Trucking Industry Glossary

Accessorial charge – A charge for supplemental services that go above and beyond what’s
considered normal. Carriers will often charge “accessorial” for time being detained by a shipper,
having to load or unload freight, securing odd-sized freight to a flatbed trailer, etc.

ATA – American Trucking Associations. This industry trade association, headquartered in Virginia,
is the umbrella organization for 50 affiliated state trucking associations.

Authority – In order to operate legally, both for-hire carriers and freight brokers must obtain
operating authority from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)

Axle – A structural component that connects the wheels of a truck to its frame Backhaul – The
return trip, which usually pays a lower rate than the head haul.

Benchmark – A standard by which others may be measured. In the trucking industry it refers to
compare rates.

Bill of Lading (BOL)– A legal document that lists the goods being shipped and states the terms of
their transport.

Bill of Sale – It is a legal document that transfers ownership of personal property, most commonly
vehicles.

Bobtail – A heavy-duty truck without a trailer attached.

Broker – An intermediary who arranges transportation services. Shippers often hire freight brokers
to find carriers to transport their goods.

Bonded Carrier – A bonded carrier is a transportation provider that is licensed to move freight

through/across U.S. points of entry (ports, border crossings) without having to pay duties, taxes
and/or fees on those goods during that specific portion of their transportation.

Capacity – In the trucking industry, this buzzword refers to the availability of trucks that can be
hired to haul freight. Example: Capacity is tight (scarce) during spring produce harvests.

Carrier – A trucking company or individual owner-operator that transports goods. Entity that has
the

trailers, licenses and insurance.

Chassis – The frame and wheels that support a container or trailer.

CDL – Commercial Driver’s License. A CDL is required to drive a truck or bus weighing over 26,000
pounds gross vehicle weight.

DAT – One of the most use load boards in USA to connect carriers and brokers.

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Deadhead – Driving with an empty trailer. Since most trucks are paid by the mile only when
they’re loaded, deadhead often means moving the truck for no pay.

Divisible Load – It is any vehicle or combination of vehicles transporting cargo of legal dimensions

that can be separated into units of legal weight without affecting the physical integrity of the load.

Dispatch – The process of assigning and coordinating drivers and trucks to pick up and deliver
shipments.

Dispatcher – Individual or company that works for a carrier or driver to find loads to get done.

Drop and hook – When a driver leaves a trailer at a loading dock and hooks up to a different trailer
for the return trip. This eliminates the need for the driver to wait for “live” loading or unloading.

Drive-Away – When a shipper provides a drivable vehicle, and a person gets it driven from pick up
to drop off location.

Dry Van – The most common trailer type, a van is an enclosed rectangular box that holds freight.
The most common type of van is 53 feet long. Also called a “Van.”

Dock Receipt - The dock receipt is used to transfer accountability when an export item is moved
by the domestic carrier to the port of embarkation and left with the international carrier for
movement to its destination.

DOT – Department of Transportation. This Federal agency regulates interstate trucking in the
United

States.

ELD – Electronic Logging Device. An on-board device that records information about the
movement of a truck, including speed and time in service, as well as the driver’s hours of service
and duty status. As of December 2017, ELDs are required on all trucks (with some exceptions),
replacing paper logs kept by drivers. Trucks that were previously equipped with AOBRDs were
permitted to continue using those devices until December 16, 2019, when they must switch to
ELDs, as well.

ETA – Estimated Time of Arrival. It reefers to the estimated time that a driver will be at a certain
point.

Expedite Freight – Time-sensitive freight that must be delivered at a pre-set delivery time.

Factoring – In the trucking industry, factoring is when a carrier receives payment from a third-
party

financial company before delivering a load and waiting for payment, thereby improving cash flow.

The freight factoring company retains a fee, typically based on a percentage of what the carrier
would have earned. Freight brokers may also rely on factoring to improve cash flow.

Fifth Wheeler - The way tractors and trailers are connected. The fifth wheel accepts a trailer’s
kingpin and

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supports the front end the trailer. This is the most common type of hitch there is.

Flatbed – An open-deck trailer consisting of a platform for transporting large or odd-shaped freight
that must be loaded or unloaded from the top or the side, as well as freight that cannot fit inside a
standard van trailer.

