Pallet Shipping Guide
Everything you need to know about shipping palletized freight — from loading patterns and trailer configurations to weight distribution, wrapping techniques, freight class, temperature-controlled shipping, and international documentation.
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Ship Smarter, Damage Less
Every year, billions of dollars in products are damaged during shipping due to improper pallet loading, inadequate securing, and mismatched equipment. Most of this damage is entirely preventable with proper technique and knowledge. This guide covers every aspect of pallet shipping — from the basic physics of load building to the paperwork required for international trade.
Whether you are a first-time shipper sending a single pallet via LTL or a logistics manager coordinating hundreds of full truckloads per week, the principles in this guide will help you reduce damage claims, lower freight costs, and keep your products moving safely from Fresno to anywhere in the world.
The Central Valley is one of the most active freight corridors in the United States, with thousands of palletized loads moving daily between farms, processing plants, warehouses, and ports. Understanding how to ship correctly is not optional — it is essential to staying competitive.
Loading Patterns
The way you arrange products on a pallet determines load stability, compression strength, and how well the load survives transit. Choose the pattern that matches your product type and shipping mode.
Block Stacking (Column Stack)
Each layer is placed directly on top of the previous layer with products aligned vertically in columns. Products form continuous compression columns from top to bottom, distributing weight evenly through the stack.
How It Works
Arrange identical cartons or containers in a grid pattern that fills the pallet footprint. Each subsequent layer mirrors the one below — same orientation, same alignment. Products stack directly on top of each other, creating vertical columns of strength.
Advantages
- Maximum compression strength — supports the highest loads
- Best for uniform, rigid products (cans, bottles, drums, paint)
- Allows easy counting and inventory visibility
- Products maintain original shape under stacking pressure
- Simplest pattern to teach warehouse staff
- Most efficient use of pallet footprint with uniform products
Limitations
- Poor lateral stability — prone to shifting without stretch wrap
- Requires stretch wrap or strapping for any transport
- Not effective for mixed product sizes
- Columns can topple independently during sudden stops
Best for: Canned goods, beverages, bottled products, drums, paint cans, uniform case sizes, heavy loads requiring maximum compression.
Pinwheel Pattern
Products are arranged in a rotating pinwheel configuration within each layer, with items placed at 90-degree angles to adjacent items. This creates a self-locking effect within each layer while maintaining some of the compression benefits of column stacking.
How It Works
Place products at alternating 90-degree angles around the pallet, creating a windmill or fan-like arrangement. The center of the layer may have a void or a filler piece. Each layer can be identical or rotated to create additional interlocking between layers.
Advantages
- Good balance of stability and compression strength
- Creates natural airflow channels through the center
- Works well with rectangular products that cannot fill a full row
- Self-locking within each layer reduces shifting
- Accommodates odd-sized or non-rectangular items
- Allows ventilation for temperature-sensitive products
Limitations
- Wasted space in the center of each layer (5-10% loss)
- Lower pallet utilization than block or interlock patterns
- Requires more careful loading and staff training
- May need void fill or corner protection for stability
Best for: Produce (needs airflow), odd-shaped products, temperature-sensitive goods, items requiring ventilation during transit.
Interlocking (Brick Pattern)
Each layer is rotated 90 degrees from the previous layer, creating a brick-like pattern that locks layers together through friction and overlap. This is the most stable pattern for light-to-medium weight products that do not need maximum compression strength.
How It Works
Build Layer 1 with all products oriented in one direction (e.g., lengthwise). Build Layer 2 with all products rotated 90 degrees (widthwise). Alternate between these two orientations for every subsequent layer. The overlap creates friction bonds between layers.
Advantages
- Excellent lateral stability without additional securing
- Self-binding — layers resist shifting during transit
- Works well with non-uniform product sizes and shapes
- Reduces stretch wrap requirements compared to column stack
- Most forgiving pattern for imperfect carton sizes
- Superior stability during turns and sudden stops
Limitations
- Reduces compression strength by 30-40% vs column stacking
- Not suitable for very heavy loads or fragile rigid containers
- Slower to load due to layer rotation planning
- Products may be harder to count for inventory purposes
Best for: Cartons, boxes, retail-ready displays, mixed loads, lightweight products, parcels, e-commerce fulfillment.
Split Row Pattern
A hybrid pattern where each row within a layer alternates between two orientations. One row runs lengthwise, the next runs widthwise, creating a checkerboard effect within a single layer. Combines some benefits of both block and interlocking.
