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Backhaulers freight brokerage

Aerospace & Defense

Defense Freight Shipping

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

Overview

Defense shipments typically include support equipment, containers, spares. The right plan starts with the physical freight — weight, dimensions, packaging, and protection requirements — and works back to equipment, transit, and cost.

Typical freight
Support equipment, containers, spares
Typical dimensions
Milvan containers, palletized spares, up to 45,000 lbs
Transit considerations
Base receiving hours are strict and gate processing adds time

Common shipping challenges

Base access, documentation, and vetted drivers are prerequisites, not extras.

  • 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.

  • Step Deck

    Two-level drop deck adding roughly 20 in of clearance.

  • Dry Van

    Enclosed 53 ft trailer for palletized freight.

Why defense 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 defense freight?

Equipment depends on dimensions and protection needs. Most defense 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 defense?

Base access, documentation, and vetted drivers are prerequisites, not extras. Planning for it at booking, rather than at the dock, is what keeps the load on schedule.

What are typical freight dimensions for defense?

Milvan containers, palletized spares, up to 45,000 lbs

Can Backhaulers handle recurring defense 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.

Related pages

Related services

Related equipment

Other aerospace & defense industries

Quote defense 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.