Fleet – A group of trucks owned or operated by a single company or carrier.

For-hire carrier – A trucking company that transports freight for others.

FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an agency within the U.S. Department of

Transportation that enforces commercial motor vehicle safety regulations.

Freight Broker – A person who arranges transportation and functions as an intermediary between
a

shipper and a carrier. Sometimes referred to as a “property broker.”

Freight Class – A standardized classification system used to determine the rate and pricing for
shipping freight based on the type of goods, size, weight, and other factors.

Fuel Surcharge (FSC ) – A charge that covers the cost of fuel.

Gate Pass - An electronic or paper document that must be presented by the Buyer or Customer

Representative to the Auction.

Headhaul – The higher paying segment of a round trip. Also referred to as a linehaul. The lower-
paying return trip is called a backhaul.

Hitch - The trucker's hitch is a compound knot commonly used for securing loads on trucks or
trailers.

Hours of Service (HOS) – The number of hours an interstate truck driver can legally drive, as
regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Hot Shot – Expedited freight normally limited to a gross weight of 36,000 pounds. Can also refer to
the truck hauling the freight, which can be as small as a one-ton pickup hauling a flatbed trailer.

IFTA – International Fuel Tax Agreement. An agreement between the lower 48 United States and
Canadian provinces, in which carriers report fuel tax paid at the pump on a quarterly basis, and the
money is redistributed to the states and provinces where the fuel was used.

Indivisible Load - Load which cannot, without undue expense or risk of damage, be divided into 2
or more loads for the purpose of conveyance on a road

Intermediary – In trucking, this term usually refers to a freight broker or third-party logistics (3PL)
company that manages transportation on behalf of a shipper.

Intermodal – Freight that requires more than one mode of transportation for the same shipment.
Typical modes include air, rail, sea, and truck.

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Interstate – Refers to the movement of goods across state lines

Intrastate – Refers to the movement of goods within a single state.

Lane – A particular route, defined as an origin and destination pair. For example, the route from
Chicago to Dallas is a lane, and Dallas to Chicago is a distinct lane.

Linehaul – The rate or price associated with a specific lane, exclusive of the fuel surcharge,
accessorials, and other fees. The linehaul rate may be quoted per mile or per trip.

Load – A single freight shipment.

Load board – A service that matches shippers and freight brokers with carriers (trucking
companies) willing to transport the freight.

Load-to-truck-ratio – The number of trucks available for hire in a specific location versus the
number of available loads at that location. A high load-to-truck ratio in a certain city, state, or
region means that a carrier is more likely to find freight there.

LTL – Less Than Truckload. A shipment whose weight and size characteristics allow it to be
consolidated with other shipments in a single truckload, or to be shipped as is.

MC – Motor Carrier Number - It is also an interstate operating authority and unique identifier
assigned by the FMCSA.

Mile Per Galon (MPG) - It is used to give you an indication of the fuel economy of a car or
commercial

vehicle.

Onboarding – The process in which a freight broker “brings on” a carrier he’s never worked with
before. The carrier must sign the broker’s agreements, supply insurance agent details, W8/W9
information, etc.

OOIDA – Owner-Operator Independent Driver’s Association, an industry association based in Grain

Valley, Missouri.

OTR / Over-the-road trucking – Over-the-road trucking involves hauling freight over long
distances, often across state lines and even national borders. An over-the-road trucker might
spend 3-4 weeks on the road at a time, sleeping in either the truck's cabin or at hotels and motels
along the way

Owner-operator – A subset of the carrier market, describing an individual who both owns the
truck and drives it on a regular basis. Owner-operators may lease onto a larger carrier and operate
under that carrier’s authority.

Partial Load – Usually it is when a load takes less or around the half of the capacity of a trailer. This
is applicable to SDL, V, R, HS.

Parcel Load – Refers to a load that occupies a quarter of the capacity of the trailer.

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Piggyback Service - Refers to the transportation of goods where one transportation unit is carried
on the back of something else. This is service is common to move semi tractors one on the back of
the other.

Power Only – If a shipper provides the trailer, he may request only a power unit (truck or tractor)
to pull the trailer.

Power unit – The tractor portion of a tractor-trailer, which contains the engine.

Rate Per Mile (RPM) – The most common form of pricing used in the spot market. The total price
is

calculated as follows: Rate per mile (including fuel surcharge) x number of miles = total price.

