What types of freight services does ShipMate+ offer for businesses?
ShipMate+ offers a full range of freight solutions including LTL (less-than-truckload), FTL (full truckload), domestic and international air cargo, full and less-than-container sea freight, expedited freight, and deferred economy options. With access to 40+ carriers, we match each shipment to the most cost-effective and reliable solution for your timeline and budget.
How does a business freight account with ShipMate+ work?
Setting up a business freight account with ShipMate+ gives your company direct access to our carrier network and logistics team. We handle carrier selection, rate negotiation, documentation, and scheduling on your behalf. You simply bring or arrange your shipment, and we manage the rest — from first mile to final delivery — saving your team significant time and overhead.
What is the difference between LTL and FTL freight shipping?
LTL (less-than-truckload) is used when your shipment doesn't fill an entire truck — you pay only for the space your cargo occupies, sharing the truck with other shippers. FTL (full truckload) dedicates an entire truck to your shipment, offering faster transit and reduced handling. ShipMate+ helps you determine which mode is right based on your cargo weight, dimensions, and delivery requirements.
Does ShipMate+ handle international freight for San Francisco businesses?
Yes. ShipMate+ provides comprehensive international freight services including air cargo and sea container shipping (FCL and LCL) to destinations worldwide. We manage customs documentation, import/export compliance, Commercial Invoices, and Electronic Export Information forms — critical for Bay Area companies engaged in cross-border trade with Asia-Pacific markets and beyond.
Which freight carriers does ShipMate+ work with?
ShipMate+ has relationships with over 40 freight, LTL, air cargo, and sea container carriers, including FedEx Freight, UPS Freight, and multiple regional and national LTL providers. As an officially authorized FedEx ShipCenter and UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet, we also offer the complete FedEx and UPS domestic and international freight portfolios with daily carrier pickups.
What items can be shipped as freight through ShipMate+?
ShipMate+ handles a wide range of business freight including industrial equipment, office furniture, palletized inventory, trade show displays, electronics, auto parts, medical devices, and full office relocations. Our team advises on proper commercial packaging, crating, and palletizing to protect cargo in transit and reduce damage claims for high-value or oversized business shipments.
Does ShipMate+ offer packaging and palletizing services for freight?
Yes. ShipMate+ provides professional commercial packing, crating, and palletizing services to prepare business cargo for freight transit. Proper preparation is essential for reducing damage claims, meeting carrier liability requirements, and ensuring on-time delivery. Our team advises on the right packaging approach based on your cargo type, weight, and the carrier requirements for your chosen shipping mode.
What are ShipMate+'s hours for freight drop-offs and account services?
ShipMate+ is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. FedEx and UPS pickups occur daily at 4:30 PM on weekdays and 12:00 PM on Saturday. This schedule ensures your freight enters the carrier network the same day it's dropped off, keeping your business shipments on schedule.