It’s not uncommon for our clients to ask us why a driver didn’t call them ahead of delivery when they specifically wrote this request in the special instructions section of the bill of lading (BOL). 

There are a few key differences between appointments and calls ahead of pickup/delivery which we will cover below and, hopefully, you won’t run into this problem yourself. 🙂

A call-ahead service is a request to have the driver call the delivery location anywhere between 5 minutes and 2 hours before delivery. As obvious as that may sound, drivers are not allowed to use their phones while driving. Using a phone can result in hefty fines for both the driver and their company. 

It’s important to remember that for this reason, it is entirely up to the driver’s discretion whether they actually do call or not. A call ahead of delivery is a free service that most drivers will perform when they get a chance, but it is by no means guaranteed for the reasons listed above.

The appointment for delivery service is by far a more reliable option. These are charged services that carriers make sure to perform in a timely manner. Your delivery contact person (consignee) will receive a call once the shipment arrives at the delivery terminal in order to schedule the delivery.