🚛 R+L Carriers Tracking

About R+L Carriers Freight Tracking Service

R+L Carriers (formerly Roadway Express) is one of North America's largest less-than-truckload (LTL) freight carriers, serving customers across the United States and Canada. Founded in 1965, R+L Carriers has grown to become a trusted name in the freight industry, operating a network of service centers nationwide and moving millions of shipments annually with their distinctive red and yellow trucks.

Our free R+L Carriers tracking service allows you to monitor your freight shipments in real-time, from the moment they're picked up until they reach their final destination. Whether you're tracking an LTL shipment, full truckload delivery, or specialized freight service, our tracking tool provides detailed status updates and estimated delivery dates for all R+L Carriers freight services.

Track your R+L Carriers shipments easily by entering your PRO number in the search box above. R+L Carriers tracking numbers (PRO numbers) are typically 9-10 digits long and can be found on your Bill of Lading (BOL) or shipping confirmation documents. Once your shipment is in transit, you'll receive real-time updates showing each scan location, transit progress, and delivery confirmation as it moves across North America.

R+L Carriers Freight Services

Special Services & Features

R+L Carriers offers several value-added services to enhance your shipping experience. Guaranteed Service provides guaranteed delivery dates with financial protection if they fail to meet the commitment. Temperature-Controlled shipping maintains precise temperature ranges for perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and sensitive materials.

Liftgate Service is available for shipments requiring assistance with loading/unloading at locations without loading docks. Inside Delivery service brings your shipment beyond the threshold, up stairs, or to a specific location within the building. Residential Delivery and Appointment Delivery options provide scheduled delivery times for home deliveries or business requirements.

R+L Carriers Online Tools include real-time shipment tracking, online Bill of Lading generation, rate quotes, and shipment history through their RL360° portal. Claims Management provides streamlined claims processing with dedicated support for damaged or lost shipments. All R+L Carriers services include standard freight liability coverage with options for additional declared value coverage.

R+L Carriers Service Comparison

Choose the right R+L Carriers service for your freight shipping needs. Below is a comprehensive comparison of delivery speeds, features, and guarantees for each service level.

Understanding R+L Carriers Delivery Guarantees

Expedited Freight Guarantee: R+L Carriers offers guaranteed delivery dates for expedited freight services. If they fail to meet the guaranteed delivery date, customers are eligible for a refund of the expedited service premium. This service includes priority handling at all terminals and dedicated routing through the network.

Truckload Guarantee: Full truckload shipments include delivery guarantees with specific time windows. R+L Carriers provides real-time tracking updates and proactive communication for any potential delays. Guaranteed service includes financial protection if delivery commitments aren't met.

LTL Standard Service: While LTL shipments don't include guaranteed delivery dates, R+L Carriers provides estimated delivery timeframes based on origin/destination pairs, weight class, and current network conditions. Most LTL shipments deliver within the estimated timeframe, but transit times can vary based on weather, volume, and routing requirements.

Complete Guide to R+L Carriers Tracking

Understanding R+L Carriers PRO Numbers

R+L Carriers uses PRO (Progressive Registration Number) numbers to track freight shipments. Understanding your PRO number format helps you identify shipment details and expected tracking behavior.

Standard PRO Number Format: R+L Carriers PRO numbers are typically 9-10 digits long and follow a sequential numbering system. Common formats include 9-digit numbers (e.g., 123456789) or 10-digit numbers (e.g., 9876543210). Unlike parcel carriers that use alphanumeric tracking numbers, R+L Carriers primarily uses numeric PRO numbers for freight tracking.

Location and Document Numbers: Your PRO number can be found on several documents:

• Bill of Lading (BOL): The primary shipping document containing the PRO number in the upper right corner
• Shipping Receipt: Provided at pickup or when creating a shipment online
• Shipping Confirmation Email: Sent after shipment creation or pickup confirmation
• Pickup Confirmation: Provided by the driver at time of pickup
• Invoice: Your freight invoice will reference the PRO number for billing purposes

Multiple PRO Numbers: For multi-stop shipments or shipments with multiple line items, R+L Carriers may assign multiple PRO numbers or use a master PRO number with child references. Contact R+L Carriers customer service if you receive multiple PRO numbers for a single shipment order.

How R+L Carriers Tracking Works

R+L Carriers' tracking system monitors freight shipments through their nationwide network of service centers. Unlike parcel tracking that scans packages at each stop, freight tracking focuses on major milestones in the shipment journey due to the nature of LTL and truckload freight movement.

