Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about heavy freight logistics, delivery requirements, and machinery preparation.
Quoting & Pricing
Freight rates are determined by a combination of the equipment’s exact weight, dimensions, National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) class, the distance traveled, and any specific delivery requirements (such as residential routing or liftgate service).
TONU stands for “Truck Ordered, Not Used.” If a specialized freight truck is dispatched to a location and the equipment is not ready, or the pickup is canceled at the last minute, the carrier assesses this fee to cover their wasted fuel and time.
Delivery & Access
A Commercial delivery is defined as a business operating in a commercially zoned area equipped with a loading dock or a forklift capable of safely unloading the freight. A Residential delivery is any location situated in a residential zone, including home businesses, farms, and private estates. Carriers charge extra for residential deliveries due to restricted truck routing.
Freight trucks sit roughly 4 feet off the ground. If your delivery location does not have a loading dock or a heavy-duty forklift, you must request a liftgate to lower the machinery to the ground. Note: Standard liftgates have a maximum weight capacity of 2,500 lbs. If your equipment exceeds this (e.g., a large excavator or heavy-duty car lift), you must make alternative unloading arrangements, such as hiring a local rigger.
Yes, but you must select “Residential Delivery” when requesting your quote. Keep in mind that 53-foot semi-trucks cannot navigate tight residential streets. If the driver deems your street inaccessible, you may need to meet the truck at a nearby commercial lot or terminal to transfer the equipment.
Preparation & Tracking
Generally, yes. For safety and regulatory compliance, equipment like diesel mowers and excavators should have their fuel tanks drained. Hydraulic fluids should be secured, and all batteries must be disconnected and terminals taped off prior to pickup.
Once your freight is dispatched, you will receive a Bill of Lading (BOL) and a tracking number via email. You can enter this number on our Tracking Page to see real-time transit updates provided directly by the motor carrier.
Damage & Claims
Do not sign the delivery receipt yet. You must note any visible damage (scratched paint, bent metal, torn packaging) directly on the driver’s copy of the Bill of Lading. Take clear photographs of the damage while the equipment is still on the truck. Once noted, you can sign for the delivery and contact our dispatch team immediately to initiate a freight claim.
No. You should only refuse a shipment if the equipment has suffered catastrophic, structural damage (e.g., it was dropped and is a total loss). For minor or cosmetic damage (like a scratch on a mower deck), accept the delivery, note the damage on the BOL, and we will assist you in filing a claim for repair costs.
Still have questions?
Our dispatch team is ready to help coordinate your heavy haul.