Reefer – A refrigerated trailer used to move freight that requires a temperature-controlled

environment.

RGN – Removable Gooseneck Trailer. It is a detachable trailer usually use for heavy units.

RFP – Request for Proposal.

RFQ – Request for Quote.

RORO (Roll-on Roll-off) - Designed ships for carrying wheeled cargo, such as cars, trucks, semi-
trailer

trucks, trailers, and railroad cars can drive on and off of the ship on their own wheels through a
vehicle platform.

Shipper – The sender (such as a manufacturer, grower, retailer or distributor) who hires a carrier
to

transport goods.

Spot market – Spot market freight — sometimes called exception freight — is not under a long-
term contract between a shipper and a carrier. Spot market freight rates are typically determined
by short-term supply and demand conditions.

TCA – Truckload Carriers Association, a national association for truckload carriers, based in
Alexandria, Virginia.

TIA – Transportation Intermediaries Association, an industry association for freight brokers and
third-party logistics professionals (3PLs), based in Alexandria, Virginia.

Tilt Bed - Hydraulic Bed – As the name implies, a tilt trailer is a type of adjustable trailer that tilts
back and down to aid in loading.

TMS – Transportation Management Software, a type of computer software designed specifically

for

transportation professionals, helping them manage almost every aspect of their business.

Tractor – A truck that pulls a trailer.

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Trailer – A non-motorized platform pulled by a tractor (truck). Common trailer types include vans,
flatbeds step decks, hotshots, etc.

TriHaul – A three-legged route that pays better or offers better use of the truck and the driver’s
hours, compared to a straight roundtrip between point A and point B.

Truck – Heavy motor vehicle used for transporting goods, materials, or troops.

Truckload (TL) – A shipment that fills an entire trailer, either by reaching its maximum weight or
volume. Also see “LTL” or less-than-truckload shipment.

TONU – Truck Order Not Used. This is a fee charged when for some reason the unit is not able to
get

loaded. This is charge due to the time and expenses for getting the driver at the pick-up location.

TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential. It is a credential to maritime

workers

requiring unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities.

SCAC Code - Standard Carrier Alpha Code - It is a unique 4 letter code used to identify
transportation

companies when it comes to crossing the borders.

Stamped Dock Receipt – When a unit gets delivered into a port, this one stamped the Dock
Receipt as a successfully received. This can be used as a Proof of Delivery or instead of the Bill of
Sale.

Well-space – Refers to the area of capacity available that has a trailer to place a unit. This is more

common use in RGN’s and LB’s.

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1. *Accessorial Charge*
Explanation: An additional fee charged by carriers for services beyond the usual. This
could include waiting time, loading/unloading, securing odd-sized freight, etc.
Example: A carrier may charge an accessorial fee for waiting at the loading dock for
more than two hours while the shipper finishes loading the cargo.

2. *ATA – American Trucking Associations*

Explanation: The American Trucking Associations is a major trade association
representing the trucking industry in the United States. It serves as the overarching
organization for 50 state-level trucking associations.
Example: ATA plays a crucial role in advocating for trucking industry interests and safety
regulations at the federal level.

3. *Authority*
Explanation: Operating authority from the U.S. Department of Transportation is required
for legal operation by both for-hire carriers and freight brokers in the trucking industry.
Example: A freight broker needs to obtain operating authority to be able to legally
arrange transportation services for shippers.

4. *Axle*
Explanation: An axle is a crucial structural component that connects a truck's wheels to
its frame, allowing for movement and weight distribution.
Example: A typical tractor-trailer configuration has two axles on the tractor and several
on the trailer, supporting the entire vehicle's weight.

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5. *Backhaul*
Explanation: The return trip of a truck after delivering a load. It generally pays a lower
rate compared to the initial trip.
Example: After delivering a shipment of electronics to a city, the trucker is now looking
for a backhaul, such as picking up agricultural products for the return trip.

6. *Benchmark*
Explanation: A standard used for comparison. In the trucking industry, benchmarking
refers to comparing freight rates against established standards.
Example: The broker compared the current shipping rates with the industry benchmark
to ensure they were competitive.

