A guide to shipping overstock and liquidation freight
Looking to ship liquidation pallets, auction items, overstock inventory, or wholesale returns? Freightquote makes it easy to compare rates and book freight shipping for liquidation merchandise—fast. Liquidation shipping refers to transporting surplus, returned, or overstock goods—often purchased from liquidation auctions, wholesale suppliers, or retail closeouts. These shipments are typically palletized and shipped via LTL (less-than-truckload) or full truckload freight.
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What is liquidation shipping?
Why choose Freightquote for liquidation services?
- Palletizing and crating support
- Perfect for resellers and small businesses
- Instant freight quotes for liquidation pallets
- Pickup from warehouses, auction houses, or storage units
- Nationwide and Canadian cross-border liquidation shipping coverage
What types of liquidation freight can you ship?
Maximize efficiency and minimize risk by matching your shipping method to the unique needs of your surplus or liquidation freight.
| Liquidation merchandise type | Packaging | Shipping | Shipper's interest insurance | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liquidation pallets | Ensure items are strapped to pallets and pallets are shrink wrapped | LTL | High-value items | Request dimensions, weight, and a photo of pallet to confirm proper packaging and ensure accurate quoting |
| Amazon, Walmart, QVC, and similar returns | Ensure boxed items are strapped to pallets and pallets are shrink wrapped. If shipping small parcel, ensure boxed items are packed tightly and properly labeled | Small parcel, LTL, FTL | High-value or used items | Request dimension, weight, and a photo of packaged items to ensure accurate quoting |
| Overstock and shelf pulls | Ensure boxed items are strapped to pallets and pallets are shrink wrapped. If shipping small parcel, ensure boxed items are packed tightly and properly labeled | Small parcel, LTL, FTL | High-value items | Request dimension, weight, and a photo of packaged items to ensure accurate quoting |
| Wholesale lots and bulk inventory | Ensure boxed items are strapped to pallets and pallets are shrink wrapped | LTL or FTL | High-value or used items | Request dimensions, weight, and a photo of the lot to confirm proper packaging and ensure accurate quoting |
| Damaged packaged goods | Ensure boxed items are strapped to pallets and pallets are shrink wrapped. If shipping small parcel, ensure boxed items are packed tightly and properly labeled | Small parcel, LTL, FTL | High-value items | Request dimension, weight, and a photo of packaged items to ensure accurate quoting |
| Auction items | For fragile items, consider double boxing and include packing material. Include crush cones when palletizing | Small parcel, LTL, FTL | High-value, used, or vintage items | Upload purchase document at booking, ensuring the carrier has proper paperwork for a smooth shipment pickup |
| Large or oversize items | Crate or pallet if possible, securing item to pallet with straps | LTL, FTL, or Flatbed | High-value, used, or vintage items | Request dimension, weight, and a photo of packaged items to ensure accurate quoting |
LTL = Less-than-truckload—this is partial use of a fully enclosed box trailer known as a dry van
FTL = Full truckload—this is exclusive use of a fully enclosed box trailer known as a dry van
Flatbed = Type of open-deck trailer that has no walls or roof
*Try out the “Compare All” function when quoting to easily compare different methods of shipping.
Move liquidation inventory faster and smarter
Tips for shipping liquidation and auction freight
- Know what you’re buying: Ask the seller for packaging photos and dimensions to ensure you book accurately.
- Comply with hazardous material regulations: Drain fluids before shipping.
- Compare shipping options: Use the "compare all modes" function when quoting to easily compare and find the best LTL or truckload rate.
- Include pickup documents: Provide required paperwork like a bill of lading (BOL) when booking.
- Confirm pickup deadlines: Check auction house timelines and schedule your shipment accordingly.
How to ship liquidation inventory with Freightquote
Shipping surplus or liquidation freight with Freightquote is fast, flexible, and hassle-free—just enter your details for instant, tailored quotes.
Enter shipment details
Include item description and precise measurements including length, height, width, and weight.
Compare carrier rates
Compare quotes from high quality, vetted shipping companies. No signup required.
Book and track online
Easily track and manage your shipments from your Freightquote account dashboard.
Ready to ship liquidation inventory?
Frequently Asked Questions: Liquidation Shipping
Shipping liquidation freight since 1998
When you're moving liquidation freight—whether it's a single pallet or a full truckload—Freightquote makes it easy to ship wholesale and auction goods across the U.S. and Canada. Our trusted freight solutions ensure your items arrive safely and on time, no matter the size or complexity of the shipment.
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