Shipping large or heavy items can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve never used a freight carrier before. If you’re considering ABF Freight, one of the most trusted LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) carriers in the U.S., this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual shipping bulky goods, this step-by-step guide will help you ship with confidence.
What Is ABF Freight?
ABF Freight, part of ArcBest, is a leading LTL freight carrier in the United States. It specializes in transporting shipments that are too large for parcel services like UPS or FedEx but don’t require a full truck.
Key Features:
- Nationwide coverage across the U.S.
- Reliable LTL shipping services
- Freight tracking and shipment visibility
- Flexible pickup and delivery options
When Should You Use ABF Freight?
ABF Freight is ideal if:
- Your shipment weighs over 150 lbs
- You’re shipping palletized goods
- You want to save money by sharing truck space (LTL)
👉 Common use cases:
- Business inventory shipments
- Furniture and large household items
- Equipment and industrial goods
Step 1: Prepare Your Shipment Properly
Proper preparation is critical to avoid delays or damage.
What to Do:
- Use a sturdy pallet (wood or plastic)
- Stack items evenly to prevent shifting
- Shrink-wrap or strap everything securely
- Add clear shipping labels on all sides
Pro Tip:
Freight shipments are handled multiple times, so secure packaging is essential.
Step 2: Get an ABF Freight Quote
Before shipping, you’ll need a rate quote.
Information You’ll Need:
- Pickup and delivery ZIP codes
- Weight and dimensions
- Freight class (based on density and type)
- Type of goods being shipped
👉 Search intent keywords:
ABF Freight rates, ABF Freight quote, LTL shipping cost
Step 3: Schedule Pickup
Once you accept the quote, schedule your pickup.
Options:
- Business pickup (dock access)
- Residential pickup (liftgate required)
Make sure:
- Your shipment is ready on time
- Someone is available for handoff
Step 4: Create the Bill of Lading (BOL)
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the most important shipping document.
It Includes:
- Shipper and receiver details
- Shipment description
- Weight and freight class
- Special instructions
👉 Without a correct BOL, your shipment may be delayed.
Step 5: Track Your ABF Freight Shipment
After pickup, you can track your shipment in real time.
👉 Track your shipment here:
Use the official tracking page or your tracking number.
Tracking Status Examples:
- Picked Up – Shipment collected
- In Transit – Moving through network
- Out for Delivery – Final delivery stage
- Delivered – Completed
Step 6: Receive Your Shipment
When your shipment arrives:
Checklist:
- Inspect for visible damage
- Compare with BOL details
- Sign only after verification
👉 If there’s damage, note it immediately before signing.
ABF Freight Shipping Tips for Beginners
- Always double-check dimensions and weight
- Choose liftgate service if no dock is available
- Use proper freight class to avoid extra charges
- Schedule shipments early to avoid delays
Pros and Cons of Using ABF Freight
✅ Pros:
- Reliable nationwide LTL service
- Competitive pricing for heavy shipments
- Good tracking visibility
❌ Cons:
- Slower than parcel delivery
- Requires more preparation
- Residential delivery may cost extra
Final Thoughts
Shipping with ABF Freight may seem complicated at first, but once you understand the process, it becomes much easier. By following these steps—preparing your shipment, getting a quote, scheduling pickup, and tracking your delivery—you can ensure a smooth experience.
👉 If you need to check your shipment status, visit the ABF Freight tracking page on Express Tracking.