7. *Bill of Lading (BOL)*

Explanation: A legal document detailing the goods being shipped, their destination, and
the terms of their transportation.
Example: The truck driver presented the Bill of Lading to the receiver, confirming the
contents of the shipment and its condition upon delivery.

8. *Bill of Sale*
Explanation: A legal document used to transfer ownership of personal property, often
vehicles.
Example: The trucking company provided the Bill of Sale to show that they now owned
the new fleet of delivery vans.

9. *Bobtail*
Explanation: A heavy-duty truck that's operating without a trailer attached.
Example: The driver detached the trailer at the distribution center and continued with
the bobtail truck to the nearby maintenance facility.

10. *Broker*

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 Explanation: A middleman who connects shippers needing transportation services with
carriers who can transport the goods.
Example: The freight broker found a suitable carrier to move a load of construction
materials from Texas to Arizona.

11. *Bonded Carrier*

Explanation: A carrier that is licensed to transport goods through U.S. points of entry
(like ports or border crossings) without having to pay duties, taxes, or fees during that
specific portion of transportation.
Example: The bonded carrier was able to move the imported goods across the border
without incurring additional customs fees at the entry point.

12. *Capacity*
Explanation: In the trucking industry, capacity refers to the availability of trucks that can
be hired for transporting goods.
Example: During the holiday season, the high demand for shipping creates a tight
capacity, making it challenging to find available trucks.

13. *Carrier*
Explanation: A trucking company or individual owner-operator that offers
transportation services for moving goods.
Example: The carrier was responsible for safely transporting a load of perishable goods
from the farm to the grocery store.

14. *Chassis*
Explanation: The chassis is the framework and wheels that support a container or
trailer, allowing it to be moved.
Example: The trucker attached the chassis to the container before transporting the
cargo to the shipping port.

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15. *CDL – Commercial Driver’s License*
Explanation: A special license required to legally operate a truck or bus weighing over
26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
Example: The driver needed a CDL to operate the large tractor-trailer carrying a
shipment of industrial equipment.

16. *DAT*
Explanation: DAT is a popular load board used in the USA that connects carriers
(trucking companies) with brokers needing freight transportation services.
Example: The carrier found a profitable load on the DAT load board and quickly
connected with a broker to secure the transportation job.

17. *Deadhead*
Explanation: Deadhead refers to driving with an empty trailer, which often results in no
pay for the trucker.
Example: After delivering the goods, the trucker had to deadhead back to the
distribution center to pick up the next load.

18. *Divisible Load*

Explanation: A load that can be separated into units of legal weight without affecting
the cargo's integrity.
Example: The divisible load of construction materials was divided into smaller units to
meet the legal weight limits while being transported.

19. *Dispatch*
Explanation: Dispatch is the process of assigning drivers and trucks to pick up and
deliver shipments, often coordinated by a dispatch team.
Example: The dispatcher informed the driver of the new assignment and provided all
the necessary information about the upcoming load.

20. *Dispatcher*

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 Explanation: A dispatcher is an individual or a company responsible for finding suitable
loads for carriers and ensuring smooth transportation operations.
Example: The dispatcher communicated with the carrier to provide details about the
new load and the delivery location.

21. *Drop and Hook*

Explanation: Drop and hook involves leaving one trailer at a loading dock and attaching
a different trailer for the return trip, eliminating wait times for loading or unloading.
Example: The driver dropped the empty trailer and hooked up to a loaded trailer,
reducing downtime and speeding up the delivery process.

22. *Drive-Away*
Explanation: Drive-away refers to a service where a person drives a vehicle from its
pickup location to its drop-off location.
Example: The drive-away service was hired to transport a fleet of new trucks from the
manufacturer's facility to a dealership across the state.

23. *Dry Van*

Explanation: A dry van is the most common trailer type used for shipping, with an
enclosed rectangular box for transporting a wide range of goods.
Example: The dry van was used to transport electronics from the manufacturer's
warehouse to retail stores across the country.

24. *ELD – Electronic Logging Device*

Explanation: An ELD is an electronic device installed in trucks to record important data
like driving hours, speed, and rest periods, replacing traditional paper logs.
Example: The truck was equipped with an ELD that automatically tracked the driver's
hours of service, ensuring compliance with regulations.