How It Works
Within a single layer, alternate the orientation of each row. Row 1 runs north-south, Row 2 runs east-west, Row 3 runs north-south. This creates cross-locking within each layer without requiring full 90-degree layer rotation.
Advantages
- Moderate compression strength with moderate lateral stability
- Easier to teach than full interlocking patterns
- Works when products have one dominant orientation that cannot be fully rotated
- Good compromise for products of varying sizes within the same load
Limitations
- Neither the best compression nor the best lateral stability
- Can leave gaps at layer edges depending on product dimensions
- Less standardized — harder to replicate consistently
- Requires careful planning for each product dimension set
Best for: Mixed-dimension loads, products with one preferred orientation, when compromise between stability and strength is needed.
Trailer Configurations & Pallet Counts
Different trailer and container types have different dimensions, weight limits, and pallet capacities. Knowing these numbers before you ship prevents costly surprises and rejected loads.
53-Foot Dry Van
53' L x 8'6" W x 9' H (interior)
Key Notes
- Most common trailer in U.S. domestic shipping
- Standard 48x40 pallets fit 2 across the width (turned sideways) with ~6" clearance
- Floor-to-ceiling height allows double stacking up to 108" total load height
- Weight limit is often reached before cube is filled for heavy products
- Some states (e.g., California) restrict GVW to 80,000 lbs — limiting payload
- Door opening is typically 7'6" — confirm palletized load clears the opening
- Load pallets tight against the front wall and work backward toward doors
48-Foot Dry Van
48' L x 8'6" W x 9' H (interior)
Key Notes
- Common in LTL and shorter regional hauls
- 5 feet shorter than a 53-foot — plan pallet count accordingly
- Same width and height as 53-foot trailers
- Some carriers charge the same rate as 53-foot loads — negotiate
- Better maneuverability at tight dock locations
- Used by some LTL carriers for terminal-to-terminal transfers
20-Foot Intermodal Container
19'4" L x 7'8" W x 7'10" H (interior)
Key Notes
- Standard for ocean freight — fits on ships, trains, and trucks
- Tighter dimensions than domestic trailers — plan load carefully
- Interior width only 7'8" — some 48x40 configurations require creative loading
- Floor is corrugated steel — use slip sheets or dunnage to level
- ISPM-15 compliant pallets REQUIRED for international ocean shipments
- Container weight limits vary by shipping line and destination port
- Inspect container for moisture, holes, and contamination before loading
40-Foot Intermodal Container
39'5" L x 7'8" W x 7'10" H (interior)
Key Notes
- Most common container size in international trade
- Double the length of a 20-foot — more efficient per unit of cargo
- High-cube (HC) version adds 1 foot of height — 8'10" interior
- Same width constraints as 20-foot containers
- Load heavy pallets near the door end for chassis weight distribution
- Photograph loaded container before closing — essential for insurance claims
- Dunnage and air bags required to prevent cargo movement during ocean transit
40-Foot High-Cube Container
39'5" L x 7'8" W x 8'10" H (interior)
Key Notes
- Extra foot of height compared to standard 40-foot
- Allows taller palletized loads — up to 96" stacking height
- Most popular container for lightweight, high-volume cargo
- Same footprint as standard 40-foot — uses same chassis and handling
- Slightly higher per-unit cost but much better cube utilization
- Cannot be double-stacked on rail in some configurations
53-Foot Refrigerated (Reefer)
52' L x 8'2" W x 8'6" H (interior)
Key Notes
- Temperature-controlled from -20F to 70F depending on unit
- Interior is slightly narrower and shorter than dry van due to insulation
- Airflow between pallets is critical — never block the refrigeration unit airflow
- Load pallets with a 4-6" gap between rows for cold air circulation
- Pre-cool the trailer before loading temperature-sensitive products
- Use plastic or treated pallets to prevent moisture damage in cold environments
- Produce from Fresno area frequently ships in reefers — plan pallet counts for this trailer
Weight Distribution
Distribution Rules
Uneven weight distribution is the leading cause of pallet failure, product damage, and shipping claims. When weight is concentrated on one side, the structural members bear disproportionate stress, leading to cracking, bowing, or complete failure.
Pallet Load Capacity Types
Static Load
Maximum weight a pallet can hold while stationary on a flat surface. Typically the highest rating.
