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Backhaulers freight brokerage

Metals

Aluminum Freight Shipping

Backhaulers moves aluminum freight nationwide, matching each load to carriers that already handle extrusions and understand what the receiver expects at the dock.

Overview

Aluminum shipments typically include extrusions, sheet, ingot, coil. The right plan starts with the physical freight — weight, dimensions, packaging, and protection requirements — and works back to equipment, transit, and cost.

Typical freight
Extrusions, sheet, ingot, coil
Typical dimensions
Extrusion bundles to 45 ft, 30,000-42,000 lbs
Transit considerations
Extrusions often ship long, requiring 48-53 ft decks

Common shipping challenges

Aluminum surfaces mar easily, so tarping method and dunnage matter as much as securement.

  • Equipment mismatch discovered at the dock, causing reload delays
  • Receiver appointment rules and detention exposure
  • Damage from inadequate blocking, bracing, or securement
  • Capacity gaps during seasonal or project-driven volume spikes

Equipment used

  • Flatbed

    Open 48-53 ft deck for side, rear, or crane loading.

  • Conestoga

    Rolling tarp system over a flatbed or step deck.

  • Dry Van

    Enclosed 53 ft trailer for palletized freight.

Why aluminum shippers use Backhaulers

  • Carriers pre-screened for authority, safety rating, and cargo insurance
  • Equipment matched to the freight before the rate is confirmed
  • Tracking updates at pickup, in transit, and at delivery
  • One rep who knows your lanes, receivers, and appointment rules

Frequently asked questions

What equipment is used to ship aluminum freight?

Equipment depends on dimensions and protection needs. Most aluminum freight moves on the trailer types listed on this page. Send weight and dimensions and we will confirm the right trailer before quoting.

What is the biggest shipping challenge in aluminum?

Aluminum surfaces mar easily, so tarping method and dunnage matter as much as securement. Planning for it at booking, rather than at the dock, is what keeps the load on schedule.

What are typical freight dimensions for aluminum?

Extrusion bundles to 45 ft, 30,000-42,000 lbs

Can Backhaulers handle recurring aluminum lanes?

Yes. Recurring volume can be set up as committed capacity, drop trailer programs, or dedicated equipment depending on your weekly load count and dock hours.

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Quote aluminum freight

Send us the lane, commodity, weight, and pickup window. You will get a firm rate and confirmed capacity, usually within the hour during business hours.