C.H. Robinson is one of the world’s largest third-party logistics (3PL) companies, connecting shippers with a vast network of carriers across North America and around the globe. Whether you’re a business owner shipping freight regularly or a customer trying to understand how C.H. Robinson freight services work, knowing the available shipping options, transit times, and coverage areas can help you make informed logistics decisions.
In this guide, we’ll explain C.H. Robinson freight shipping services, estimated delivery times, and geographic coverage to help you better understand what to expect when shipping with C.H. Robinson.
What Is C.H. Robinson?
C.H. Robinson is a logistics and freight transportation company that acts as a freight broker and supply chain management provider. Instead of operating a large fleet of trucks itself, the company connects shippers with thousands of transportation providers through its extensive carrier network.
Founded in 1905, C.H. Robinson now manages millions of shipments annually and serves businesses ranging from small companies to Fortune 500 corporations.
Its services include:
- Less-than-Truckload (LTL) Shipping
- Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping
- Expedited Freight
- Intermodal Transportation
- Air Freight
- Ocean Freight
- Cross-Border Shipping
- Temperature-Controlled Freight
- Managed Transportation Solutions
C.H. Robinson Freight Shipping Services
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Shipping
LTL shipping is designed for businesses that do not need an entire truck.
Advantages include:
- Lower shipping costs
- Flexible shipment sizes
- Extensive domestic coverage
- Suitable for palletized freight
Typical freight weight:
- 150 to 15,000 pounds
LTL is one of the most commonly used C.H. Robinson freight services for small and medium-sized businesses.
Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping
FTL shipping uses an entire trailer for a single shipment.
Best for:
- Large freight volumes
- Time-sensitive shipments
- High-value cargo
- Reduced handling risks
Because freight remains on one truck throughout transit, FTL shipments often experience faster delivery times than LTL shipments.
Expedited Freight
Expedited shipping is available when delivery speed is critical.
Common situations include:
- Manufacturing emergencies
- Inventory shortages
- Urgent customer orders
- Supply chain disruptions
Expedited services may utilize dedicated trucks, team drivers, air transportation, or specialized routing solutions.
Intermodal Transportation
Intermodal shipping combines multiple transportation methods, such as:
- Truck
- Rail
- Ocean freight
Benefits include:
- Cost savings
- Reduced fuel consumption
- Environmental sustainability
- Reliable long-distance transportation
Air Freight Services
Air freight is ideal for:
- High-value products
- International shipments
- Time-critical cargo
While more expensive than ground transportation, air freight significantly reduces transit times.
Ocean Freight Services
For international trade, C.H. Robinson offers:
- Full Container Load (FCL)
- Less than Container Load (LCL)
- Import logistics
- Export logistics
Ocean freight is generally the most economical option for large international shipments.
C.H. Robinson Transit Time Guide
Transit times vary depending on service type, distance, carrier availability, weather conditions, and customs processing.
Below are general estimates.
Domestic LTL Shipping
| Distance | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|
| Regional | 1–3 business days |
| Short-haul | 2–4 business days |
| Cross-country | 4–7 business days |
Domestic FTL Shipping
| Distance | Estimated Transit Time |
|---|---|
| 500 miles or less | 1–2 days |
| 500–1,500 miles | 2–4 days |
| 1,500+ miles | 4–6 days |
Expedited Freight
Most expedited shipments arrive within:
- Same day
- Next day
- 2–3 business days
depending on distance and service level.
International Air Freight
Typical delivery times:
- 1–5 business days
International Ocean Freight
Transit times vary widely:
- Canada to U.S.: 2–7 days
- Europe to North America: 10–25 days
- Asia to North America: 20–45 days
Customs clearance may extend transit times.
C.H. Robinson Coverage Areas
One of the biggest advantages of using C.H. Robinson is its extensive transportation network.
United States Coverage
C.H. Robinson serves all 50 U.S. states through a large network of freight carriers.
Coverage includes:
- Major metropolitan areas
- Rural destinations
- Distribution centers
- Manufacturing facilities
- Warehouses
Canada Coverage
The company provides comprehensive freight services throughout Canada, including:
- Ontario
- British Columbia
- Alberta
- Quebec
- Manitoba
- Saskatchewan
Cross-border shipping between the U.S. and Canada is a major area of expertise.
Mexico Coverage
C.H. Robinson supports:
- Import shipments
- Export shipments
- Nearshoring logistics
- Cross-border trucking
Many businesses rely on the company for North American supply chain operations involving Mexico.
International Coverage
Global freight services extend to:
- Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- South America
- Middle East
- Africa
Coverage varies depending on transportation mode and destination country.
How to Track C.H. Robinson Freight Shipments
Customers can monitor freight progress through shipment tracking tools and logistics platforms.
Tracking information may include:
- Pickup confirmation
- In-transit updates
- Terminal arrivals
- Delivery status
- Estimated arrival times
- Exception notifications
Common shipment statuses include:
- Booked
- Picked Up
- In Transit
- At Terminal
- Out for Delivery
- Delivered
Tracking visibility may vary depending on the carrier and service selected. Track your C.H. Robinson shipment here.
Factors That Affect Transit Time
Several factors can influence delivery schedules.
Weather Conditions
Severe weather may delay freight movement and terminal operations.
Traffic Congestion
Major highways and urban areas can experience transportation delays.
Customs Clearance
International shipments may require additional processing time.
Freight Capacity
Seasonal demand can impact carrier availability and transit schedules.
Shipment Type
Specialized freight such as oversized cargo or refrigerated goods may require additional handling.
Advantages of Using C.H. Robinson
Businesses choose C.H. Robinson for several reasons:
- Large carrier network
- Flexible shipping solutions
- Domestic and international coverage
- Real-time shipment visibility
- Supply chain expertise
- Multiple transportation modes
- Dedicated logistics support
These advantages make the company a popular choice for businesses with complex transportation needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does C.H. Robinson own its trucks?
How fast is C.H. Robinson freight shipping?
Does C.H. Robinson ship internationally?
Can individuals use C.H. Robinson shipping services?
Final Thoughts
C.H. Robinson is one of the most established names in freight transportation and logistics. With services ranging from LTL and truckload shipping to international ocean and air freight, the company offers solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Understanding C.H. Robinson’s shipping services, transit times, and coverage areas can help shippers select the most appropriate transportation option, improve supply chain planning, and better manage delivery expectations.