Frequently Asked Questions

How are Alaska shipping rates determined?

A: Our regular LTL ground rates apply until freight arrives at the departure port near our Tacoma terminal. From the port to its destination in Alaska, rates are based on the shipping class, hundredweight (CWT), and ocean fuel charge.

Can Estes meet my tight delivery windows?

A: Yes. Estes combines all the benefits of our reliable LTL service with our extensive grocery expertise to deliver a shipping solution that can meet even your grocery consignees’ tightest delivery windows with ease.

If you’re looking for additional peace of mind, our best-in-class Time Critical Guaranteed (TCG) delivery is the perfect solution for Must Arrive By Date (MABD) shipments because it guarantees all aspects of your shipment from on-time pickup to damage-free delivery on the appointment date. And with our 99.4% success rate in meeting all guarantees for shipments to retail distribution centers, you can rest assured that your MABD grocery shipments are in good hands.

What documentation is required for Canada shipments?

A: The documentation required is dependent upon 1) the country of origin for the goods, 2) the total value of the shipment and 3) whether the freight is going from the U.S. to Canada or from Canada to the U.S. The following chart indicates which documents are appropriate.

What is the Cubic Capacity Rule?

A: Any shipments of 350 cubic feet or more will be subject to a Minimum Charge, based on 6 pounds per cubic foot, at the customer’s Class 125 rate and subject to applicable discounts. If the customer’s applicable tariff does not include a Class 125 rate, the Minimum Charge will be 211% of the applicable base rate. For more information, please see Item 615 of our Rules Tariff.

Note that a shipment of six or more standard pallets at 48” x 48” x 48” would just exceed the cubic capacity rule limit at 384 cubic feet. Cubic capacity is determined by multiplying length by height by width in feet. The equation for four standard pallets (48” x 48” x 48” or 4’ x 4’ x 4’) looks like this: 4’ x 4’ x 4’ for one pallet is 64 cubic feet; 64 x 6 pallets is 384 cubic feet.

Does Estes dimension my freight?

A: Estes often dimensions freight using ceiling-mounted dimensioners, which allows us to have a more accurate picture of how shipments can be loaded on our trucks. Combined with weight data, dimensions help us calculate density to do a better job of costing a shipment and assigning an appropriate class.

How do dimensioners work?

A: Freight is placed in a measurement zone on the dock floor. The bill or tracking number is then scanned on a nearby device to trigger the dimensioner to scan the freight. The dimensioner uses multiple scanning devices from different angles to measure the extreme height, width and depth of a single shipment. That measurement represents the amount of space a shipment will occupy in a trailer.

When the scan is complete (within just a few seconds), the dockworker picks up the freight with the forklift again and takes it to be loaded on the correct outbound trailer. The data goes into our computer system and, along with shipment weight, is used to calculate density and evaluate space needed as well as to determine the most accurate class designation.

Why do I need to provide dimensions for my freight?

A: One of the biggest factors in shipping costs is freight density. Calculating density requires us to know not only your shipment’s weight, but also its cubic dimensions. After we confirm a shipment’s density, we’re able to do a better job of rating and assigning it to an appropriate class. That’s why at Estes, we have dimensioners in every terminal to help us accurately assess the cubic dimensions of your freight.

How do freight dimensions affect shipping rates?

A: Both dimensions and weight are factors in determining a freight shipment’s density, shipping class, and shipping rates. For more information on freight dimensions, please visit the Dimensioning section of our FAQs.

What EDI transactions does Estes exchange?

A: Estes exchanges the following EDI sets:

* Additional data sets may be available.

Kleinschmidt Inc. is the EC Gateway/EDI VAN we use to move data. Kleinschmidt supports all EDI standards as well as proprietary formats (flat files) and translation services between any of these formats. The company also supports many alternative means of communication and provides real-time interconnect to all major and many smaller VANs. You can contact Kleinschmidt at www.kleinschmidt.com.

To get started, contact one of our EDI experts at (804) 353-1900, Ext. 2600 and press 2. Or email us at EDI@estesexpress.com.

EDI Set Descriptions

204/211—Bill of Lading

The customer-provided information is translated and the freight bill generated from the 204/211 data. If all the information is provided by the shipper, the billing clerk simply verifies the information against the paperwork provided at pickup. Auto-creating these freight bills benefits the shipper by preventing keying errors and accelerating freight processing.

