How to ship your first pallet
Moving from parcel to freight for the first time is mostly about a few new steps. Here's the whole thing.
Last updated: July 16, 2026 · Written by the GET Express freight desk
- Palletize it. Stack boxes squarely on a standard 48×40 pallet, don't overhang the edges, and shrink-wrap the load tightly to the pallet.
- Weigh and measure. Get the total weight and the pallet's length, width, and height. Accurate numbers here keep your quote and your invoice the same.
- Know your class. Use the density guideline, or let us confirm it. The right class up front is the single best way to avoid a surprise charge.
- Get a quote and a BOL. We quote the lane and generate the bill of lading, the contract that travels with your freight.
- Flag accessorials. Tell us if pickup or delivery needs a liftgate, is residential, or requires an appointment. These cost extra, and hiding them just delays the freight.
- Hand it off and track it. The carrier picks up; we track it and keep you posted through delivery.
Quick answers
What size pallet should I use?
A standard 48x40 inch pallet is the default for most LTL freight in the U.S. Stack boxes squarely on it, keep the load within the pallet's footprint, and shrink-wrap it tightly so nothing shifts in transit.
Do I need a bill of lading?
Yes. Every LTL shipment travels with a bill of lading, the contract that lists the shipper, consignee, freight description, weight, class, and accessorials. We generate it when we quote and book your shipment.
What if I don't know my freight class?
That's normal for a first shipment. Send us the weight and dimensions and we'll confirm the class for you, free, before you book.
Ready for your first shipment?
Send us what and where. We'll handle the class, the BOL, and the accessorials.