Shipping cargo worldwide can be complex, but it doesn't have to be. Thanks to digital platforms like ExFreight, managing commercial freight and logistics is simpler, faster, and more transparent. Whether booking an air freight quote, preparing a commercial invoice, or shipping with a less-than-container load, this guide walks you through everything you need.
From small business owners to global enterprises, having the right tools to handle freight shipping, customs paperwork, and logistics planning is essential. Below, we explain the services, documents, and digital tools you need for success in today's freight-forwarding environment.
What is Commercial Freight?
Commercial freight refers to the shipment of goods for business purposes. Unlike personal shipments, commercial freight usually involves larger volumes, complex logistics, and strict documentation requirements. It typically includes:
- Palletized shipments
- Full truckloads (FTL)
- Less-than-truckload (LTL)
- Air and ocean cargo
- International shipments
Businesses use freight shipping providers like ExFreight to transport goods domestically or globally, manage customs entries, and get real-time tracking. Whether you're shipping to Amazon warehouses or importing components from Asia, this is commercial freight in action.
Freight Services and Shipping Options
Types of Freight Shipping Services
Full Truckload (FTL)
FTL shipping is best for large-volume shipments that fill an entire truck. It's fast, direct, and ideal for fragile or time-sensitive goods.
Less Than Truckload (LTL)
When there are insufficient goods for a whole truck, LTL allows multiple shipments to share space. ExFreight's system automatically calculates class based on weight and dimensions, simplifying the process.
Air Freight Shipping
Air freight offers the fastest delivery for urgent or high-value items. Through ExFreight's platform, you can instantly request an air freight quote and get transparent air freight rates from multiple carriers.
Ocean Freight Shipping
Perfect for large, non-urgent cargo. ExFreight offers ocean freight shipping quotes for FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load), including door-to-port or door-to-door options.
International Freight Services Made Easy
ExFreight connects over 150 countries with import and export services via air, ocean, and road. Their platform integrates directly with carriers and customs agencies to offer:
- Instant freight quotes
- Booking and tracking
- Customs documentation
- Delivery coordination
ExFreight's technical documentation explains that you can even use APIs to connect your ERP or TMS system directly to ExFreight's quoting engine.
Understanding the Commercial Invoice for Freight
A commercial invoice is a legal document in international trade that describes the goods, their value, and the terms of sale. It's required for customs clearance, tax assessment, and global compliance.
What's Included in a Commercial Invoice?
- Shipper and consignee details
- The item description and HS codes
- Value of goods
- Incoterms (e.g., FOB, DDP)
- Freight charges (if applicable)
Without an accurate commercial invoice, customs can delay or reject your shipment.
Digital Freight Forwarding: The Future of Logistics
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