210—Invoicing

The 210 EDI set is electronic invoicing. Billing electronically eliminates paper flow and handling for both Estes and our customers. It cuts down on the amount of administrative effort involved in billing (for Estes) and paying (for our customers) of invoices. When combined with customers sending 820s and remittance advice, the process becomes much more streamlined and efficient.

214—Shipment Status

The 214 EDI set provides our customers with information about the status of their shipments. Many different statuses can be reported, which eliminates the need for the customer to call about their shipment's disposition.

820—Remittance Advice

Estes encourages the use of the 820 for remittance purposes. Although a transfer of funds is desirable, an 820 Remittance and a mailed check are acceptable. Estes automatically applies payment based on its 10-digit freight bill number provided in the 820, which prevents payment application errors.

How the EDI sets work together

Sending the 204/211 Bill of Lading to Estes starts the process with an auto-created freight bill containing the shipper-provided data.

The 214 EDI shipment status set and the 210 EDI invoice set are used after the set is in Estes' system. It will process error free because the data came directly from the shipper.

The billing process is accelerated when customers receive the 210 EDI invoicing set and send Estes the 820 EDI Remittance Advice set.

Which hazardous materials does Estes not transport?

A: Estes does not haul the following hazardous materials:

• Explosives
  • Hazard Class 1, Division 1.1, 1.2, or 1.3
  • Hazard Class 1, Division 1.5, requiring placards, exceeding 1,000 pounds
• Infectious substances
  • Hazard Class 6.2
• Hazardous waste
• Liquefied gas
  • Includes refrigerated liquid methane, liquid propane, or other liquefied gas with methane content greater than 85%, in packaging exceeding 3,500 gallons
• Metallic mercury (quicksilver)
• Nitrocellulose
• Poison inhalation hazards
  • Hazard Zone A, of any nature
  • Hazard Zone B, in bulk containers, exceeding 119 gallons
  • Hazard Zone C or D, in packaging exceeding 3,500 gallons
• Radioactive materials, isotopes, or articles that are highway-route controlled

For questions about hazardous materials, please contact our Safety Department by emailing Safety-Hazmat@estes-express.com.

What information is required on my Bill of Lading for hazmat freight?

A: When using our Bill of Lading tool to create a BOL, hazmat information is provided in the Commodities section. Here, underneath each freight handling unit or item shown, is a blue Add Hazardous Info button. Click the button and a Hazardous Details pop-up window will appear, specifying what hazmat information is required.

If you're not using our tool to complete the Bill of Lading for your hazmat freight, you'll need to ensure that your BOL includes the following: number of packages, type of package, ID number, proper shipping name, hazard class, packing group number (if applicable), weight of the material, emergency response phone number, and signed shipper’s certification.

The proper order for the hazmat description is as follows:

1. ID number
2. Proper Shipping Name
3. Hazard Class
4. Packing Group (if applicable)

See 49 CFR 172.200-205 on the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration website for full details.

What is a shipper’s certification?

A: The shipper’s certification is the statement on the BOL that must be signed by the shipper certifying that the materials have been properly classified, described, packaged, marked, and labeled for transportation.

How does the Cubic Capacity Rule affect shipping rates?

A: According to this rule, any shipments of 350 cubic feet or more will be subject to a Minimum Charge, based on 6 pounds per cubic foot, at the customer’s Class 125 rate and subject to applicable discounts. If the customer’s applicable tariff does not include a Class 125 rate, the Minimum Charge will be 211% of the applicable base rate. For more information on cubic capacity, please visit the Dimensioning section of our FAQs.

How does Estes protect my freight during loading and transit?

A: Estes delivers a best-in-class loading experience by using captive beam containers and our proprietary Webb wall system—a notched steel wall design that allows freight to be secured at multiple points inside the container.

These tools give our dock teams more flexibility to tightly secure freight, reducing movement during transit. The result is:

• More efficient loading and unloading
• Fewer delays
• A minimized risk of damage

By taking extra care to keep freight firmly in place, we help ensure a safer, more reliable shipping experience every step of the way.

How is freight class determined in LTL shipping?

A: Freight class is determined by an item's density, handling requirements, stowability, and liability. For more information on freight classification, please visit our Shipment Class & Weight FAQs or view and download our Shipper's Guide.

How is LTL pricing determined?

A: LTL pricing reflects several factors including distance, weight, dimensions, freight class, and additional services. Our Density Calculator tool can help you determine your freight class, and you can find pricing for many of our additional, non-standard services on our list of Accessorials.

View and download our Shipper's Guide or our Rules Tariff for additional insights into pricing.