25. *ETA – Estimated Time of Arrival*

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 Explanation: ETA is the estimated time a driver is expected to reach a specific
destination.
Example: The driver provided an ETA of 3:00 PM for the delivery of the goods

26. *Expedite Freight*

Explanation: Expedite freight refers to time-sensitive cargo that must be delivered within
a specified timeframe.
Example: The expedite freight service was used to transport medical supplies to a
hospital before a critical surgery.

27. *Factoring*
Explanation: Factoring in trucking involves receiving payment from a financial company
before the load is delivered, improving cash flow. The factoring company retains a fee.
Example: The carrier used factoring to receive immediate payment for a load, allowing

them to cover operating costs and expenses.

28. *Fifth Wheeler*

Explanation: The fifth wheel is the mechanism that connects a semi-truck's tractor to its
trailer. It supports the front end of the trailer.
Example: The fifth wheel is a crucial component that allows the tractor and trailer to
pivot, enabling easier turning and maneuvering.

29. *Flatbed*
Explanation: A flatbed is an open-deck trailer used for transporting large or irregularly
shaped freight that cannot fit inside an enclosed van trailer.
Example: The flatbed trailer was used to transport construction materials such as steel
beams and machinery to a construction site.

30. *Fleet*

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 Explanation: A fleet refers to a group of trucks owned and operated by a single company
or carrier.
Example: The trucking company's fleet consisted of a variety of vehicles, including vans,
flatbeds, and refrigerated trailers.

31. *For-hire Carrier*

Explanation: A for-hire carrier is a trucking company that offers freight transportation
services to other businesses.
Example: The for-hire carrier was responsible for delivering a load of consumer
electronics to several retail stores.

32. *FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration*

Explanation: The FMCSA is a federal agency that enforces safety regulations for
commercial motor vehicles.
Example: The FMCSA monitors carriers to ensure they adhere to rules that promote safe
driving practices and reduce accidents.

33. *Freight Broker*

Explanation: A freight broker acts as an intermediary between shippers and carriers,
arranging transportation services.
Example: The freight broker connected a manufacturer with a carrier to move a
shipment of industrial machinery to a distributor.

34. *Freight Class*

Explanation: Freight class is a standardized classification system used to determine
shipping rates based on cargo characteristics.
Example: The freight class of the shipment was determined by its size, weight, and other
factors, influencing the shipping cost.

35. *Fuel Surcharge (FSC)*

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 Explanation: A fuel surcharge is an additional fee that covers the cost of fuel, adjusting
the rate based on fuel price fluctuations.
Example: The carrier applied a fuel surcharge to the shipping rate due to the increased
cost of diesel fuel.

36. *Gate Pass*

Explanation: A gate pass is a document presented at an auction or facility entrance to
gain access or clearance.
Example: The gate pass was required for the trucker to enter the secure port facility and
pick up the container.

37. *Headhaul*
Explanation: Headhaul refers to the higher-paying segment of a round trip, often
involving transporting goods from a high-demand area.
Example: The driver secured a headhaul load that paid well for transporting electronics
from a manufacturing hub to a retail center.

38. *Hitch*
Explanation: The trucker's hitch is a type of knot used to secure loads on trucks or
trailers during transportation.
Example: The trucker used a well-tied hitch to secure the cargo on the flatbed trailer
before hitting the road.

39. *Hours of Service (HOS)*

Explanation: Hours of Service regulations dictate the maximum number of hours a truck
driver can legally operate before taking a rest break.
Example: The driver adhered to the Hours of Service regulations, ensuring safety by
taking mandatory rest periods during long trips.

40. *Hot Shot*

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 Explanation: Hot shot refers to expedited freight, often limited to a certain weight. It can
also refer to a smaller vehicle used for hauling such freight.
Example: The hot shot service was requested to transport urgent auto parts to a repair
shop within a short timeframe.

41. *IFTA – International Fuel Tax Agreement*

Explanation: IFTA is an agreement between U.S. states and Canadian provinces, enabling
carriers to report and redistribute fuel tax based on usage.
Example: The carrier reported their fuel usage under IFTA to ensure proper distribution
of fuel tax payments among the states they operated in.

42. *Indivisible Load*

Explanation: An indivisible load cannot be divided into smaller units for transportation
due to expense or risk of damage.
Example: The indivisible load of heavy machinery needed special handling and
transportation due to its size and weight.

