Shipping steel coils and sheets requires careful planning and execution to ensure they reach their destination without damage. Steel products are heavy and susceptible to corrosion and deformation if not handled appropriately during transportation. This comprehensive guide provides insights into best practices for packaging and crating steel coils and sheets, focusing on Freight Sidekick's available transportation services.
Understanding Steel Coils & Sheets Transportation
Steel coils and sheets are often used in manufacturing and construction, demanding precise shipping methods to maintain their quality. Freight Sidekick offers various surface transportation solutions across the United States and Canada to accommodate these shipments, including Full Truckload (FTL) and Less Than Truckload (LTL) services.
Selecting the Right Freight Service
Choosing the appropriate freight service is critical for cost-efficiency and safety. Here are the primary options available at Freight Sidekick:
- Full Truckload (FTL): Ideal for large shipments requiring dedicated trucks. Suitable for Dry Van, Refrigerated, and Flatbed vehicles.
- Less Than Truckload (LTL): Cost-effective for smaller shipments, such as palletized steel sheets, that do not fill an entire truck.
- Partial/Shared Truckload: Addresses needs between LTL and FTL, sharing space with other shipments, which is perfect for steel coils and sheets up to 30,000 lbs.
Packaging and Crating Best Practices
Proper packaging and crating are essential to preserve the structural integrity of steel coils and sheets. Follow these best practices:
- Use Protective Covers: Employ covers to prevent moisture exposure and rust.
- Reinforce with Crates: Use wooden crates and cushioned interiors to absorb shocks during transit.
- Secure Coils with Straps: Utilize heavy-duty straps to prevent movement within the vehicle.
- Label Appropriately: Clearly mark packages with handling instructions and weight details.
Loading and Unloading Procedures
Loading and unloading require careful coordination to avoid accidents and damages:
- Inspect Equipment: Ensure forklifts and cranes are in optimal condition for handling weight.
- Follow Weight Limits: Verify vehicle's weight capacity before loading.
- Distribute Weight Evenly: Balanced load distribution prevents tipping during transit.
Cost Factors to Consider
Understanding cost factors helps in budgeting effectively for shipping steel:
- Weight: Heavier shipments generally incur higher freight charges.
- Distance: Longer distances increase transport costs.
- Freight Class: Correctly classifying can prevent unexpected surcharges. Use our Freight Class Calculator to determine the NMFC class.
Bill of Lading: Essential Legal Document
A Bill of Lading (BOL) acts as a shipment's legal contract, detailing the cargo's nature and destination. It's crucial for record-keeping and claim purposes. You can create a valid document using our Bill of Lading Generator.
Get Personalized Assistance for Shipping Steel Coils & Sheets
For tailored logistics solutions, contact our team of experts. Get a quote today, call us at 877-345-3838 or email support@freightsidekick.com.
