Planning interstate road freight without the guesswork
PublishedUnited Carriers team
Linehaul schedules, delivery windows and site access all affect how smoothly your freight moves between states. Plan them early.
Road freight carries most of the goods that move between Australian cities and regional centres. Whether you are sending a single pallet or several full trailers, a little planning helps your freight arrive when your customer expects it.
Know your service type
General freight is consolidated on linehaul trailers that run on fixed schedules between major hubs, which keeps costs down for smaller consignments. Full truckload services dedicate a vehicle to your freight, which suits larger volumes and time-sensitive deliveries.
Book delivery windows
Distribution centres and retailers often require booked delivery slots. Missing a slot can mean a redelivery fee and a day or more of delay, so confirm booking requirements when the order is placed, not when the truck is already on the road.
Check site access
Tell your carrier about anything that affects delivery: tail lift requirements, forklift availability, narrow streets or residential addresses. The right vehicle on the first attempt avoids failed deliveries and extra charges.
Packaging and labelling
- Use sound pallets and stretch wrap loads so they can be handled safely.
- Label every item with the consignment details and delivery address.
- Declare accurate weights and dimensions to avoid adjustments after delivery.
With live status on every run, you can keep your customers informed and deal with exceptions before they turn into complaints.
