When you’re ready to move freight internationally or across long distances, one of the first steps is requesting a reliable quote. At Allison Shipping, we’ve made this process simple with our online Quote Request Form. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do, what to prepare, and how to make sure you get the most accurate price possible.
Why a Detailed Quote Request Matters
Shipping costs are based on many factors: cargo type, size, weight, origin and destination, container choice, handling charges, inland trucking, customs duties, and even seasonal surcharges. If you provide complete and accurate information upfront, you’ll avoid surprises later and receive the most precise estimate tailored to your shipment.
Step 1: Visit the Allison Shipping Quote Request Page
Head over to our Pricing & Quote Request page. On the form, you’ll be asked to provide:
- Your contact information (name, email, phone, business or individual)
- Rate type (Port to Port, Door to Door, etc.)
- Origin and destination details
- Cargo information (FCL, LCL, Oversize, RORO, or Air Freight)
- Weight and dimensions
- Container type (20’, 40’, high cube, reefer, etc.)
- Hazardous cargo declaration
- Insurance preference
At the bottom, click Submit once everything is filled out.
Step 2: Gather All Necessary Information Before Filling the Form
To avoid back-and-forth or an inaccurate quote, collect as much of the following as possible:
- Origin & Destination (addresses or ports)
- Be specific: city, state, country, and postal/ZIP codes when applicable.
- If the shipment starts or ends at a door (not a port), note that (you’ll choose “Door to Door” or similar in the form).
- If there are optional alternate ports or delivery points, you can mention those (e.g. alternate port of discharge) in supplementary notes or follow-up.
- Type of Rate / Service Mode
- Decide whether your shipment is Port to Port, Door to Port, Port to Door, or Door to Door.
- Specify whether you want ocean freight, air freight, or other special modes (RORO, project cargo, oversize). The form supports multiple cargo types.
- Cargo Description
- A short but clear description of what you’re shipping (e.g. “machinery parts,” “electronics,” “furniture,” “chemicals (if hazardous)”).
- Whether the goods are new, used, or refurbished (there’s a “Condition” field in the form).
- Whether the cargo is hazardous or includes hazardous materials. This can dramatically affect cost and route, so be precise.
- Weight & Dimensions
- Total weight of the cargo (gross weight). If possible, break it down per unit or per package.
- Dimensions of each package or pallet (length × width × height). Use consistent units (e.g. cm or inches).
- If your cargo is irregular or over-dimensional (meaning it doesn’t neatly fit into standard containers), you’ll need the exact measurements so Allison Shipping can assess oversize / breakbulk pricing.
- Container / Packaging Details
- If you’re shipping via container, specify the size: 20′, 40′, 40′ high cube, 20′ reefer, etc.
- Indicate whether the container is reefer (temperature controlled) or dry.
- If part of the shipment is already palletized, crated, or packaged specially (e.g. skids, crates, wooden boxes), note that.
- Special Services & Add-Ons
- Whether you want cargo insurance (often optional but recommended)
- Whether you need inland pickup or delivery (i.e. from your warehouse to the port, or from the port to your final facility). This is especially relevant if you selected a “Door” rate.
- If there are time constraints (e.g. must arrive by a certain date), urgency that might drive premium routing.
- Supporting Documents (if available)
- A commercial invoice, packing list, or bill of lading (if you’ve shipped before or are consolidating).
- Photos of the cargo (especially if it’s irregular, fragile, or oversized).
- Hazard classification documents (if your cargo is hazardous).
- Previous quotes or rate guides for similar shipments (for comparison).
- The Harmonized System (HS) code or tariff classification (if you know it) can help with customs and duties estimates.
Step 3: Submit the Form — and We’ll Handle the Rest
After you’ve filled in all the details, simply hit Submit. Our logistics experts will review your request carefully. If anything is unclear, we may contact you for clarification to ensure the numbers we provide are precise. Otherwise, you can expect to hear back from us as soon as possible with a tailored quote.
Step 4: Need Help? Just Give Us a Call
We understand that filling out shipping details can sometimes feel complicated — especially if you’re new to international freight. If you run into any trouble while filling out the form, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our team is always happy to walk you through the process step by step and make sure your request goes smoothly.
Get a Price on Your Next Shipment Today
Requesting a quote from Allison Shipping is quick and straightforward, but the accuracy of your quote depends on the details you provide. By preparing all your shipment information ahead of time, you’ll save time and ensure your estimate is as close as possible to the final cost.
And remember — if you’re unsure about anything, we’re only a phone call away. Once your request is submitted, we’ll get back to you with a personalized quote as quickly as possible, so you can plan your shipment with confidence.
Contact us today to learn how our freight forwarding expertise can support your international logistics and elevate your global supply chain.
