How it works
From request to delivered
Shipping with us takes four steps. Here's what happens at each one, what we'll need from you, and how to get your freight ready for pickup.
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Send your details
Fill out the quote form or call dispatch. Give us the pickup and delivery ZIP codes, the weight, and a short description of the freight. The more detail you include, the more accurate your rate will be.
- Takes about 2 minutes online
- No account or sign-up needed
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Get your rate
We reply with a price and a pickup time, usually the same business day. Your quote lists every add-on the load needs, like liftgate or appointment delivery, so the total you see is the total you pay.
- One all-in price up front
- Hotshot quotes often within the hour
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We pick up
Once you approve the rate, we lock in your pickup window and send the bill of lading. The driver arrives in that window, loads the freight, and dispatch texts you when it's on the road.
- Pickup confirmation by text or email
- Updates while the load is in transit
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Delivered
The receiver checks the freight and signs for it. You get a signed proof of delivery for your records, and the invoice follows with the same price you were quoted.
- Signed proof of delivery
- Invoice matches your quote
Before you request a quote
What to have ready
You don't need every detail to get started, but these are what set the price.
About the freight
- Weight of the full shipment, in pounds
- Dimensions of each pallet or piece (L × W × H)
- Piece count: how many pallets, crates, or boxes
- What it is, and whether it's fragile or stackable
- Freight class for LTL, if you know it
About the locations
- Pickup and delivery addresses, or at least ZIPs
- Loading dock? If not, you'll need a liftgate
- Hours each location can load or receive
- Appointment needed at the receiver?
- Site contact name and phone at each end
Freight prep
Get it ready for pickup
Well-packed freight loads faster and arrives in the same condition it left.
Use a solid pallet
Standard is 48″ × 40″. Skip pallets with broken boards, and keep boxes from hanging over the edges.
Heavy on the bottom
Stack heavy boxes low and square, with the corners lined up. Keep the top flat if the pallet can be stacked on.
Shrink-wrap it tight
Wrap the load and the pallet together so nothing shifts. Add corner boards or straps for heavy loads.
Label every piece
Put the delivery address, a PO or reference number, and a piece count ("1 of 3") on each pallet.
Take a picture
Snap a photo of each pallet before pickup. It makes any damage claim quick and clear.
Plan the lift
For hotshot loads, have a forklift or crane on site and point out any lift points on the equipment.
Freight terms
Words you'll see on your paperwork
- BOL (bill of lading)
- The shipping document that goes with the freight. It lists what's being shipped, from where, and to whom. We prepare it for you.
- POD (proof of delivery)
- The receiver's signature showing the freight arrived. You get a copy for every load.
- Freight class
- A rating from 50 to 500 that LTL carriers use to price freight based on density and handling. Denser freight usually has a lower class and a lower rate.
- Accessorial
- An add-on service beyond standard dock-to-dock, like liftgate, inside delivery, or an appointment.
- Detention
- Waiting time charged when a truck is held at pickup or delivery beyond the free time. Your quote lists how much free time is included.
- Deadhead
- Miles a truck drives empty to reach your pickup. It's one reason a quote can differ between two similar loads.
FAQ
Common questions
How fast can you pick up?
Hotshot loads can often go out the same day. LTL, full truckload, and local pickups are usually scheduled for the next business day, and sooner when a truck is available.
How is my price calculated?
Mostly by distance, weight, and size, plus the service you choose and any add-ons like liftgate. For LTL, freight class matters too. Your quote shows everything up front.
Do you deliver to homes or places without a dock?
Yes. Add residential delivery and liftgate service when you request a quote, and we'll send the right truck.
Do you ship outside Texas?
Our main area is Houston and the rest of Texas. For out-of-state loads, send a request and we'll let you know what we can do.
What if something arrives damaged?
Write the damage on the delivery receipt before signing, take photos, and call us right away. Every load is insured, and we'll walk you through the claim.
How do I pay?
Payment options: list the payment methods and terms you accept.
Can I set up a recurring pickup?
Yes. Tell us the days and times in your request and we'll build a standing schedule.
Ready for step one?
It takes about 2 minutes to send your shipment details.