Estes Express Lines Transportation Glossary

Transportation Glossary (PDF)

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Backhaul: The opposite of head haul. Traditionally referred to as the return trip of a transportation vehicle (usually a truck). Now, it generally refers to the least revenue-generating leg of a shipment haul. A backhaul can be with a full or partially loaded trailer.
Batch picking: Order picking method where orders are grouped into small batches. An order picker will pick all orders within the batch in one pass.
Belly Pits or Holds: The compartment located beneath the cabin of an aircraft and used for the carriage of cargo.
Bill No Freight (BNF): Entire shipment short.
Bill of Lading (B/L or BOL): A legal document signed by the shipper and carrier tendering the responsibility of the freight to the carrier. The BOL states pertinent information for the shipment such as the complete address of the shipper and consignee, number of pieces, description, weight and any hazardous material information.
BNF: See Bill No Freight.
Bobtailing: Driving a tractor without a trailer attached.
Bogie: See Dolly.
BOL: See Bill of Lading.
Booking: An arrangement with a shipping company for the acceptance and carriage of freight.
Break a Trailer: Unload a trailer.
Break Terminal (Break-bulk): The consolidation of freight from several terminals to build full loads that concentrate on longer haul lanes.
Broker: See Transportation Broker.
Bunker: A surcharge assessed by the carrier to reflect current cost of bunker fuel (fuel oil used on ships). The BAF, or Bunker Adjustment Factor, is a surcharge that is generally assessed when fuel reaches a certain point beyond that established as a benchmark. It is commonly set a full quarter behind an index that is recognized within the industry.

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