43. *Intermediary*
Explanation: An intermediary, such as a freight broker, assists in arranging
transportation between shippers and carriers.
Example: The intermediary played a crucial role in coordinating the movement of goods,
ensuring a smooth process for both parties.

44. *Intermodal*
Explanation: Intermodal refers to freight that requires multiple modes of transportation,
such as truck, rail, and sea, for a single shipment.
Example: The intermodal transportation of goods involved moving containers from the
manufacturer's location to a port via truck, then shipping by sea to another port.

45. *Interstate*

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 Explanation: Interstate refers to the movement of goods across state lines, subject to
federal regulations.
Example: The carrier's operations involved transporting goods between different states,
making them subject to interstate regulations.

46. *Intrastate*
Explanation: Intrastate refers to the movement of goods within a single state, governed
by state-level regulations.
Example: The carrier primarily operated within the state, handling intrastate shipments
of agricultural products.

47. *Lane*
Explanation: A lane defines a specific route between an origin and destination, often
used to calculate shipping rates.
Example: The shipping company specializes in the Dallas to Houston lane, ensuring
efficient transportation along that route.

48. *Linehaul*
Explanation: Linehaul refers to the base rate associated with a specific lane, excluding
additional charges like fuel surcharges.
Example: The carrier negotiated a favorable linehaul rate for transporting goods along
the New York to Boston lane.

49. *Load*
Explanation: A load refers to a single shipment of goods to be transported.
Example: The carrier received a load of agricultural products to be transported to a
distribution center.

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50. *Load Board*
Explanation: A load board is a service connecting shippers, brokers, and carriers to find
suitable loads and available trucks.
Example: The broker used a load board to find a carrier willing to transport a load of
electronics to a retail store.

51. *Load-to-Truck Ratio*

Explanation: Load-to-truck ratio refers to the ratio of available trucks to available loads,
indicating supply and demand in specific areas.
Example: The high load-to-truck ratio in the city meant that carriers had a good chance
of finding loads quickly.

52. *LTL – Less Than Truckload*

Explanation: LTL refers to a shipment that doesn't fill an entire truck but is consolidated
with other shipments to optimize capacity.
Example: The LTL shipment of small packages was combined with other shipments for
efficient transportation.

54. *MC – Motor Carrier Number*

Explanation: The Motor Carrier Number (MC) is an identification issued by the Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to interstate carriers, serving as a unique
identifier for tracking and regulatory purposes.
Example: The carrier's MC number was displayed prominently on their vehicles, trailers,
and paperwork, helping authorities and shippers identify them easily.

55. *Mile Per Gallon (MPG)*

Explanation: Miles Per Gallon (MPG) is a measurement used to determine the fuel
efficiency of vehicles, indicating how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel.
Example: The truck's fuel efficiency was calculated at 6 MPG, which meant it could cover
300 miles on 50 gallons of fuel.

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56. *Onboarding*
Explanation: Onboarding is the process in which a freight broker brings a new carrier
into their network. It involves tasks such as signing agreements, providing insurance
details, and submitting necessary documentation.
Example: The freight broker guided the carrier through the onboarding process, ensuring
all required paperwork and information were accurately submitted before the carrier
started hauling.
57. *OOIDA – Owner-Operator Independent Driver’s Association*
Explanation: The Owner-Operator Independent Driver’s Association (OOIDA) is an
industry association based in Grain Valley, Missouri, that represents and supports
independent owner-operator truck drivers.
Example: The owner-operator joined OOIDA to access advocacy, education, and

resources that catered to the unique needs of independent drivers.

58. *OTR / Over-the-road trucking*

Explanation: Over-the-road (OTR) trucking involves transporting freight over long
distances, often spanning state lines and national borders. OTR truckers might spend
extended periods on the road, sleeping in their truck cabins or at accommodations along
the route.
Example: The OTR trucker embarked on a month-long journey, delivering goods from
the East Coast to the West Coast, with overnight stays at motels along the way.

59. *Owner-operator*
Explanation: An owner-operator is an individual who both owns and operates their
truck. They may choose to work independently or lease their truck to a larger carrier,
operating under that carrier's authority.
Example: The owner-operator owned and maintained his own truck, hauling loads for
various clients and operating as an independent business entity.