5,000-8,000 lbs for standard pallets
Dynamic Load
Maximum weight while being moved by a forklift or pallet jack. Reduced by 25-50% from static due to handling forces.
2,500-4,000 lbs for standard pallets
Racking Load
Maximum weight when spanning between racking beams with no center support. Lowest rating — pallet must bridge the gap.
1,500-2,800 lbs for standard pallets
Axle Weight Distribution in Trailers
Federal bridge law limits axle weights: steering axle ~12,000 lbs, drive axle ~34,000 lbs, trailer tandems ~34,000 lbs. Total GVW: 80,000 lbs. After tractor and trailer weight (~35,000 lbs), the maximum payload is approximately 44,000-45,000 lbs.
Stretch Wrapping & Securing
Proper load securing is the difference between products arriving intact and filing damage claims. These four methods cover every scenario from low-volume hand wrapping to high-speed automated lines.
Hand Wrapping
Using a handheld stretch film roll, walk around the pallet while applying film. Start at the base, wrapping 3-5 times around the bottom to anchor the load to the pallet. Work upward with 50% overlap between revolutions. Finish at the top and tear the film.
Best Practices
- Apply enough tension to create a tight wrap without crushing products
- Always anchor to the pallet base first — this prevents the load from sliding off the pallet
- Use 80-gauge film for light loads, 60-gauge for standard, pre-stretched for heavy loads
- Minimum 3 wraps at the base, 2-3 wraps per revolution going up
- Wrap around corners at a slight downward angle for better hold
- Overlap each pass by at least 50% — this doubles the film layers
- Total time: 3-5 minutes per pallet for an experienced wrapper
Best for: Low-volume operations, variable pallet sizes, when equipment investment is not justified.
Semi-Automatic Machine Wrapping
Turntable stretch wrap machines rotate the pallet on a platform while a film carriage moves vertically. The operator places the pallet, attaches the film, and starts the machine. The machine applies consistent wrapping at programmed tension and pattern.
Best Practices
- Set film tension to 200-250% pre-stretch for optimal strength and cost efficiency
- Program 5+ bottom wraps for heavy or tall loads to anchor to the pallet
- Use roping mode at the top for extra edge support on lightweight loads
- Machines apply 30-50% more containment force than hand wrapping
- Consistent wrapping quality eliminates operator variability
- Pre-program different profiles for different pallet types
- ROI typically achieved within 6-12 months for 20+ pallets per day
Best for: Medium-volume operations (20-100 pallets/day), standardized pallet sizes.
Fully Automatic Wrapping System
Inline wrapping systems integrate with conveyor lines to wrap pallets without operator intervention. Pallets flow from palletizing to wrapping to labeling in a continuous stream. Rotary arm machines orbit around stationary pallets for very heavy loads.
Best Practices
- Conveyor-integrated systems can wrap 100+ pallets per hour
- Rotary arm machines handle loads too heavy for turntable rotation
- Film pre-stretch up to 300% reduces material cost by 50%+
- Automatic film cutting and attachment eliminates operator touch points
- PLC controls allow load-specific wrapping profiles triggered by barcode scanning
- Consider backup hand-wrapping capability for when the machine is down
Best for: High-volume operations (100+ pallets/day), integrated production lines, automated warehouses.
Banding and Strapping
Polypropylene or polyester strapping applied with a tensioning tool. Used in addition to stretch wrap for heavy loads, or as the primary securement for rigid products that do not benefit from film coverage.
Best Practices
- Apply at least two horizontal bands and two vertical bands for standard loads
- Use edge protectors (corner boards) under straps to prevent product damage and crushing
- Polyester strapping retains tension better than polypropylene for heavy loads over time
- Combine with stretch wrap for maximum stability on high-value or heavy loads
- Check strap tension before shipping — straps loosen over time with material compression
- Steel strapping for the heaviest loads (2,500+ lbs per pallet) — requires specialized tools
- Always anchor straps through or around the pallet — not just around the product
Best for: Heavy loads, metal products, lumber, construction materials, products that cannot be stretch wrapped.
LTL vs FTL vs Container vs Flatbed
Each shipping mode has different requirements for pallet specifications, load building, and documentation. Understanding these differences prevents refused shipments and damage claims.
