Shipping an engine across the United States and other countries present some unique problems of their own due to their sheer weight and size. For one, bulky and heavy items such as car, boat and truck engines need to be crated and packed properly. Because of size and weight limitations, the post office and parcel mailing companies may even refuse to handle such items. You will find that the best and efficient way to ship engines across the country is by freight.
There are many companies that specialize in shipping heavy items and freight nationwide as can be evident from doing a quick online search. Sellers of engines, after accepting orders, need to have these engines shipped to the customer. Buyers also need to decide where they want the engines delivered - they can save money by shipping to a cargo terminal or have it shipped to their house or business at a higher cost. There are a lot of steps that need to be done in shipping an engine to the customer to make sure that the delivery process goes in a smooth and hassle-free manner.
If you are looking for a company to help you through the engine shipping process, FreightCenter can be a great choice. They have been an engine shipping expert for years, and let you compare rates and choose the best price from all the top carriers.
I have highlighted some major steps and processes below of things to keep in mind when preparing for your engine shipping. Reading and following these steps can help ensure the process of shipping an engine through freight shipping goes smoothly:
Preparing the engine for shipping – All types of liquids should be drained from the engine. This includes engine oils, coolants, lubricants, and even water. Do this to avoid possible damage to the engine as well as additional costs.
Packing the engine – It is important to properly pack the engine for engine shipping to prevent damage. Make sure that the engine is mounted onto pallets, securely fastened using banding, and wrapped with shrink-wrap and breakaway adhesive. The proper labels should be placed legibly and clearly to allow for easier and smoother transport. The shipping contract between you and the carrier usually stipulates that the engine must be packed and secured properly to minimize the risk of damage during transport. Keep in mind that their liability could be waived if the proper guidelines for packing are not followed.
Know the weight of your freight – We all know that shipping engines and freight depends on the volume and weight of the particular item. The weight of the item should be an accurate assessment and must include packing materials (even crate, pallet, and wrapping). To avoid being overcharged, make sure to get an accurate weight for your engine. The best option is to get it weighed after it is already prepared and ready for shipping. If you do not have the means to weigh your package at your home or business, there are certified weight scales available at a variety of locations. You can do a simple online search to find a location nearest you.
Read and understand the paperwork – Each carrier and company that you choose will have specific paperwork for you to read and fill out to prepare for your engine shipping. Make sure that you read this paperwork carefully and thoroughly as there are special instructions and guidelines usually included that can help save you time and future headaches with your engine shipping. When booking your shipping, the company will always issue you a bill of lading (BOL). It’s very important to use this paperwork because it shows the carrier the specific rates and discounts you have been issued for the shipment. Not using and not properly reading your paperwork can result in delay in delivery as well as additional charges by the carrier, so take a few minutes to read over everything properly.
Decide where to have the engine shipped – Generally, there are two places where you can choose to have your freight delivered. The first is at the cargo shipping terminal. This is the terminal where all the freight trucks are unloaded and freight is interchanged within their transportation network. You can choose to have your engine shipped directly to a terminal and save on costs. There are hundreds of terminal locations nationwide and you can ask your shipping company where the closest location is to you.
The other place where you may want to have your engine delivered is at home or your business address. Although more convenient, there are additional costs because from the cargo terminal, the shipper has to employ another freight truck and additional manpower to deliver the engine directly to your address. There might also be additional charges including limited access and residential delivery, depending on where you are having your engine shipped. Always ask your freight agent for specifics of any additional charges that may apply.
Have proper identification ready – When claiming your engine shipping, whether at a terminal or at your residence or business, be prepared to show documents and identification showing that you are the actual recipient of the freight. Identification is important to have in both instances to avoid extra storage fees and re-delivery charges if no one is available when the engine is delivered. The carrier will not just drop off your engine at your door with no signature, so make sure to make the proper arrangement on the day of your engine delivery..
Other engine shipping problems – All trusted and experienced freight companies should have a customer service department and hotline for customer to be able to call if at anytime you encounter any problems or have any questions during the shipping process. If you choose FreightCenter, as previously mentioned, they actually assign you a specific account manager to personally contact at any time during your shipment. I really like this added benefit, as it can save a lot of wasted time on hold and being transferred as is common with other companies. For your convenience, if you do choose FreightCenter, their number is: 1-800-716-7608.
Shipping an engine can be a challenging experience, especially for a non-experienced shipper trying to figure out the best carrier and company to choose and the proper way to prepare and package the engine for shipping. Using a company like FreightCenter can make shipping an engine easier and hassle free. FreightCenter allows you to receive free instant comparison quotes from trusted carriers, and their knowledgeable staff can help you through the whole engine shipping process. They assure an effective and efficient shipping process for those who want to ship an engine and transport large loads.
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