When a shipment is created and scheduled for pickup, the PRO number is entered into R+L Carriers' system. The first tracking update typically occurs when the driver confirms pickup and enters the shipment into their manifest. This initial scan confirms R+L Carriers has custody of the shipment and begins the tracking process.

As the shipment moves through R+L Carriers' network, it's scanned at key points:

• Pickup Confirmation: Driver confirms pickup from shipper location
• Arrival at Origin Terminal: Shipment arrives at the local R+L Carriers terminal
• Departure from Origin Terminal: Shipment leaves the origin terminal for linehaul transport
• Arrival at Destination Terminal: Shipment arrives at the terminal serving the destination area
• Out for Delivery: Shipment is loaded on the delivery vehicle for final delivery
• Delivered: Shipment is delivered and signed for at the destination

R+L Carriers operates major terminals across North America, with primary hub facilities in strategic locations including Wilmington, Ohio; Greensboro, North Carolina; Indianapolis, Indiana; and Dallas, Texas. Shipments may transfer between multiple terminals depending on origin and destination locations.

R+L Carriers Delivery Timelines and Guarantees

LTL Freight Delivery: Standard LTL freight shipments typically deliver within 1-5 business days depending on distance, weight class, and service level selected. Regional shipments (within 500 miles) often deliver in 1-2 days, while cross-country shipments may take 3-5 days. Transit times are estimates and can vary based on weather, volume, and routing requirements.

Expedited Freight Guarantee: R+L Carriers expedited freight services offer guaranteed delivery dates, usually next-day or second-day delivery. These services include priority handling at all terminals, dedicated routing, and financial protection if delivery commitments aren't met. Guaranteed services typically cost 25-50% more than standard LTL freight.

Truckload Services: Full truckload shipments generally deliver faster than LTL freight since they travel directly from origin to destination without intermediate handling. Most truckload shipments deliver within 1-3 business days depending on distance. Truckload services include delivery guarantees with specific time windows and financial protection for missed deliveries.

Factors Affecting Delivery Times: Several factors can impact R+L Carriers delivery timelines:

• Weather Events: Severe weather like winter storms, hurricanes, or floods can significantly delay freight shipments
• Peak Season Volume: Holiday seasons and year-end shipping peaks can cause network congestion and longer transit times
• Accessorial Services: Shipments requiring liftgate, inside delivery, or appointment delivery may have longer transit times
• Residential vs. Commercial: Residential deliveries often take longer than commercial deliveries due to access restrictions and delivery windows
• Special Handling Requirements: Temperature-controlled, hazardous materials, or oversized shipments may require specialized routing

Freight Tracking vs. Parcel Tracking Differences

Update Frequency: Freight tracking updates less frequently than parcel tracking due to the nature of LTL operations. While parcel packages may scan multiple times per day, freight shipments typically update once per major milestone (pickup, terminal arrival/departure, delivery).

Detail Level: Freight tracking provides high-level status updates rather than detailed scan histories. You won't see timestamps for every dock movement like you would with parcel tracking, but you will see key milestones that indicate progress toward delivery.

Geographic Precision: Freight tracking may show terminal locations rather than specific addresses during transit. For example, "At Chicago Terminal" rather than a specific street address. This reflects the terminal-based nature of LTL freight operations.

Delivery Windows: Freight tracking often includes estimated delivery windows (morning, afternoon, end of day) rather than specific time estimates. Contact the local R+L Carriers terminal for more precise delivery time estimates on the day of delivery.

Common R+L Carriers Tracking Statuses Explained

"Shipment Created": This is the initial status when a shipment is created in R+L Carriers' system but hasn't been picked up yet. The PRO number is active, but no physical movement has occurred. This status typically changes within 24-48 hours of shipment creation.

"Picked Up": The driver has confirmed pickup of your shipment from the shipper location. This is the first physical scan confirming R+L Carriers has custody. The shipment will now be transported to the origin terminal for processing and sorting.

"At Origin Terminal": Your shipment has arrived at the R+L Carriers terminal serving the pickup location. At this terminal, shipments are sorted, consolidated with other freight, and prepared for linehaul transport to the destination terminal or intermediate hubs.

"Departed Origin Terminal": Your shipment has left the origin terminal and is in transit to the destination terminal or an intermediate hub. This status indicates the shipment is moving through the R+L Carriers network but may not update again until it arrives at the next terminal.