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload)
Your pallets share truck space with other shippers' freight. The carrier picks up your pallets, consolidates them with other shipments at a terminal, and delivers to the destination. LTL is the most common mode for businesses shipping 1-10 pallets at a time.
Advantages
- Lower cost for small shipments — pay only for space used
- No need to fill a full trailer
- Carrier handles terminal logistics and consolidation
- Wide national coverage with accessorial services
- Suitable for regular small orders and replenishment
Pallet Requirements
- Pallets must be standard size (48x40 preferred) for LTL compatibility
- Maximum height: 48" (pallet + load) for most carriers; some allow 72"
- Maximum weight: 2,500 lbs per pallet for most LTL carriers
- Products must NOT overhang pallet edges — LTL freight is moved multiple times
- Shrink wrap is MANDATORY — loads will be handled by forklifts at terminals
- NMFC freight classification determines pricing (based on density, handling, and value)
- Bill of Lading (BOL) required for every shipment
- Stackable loads get better rates — non-stackable pallets may be reclassified
Pro tip: LTL pallets are handled 4-6 times between pickup and delivery. Build loads that can survive multiple forklift moves, side-by-side stacking with other freight, and temperature variations at terminals. Double-wrap and use corner protectors for fragile goods.
FTL (Full Truckload)
You fill an entire trailer (or pay for exclusive use). Your pallets are loaded at origin and delivered directly to destination without terminal handling or consolidation. FTL is more cost-effective per pallet at higher volumes.
Advantages
- Direct delivery — no terminal handling or consolidation
- Lower per-pallet cost when shipping at volume
- Significantly less damage risk (no re-handling at terminals)
- Faster transit times with no terminal stops
- You control the entire load — stack in any configuration
Pallet Requirements
- 53-foot trailer fits 20-21 standard 48x40 pallets single-stacked (or 40-42 double)
- Maximum payload: 44,000-45,000 lbs depending on trailer type and route
- Load must be secured to prevent shifting — use load bars, air bags, or blocking
- Weight must be distributed evenly to meet axle weight limits (front/rear balance)
- Seal numbers must match BOL for security verification at delivery
- Temperature-controlled trailers (reefers) required for perishable goods
- Multi-stop loads must be loaded in reverse delivery order
Pro tip: For FTL, you control the entire load. Stack pallets tightly, use the full height of the trailer, and load in reverse delivery order if making multiple stops. Void fill with air bags between last row of pallets and trailer doors to prevent load shift during braking.
Intermodal / Ocean Container
Pallets are loaded into standard shipping containers (20-foot or 40-foot) for truck, rail, or ocean transport. Container shipping is the backbone of international trade and also used domestically for long-haul rail transport.
Advantages
- Essential for international trade — the global standard
- Secure and weather-protected during multi-modal transport
- Intermodal flexibility — same container moves truck to rail to ship
- Cost-effective for large volumes over long distances
- Lower carbon footprint per ton-mile than truck-only shipping
Pallet Requirements
- 20-foot container fits 10 standard 48x40 pallets (single layer) or 20 double-stacked
- 40-foot container fits 20 standard pallets (single layer) or 40 double-stacked
- ISPM-15 compliant pallets REQUIRED for international ocean shipments
- Dunnage, air bags, and blocking needed to prevent movement inside the container
- Container weight limits: 20ft max ~44,000 lbs; 40ft max ~58,000 lbs (varies by line)
- Fumigation certificate may be required for certain destination countries
- Customs documentation: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin
Pro tip: Container loading is an art. Load heaviest pallets near the door end (for weight distribution on chassis), fill all voids with dunnage, and photograph the loaded container before closing doors. This documentation is invaluable for insurance claims. Always inspect containers for holes, moisture, and contamination before loading.
Flatbed / Open Deck
Palletized loads transported on open trailers without sides or a roof. Used for oversized products, heavy machinery, and loads that cannot fit through standard trailer doors. Flatbed shipping requires additional securing and weather protection.
Advantages
- No height restrictions from trailer ceiling
- Can load from sides and top using cranes
- Handles oversized and overweight loads
- Essential for construction materials and heavy equipment
Pallet Requirements
- All loads must be tarped for weather protection (unless product is weather-resistant)
- Chains, straps, and edge protectors required to secure loads
- Pallets must be heavy-duty grade — handling stress is higher than enclosed trailers
- Must comply with FMCSA cargo securement rules (49 CFR Part 393)
- Oversize/overweight loads may require permits and escort vehicles
- Driver is responsible for load securement — build loads that are easy to secure
Pro tip: Use hardwood pallets for flatbed shipping — the exposure to weather, chains, and handling stress demands maximum durability. Double-wrap products with industrial stretch film and use moisture-resistant packaging under tarps.
