Accurate weights are very important for correct freight rates. Getting a bill for a re-weigh is never a good thing, so make sure to accurately weigh your freight, whenever possible.
If you are shipping a number of boxes or pieces, weigh each item and then add the total together. Don’t forget to include the weight of the pallet or crate! A typical pallet weighs about 40 lbs. You can also do an online search for the product you’re shipping, or contact the manufacturer and ask them if you are unsure of the weight.
If you just end up guessing, make sure to guess on the high side. Your freight will be weighed at the local terminal, and if you guessed too low, the added charge for an inaccurate weight will be more than if you had guessed a bit on the high side to begin with.
Here’s a handy tip to know. Did you know you can use two scales (like a Pelouze 400 lb model) to get an accurate weight? If you don’t have a pallet scale or a pallet jack with a built in scale, you can position one scale under the edge of the pallet, crate, box, etc., and then do the same on the opposite end with the other scale. If you add the 2 weights together, you will have an accurate weight. You want to make sure that the item is not touching the ground, or the weight will be off.
Supply Chain Services
Did you know that Global Source Logistics handles Supply Chain Services? Whether you need Warehousing and Fulfillment, Asset Recovery, Cross-Docking, or Overflow Storage, we can help you. Contact us for more information.