"At Destination Terminal": Your shipment has arrived at the terminal serving the destination area. At this terminal, shipments are sorted for local delivery and scheduled for dispatch to delivery vehicles. This status typically appears 1 day before delivery for regional shipments or 1-2 days for long-distance shipments.

"Out for Delivery": Your shipment has been loaded on the delivery vehicle and is scheduled for delivery today during normal delivery hours (typically 8 AM - 5 PM Monday-Friday). Freight deliveries may have specific delivery windows or appointment times. Most shipments showing this status are delivered the same day.

"Delivered": Your shipment was successfully delivered to the destination address. The tracking will show the delivery date, time, and recipient name or "Signed for by" information. For freight shipments, delivery confirmation may include details about where the shipment was placed (dock, inside delivery location, etc.).

"Delivery Attempted - Notice Left": The delivery driver attempted delivery but couldn't complete it. Common reasons include:

• No one available to accept the shipment
• Access issues (no loading dock, liftgate required)
• Incorrect or incomplete address information
• Refused shipment or payment issues
• Weather or safety concerns preventing delivery

"Held at Terminal - Awaiting Instructions": Your shipment has arrived at the destination terminal but requires additional instructions before delivery can proceed. This may be due to:

• Special delivery instructions not provided
• Appointment delivery required but not scheduled
• Payment verification needed
• Documentation issues (commercial invoices, customs forms)
• Address verification required

"Exception - Delivery Delayed": An exception has occurred causing a delay in delivery. Common reasons include:

• Severe weather conditions
• Equipment breakdown or maintenance issues
• Terminal capacity constraints
• Customs clearance delays (for international shipments)
• Access restrictions at delivery location

What to Do If R+L Carriers Tracking Isn't Updating

First 24-48 Hours - Normal Delays: If you just received a PRO number and it shows "Shipment Created" or no information at all, wait 24-48 hours. PRO numbers activate when shipments are physically scanned, not when entered into the system. The driver may not have picked up the shipment yet, or the pickup scan may not have been processed.

Stuck at "At Origin Terminal" - Check Timeline: If tracking shows "At Origin Terminal" for more than 2 business days, there may be an issue. Standard LTL freight should move to the next terminal within 24 hours of arrival. Contact R+L Carriers customer service with your PRO number to investigate. Long-distance shipments may have longer terminal dwell times during peak periods.

"Out for Delivery" but No Delivery - Follow Up: If tracking shows "Out for Delivery" but no delivery occurred, contact the destination terminal directly the next business day. Drivers may attempt delivery and return to the terminal without updating the system, or delivery may have been attempted outside normal hours.

Verify PRO Number Accuracy: Confirm you have the complete, correct PRO number. R+L Carriers PRO numbers are case-insensitive but must be exactly 9-10 digits with no spaces or special characters. Try tracking on both rlcarriers.com and third-party tracking sites. If the PRO number format doesn't match expectations, verify with the shipper.

Weekend and Holiday Considerations: R+L Carriers doesn't operate regular service on weekends or major holidays. If your last scan was on Friday, the next update will likely be Monday. During peak holiday periods, service may be suspended or limited on specific days. Check R+L Carriers' service alerts for holiday schedules.

Contact R+L Carriers Directly: If tracking hasn't updated beyond expected timeframes, contact R+L Carriers customer service at 1-800-543-5589. Have your PRO number ready and ask for a service ticket to investigate the shipment's location and status. Customer service can often provide more detailed information than online tracking.

Contact the Shipper: If you're the consignee (recipient) and tracking shows no movement, contact the shipper to confirm they actually tendered the shipment to R+L Carriers and provided the correct PRO number. The shipper has more options to investigate with R+L Carriers since they created the shipment.

When to File a Lost Shipment Claim: Freight shipments can be considered lost if tracking shows no updates for 14 days from the pickup date. Don't file lost shipment claims prematurely - R+L Carriers won't process them until these waiting periods expire. Most "stuck" shipments eventually show up, especially during peak seasons when network volume is high.

Filing Claims for Lost or Damaged Freight

Eligibility and Coverage: All R+L Carriers shipments include standard freight liability coverage of $0.50 per pound unless additional coverage is purchased. This basic coverage may not be sufficient for high-value shipments. Additional declared value coverage can be purchased up to $10 per pound or $100,000 per shipment depending on commodity type.

