Learn more about the GoShip digital shipping platform and find the answers to your logistics questions in the GoShip FAQ.

How does GoShip choose carriers?

GoShip partners with only the most reputable contract carriers across North America. Each carrier is required to go through numerous steps to meet the U.S. Department of Transportation’s strict Compliance, Safety, and Accountability (CSA) requirements.

When was GoShip founded?

GoShip was founded in 2016 as a digital shipping platform for small businesses and individual shippers. Over the past few years, GoShip has grown into an industry leader now offering both truckload and less-than-truckload shipping services.

What services does GoShip provide?

We provide shippers with advanced solutions for a wide range of shipping services, including:

General Shipping Questions

What is LTL shipping?

LTL or less-than-truckload shipping is the transportation method where a carrier combines multiple loads into a single trailer. Shippers use LTL shipping when they don’t have enough freight volume to fill an entire truck container and want to save shipping costs. Compared to other types of transportation, LTL trucking can be a useful solution for small businesses and individual shippers. When you’re sharing the truck capacity with other shippers, you only pay for the space you actually use.

What is full truckload freight shipping?

Full truckload shipping is a transportation mode that suggests moving freight of more than 6 pallets in a truck trailer. A trailer for truckload shipping can handle up to 43,000 lbs, with an average size of 48 to 53 ft in length. Full truckload means moving freight that fills an entire truck trailer, or the majority of a trailer’s space. Truckload shipping is the most common type of over-the-road freight transportation. Carriers who move truckloads use different equipment types, including dry vans, flatbeds, and refrigerated trailers.

What is the difference between full truckload shipping and less-than-truckload shipping?

The main difference between FTL and LTL shipping is that truckload shipping suggests filling an entire truck trailer with your freight, while LTL means filling only a minor part of the trailer’s space. Also, FTL shipping is faster than LTL due to fewer stops and less handling. Both modes vary in price. Depending on the case, LTL can be cheaper than FTL.

What do you need to do before making a shipment?

The first thing you should do is collect proper dimensions, including the weight of the freight you plan on shipping. Accurate dimensions are crucial to prevent unexpected charges due to adjustments. We will then use the information you gave us to calculate the freight class (only for LTL shipments) for you when you go to complete your free quote.

How are full truckload rates calculated?

Unlike LTL rates, FTL freight rates don’t depend on freight class. The main factors that determine the cost of full truckload shipments are weight, dimensions, mileage, lane, fuel surcharges, seasonality, and assessorial charges.

How are LTL rates calculated?

Less-than-truckload (LTL) rates are based on the freight class determined by the National Motor Freight Classification (“NMFC”) and are based on your shipment’s weight. All displayed transit times are only estimates and do not include the date of pickup.

How do I determine freight class?

Freight classes are determined by weight, dimensions, density, storage capability, value, ease of handling, and liability (from cases such as theft, damage, breakability, and spoilage). There are 18 freight classes, so how can you determine which class you’re in? Lucky for you, GoShip.com tells you what your freight class is!

What is a bill of lading (BOL)?

The bill of lading is one of the most important documents that you have to present to the carrier in order to ship your freight. It is a contract between the carrier and the shipper that includes important information such as addresses, freight class, dimensions, item description, and any additional instructions needed.

How do I pack my freight?

Your freight’s protection is the carrier’s number one concern. But sometimes things may happen, especially if you package your freight incorrectly. Be sure that you wrap your freight in proper materials to keep it safe and restrict movement. When packing, be sure the boxes or crates are as full as possible with packing material to fill the empty spaces. Freight that is not on pallets, crates, or other decent packaging is subject to refusal by the carrier at pickup.  We highly recommend palletizing shipments as it is the best safety solution. It is good to note any special requests about the freight you’re shipping on your BOL so the carrier can identify them. Read our Packing Guide to learn more!

How do you choose the right carrier?

Your free quote gives you multiple options to choose from our trusted list of carriers. The right one for you depends on your budget, what you’re shipping, and where you’re shipping to. We leave the ball in your court so you can pick the one that fits your needs. We always recommend researching carriers before you select one.

What do I do if my shipment is damaged?

For visible and concealed shipment damage, check our Freight Claims process or file a Falvey freight claim.

How do I track my shipment?

To track your shipment, you will receive an email with the necessary tracking information when your shipment is picked up and delivered.

Is my freight insured?

Basic carrier liability doesn’t always cover the full value of freight in case of damage or loss. That’s why we have freight insurance options available to you to help guarantee your goods are covered in the case of any unpredictable circumstances. We work with Falvey Insurance Group, industry professionals that assist customers with all necessary paperwork. Our partners will do their best to ensure your freight is safe and covered.

How do I cancel a shipment?

If you would like to cancel a shipment, reach out to us at customer_service@goship.com or give us a call at 833-U-GOSHIP. There is a $25 cancellation fee for less-than-truckload loads and a $175 fee for canceled full-truckload loads.

Billing Questions

How will I get billed?

GoShip users will pre-pay when booking their shipment. If there are any discrepancies, a representative from GoShip will reach out to you for your payment. GoShip customers will never pay the carrier.

How do payments work for customers?

GoShip users book their shipments online with a credit card which automatically authorizes GoShip to dispatch the shipment to the assigned carrier for pickup on behalf of the user. GoShip will charge the credit card that is on file for the total cost of the shipment. This means that you may see two or more charges on your credit card statement if there are Additional Charges or Special Circumstances for accessorial services or fees. Read GoShip’s Terms of Use.

How do you pay the carrier?

GoShip pays the carriers based on our pre-negotiated contract rates that are only valid for GoShip users and per the assigned carriers’ policies that are outlined in their rules tariff documents.

Fees and service charges

When booking your shipment, you are given options for accessorial services which will be added to your bill once you book the shipment. These can be services such as inside delivery, load dock, or forklift use. Another thing you may see on your bill is adjustment fees. If your freight dimensions, weight, addresses, or product descriptions are incorrect, your carrier will have to edit the BOL and make changes to the shipments, causing a delay.

Refunds and disputes

If for any reason there was an issue with your shipment or you need to cancel the shipment, reach out to our billing team so we can handle your request as soon as possible. Refunds may take from 3 – 5 days to process, depending on your bank. GoShip will charge a cancellation fee of $25 for LTL and $175 for a full truckload.

Other Questions

How do I contact GoShip?

Easy! Visit our Contact Us page to send us an email or to reach us by phone. We are happy to answer any questions you may have!