This FAQ article will discuss the shipment mode, EXP, found within the New Shipment form page and will discuss what the mode is and what to expect as well as best practices for using expedited mode.

This article will cover:

• What does EXP stand for?
• What types of equipment are available in EXP mode?
• How does EXP differ from other modes?
• Do I have to use EXP mode only for time-sensitive shipments?
• What is the difference between the equipment in EXP mode and other modes?
• How do I actually flag a shipment as time-sensitive?
• If I don't need expedited service, why should I choose EXP mode?
• Will selecting EXP mode guarantee faster delivery?
• Why is it called EXP when not all shipments are expedited?

1. What does EXP stand for?

EXP is the mode to select for shipments that need to be shipped expedited. It is a transportation mode or service level designed for time-sensitive shipments. On ShipperGuide, the EXP mode includes select equipment types that can be hired for both expedited and non-expedited shipments, offering flexibility based on your needs.

2. What types of equipment are available in EXP mode?

EXP mode includes a range of smaller vehicle types commonly used for both time-sensitive and standard shipments. These include:

• Box Truck
• Cargo Van
• Hotshot
• Sprinter
• Straight Truck

While these vehicles are well-suited for expedited loads, shippers can hire them for any type of load, regardless of time sensitivity.

3. How does EXP differ from other modes?

EXP offers dedicated equipment, which makes transit times more direct/predictable and freight more secure, unlike PTL (partial truckload) and LTL (less-than-truckload). The name 'expedited' is frequently used to mean exclusive use vehicle, which brings benefit even if the shipment itself is not time sensitive.

4. Do I have to use EXP mode only for time-sensitive shipments?

No, you do not. While EXP mode is associated with expedited or time-critical freight, you can choose any of the equipment types under EXP for regular, non-time-sensitive loads as well. The key benefit of EXP is the exclusive use of the vehicle for your shipment, ensuring it moves directly from pickup to delivery without sharing space with other loads.

5. What is the difference between the equipment in EXP mode and other modes?

The main difference is the size and exclusivity. Equipment in EXP mode is generally smaller and designed for dedicated loads, meaning your shipment is the only one on the vehicle. This can be beneficial for both urgent and standard shipments that require direct delivery or special handling.

6. How do I actually flag a shipment as time-sensitive?  

For now, use bid notes within the quote details to inform the carrier of time sensitivity or the urgency of the shipment. 

7. If I don't need expedited service, why should I choose EXP mode?

If your shipment:

• Requires exclusive use of a vehicle (no sharing with other loads),
• Involves smaller loads that don’t require a full truckload,
• Or needs direct delivery without stops or transfers,

Then EXP mode could be the right choice, even if speed isn't a concern.

8. Will selecting EXP mode guarantee faster delivery?

Not necessarily. While EXP mode is capable of expedited deliveries, selecting it alone doesn't automatically mean faster transit times. You must specify if the shipment is time-sensitive to set delivery expectations.

9. Why is it called EXP when not all shipments are expedited?

The term "EXP" reflects the expedited capability of the equipment types under this mode, even though they can be used for non-time-sensitive shipments. The core of EXP mode is the exclusive use of vehicles, offering you more control over the timing and handling of your freight.