When shipping with Less-than-Truckload (LTL) carriers, it is important to understand the rules surrounding cubic capacity. These rules determine how much space your shipment will take up on the truck, and in turn, how much you will pay for shipping.
One important rule to understand is that LTL carriers often have a minimum cubic capacity requirement. This means that even if your shipment is small, you may be charged for a certain amount of cubic capacity. For example, a carrier may have a minimum requirement of 100 cubic feet. If your shipment only takes up 50 cubic feet, you will still be charged for 100 cubic feet.
Another rule to be aware of is that LTL carriers often charge by the hundredweight (CWT). This means that you will pay a certain rate per 100 pounds of weight. However, cubic capacity can also be used to calculate the charge. In this case, the carrier will determine the cubic feet of your shipment and then convert that to weight using a “dimensional factor.” Our experience makes us experts in cubic capacity. Learn more below to help you become an expert as well.
Less-Than-Truckload
Central Transport is one of the LTL carriers that follows the above-mentioned rules for calculating the charges for the shipment. As of 01/25/2023 the minimum requirement for cubic capacity for the Central Transport is 100 cubic feet. They will charge for the shipment on the basis of hundredweight (CWT) or cubic feet whichever is greater.
It’s important to keep these rules in mind when shipping with LTL carriers. These rules can greatly impact the cost of your shipment. To ensure that you are not overcharged, it is a good idea to accurately measure the cubic capacity of your shipment. Furthermore, be aware of the carrier’s minimum cubic capacity requirement. We can assist you to ensure that you save money.
If you’ve recently reviewed an LTL shipping invoice, and noticed a surcharge classified as “minimum cubic capacity rule” – don’t worry; you’re not alone. While shipping less than truckload (LTL) is convenient and can save money under certain situations, there are some rules that must be complied with to ensure accurate billing. One of them is called the cubic capacity rule, and quite frankly, it’s one of the most difficult rules for a shipper to grasp.
In order to ensure you clearly understand the cubic capacity rule, we’ve listed some facts about this rule, along with a few tips on how to avoid being hit with these ‘mysterious’ and costly charges.
What is the Cubic Capacity Rule?
In order to operate efficiently, LTL carriers impose a minimum cubic capacity rule. These rules combat those light and fluffy shipments that take up a ton of physical space. In most instances, the LTL carrier stipulates that if a shipment fills more than 750-cubic feet AND the shipment maintains a density of less than six-pounds per cubic foot; it’s not paying a fair share. This generally refers to as the cubic capacity rule.
However, here is the trick – these standards are not universal. In fact, many carriers define their own specific cubic capacity rules. Some carriers utilize a threshold of 250 cubic feet with less than 3 pounds per cubic feet. Always check with your carriers before setting up shipments to ensure you don’t fall victim to these charges.
Here are a few helpful hints to avoid those charges:
- Be careful how you measure: Once you’ve contacted your carrier and clarified the cubic capacity rules, you’ll want to make sure accurately measure your load. Along with clearly articulating the freight class, size and weight, the cubic feet measurements are also critical for correct pricing. Take time to measure the cubic feet by using the dependable height x width x length formula.
• Make sure your load is greater than the cubic capacity rules standard: There are several carriers who are strict followers with their cubic capacity rules, and others who are a bit more flexible. To completely avoid that ‘gray area’, make sure your shipment is greater than a cubic capacity rule.
• Be careful about exceeding the limitation on the bill of lading estimate: When you contact a carrier to receive an estimate for shipping, that information is documented on a Bill of Lading. A common area where some carriers can get ‘creative’ about ‘adjusting’ their cubic capacity rules. If the size of your freight is bigger than the BOL information, you can get a cubic capacity violation charge.
• Be aware of Extreme Length Fees: On the other side of the scale, the Extreme Length Fee is a charge that some carriers will implement if the shipment is longer than 12-linear feet. The bad news is that this charge is typically greater than the cubic capacity fee. If you’re in the sticky situation where your shipment is smaller than 750 cubic feet, and you will be hit with a cubic capacity fee. Make sure it’s less than 12-linear feet – so you don’t receive a double-dipped charge.
Booking your Shipment
Finally, if you have a logistics program that often requires shipping items that are lightweight or less than 750-cubic feet or close to most carrier’s cubic capacity rule, working with an experienced 3PL can save you a ton of frustration. Experienced third-party logistics providers like LTX solutions can help you manage all aspects of your logistics. Including helping to negotiate reduced fees for those ‘close’ LTL shipments. Our experts can help you today book your shipment. We will save you time and money with our experience. Additionally, we will work with you so you can understand. Our team knows all the rules for each LTL Carrier.
In conclusion, cubic capacity rules for LTL carriers are an important aspect to consider when shipping your goods. These rules can greatly impact the cost of your shipment, so it’s important to understand them and to accurately measure the cubic capacity of your shipment. Central Transport is one of the LTL carriers following the above-mentioned rules. It’s always good to be aware of the carrier’s rules and regulations before shipping your goods. Call our team today to get a free quote. See how we can save you time and money!