When you’re ready, you can quickly determine a price for your shipment by using our online Rate Quote tool.

How is LTL different from volume LTL or truckload?

A: LTL shipments are smaller and lighter than volume LTL or truckload shipments.

Estes shipments that require between eight and 48 linear feet of the trailer or weigh between 5,000 and 45,000 pounds are classed as volume LTL; shipments that require 48 linear feet of the trailer or that weigh 45,000 pounds or more are classed as truckload.

How do I save images to my own computer?

A: You can save images by following these easy steps:

1. Place your cursor over the image you want to save.
2. Click your right mouse button. Select “Save Picture As” (or “Save Image As”) when the following menu appears:
   
3. The window below will appear on your screen. In the “Save in” menu, select the folder where you’d like to store your images. Next, select a file name for your image. We recommend naming your file something you’ll remember for future use. 
   
4. Click “Save.”

What if my invoice doesn’t reflect the weight or class that I put on the Bill of Lading?

A: Invoices may be changed to reflect reweighs on our certified scales, shipment dimensioner scanning results, or class standards published in the NMFC. If you have questions about these changes, contact your account representative or submit your question through our online Rating and Billing Discrepancies application. Additional information is available in our Shipment Class & Weight FAQ section.

What documentation is required for Mexico shipments?

A: The documentation required is dependent upon 1) the country of origin for the goods, 2) the total value of the shipment and 3) whether the freight is going from the U.S. to Mexico or from Mexico to the U.S. The following chart indicates which documents are appropriate.

To get the necessary forms for Mexico shipping, visit our Shipping Forms and Documents page.

What are freight classifications?

A: National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a tool developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). The classifications group virtually all commodities moving in interstate and intrastate transport by their “transportability.” This gives both carriers and shippers a standard when agreeing on shipping prices.

NMFC groups all commodities into 18 classes (50 through 500). Freight that is more transportable—denser, sturdier, and more easily handled—receives a lower classification; freight that is more prone to damage or theft, or is more difficult to handle, receives a higher one.

Watch this short, insightful NMFTA video on freight classifications and the importance of classifying freight accurately.

How can I classify my shipment?

A: National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) freight classes are assigned based on four characteristics of your shipped commodity:

• Density - The weight of the commodity relative to the amount of space it occupies, which can be quickly determined using our online Density Calculator; high density items will fall under lower classes and are less expensive to transport
• Handling - How the size, shape, and fragility of a commodity affect its handling requirements; items that need special attention (e.g., are hazardous or irregularly shaped) will fall under higher classes and be more expensive to transport
• Stowability - How easily the commodity can be arranged with other freight; items that are hazardous, highly regulated, or irregularly shaped will fall under higher classes
• Liability - Commodities that are perishable, breakable, or more likely to be stolen or to cause damage during transit will fall under higher classes due to their greater risk

In the absence of handling, stowability, and liability information, use density to attempt to determine an appropriate freight class.

Be sure to identify each commodity and its classification on your BOL to ensure that your shipment is properly rated. Please note that some classifications also require the shipper to declare the value and/or the density on the BOL.

Here is a chart that displays densities for the 18 NMFC classes:

*Some commodities of a given class may have different densities. Commodities with weights on the boundary between classes are included in the lower class.

What are freight classifications?

A: National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) is a tool developed by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). The classifications group virtually all commodities moving in interstate and intrastate transport by their “transportability.” This gives both carriers and shippers a standard when agreeing on shipping prices.

NMFC groups all commodities into 18 classes (50 through 500). Freight that is more transportable—denser, sturdier, and more easily handled—receives a lower classification; freight that is more prone to damage or theft, or is more difficult to handle, receives a higher one.

Watch this short, insightful NMFTA video on freight classifications and the importance of classifying freight accurately.

Why was my shipment re-classed if I have shipped it using this class before?

A: The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) created the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) as a standard for providing a comparison of commodities moving in commerce. The carrier has the right to inspect any shipment to ensure that it is properly classified. A shipment may have been misclassified in the past, and corrections may be required going forward. Also, the NMFTA periodically adjusts classifications based on ongoing commodity research.

To learn more about classification research and how to subscribe to the NMFC tariff publication, go to the NMFTA website.

Why is a class required?

A: The NMFC does not set prices or specify rates, revenues, or charges. It does establish standard categories for pricing, which allows shippers and carriers to negotiate price based on standard shipping considerations. The NMFC also provides uniform rules, packaging provisions, and Bill of Lading formats. Correct classification enables Estes to offer you the best possible service and the most accurate rates.