Freight Class & NMFC Classification
LTL carriers price shipments based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system. Every commodity is assigned a freight class from 50 (cheapest) to 500 (most expensive) based on density, handling, stowability, and liability. Getting this right directly affects your shipping costs.
How to Calculate Freight Class
Measure
Measure the length, width, and height of the palletized load in inches. Include the pallet itself in the height measurement.
Calculate Volume
L x W x H = cubic inches. Divide by 1,728 to get cubic feet. For multiple pallets, calculate each and sum the total.
Calculate Density
Total weight (lbs) / Total cubic feet = density (lbs/ft3). Include pallet weight in the total weight.
Find Your Class
Match your density to the freight class table below. Also verify the NMFC number for your specific commodity in the classification book.
| Class | Density (lbs/ft3) | Example Products | Cost Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 50 | 50+ lbs/ft3 | Sand, gravel, heavy machinery | Lowest |
| Class 55 | 35-50 lbs/ft3 | Steel, cement, brick | Very Low |
| Class 60 | 30-35 lbs/ft3 | Car accessories, bottled beverages | Low |
| Class 65 | 22.5-30 lbs/ft3 | Bottled drinks, car parts | Low-Mod |
| Class 70 | 15-22.5 lbs/ft3 | Food items, auto parts, furniture | Moderate |
| Class 77.5 | 13.5-15 lbs/ft3 | Tires, bathroom fixtures | Moderate |
| Class 85 | 12-13.5 lbs/ft3 | Crated machinery, cast iron stoves | Mod-High |
| Class 92.5 | 10.5-12 lbs/ft3 | Computers, monitors, refrigerators | Mod-High |
| Class 100 | 9-10.5 lbs/ft3 | Wine, boat covers, caskets | High |
| Class 110 | 8-9 lbs/ft3 | Cabinets, framed art, table saws | High |
| Class 125 | 7-8 lbs/ft3 | Small household appliances | Very High |
| Class 150 | 6-7 lbs/ft3 | Auto sheet metal, bookcases | Very High |
| Class 175 | 5-6 lbs/ft3 | Clothing, couches, stuffed furniture | Premium |
| Class 200 | 4-5 lbs/ft3 | Auto sheet metal parts, mattresses | Premium |
| Class 250 | 3-4 lbs/ft3 | Mattresses, plasma TVs, bamboo furniture | Premium+ |
| Class 300 | 2-3 lbs/ft3 | Model boats, wood cabinets, kayaks | Highest |
| Class 400 | 1-2 lbs/ft3 | Deer antlers, ping pong balls | Highest |
| Class 500 | <1 lb/ft3 | Gold dust, live birds, low-density items | Highest |
Pallet Impact on Freight Class
The pallet itself affects your freight class calculation. A standard 48x40 wood pallet weighs 30-48 lbs and occupies the full footprint of your load. Adding pallet weight to your total while maintaining the same cubic dimensions increases density, which can push your load into a lower (cheaper) freight class.
Conversely, tall loads with lightweight products have low density and high freight class — costing more. If you can reduce load height by stacking more efficiently or using a shorter pallet, you may reduce your freight class and save significantly on LTL shipping.
Temperature-Controlled Shipping
Temperature-sensitive products require specialized trailers, loading procedures, and pallet materials. The Fresno area ships massive volumes of refrigerated produce — these guidelines are essential for Central Valley shippers.
