An overlength fee freight refers to a charge from LTL (less than truckload) carriers for freight that exceeds the maximum standard length of 96 inches. Any overlength shipment will result in additional fees, making the shipment more expensive. Overlength shipments can affect costs and handling. This article takes a dive into what an overlength charge is and why they exist.
Why do Carriers Charge an Overlength Fee?
Overlength fees exist because LTL carriers run on efficiency. Any items that do not fit the standard dimensions slow down their process, resulting in additional time spent handling the freight. Overlength freight also takes up extra room on a trailer, taking away space from other freight. Depending on what carrier you use, they may reject a overlength shipment for that same reason.
How Does Scheduling Work?
When scheduling a overlength shipment, be sure to use accurate dimensions on the BOL. This ensures that freight is quoted and billed properly and lowers the risk of surprise fees. Also, it is vital that the freight is properly and securely packaged to avoid damaged and make handling easy.
Example
If someone is shipping a crate that measures 16 ft × 30 in × 24 in and weighing 900 lb, the final price would rise because the 16-foot length is considered “Overlength”.
The key takeaway is that length often becomes the main factor for pricing if the freight exceeds the standard LTL dimensions. For long shipments, it is good idea to compare LTL, partial, and full truckload options before booking. Sometimes the lowest-cost solution is not always going to be LTL
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