- 1). Visit the UPS shipping page (see "Resources") and select the freight shipping option appropriate to your needs. UPS offers a variety of shipping possibilities: less-than-truckload ground freight, air freight, truckload and ocean for less-than-container load and full container loads.
- 2). Enter the zip code from where the shipment will originate and the zip code where the freight shipment will be delivered. Also specify when you want your shipment to be sent out and click "Next" when finished.
- 3). Complete the details of your freight package in the expanded calculation form. Depending on the mode of shipment you chose, you will need to know the physical parameters of your shipment. For all shipments, you need to know the overall weight. For air and ocean freight, you will need the shipment's length, width, height and number of pallets necessary. For ground freight, the "Class" field refers to the National Motor Freight Classification, which is a numerical designation for the category of goods being shipped through UPS. Your shipment will fall into one of eighteen different class-types, which are based on a rubric of shipping factors such as density, stowability, liability and handling.
- 4). Choose any optional amenities that you would like, if your shipment mode allows them. These include additional pickup and delivery services, weekend delivery, holiday delivery and a cash-on-delivery option.
- 5). Click "Next" to proceed to the final time and cost summary screen. If your shipment is under 150 pounds, UPS will offer you the chance to ship with one of their smaller packaging services and recalculate the estimated time and delivery. Otherwise, the summary screen displays the type of freight service selected, the total cost, and the number of days in transit. From here you can also go back and modify your freight rate request to see what shipment methods best suit you.
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