What will a transport company need to know?

When you phone a transport company, they will have a few questions and you need to be prepared to answer them.  Questions will almost certainly include-

• What is the freight? eg carton, pallet, skid, steel etc
• What are the dimensions? Length by Width by Height in centimetres
• What is the weight of the consignment?  If you don't know the weight they will probably ask for an estimate
• What is the pick up point (you need to have a full address)
• What is the delivery address (have full details and a contact person/phone number)
• How will it be loaded/unloaded?  This is dependent upon the size/weight of the consignment.  The carrier is really asking do you have a forklift/crane/20 fit blokes on standby.  If it's a hand load/unload, be prepared to have the carrier decline the work.  OH&S regulations do not make it worthwhile for carriers to risk a workplace injury for a $100 consignment.
• Do you have an account with us?  I'm assuming you do not - otherwise you already know what questions they will ask you.  If you do not have an account you will likely be expected to pay for transport prior to the consignment getting delivered. 
• How are the goods packaged?  Is it strapped to a pallet or small skid, wrapped in bubble wrap, insulated in cartons that have been sealed and so on. 

No doubt some carriers ask more questions, some less.  Some will not even consider working for you if you do not have an account opened first.  However, at least if you have the basic answers to these questions, you will be in a position to get a quote at the very least.