D-F
Demurrage – The usage of leased or rented equipment beyond the time allowed. Also the extra charge required as compensation for such delay.
Detention – A penalty charge against shippers or consignees for delaying carriers beyond allowed time.
Dimension Weight – Dimensional weight is a billing technique which takes into account the XYZ axis dimensions of a package. Shipping costs have historically been calculated on the basis of gross weight in kilograms or pounds. By charging only by weight, lightweight, low density packages become unprofitable for freight carriers due to the amount of space they take up in the truck/aircraft/ship in proportion to their actual weight. The concept of Dimensional Weight has been adopted by the transportation industry worldwide as a uniform means of establishing a minimum charge for the cubic space a package occupies.
Dimensions – the Height, Width and Length measurements (aka the X, Y and Z axis dimensions) for a parcel or for a single stacked pallet of goods.
Double Drop (Trailer) – A specialized version of a flatbed trailer having the load platform low to the ground at just below axle height, between the front and rear axles. A double drop is used to haul material that is too high for a standard Flat Bed Trailer to transport down highways and roads safely.
Drayage – see Cartage.
Drop Deck – A specialized version of a flatbed trailer having the load platform below the level of the trailer hitch on the cab. Effective for transporting large vehicles or loads that are too tall for a standard height flat bed.
FCL – Full Container Load.
FDA – United States Food and Drug Administration.
Flatbed – A wheeled trailer or a semi-trailer with a flat cargo carrying surface or deck and without any superstructure.
FOB – Free On Board – Within North America, the term FOB is commonly used when shipping goods to indicate who pays loading and transportation costs, and/or the point at which the responsibility of the goods transfers from shipper to buyer. “FOB shipping point” or “FOB origin” indicates the buyer pays shipping cost, and takes responsibility for the goods when the goods leave the seller’s premises. “FOB destination” designates the seller will pay shipping costs, and remain responsible for the goods until the buyer takes possession.
Freight Broker – A person or company who, for compensation, arranges for transportation of cargo belonging to others. A Freight Broker is a liaison between the shipper and the carrier – representing the shipper’s interests and obtaining the services of independent carriers. A freight broker must have a bond as a form of insurance for payment to carriers.
Freight Classification – see Classification.
Freight Collect – Freight charges to be paid by Consignee at destination.
Freight Forwarder – similar to a Freight Broker, but focused on international shipments. A Freight Forwarder is a third party logistics provider arranging for all aspects of international shipping and customs. A freight forwarder must have insurance of cargo and general liabilities.
Freight Management – the discipline of managing the complexity of freight transportation to improve efficiencies and reduce costs.
Freight Prepaid – Freight charges to be paid by Shipper.
FTL – Full Truckload. Denotes a shipment that takes an entire truck. Usually 24 pallets for a 48’ trailer, or 26 pallets for a 53’ trailer. Pallet counts are doubled if the cargo can be double-stacked.