Shipping freight can seem complicated for small businesses, especially if you’re new to logistics and supply chain management. Fortunately, C.H. Robinson makes it easier by connecting shippers with a vast network of carriers and transportation solutions across North America and worldwide.
Whether you’re shipping a few pallets every month or managing regular freight deliveries, understanding how to book freight with C.H. Robinson can help you save money, improve delivery performance, and streamline operations.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the freight booking process step by step and explain what small businesses need to know before scheduling a shipment.
Why Small Businesses Use C.H. Robinson
C.H. Robinson is one of the largest third-party logistics (3PL) providers in the world. Rather than operating as a traditional trucking company, it connects businesses with thousands of vetted carriers.
Benefits for small businesses include:
- Access to competitive freight rates
- Large carrier network
- Domestic and international shipping options
- Less-than-Truckload (LTL) and Full Truckload (FTL) services
- Shipment tracking and visibility tools
- Flexible transportation solutions
This allows small businesses to access enterprise-level logistics services without maintaining their own transportation network.
Determine What Type of Freight You Need to Ship
Before requesting a quote or booking freight, identify the type of shipment you have.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL)
LTL shipping is ideal when your freight does not fill an entire trailer.
Best for:
- Small shipments
- Palletized freight
- Lower shipping budgets
- Regular business deliveries
Typical weight range:
- 150–15,000 pounds
Full Truckload (FTL)
FTL shipping uses an entire trailer for one shipment.
Best for:
- Large freight volumes
- Time-sensitive deliveries
- High-value products
- Dedicated transportation
Expedited Freight
Expedited services are designed for urgent shipments requiring faster delivery.
International Freight
Businesses importing or exporting products can use:
- Ocean freight
- Air freight
- Cross-border transportation
- Customs support services
Choosing the right shipping option helps control costs and delivery times.
Gather Shipment Information
Accurate shipment information is essential when booking freight.
Prepare the following details:
Pickup Information
- Pickup address
- Contact person
- Phone number
- Pickup date
Delivery Information
- Delivery address
- Receiving contact
- Delivery requirements
Freight Specifications
- Number of pallets
- Weight
- Dimensions
- Freight class (for LTL shipments)
- Commodity description
Special Requirements
You should also note whether the shipment requires:
- Liftgate service
- Residential delivery
- Appointment scheduling
- Refrigerated transportation
- Hazardous material handling
Having this information ready will speed up the booking process.
Request a Freight Quote
The next step is obtaining a shipping quote.
A quote is typically based on:
- Origin location
- Destination location
- Freight dimensions
- Shipment weight
- Freight class
- Service level
- Market conditions
For small businesses, comparing multiple shipping options can help identify the most cost-effective solution.
Factors that affect pricing include:
- Fuel costs
- Distance traveled
- Carrier availability
- Seasonal demand
- Freight type
Review Available Shipping Options
After receiving a quote, review the transportation options offered.
Common choices include:
Economy Service
Lower cost but longer transit times.
Standard Service
Balanced pricing and delivery speed.
Expedited Service
Faster delivery for urgent shipments.
Guaranteed Service
Provides delivery commitments for critical freight.
Choose the option that best matches your budget and delivery requirements.
Confirm and Book the Shipment
Once you’ve selected a shipping option, you can proceed with booking.
During the booking process, verify:
- Pickup date
- Delivery location
- Freight details
- Service level
- Contact information
Accurate information helps prevent delays and additional fees.
After confirmation, a carrier will be assigned to the shipment.
Prepare Freight for Pickup
Proper packaging is critical for safe transportation.
Palletize Freight Correctly
Use sturdy pallets and distribute weight evenly.
Secure the Shipment
Use:
- Stretch wrap
- Banding straps
- Corner protectors
Label Freight Clearly
Labels should include:
- Business name
- Destination address
- Reference number
- Handling instructions
Proper preparation reduces the risk of damage during transit.
Track Your Shipment
Once the freight has been picked up, tracking becomes available.
Tracking updates may include:
- Shipment booked
- Picked up
- In transit
- At terminal
- Out for delivery
- Delivered
Monitoring shipment progress helps businesses communicate accurate delivery expectations to customers. Track your C.H. Robinson shipment here.
Common Freight Costs Small Businesses Should Expect
Several charges may appear on freight invoices.
Base Transportation Charge
The primary shipping fee.
Fuel Surcharge
Adjusts for fuel market fluctuations.
Accessorial Fees
Additional services may incur extra charges, including:
- Liftgate service
- Residential delivery
- Inside delivery
- Appointment scheduling
- Limited-access locations
Understanding these fees helps businesses budget more accurately.
Tips for Saving Money on Freight Shipping
Small businesses can reduce freight costs by following a few best practices.
Consolidate Shipments
Combining multiple orders into one shipment often lowers transportation costs.
Optimize Packaging
Reducing shipment dimensions can decrease freight charges.
Plan Ahead
Avoiding last-minute bookings helps secure better rates.
Compare Service Levels
Not every shipment requires expedited transportation.
Maintain Accurate Freight Information
Incorrect weights or dimensions can result in costly billing adjustments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many first-time shippers encounter avoidable problems.
Common mistakes include:
- Incorrect freight dimensions
- Wrong freight classification
- Poor packaging
- Missing delivery instructions
- Booking the wrong service level
Carefully reviewing shipment details before booking can prevent delays and unexpected charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a small business use C.H. Robinson?
Do I need a shipping contract?
What is the cheapest freight option for small businesses?
How long does freight delivery take?
Can I track my shipment after booking?
Final Thoughts
Booking freight with C.H. Robinson is a straightforward process for small businesses when shipment details are prepared in advance. By choosing the right shipping service, accurately describing your freight, and planning transportation needs ahead of time, you can improve delivery performance while controlling shipping costs.
Whether you’re shipping a few pallets each month or managing a growing supply chain, C.H. Robinson provides flexible freight solutions that help small businesses move products efficiently across the country and around the world.