FAQs
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Frequently Asked Questions for Craters & Freighters Nashville
Below are answers to the questions we are most frequently asked. If you have a question that isn’t addressed please contact Craters & Freighters Nashville.
General FAQs
What are the benefits of using LTL freight shipping services?
- Cost reduction: LTL shippers only pay for the portion of the truck used.
- Heightened safety: Typically, LTL shipments are put on a pallet or skid with other items and packaged together for protection rather than numerous containers loose in the trailer, allowing more movement.
- Custom solutions: LTL shippers often offer solutions such as liftgates, pickup and delivery options, and others.
- Easy tracking: Using various tracking resources, you always know where your item is.
Can LTL be used in ocean transport?
How much does LTL cost?
As with any shipment, there are numerous things to consider when establishing the price for your less-than-truckload shipment; some include:
- Distance between locations
- Size and weight of items to be shipped
- Special handling or custom services needed
- Expedited shipments
How do you prepare LTL shipments?
Our process is streamlined:
We determine the precise size of the item to avoid surprising or surmounting costs and ensure each item fits properly in the trailer, maximizing space
We package each item using the optimal materials and equipment, label each container, and load items onto pallets for space-saving and safety reasons
We provide all documentation necessary for you, our partners, and our team
What are the special LTL services you provide?
- Expedited to get your assets to their destination faster than standard times
- Liftgate service for items that weigh more than 100 pounds when needed
- Inside pickup and delivery for items that need to be picked up inside your location and dropped off inside your location
- Difficult or limited access service may be necessary for locations that are hard to get to or have limited space, such as tight parking lots and construction areas
- Cargo insurance for your valuables
Why should I ship LTL and not parcel?
Shipping FAQs
How will my item(s) be shipped?
Depending on the item and level of service requested, we ship by truck, air, and sea.
Do you ship nationwide?
Yes. We currently have 65+ individually owned and operated franchise locations across the country that specialize in shipping nationwide and internationally. Whether you’re a residential or business customer, we can assist you with all of your logistics needs.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, we do! Contact us for further information, quotes and availability. Please see our International Shipping page for more information.
Do you pick up and deliver?
Yes, we offer pickup and delivery services. Visit our Pickup & Delivery page for more information.
Can you provide white-glove delivery?
Yes, we offer white-glove services as an added option in shipping. Visit our White-Glove Delivery page for more information
Do you offer time-critical and overnight services?
Yes, please contact us for more information and pricing.
Do you ship art, antiques, fragile and high-value items?
Yes! Please see our Art & Antiques page.
Do you provide military and government shipping?
Yes, please see our Military & Government Shipping page.
Do you ship heavy industrial machinery and equipment?
Yes, we do! Please see our Heavy Equipment Crating & Shipping page.
Do you provide estate shipping services?
Yes, Please see our Estate & Trust Shipping page for more information.
Commercial FAQs
Do you ship containers?
Yes, we handle everything from small shipments to large, dedicated full container load shipments.
Do you offer debris removal?
Yes, please contact us for information and pricing.
Do you handle hazardous material and dangerous goods?
Yes, we can pack and ship most hazardous materials according to 49 CFR, IMDG, and ICAO regulations. Please visit our Hazmat Shipping page for more information.
Crating FAQs
Are all of your crates/boxes custom made?
Yes, each container is custom-designed and built to fit the needs of the item(s) you are shipping.
Do you handle sensitive electronic equipment?
Yes, please visit our IT & Electronics page for details.
Do you provide ISPM 15 crates for export?
Yes, we have extensive knowledge of ISPM 15 policies and regulations.
What are the requirements for ISPM 15 crates?
According to the US Department of Agriculture:
International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 require all solid wood packing material to be heat treated and stamped with an official mark. ISPM 15 requirements apply to all hardwood and softwood (coniferous and non-coniferous) packaging materials. The standard does not apply to wood packaging made wholly of manufactured wood products such as plywood, particle board, oriented strand board, or products created using glue, heat and pressure or a combination of these. The second alternative, Fumigation with Methyl Bromide (MB), while still acceptable is being phased out because of environmental reasons. The fumigator must be registered in the program in order to issue the ALSC Quality Mark. Important note to exporters: ISPM 15 requirements apply to all coniferous (softwood) and non-coniferous (hardwood) packing materials including dunnage. U.S. Inspection Agencies control the issuance of the ALSC Quality Mark, and the presence of the Quality Mark ensures WPM produced in the U.S. and destined for export meets the importing countries regulations. Trading partners are adopting the ISPM15 in their import regulations. As the National Plant Protection Organization of the United States, the United States Department of Agriculture, in coordination with the wood packaging material industry, has developed an export program to guarantee compliance with the import requirements of trading countries. The program insures certified treatment and marking of wood packaging material for international trade, while maintaining traceability of the packaging material. The integrity of the program is dependent upon industries compliance.
Do you do on-site crating?
Yes, we can provide on-site crating at your place of business.
Do you make reusable crates?
Yes! Save time, effort, and money by allowing us to design and build you a reusable crate, whether it’s for trade shows or other purposes.
Do you provide heat shrink wrapping?
Yes, please visit our Heat Shrink Wrapping page for more information.