How LTL Shippers Can Avoid Costly Reweighs and Reclassifications

As an LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight shipper, every cost-saving opportunity matters. Unfortunately, unexpected fees from weight and class adjustments or unforeseen accessorial charges can eat away at your bottom line. Let’s break down what causes reweighs, reclassifications, and extra accessorial fees and how you can minimize them.

Understanding Weight and Inspections (W&Is)

Accurate shipment weights and dimensions are crucial for determining your freight class and securing proper rating. But  with dimensionalizers becoming more common at LTL terminals, the chances of being flagged for W&I have gone up. If the carrier reweighs your shipment and the weight is higher than what’s listed, you’ll be hit with additional charges. Similarly, if your NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) class doesn’t match what’s noted on the Bill of Lading, you could be hit with costly reclassification fees.

Common Causes of Reweighs and Reclassifications

Several factors can trigger a reweigh or reclassification:

• Inaccurate Weight Measurements: Many shippers don’t have access to certified scales that can accommodate all their freight. Even when they do, regular calibration and state certification are required to dispute a reweigh. Also, be mindful that rounded weights—like exactly 300 or 1500 lbs—often draw attention and may prompt a reweigh.
• Incorrect Freight Class: Changes to NMFC classifications or simple data entry errors on your Bill of Lading (BOL) can lead to misclassification.
• Improper Packaging: Packaging that alters the density of your shipment (e.g., using crush cones) can affect the classification and result in higher fees.

Providing clear, accurate information to carriers is essential. Using a Transportation Management System (TMS) can help you digitally submit correct shipment details, minimizing errors and reducing the likelihood of reweighs and reclassifications.

The Impact of Accessorial Charges

Accessorials are extra fees beyond standard transportation costs. These charges often arise from special services such as liftgate usage, inside delivery, or residential delivery fees. Detention, storage, or re-delivery fees may also occur if specific needs aren't communicated upfront.

Some accessorials are unavoidable, but you can minimize them by clearly communicating your requirements to carriers and maintaining accurate digital records. When certain fees are inevitable, planning for them in advance ensures the correct party is billed.

Best Practices to Reduce W&I Costs

To prevent reweighs and reclassifications:

• Use Proper Scales: Always weigh freight with state-certified, routinely calibrated scales. Carriers are no longer accepting spec sheets as valid proof of weight.
• Double-Check Freight Class: Stay updated on NMFC class changes and ensure accuracy when entering shipment details.
• Improve Packaging: Use sturdy packaging materials and secure your freight properly to prevent damage or shifting during transit.
• Utilize a TMS: Digitally submitting accurate shipment information can prevent costly mistakes and ensure consistency.

Additionally, confirm all delivery site conditions ahead of time and keep a detailed, digital inventory. GLI also recommends photographing how freight is loaded into the trailer—especially large or oversized pallets—to verify dimensions like length and width if questioned.

Proper Packaging and Labeling

Well-protected and clearly labeled freight can reduce the risk of reweighs and reclassifications. Use strong packaging materials, secure shipments with bands or shrink wrap, and label freight accurately with all necessary details, including NMFC numbers, class, weight, and handling instructions.

Choosing the Right LTL Carriers

Working with reliable carriers who prioritize transparency and accuracy can significantly reduce costs. Connecting with carriers via API technology allows you to receive live rates, dispatch quickly, and access real-time updates. Sharing digital shipment information upfront can help you negotiate better rates and reduce the likelihood of extra charges.

If you're working with GLI, we do more than just help you select a carrier—we analyze your freight program in-depth to match you with the right partners and avoid those who may not be a good fit. GLI also negotiates FAK (Freight All Kinds) agreements to help prevent class inspections altogether.

Bringing It All Together

Reweighs, reclassifications, and accessorials are common headaches for LTL shippers, but they don’t have to be. By ensuring accurate shipment documentation, proactively communicating with carriers, and using the right technology, you can significantly reduce these challenges. Implementing these best practices can help you lower costs, improve efficiency, and ultimately boost your bottom line.

At GLI, we understand how frustrating unexpected shipping charges can be. Our experienced  team  is here to help you streamline your LTL shipping and reduce unnecessary fees. Contact us today to see how we can support your business and keep your shipping costs under control.