice to inform your sales representative of the value of your shipment, so we can match our vendors that have the appropriate cargo coverage that is needed for your particular shipment.
- Be sure to let your Sales Rep know of any needs that would be necessary to secure and/or protect a shipment, such as straps, load bars, tarps, etc, to avoid any potential damages or claims. Proper packaging, blocking & bracing of the shipment is the responsibility of the shipper.
- Unless agreed upon ahead of time between yourself and your sales rep, pick-up & delivery dates/times are estimates and therefore not guaranteed. ATC is not liable for costs (such as labor or equipment rental) incurred by shippers, consignees, or other parties as a result of transit delays.
|