Why was my shipment reweighed?

A: We reweigh a high percentage of our daily shipments as a normal part of our dock operations. This is done to ensure that the amount of product we load onto each trailer complies with federal regulations. Overweight units can pose a risk to public safety, and increase wear and tear on our highway system. In addition, industry freight rates are based off of shipment weight and product class.

What are the Spanish translations of common shipping terms?

A: Here is a list of several key shipping terms in both English and Spanish:

What if my volume shipment exceeds the Cubic Capacity Rule limits?

A: Since dimensions are required for getting volume or truckload rates, if a shipment is calculated to exceed our Cubic Capacity Rule limits (in most cases, any shipment in excess of 350 cubic feet depending on your specific pricing agreement), the Volume and Truckload application will return a volume rate, but not a class-based LTL or Time Critical Guaranteed rate. Rate options available will include the basic V/TL rate, the two V/TL Guaranteed rates (Economy and Standard) and the Time Critical exclusive-use rate. If an LTL rate is still desired, simply use the LTL Rate Request rate instead of the Volume and Truckload one, keeping in mind that unless otherwise stipulated in your Estes pricing agreement, a cubic capacity charge may apply that would not be reflected in that rate. 

How do captive beams and Estes’ proprietary Webb walls work?

A: Captive beams are built-in, retractable aluminum beams that can move up or down along vertical tracks inside the container’s walls. They are used to create multiple levels or shelves of freight, securing your shipment in place and maximizing vertical space.

Many of our captive beam containers or trailers are also equipped with our best-in-class Webb walls—a proprietary, notched, steel wall system. This innovative design allows us to install logistics bars and straps at any height between our captive beams for unmatched flexibility.

How do captive beams and Estes’ proprietary Webb walls work?

A: Captive beams are built-in, retractable aluminum beams that can move up or down along vertical tracks inside the container’s walls. They are used to create multiple levels or shelves of freight, securing your shipment in place and maximizing vertical space.

Many of our captive beam containers or trailers are also equipped with our best-in-class Webb walls—a proprietary, notched, steel wall system. This innovative design allows us to install logistics bars and straps at any height between our captive beams for unmatched flexibility.

How do captive beams and Estes’ proprietary Webb walls work?

A: Captive beams are built-in, retractable aluminum beams that can move up or down along vertical tracks inside the container’s walls. They are used to create multiple levels or shelves of freight, securing your shipment in place and maximizing vertical space.

Many of our captive beam containers or trailers are also equipped with our best-in-class Webb walls—a proprietary, notched, steel wall system. This innovative design allows us to install logistics bars and straps at any height between our captive beams for unmatched flexibility.

What is LTL shipping?

A: LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping involves the transport of smaller, lighter freight that doesn’t require the entire trailer. As the trailer can be shared by multiple LTL shipments, the costs for transport can also be shared, resulting in a more economical shipping solution.

In order to qualify as LTL for Estes, the freight must take up less than eight linear feet on the trailer and weigh less than 5,000 pounds. Larger or heavier freight will be classed as either volume LTL or truckload.

What is Quick Quote and how is it different from Rate Quote?

A: In our Rate Quote tool on My Estes, the Quick Quote option allows you to get a pricing estimate by entering a bare minimum of shipping information: origin zip, destination zip, commodity class, and total weight.

Our standard Rate Quote option requires more information, but will yield more exact pricing.

Where can I learn about the NMFC changes?

A: The NMFTA offers a full list of the items that will be impacted, as well as information on how their freight classification changes will affect you. We encourage you to visit their website, nmfta.org, to monitor these changes and to prepare for them.

If you need additional assistance, your Estes account manager will be happy to provide you with the NMFTA contact information you need.

Will the changes coming to NMFC classifications in 2025 affect my shipping?

A: The changes coming to NMFC classifications will affect a significant percentage of shipments; shippers should monitor these changes—and make any needed preparations—before they are expected to go into effect in July 2025.

In order to simplify its freight classification system, the NMFTA will expand the number of commodities whose classification is determined by density. It will also add two classes to its expanded density-based scale for LTL freight. This scale will have 13 sub-categories and will replace the current static freight class structure.

As density and cube dimensions will play a larger role in determining freight costs, it will be important to know your shipment’s density and dimensions when creating BOLs, as well as the NMFC item number and classification, origin and destination zip codes, and shipment weight.