R&L Carriers pickup requests go through their customer service line or online portal, and the process depends on whether you have an existing account

R&L Carriers handles pickup requests through two main channels: their phone line at 1-800-RL-CARRY (1-800-752-2279) and their online booking system at rlcarriers.com. If you are a new shipper, you will need to provide your shipment details over the phone or create an account online before scheduling. If you already ship with R&L, you can log into your account and request a pickup directly through their portal, which often shows available pickup windows the same day or next business day.

The company operates pickup service in most of the continental United States, though some rural areas may require you to drop off at a nearby R&L terminal instead. Pickup availability also depends on your location and the weight and type of freight you are shipping — LTL (less-than-truckload) shipments typically have more flexible pickup options than full truckload requests.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 1-800-752-2279 or use rlcarriers.com to request a pickup; existing customers can book online and see same-day or next-day availability.
  • You will need your shipment weight, dimensions, freight class, and destination zip code before you call or book online.
  • R&L typically schedules pickups within one to two business days, though rural locations may require a terminal drop-off instead.
  • Pickup fees vary by location and shipment size; ask the representative or check your online quote before confirming the request.

What information you need before requesting a pickup

R&L will ask for specific details about your shipment before they can schedule a pickup. Have ready the total weight in pounds, the dimensions of your pallets or boxes (length, width, height), and the freight class — which describes what you are shipping (for example, general merchandise, machinery, or hazardous materials). You will also need the destination zip code and the name and phone number of the person who will be present at pickup.

If you do not know the freight class, R&L's customer service representative can help you determine it based on your description of the goods. Freight class affects the rate, so being accurate matters. If your shipment includes hazardous materials, you must declare that upfront, as it changes both the pickup process and the cost.

Scheduling a pickup by phone versus online

Calling 1-800-752-2279 works best if this is your first time shipping with R&L or if your shipment is complex — the representative can answer questions about freight class, rates, and pickup windows in real time. Phone hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time, though you can leave a message outside those hours and expect a callback the next business day.

The online portal at rlcarriers.com is faster if you have an account and your shipment is straightforward. You enter your shipment details, see the quoted rate when ready, and choose from available pickup times. The system shows you which days and time windows R&L can pick up from your location, so you know before you book whether same-day pickup is an option.

Pickup timing and what to expect on the day

R&L typically schedules pickups within one to two business days of your request. If you need a pickup the same day, call the customer service line directly rather than booking online — the representative can sometimes arrange it if you call early enough and your location is on an active route. Weekend pickups are generally not available unless you have a special account arrangement.

On the day of pickup, have your freight staged and ready to load. The driver will verify the weight and dimensions, scan your bill of lading (the shipping document R&L provides), and load the shipment onto the truck. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how many pallets or boxes you have. Keep a copy of the bill of lading for your records — it contains your tracking number and proof of pickup.

Pickup fees and what affects the cost

R&L charges a pickup fee that varies by location and shipment size. Urban areas typically have lower or no pickup fees, while rural locations may charge a surcharge. The fee is usually quoted upfront when you request the pickup, either by the phone representative or shown in your online quote. Some shippers negotiate pickup fees as part of a volume discount if they ship regularly.

The total cost of your shipment includes the pickup fee, the base freight charge (which depends on weight and distance), and any accessorial charges such as hazmat handling, liftgate service, or residential delivery. Ask for a full itemized quote before you confirm the pickup so there are no surprises when the bill arrives.

What to do if your location does not have pickup service

If R&L cannot pick up from your address — usually because you are in a very rural area or on a private road with limited access — they will direct you to the nearest R&L terminal where you can drop off your shipment. The representative will give you the terminal address, hours, and any fees associated with the drop-off. Some shippers find this option actually saves money if they are shipping infrequently and do not want to pay a rural pickup surcharge.

You can also ask whether R&L offers a "will-call" option, where you arrange for a driver to meet you at a neutral location such as a truck stop or warehouse. This is less common but sometimes available in areas where direct pickup is not feasible.

Tracking your shipment after pickup

Once R&L picks up your freight, you receive a bill of lading number that serves as your tracking number. You can track the shipment on rlcarriers.com by entering this number, or call customer service with it. The tracking system shows when the freight was picked up, when it arrived at the R&L terminal, and when it is out for delivery to the destination.

If you need to make changes to the shipment after pickup — such as changing the delivery address or adding special instructions — contact R&L customer service as soon as possible. Changes are easier to make before the freight reaches the destination terminal, so do not wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a pickup for the same day?

Same-day pickups are possible in some locations if you call before 10 a.m. Eastern time and your address is on an active R&L route. Call 1-800-752-2279 to ask; the representative can tell you whether it is available for your location. Online booking typically shows next-day or later availability.

What if I do not know the freight class for my shipment?

Tell the R&L representative what you are shipping and its weight, and they will assign the correct freight class. Freight class is based on density, handling difficulty, and liability — the representative uses industry standards to determine it. Being honest about what you are shipping ensures you get an accurate rate.

Do I have to be present when the driver arrives for pickup?

Yes, someone must be present to sign the bill of lading and confirm the shipment details. If you cannot be there, you can authorize another person to receive the pickup, but you must tell R&L who that person is when you schedule. The driver will not leave the shipment unattended.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a pickup?

Call R&L customer service as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule. If you cancel before the pickup window, there is usually no charge. If the driver arrives and you are not ready, you may be charged a service fee. Rescheduling typically takes one to two business days, depending on availability.

Is there a minimum shipment weight for R&L pickup?

R&L handles LTL shipments as small as a few hundred pounds, though rates are more economical for heavier loads. There is no strict minimum, but very small shipments may cost more per pound than larger ones. Ask for a quote to see whether R&L is cost-effective for your shipment size.