Ecommerce Freight

What Is Ecommerce Freight?

Ecommerce freight refers to the logistics systems required to sell and deliver oversized, heavy, or high-value products online using freight transportation instead of standard parcel carriers like UPS or FedEx.

If a product cannot be realistically delivered by a single driver using a small van or hand truck, it typically moves through a freight network rather than a parcel network.

When Does Ecommerce Become Freight?

An online order transitions from parcel shipping to freight shipping when it exceeds common parcel limits, such as:

Weight typically above 150 lbs
Oversized dimensions
Palletized shipments
High-value goods requiring controlled handling
Multi-piece shipments moving together

Examples include:

Furniture
Fitness equipment
Appliances
Industrial machinery
Commercial fixtures
Large electronics or medical equipment

How Ecommerce Freight Works

Unlike parcel shipping, ecommerce freight typically involves:

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) or Full Truckload (FTL) transportation
Palletization or crating
Freight classification (NMFC-based pricing)
Appointment scheduling
Liftgate or inside delivery services
Final-mile coordination

Because freight networks are built for commercial docks rather than residential doorsteps, additional services are often required when delivering to homes or job sites.

Why Ecommerce Freight Is Operationally Different

Freight shipping introduces additional considerations that do not exist in parcel networks:

Freight class and density affect pricing
Accessorial charges may apply (liftgate, residential, limited access)
Delivery appointments are common
Damage prevention requires proper packaging and documentation
Carrier liability structures differ from parcel guarantees

For ecommerce merchants, this means logistics planning must account for both cost variability and delivery experience.

Common Questions About Ecommerce Freight

Is ecommerce freight more expensive than parcel shipping?

It can be. Freight pricing depends on weight, dimensions, distance, freight class, and accessorial services.

Can freight be delivered to a residence?

Yes, but residential deliveries often require liftgate service and scheduled appointments.

Does ecommerce freight include white glove delivery?

It can. White glove service may include inside placement, room-of-choice delivery, debris removal, or assembly.

Is ecommerce freight only for businesses?

No. Many direct-to-consumer brands rely on freight networks to deliver large products to residential customers.