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When it comes to freight, small oversights can turn into big expenses. From inaccurate paperwork to poor communication, the most common shipping mistakes don’t just waste time — they waste money.
Here are ten costly errors that every shipper should avoid (and how to prevent them).
Underestimating weight or size might seem harmless, until your carrier reweighs or remeasures your freight.
Why it matters: Incorrect dimensions can change the freight class and result in reclassification fees, delays, or refused shipments.
How to fix it: Always use certified scales and measure after packaging and palletizing, not before.
Freight damage is one of the most common (and avoidable) costs in shipping.
Why it matters: Damaged goods mean insurance claims, replacement costs, and unhappy customers.
How to fix it: Use high-quality materials, shrink wrap properly, and make sure freight is secure and evenly distributed on pallets.
Bills of Lading (BOLs) and shipping labels are the lifeblood of a shipment.
Why it matters: Missing or inaccurate paperwork can lead to lost freight, wrong destinations, or delayed payment processing.
How to fix it: Double-check all documentation, especially addresses, PO numbers, and accessorial notes, before pickup.
Liftgates, residential deliveries, inside delivery, limited access, they all cost extra.
Why it matters: Surprises on invoices are often tied to unmentioned service requirements.
How to fix it: Communicate delivery details up front to avoid unexpected charges.
Cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to freight.
Why it matters: Unreliable carriers may cut corners, miss deadlines, or fail to communicate, costing you far more in the long run.
How to fix it: Balance cost with reliability and service quality, value, not just price.
Too many shippers assume everything goes perfectly.
Why it matters: Weather, inspections, and traffic can all cause delays, and rushed freight leads to premium expedite fees.
How to fix it: Always build a 1–2 day buffer into your schedule when deadlines are tight.
When brokers, carriers, and consignees aren’t aligned, problems multiply.
Why it matters: Missed calls and unclear instructions often lead to delivery failures or detention fees.
How to fix it: Establish clear communication points before, during, and after transit.
Not all carriers are equal and not all are compliant.
Why it matters: Working with uninsured or unsafe carriers can expose your company to liability, claims, and FMCSA violations.
How to fix it: Partner with brokers who maintain strict carrier vetting standards (like RCS Freight Services does).
Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind.
Why it matters: Without visibility, you can’t spot problems early or keep customers informed.
How to fix it: Use tracking tools or partner with a logistics provider that offers proactive updates and real-time status reports.
Billing errors happen, a lot.
Why it matters: Duplicate charges, incorrect weights, and missed discounts can slip through unnoticed.
How to fix it: Audit invoices regularly and question any discrepancies before payment.
Freight shipping doesn’t have to be unpredictable. The key to saving money is planning ahead, communicating clearly, and partnering with experts who know how to avoid these pitfalls.
At RCS Freight Services, we help shippers eliminate hidden costs by staying proactive, from pickup to POD.