As the capacity crunch continues, freight demand levels are at an all-time high. LTL carriers are now charging an Over Dimensional fee when a shipment contains an article that is eight or more feet in length. With some carriers, this charge will also be applied if an article is both six or more feet in length and six or more feet in width.
Here are questions you should ask yourself as you begin to solve the puzzle of LTL Over Dimensional rules:
How Has the Pricing Model for Over Dimensional Charges Changed?
In the past, Over Dimensional fees were typically flat fees charged once freight reached a certain length. For example, fixed charges could be $35-120 for any freight piece greater than 16 feet.
Now, most LTL carriers are charging tiered fees based on the length of the freight. See the table below for common examples*
| Length | Fees |
| 96” to 120” | $90-$144 |
| 121” to 168” | $145-$260 |
| 169” to 204” | $261-$360 |
| 205” to 240” | $361-$540 |
| Above 240” | $541-$750 |
*These fees are examples only; some carrier fees are much higher.
Other changes include
- Carriers refusing freight over 20 feet
- Requiring Over Dimensional freight to be fully crated
What Are the Consequences of These Changes for Shippers?
Over Dimensional shipments create challenges for load planning within LTL networks. With LTL networks at full capacity, charges are higher than ever before on products with Over Dimensional freight characteristics. Ultimately, not knowing the correct shipping category or dimensions of a shipment can be very costly to the shipper.
What Can You Do to Prevent Over-Charge Situations?
Some of the things shippers can do to help prevent these charges are:
- Know the carrier Over Dimensional restrictions / rules
- Measure each skid or piece for accurate dimensions
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Weigh your freight with calibrated scales to avoid re-weighs
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Know your freight class / NMFC to avoid re-class issues
By partnering with a 3PL such as Ascent Global Logistics, you can rely on a knowledgeable freight partner to assist you in avoiding potential costly rebills. Contact us today or reach out to your Ascent Global Logistics representative directly to learn more about how our team can help you save time, money and energy on your LTL freight.