60. *Partial Load*

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 Explanation: A partial load refers to a shipment that occupies less than the full capacity
of a trailer, often utilizing around half of the available space.
Example: The carrier transported a partial load of construction materials that occupied
only a portion of the trailer, leaving room for additional cargo.
61. *Parcel Load*
Explanation: A parcel load occupies even less trailer space than a partial load, typically
using a quarter of the available capacity.
Example: The driver transported a parcel load of smaller packages, ensuring they were
securely loaded within a designated section of the trailer.
62. *Piggyback Service*
Explanation: Piggyback service involves carrying one transportation unit on the back of
another, frequently used to transport semi tractors stacked one on top of the other.
Example: The piggyback service efficiently transported a set of semi tractors from one
location to another, maximizing space and reducing transportation costs.

63. *Power Only*

Explanation: Power-only service occurs when a shipper provides a trailer and requests
only the power unit (truck or tractor) to pull the trailer to its destination.
Example: The shipper requested power-only service, where the carrier supplied the
tractor to pull the trailer loaded with goods.

64. *Power unit*

Explanation: The power unit refers to the engine and cab of a tractor-trailer
combination, responsible for generating the necessary power and movement.
Example: The driver ensured the power unit was in optimal condition before embarking
on the cross-country journey.

65. *Rate Per Mile (RPM)*

Explanation: Rate Per Mile (RPM) is a commonly used pricing structure in the spot
market. The total price is calculated by multiplying the rate per mile (including the fuel
surcharge) by the number of miles traveled.

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 Example: The carrier agreed to a rate of $2 per mile, resulting in a total payment of
$1,000 for a 500-mile trip.

66. *Reefer*
Explanation: A reefer is a refrigerated trailer used to transport goods requiring
temperature-controlled environments.
Example: The reefer trailer maintained a controlled temperature to safely transport
perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables.

67. *RGN – Removable Gooseneck Trailer*

Explanation: A Removable Gooseneck (RGN) trailer is a detachable trailer commonly
used for transporting heavy and oversized equipment.
Example: The RGN trailer was used to transport a large construction vehicle, allowing
easy loading and unloading of heavy equipment.

68. *RFP – Request for Proposal*

Explanation: A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a formal document issued by shippers to
solicit bids and proposals from carriers for transportation services.
Example: The shipper sent out RFPs to carriers, outlining their requirements and inviting
competitive offers for the transportation of their products.

69. *RFQ – Request for Quote*

Explanation: A Request for Quote (RFQ) is a formal request made by shippers to receive
quotes from carriers regarding transportation services.
Example: The shipper sent out RFQs to multiple carriers, seeking quotes and
information about rates for a specific transportation route.

70. *RORO (Roll-on Roll-off)*

Explanation: Roll-on Roll-off (RORO) refers to designed ships that transport wheeled
cargo, allowing cars, trucks, trailers, and railroad cars to drive onto and off the ship via
their own wheels through a specialized platform.

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 Example: The RORO vessel enabled trucks and trailers to be efficiently loaded onto the
ship's platform and securely transported across water.

71. *Shipper*
Explanation: A shipper is an individual or business entity that sends goods and products
and hires a carrier to transport them to their intended destination.
Example: The shipper contracted a carrier to transport a shipment of electronics from
the manufacturing facility to retail stores.

72. *Spot market*

Explanation: The spot market involves freight transactions that are not governed by
long-term contracts between shippers and carriers. Rates are determined by short-term
supply and demand dynamics.
Example: The carrier found a profitable load on the spot market, where rates were
influenced by the immediate needs of shippers.

73. *TCA – Truckload Carriers Association*

Explanation: The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) is a national association that
represents truckload carriers, offering resources, advocacy, and industry information.
Example: The carrier joined TCA to gain access to networking opportunities and stay
informed about industry trends and regulations.

74. *TIA – Transportation Intermediaries Association*

Explanation: The Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) is an industry
association representing freight brokers and third-party logistics professionals (3PLs),
offering support, education, and advocacy.
Example: The freight broker became a member of TIA to connect with peers, access
educational resources, and stay updated on industry best practices.

