Trucking Industry Facts: Trucking Operations Terms and Documentation

A broker arranges transportation for compensation but does not actually transport the goods.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

A container is a standard-sized box used for intermodal freight transport.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

Bulk carriers are specialized in hauling loose, unpackaged materials such as gravel.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

Operating a tractor without a trailer is referred to as 'bobtail.'

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

Bulk freight refers to unpackaged material such as sand, coal, or gravel.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

A bill of lading lists the goods in a shipment and sets the terms of the contract between the shipper and the carrier.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

Apportioned registration lets commercial vehicles comply with multiple jurisdictions and pay fees based on operation in those areas.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

An audit is a physical examination of a registrant’s operational records to verify distances and recordkeeping accuracy.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

A backhaul is a load that returns the driver to their place of origin.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.

Motor carrier authority is the regulatory approval needed to transport goods or passengers in interstate commerce.

Study reference: ODOT Trucking Terminology and Acronyms (general vocabulary only). Follow current official guidance and your employer’s procedures.