How to Prepare a Dry Van Load for Pickup

Good transportation starts before the truck arrives.

Preparing a shipment correctly can help reduce delays and make the pickup process smoother for everyone involved.

If you are preparing general freight for dry van transportation, there are several important details to review.

Confirm the Pickup Information

Make sure the pickup location, appointment time, and contact information are correct.

If a driver needs a specific pickup number, reference number, or gate instruction, that information should be available before arrival.

Prepare the Freight

Freight should be packaged and secured appropriately for transportation.

Depending on the shipment, this may include pallets, boxes, crates, or other packaging.

Confirm the Weight

Accurate shipment weight is important for transportation planning and legal weight limits.

Share Special Instructions

If the shipment has special pickup procedures, loading requirements, or delivery instructions, provide them in advance.

Confirm the Delivery Details

Delivery location, appointment information, and any receiving requirements should also be verified before the truck leaves the pickup facility.

Clear shipment information helps drivers, dispatchers, brokers, and shippers stay aligned.

A few minutes of preparation before pickup can help prevent confusion later in the shipment.