75. *Tilt Bed - Hydraulic Bed*

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 Explanation: A tilt bed or hydraulic bed trailer is a specialized trailer designed with an
adjustable platform that can tilt backward and downward, aiding in the loading and
unloading of cargo. The tilting feature allows for easy loading of heavy or oversized items.
Example: The hydraulic bed trailer was used to transport construction equipment. By
tilting the bed, the crew efficiently loaded the heavy machinery onto the trailer without
the need for additional lifting equipment.

76. *TMS – Transportation Management Software*

Explanation: Transportation Management Software (TMS) is a dedicated computer
software designed exclusively for transportation professionals. It assists in managing
various aspects of a transportation business, including load planning, route optimization,
shipment tracking, and documentation.
Example: The freight brokerage relied on a TMS to streamline their operations, from
matching available carriers with loads to generating invoices and maintaining compliance
records.

77. *Tractor*
Explanation: In the trucking industry, a tractor refers to the front part of a tractor-trailer
combination. It's the powered unit of the truck that pulls and propels the trailer carrying
the cargo.
Example: The tractor's powerful engine provided the necessary torque to haul a heavy
trailer loaded with construction materials across long distances.

75. *Trailer*
Explanation: A trailer is a non-motorized platform designed to be pulled by a tractor
(truck). Trailers come in various types, such as vans, flatbeds, step decks, and hotshots,
each suited for specific types of cargo and loading methods.
Example: The flatbed trailer was used to transport large steel beams for a construction
project, allowing for easy loading and unloading from the sides.

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76. *TriHaul*
Explanation: TriHaul refers to a strategic three-legged route that offers better
compensation or more efficient use of both the truck and driver's hours compared to a
direct roundtrip between two points.
Example: The trucker identified a TriHaul opportunity that involved picking up a load in
City A, dropping it off in City B, then picking up another load in City B for delivery back to
City A, optimizing both time and income.

77. *Truck*
Explanation: A truck is a heavy motor vehicle specifically designed for transporting
goods, materials, or troops. Trucks come in various configurations, each suited to different
types of cargo and operational needs.
Example: The flatbed truck was ideal for transporting construction materials, while the
refrigerated truck was used for delivering perishable goods.

78. *Truckload (TL)*

Explanation: A truckload (TL) refers to a shipment that fully occupies an entire trailer,
either by reaching the trailer's maximum weight capacity or utilizing its full volume. Unlike
LTL (less-than-truckload) shipments, TL shipments don't share trailer space with other
loads.
Example: The TL shipment of electronics filled the entire trailer, allowing for direct
transport from the manufacturer to the retailer without any intermediate stops.

79. *TONU*
Explanation: TONU stands for Truck Order Not Used. It refers to a fee charged to
compensate carriers when, for some reason, the planned unit (truck and driver) is unable
to pick up the load, resulting in wasted time and expenses.
Example: The carrier received a TONU fee due to a last-minute cancellation by the
shipper, leading to a loss of potential revenue and the need to reschedule other loads.

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80. *TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential*
Explanation: The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is a
specialized credential issued to maritime workers. It provides unescorted access to secure
areas within port facilities, ensuring security and regulation compliance.
Example: The trucker presented their TWIC card at the port's security checkpoint,
allowing them access to restricted areas for loading and unloading cargo.

81. *SCAC Code - Standard Carrier Alpha Code*

Explanation: The Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC) is a unique four-letter code used
to identify transportation companies. It plays a crucial role in cross-border operations,
aiding in the efficient exchange of information.
Example: The SCAC code was used to identify the carrier on shipping documents and at
border crossings, ensuring accurate tracking and regulatory compliance.

82. *Stamped Dock Receipt*

Explanation: A stamped dock receipt is a document provided by a port facility upon
successful receipt of a unit. It serves as evidence of the unit's delivery and can function as
a Proof of Delivery or an alternative to a Bill of Sale.
Example: The stamped dock receipt indicated that the cargo had been successfully
delivered to the port, providing evidence of its arrival for documentation purposes.

83. *Well-space*
Explanation: Well-space refers to the available area within a trailer that is specifically
designed to accommodate a particular type of unit. This term is commonly used in the
context of specialized trailers like Removable Gooseneck (RGN) trailers and Lowboy (LB)
trailers.
Example: The RGN trailer offered ample well-space, allowing the transportation of
heavy equipment with a secure fit and efficient weight distribution.

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