Refrigerated (34-40F)
Products: Fresh produce, dairy, meat, pharmaceuticals, floral, beverages
Pallet Considerations
- Use plastic or heat-treated wood pallets — untreated wood absorbs condensation
- Ensure pallet design allows airflow between load and trailer floor
- Pre-cool the trailer to 34-36F before loading
- Load pallets with 4-6 inch gaps between rows for cold air circulation
- Do not block the air chute at the top of the reefer unit
- Use temperature monitoring devices between pallets to verify cold chain
- Fresno produce shippers: pre-cool produce to target temp before loading, not after
Frozen (-10 to 0F)
Products: Frozen foods, ice cream, frozen pharmaceuticals, biological samples
Pallet Considerations
- Plastic pallets strongly recommended — wood becomes brittle and cracks at low temps
- Metal pallets with anti-corrosion coating work well in freezer environments
- Pre-cool the trailer to -10F minimum before loading frozen products
- Load quickly — every minute doors are open, trailer temp rises 2-5 degrees
- Stack pallets tightly to minimize air volume the reefer must cool
- Condensation forms on pallets during temperature transitions — plan for moisture
- Inspect pallets frequently — freeze-thaw cycles accelerate wood degradation
Heated / Insulated (50-70F)
Products: Chemicals, adhesives, paint, certain electronics, batteries, chocolate
Pallet Considerations
- Standard wood pallets are acceptable for heated/insulated shipping
- Ensure pallets are dry — moisture + heat creates ideal conditions for mold growth
- Heated trailers maintain minimum temperature, not maximum — plan for variance
- Insulated trailers (no active heating/cooling) maintain temp for 4-8 hours only
- For long-distance heated shipments, verify reefer unit can maintain heat mode for full transit
- Some chemicals require specific pallet materials for compatibility — check SDS sheets
12 Common Shipping Mistakes to Avoid
These are the most frequent and costly pallet shipping errors we see across the industry. Each one is entirely preventable with proper knowledge and technique.
Overhanging the Pallet Edge
Insufficient Stretch Wrap
Not Anchoring to the Pallet
Exceeding Pallet Weight Capacity
Using Damaged Pallets
Wrong Pallet for the Shipping Mode
Stacking Heavy on Light
Ignoring Freight Class (NMFC)
Not Labeling Properly
Ignoring Temperature Requirements
Failing to Photograph Loads
Not Filling Trailer Voids
International Shipping Documentation
International pallet shipments require specific documentation for customs clearance. Missing or incorrect documents cause delays, fines, and shipment refusal at borders. This comprehensive list covers every document you may need for global trade.
| Document | Purpose | When Required |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares the value, description, and quantity of goods for customs valuation and duty assessment. | All international shipments |
| Packing List | Detailed list of contents, weights, dimensions, and pallet counts. Used by customs for inspection targeting. | All international shipments |
| Bill of Lading (B/L or BOL) | Contract between shipper and carrier. Serves as receipt of goods, document of title, and evidence of carriage contract. | All ocean and ground freight shipments |
| Air Waybill (AWB) | The air freight equivalent of a bill of lading. Non-negotiable. Covers the cargo from airport to airport. | All air freight shipments |
| Certificate of Origin | Certifies where the goods were manufactured or produced. Required for preferential duty rates under trade agreements (USMCA, CAFTA-DR, etc.). | Most international shipments, especially with trade agreement benefits |
| ISPM-15 Compliance Certificate | Demonstrates that wood packaging has been heat treated (HT) or methyl bromide treated (MB) per international phytosanitary standards. The IPPC mark on the pallet itself serves as proof. | All wood packaging in international trade |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Government-issued certificate confirming plant health requirements are met. Required for agricultural exports and sometimes for wood packaging. | Agricultural exports, select destination countries |
| Fumigation Certificate | Certifies that the shipment (including pallets) has been fumigated. Some countries require this in addition to ISPM-15 for specific pest concerns. | Select countries (Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, India, China for some products) |
| Shipper's Export Declaration (SED/AES) | U.S. Census Bureau form required for exports over $2,500 per Schedule B number or to restricted destinations. Filed electronically via AES (Automated Export System). | U.S. exports over $2,500 per commodity, or to embargoed countries |
| Dangerous Goods Declaration | Required for shipments containing hazardous materials per IMDG (ocean), IATA (air), or DOT (ground) regulations. Declares the classification, packaging, and handling requirements. | All shipments containing hazardous materials |
| Letter of Credit (L/C) | Bank-issued guarantee of payment upon presentation of conforming documents. Protects both buyer and seller in international transactions. | When payment terms include a letter of credit |
| Insurance Certificate | Proof that the shipment is insured against loss or damage during transit. Specifies coverage amount, terms, and beneficiary. | When required by letter of credit or buyer agreement |
Key Shipping Numbers
Need Shipping-Ready Pallets?
From standard domestic pallets to ISPM-15 certified export pallets, Fresno Pallets has the inventory and expertise to keep your shipments moving. Whether you need 10 pallets or 10,000, we deliver across the Central Valley with fast turnaround and competitive pricing.