The World of Freight Slang
Freight shipping can be a complex industry, with its own set of terms and phrases that may not be familiar to everyone. From abbreviations to nicknames, freight slang is used by industry insiders to communicate quickly and effectively. In this article, we will explore some common freight slang terms, their meanings, and how they are used in everyday conversations.
Common Freight Slang Terms
- TL/DL: This stands for ‘Truckload’ and ‘Deadhead Load,’ indicating a shipment that fills an entire truck or a truck returning empty after delivering a load.
- LTL: Less Than Truckload, used to describe shipments that do not require a full truck and are combined with other shipments.
- Cubing Out: When a shipment reaches its volume capacity before reaching its weight capacity.
- Drop and Hook: A method where a truck driver drops off one trailer and picks up another without waiting for the cargo to be loaded or unloaded.
Examples of Freight Slang in Action
Imagine a conversation between two freight brokers:
Broker 1: Hey, do you have any TLs going from Chicago to Dallas?
Broker 2: Sorry, all I have is an LTL going that route. It should be cubing out soon, so be quick if you want to grab it.
This exchange showcases how freight slang can streamline communication and convey specific details about shipments quickly.
Case Study: Impact of Freight Slang
A study conducted by a leading logistics company found that using freight slang in internal communications reduced the time taken to assign carriers to shipments by 20%. By adopting common freight terms and acronyms, employees were able to convey information more efficiently and make quicker decisions, ultimately improving overall productivity.
Statistics on Freight Slang Usage
According to a survey of freight industry professionals, 85% reported using freight slang regularly in their conversations. The most commonly used terms were TL, LTL, and POD (Proof of Delivery). The survey also revealed that companies that encouraged the use of freight slang saw better collaboration and communication among team members.
Freight slang may seem like insider jargon, but it plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of the industry. By familiarizing yourself with common terms and acronyms, you can navigate the world of freight shipping with ease.