When to File a Claim: For lost shipments, you must wait 14 days from the pickup date before filing. For damaged shipments, file within 15 days of delivery date. Claims must be filed within 9 months of the shipment date for all issues. Don't wait too long - time limits are strictly enforced.

Who Can File: Only the shipper (person who tendered the freight to R+L Carriers) or the consignee (recipient) named on the Bill of Lading can file claims. Third parties cannot file claims directly with R+L Carriers without proper authorization from the shipper or consignee.

Required Documentation: To file a successful claim, you'll need:

• The complete PRO number and Bill of Lading copy
• Original invoice or proof of value showing item value
• Detailed description of contents including brand, model, serial numbers
• Photos of damaged packaging and contents (for damage claims)
• Copy of delivery receipt showing condition at time of delivery
• Repair estimates or replacement quotes (for damage claims)

How to File Online: Visit rlcarriers.com and navigate to "Claims" > "File a Claim." Complete the online claim form with all required information and upload supporting documentation. R+L Carriers' claims department will review your claim and contact you within 5-7 business days with a claim number and next steps.

Claim Valuation: R+L Carriers reimburses based on the lesser of:

• The actual cost to repair or replace the damaged items
• The declared value of the shipment
• The coverage limit purchased ($0.50/lb standard or additional coverage)

Processing Timeline: R+L Carriers typically investigates and resolves claims within 30-45 business days. Complex claims involving high-value items or disputed liability may take longer. You'll receive email updates as the claim progresses through investigation, review, approval/denial stages.

Claim Denial and Appeals: Common reasons for claim denial include:

• Insufficient documentation or proof of value
• Inadequate packaging for the commodity type
• Failure to note damage on the delivery receipt
• Missing filing deadlines
• Exclusions for specific commodities (perishables, fragile items)
• Incorrect or incomplete claim forms

Tips for Successful R+L Carriers Tracking

Keep Your PRO Number Accessible: Save your PRO number in a secure location and share it with all relevant parties (shipper, receiver, logistics coordinators). Take a photo of your Bill of Lading or save the email confirmation. If you lose the PRO number, you'll need to contact the shipper or R+L Carriers customer service to retrieve it.

Understand Your Service Level: Know which R+L Carriers service you selected (Standard LTL, Expedited, Truckload) and the expected transit time. Expedited freight moves faster but costs more, while Standard LTL may take longer but is more economical. Set realistic expectations based on your service level selection.

Package Properly for Freight Shipping: Unlike parcel packages, freight shipments experience different handling methods. Use sturdy crates or palletized packaging for LTL shipments. Secure all items properly and use edge protection for fragile corners. Mark "This Side Up" and handling instructions clearly on all sides.

Provide Complete Address Information: Ensure both pickup and delivery addresses include complete information:

• Full street address with suite/floor numbers
• Business name and contact person
• Phone numbers for both pickup and delivery contacts
• Special instructions (dock hours, gate codes, liftgate requirement)
• Delivery appointment requirements if applicable

Consider Accessorial Services: If your shipment requires special handling, request accessorial services when booking:

• Liftgate Service: Required if no loading dock is available
• Inside Delivery: For delivery beyond the threshold
• Residential Delivery: Additional fees and different delivery procedures
• Appointment Delivery: Required for time-sensitive deliveries
• Limited Access Locations: Schools, government buildings, construction sites

Track Proactively: Check tracking regularly, especially as the expected delivery date approaches. Set up email notifications through R+L Carriers' RL360° portal for automatic updates. Don't wait for delivery day to start tracking - early intervention often resolves issues before they become serious problems.

Communicate with Terminals: For critical shipments, save the phone numbers for both origin and destination terminals. Terminal managers can often provide more detailed information than customer service and can expedite shipments when necessary. Build relationships with your local terminal staff for better service.

Understand Delivery Procedures: Freight deliveries follow different procedures than parcel deliveries:

• Deliveries typically occur during business hours (8 AM - 5 PM)
• Someone must be available to accept and sign for the shipment
• Driver will not unload items without liftgate service
• Count packages and note any visible damage before signing
• Take photos of any damage before the driver leaves

Keep Documentation: Save all shipping documents including:

• Bill of Lading (BOL) with PRO number
• Shipping receipts and invoices
• Email confirmations and tracking updates
• Photos of packaged items before shipping
• Contact information for R+L Carriers terminals