A useful freight quote starts with a clear description of the move. Two shipments on the same route can need different equipment or handling. Gather the information below before requesting pricing, and flag anything that is still an estimate.
1. Pickup and delivery details
Provide the origin and destination addresses, including ZIP codes. Identify each location as a warehouse, business, job site, residence, port, or rail ramp. Include facility hours, appointment requirements, and a contact for each end of the shipment.
Tell your broker whether there is a loading dock or forklift, whether a truck can access the property, and who will load and unload. These details help identify services such as liftgate delivery before a truck is dispatched.
2. Commodity, packaging, dimensions, and weight
Describe what you are shipping and how it is packed: pallets, crates, cartons, machinery, or another unit. Give the number of pieces, each unit's outside length, width, and height, and the total weight including packaging. Measure the freight as it will be tendered, including pallet height and any overhang.
Note whether units can be stacked and whether the freight is fragile, unusually shaped, or temperature-sensitive. For LTL shipping, include the freight class or NMFC information if known; ask for help reviewing the details if you are unsure rather than guessing.
3. Ready date and delivery requirements
Give the earliest date and time the shipment will actually be ready, the pickup window, and the requested delivery date. Distinguish a preferred arrival from a firm appointment or production deadline.
For an urgent move, discuss expedited freight options and confirm the proposed service and timing before booking. Carrier availability and route constraints must be reviewed for the specific shipment.
4. Equipment and special handling
Share any known equipment requirements. Full truckload shipping can be appropriate for dedicated capacity, while smaller palletized freight may fit shared LTL service. Shipment size alone does not settle the choice: handling, route, and timing matter too.
- For heavy haul or oversized equipment, include exact dimensions, weight, photos if available, and the loading and unloading method.
- For container drayage, include the port or rail ramp, container size and type, availability details, delivery appointment, and return instructions when available.
- For hazardous materials, identify the commodity and provide available shipping documentation so suitability can be reviewed.
5. Extra services and quote assumptions
Ask which services the quoted price includes. Liftgate service, residential or limited-access locations, inside delivery, appointments, and waiting time can affect the total. Tell your broker about these requirements up front.
Before accepting a quote, confirm the service, equipment, transit expectations, quote validity, and any assumptions about weight, dimensions, or facility access. A change in shipment details can require revised pricing.
Keep this checklist with your request
- Origin and destination addresses and ZIP codes
- Facility types, hours, contacts, and appointment requirements
- Commodity and packaging type
- Piece or pallet count and packed dimensions for each unit
- Total weight including pallets, crates, and packaging
- Stackability, temperature, and other handling needs
- Ready date, pickup window, and delivery requirements
- Equipment needs and loading or unloading arrangements
- Any extra services or details that still need confirmation
Request a quote from SwiftLink
SwiftLink Logistics is a Michigan-based freight brokerage coordinating shipments across the contiguous United States. Send your details using our quote form. Our team will review the request and follow up with questions and available options.
Request a freight quote →Still working through the details? Contact our team or browse the freight shipping FAQ.