Image:

Shipment preparation is the work you do before the driver arrives — packaging, labeling, and paperwork. Most pickup delays are not caused by the courier. They are caused by shipments that are not ready when the driver arrives, not packaged properly, or missing required documentation. WTM Logistics provides on-demand courier service across the Peace Region, and a properly prepared shipment moves through dispatch without hold-ups.

What packaging standards prevent delays?

Use packaging rated for the weight of your shipment. Seal boxes completely. Use pallets for freight over 100 lbs or when multiple boxes are being shipped together. Shrink-wrap palletized freight so boxes don’t shift. Protect fragile items with proper cushioning. A shipment that arrives damaged because it was under-packaged creates a delay for everyone downstream.

What labeling is required at pickup?

Every shipment needs a legible label with the pickup address, delivery address, recipient name, and contact phone number. For freight shipments, include the purchase order number or reference number. For palletized freight, label each pallet when the shipment includes multiple pallets. Illegible or missing labels are a top cause of pickup hold-ups.

What paperwork is needed at pickup?

For standard courier shipments, a completed waybill or shipping label is sufficient. For freight shipments, include a bill of lading that lists the contents, weight, freight class, and any special handling instructions. For dangerous goods, include the required TDG shipping document. For cross-border shipments, include a commercial invoice.

What are common prep mistakes that cause hold-ups?

Shipment not ready at pickup. The driver arrives and the freight is not staged. This delays the entire route.

Wrong weight or dimensions. Inaccurate information means the wrong vehicle was dispatched.

Missing dangerous goods documentation. A TDG shipment without proper paperwork cannot move.

Improper packaging. Freight that arrives damaged creates a claim and a delay.

Missing accessorial requirements. If you need liftgate or inside delivery, it must be on the booking — not communicated when the driver arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prepare a shipment for pickup?

Package properly, label clearly, stage the freight where the driver can access it, and have all documentation ready before the pickup window.

What paperwork does a freight shipment need?

A bill of lading listing contents, weight, freight class, and any special instructions. Dangerous goods and cross-border shipments require additional documentation.

What is the most common reason for pickup delays?

The shipment is not ready when the driver arrives. Stage your freight before the pickup window and confirm the driver has access.

Prepare your shipment right and it moves through dispatch without hold-ups. Email dispatch@wtmlogistics.com or call 587-316-2639.

Mogahid Abdalla