Terms & Conditions
Last updated: February 19, 2026
1. Agreement to Terms
By accessing or using the LAVA Freight website and services, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, you may not access or use our services. These Terms constitute a legally binding agreement between you and LAVA Freight.
2. Services
LAVA Freight provides freight transportation and logistics services, including but not limited to full truckload (FTL), less than truckload (LTL), expedited shipping, dedicated routes, specialized freight, and high-value and time-sensitive cargo handling. All services are subject to availability and applicable regulations.
3. Quotes and Pricing
- All quotes provided are estimates and may be subject to change based on actual shipment details, weight, dimensions, and market conditions.
- Quotes are valid for the time period specified and are subject to availability at the time of booking.
- Additional charges may apply for accessorial services such as liftgate, inside delivery, detention, layover, or special handling requirements.
- Fuel surcharges may be applied and are subject to change based on current fuel prices.
4. Shipping and Delivery
- Delivery dates and transit times are estimates and are not guaranteed unless specifically agreed upon in writing as a guaranteed service.
- LAVA Freight is not liable for delays caused by weather, traffic, mechanical issues, acts of God, government actions, or other circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
- The shipper is responsible for ensuring that all freight is properly packaged, labeled, and documented in accordance with applicable regulations.
- Hazardous materials must be properly classified, packaged, marked, labeled, and documented in accordance with DOT and applicable regulations.
5. Liability and Claims
LAVA Freight's liability for loss or damage to freight is governed by applicable federal and state regulations:
- Claims for loss or damage must be filed in writing within nine (9) months from the date of delivery or expected delivery.
- Suits must be instituted within two (2) years and one (1) day from the date of written denial of the claim.
- Liability is limited to the actual value of the goods at the time of shipment, or the declared value, whichever is less.
- LAVA Freight is not liable for consequential, incidental, or special damages arising from the transportation of freight.
- The shipper is responsible for obtaining additional cargo insurance if the value of goods exceeds standard liability limits.
6. Payment Terms
- Payment is due within thirty (30) days of invoice date unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.
- Late payments may be subject to interest charges at a rate of 1.5% per month or the maximum rate permitted by law, whichever is less.
- LAVA Freight reserves the right to hold shipments or suspend services for accounts with past-due balances.
- The shipper is responsible for all costs of collection, including reasonable attorney fees, in the event of non-payment.
7. Prohibited Items
LAVA Freight reserves the right to refuse shipment of the following:
- Illegal goods or contraband
- Improperly packaged or labeled hazardous materials
- Live animals (unless specifically arranged)
- Perishable goods without proper temperature-controlled arrangements
- Items that pose a safety risk to drivers, equipment, or the public
8. Website Use
By using our website, you agree to the following:
- You will not use the website for any unlawful purpose or in violation of these Terms.
- You will not attempt to gain unauthorized access to any part of the website or its systems.
- You will provide accurate and complete information when submitting forms or creating accounts.
- You will not reproduce, distribute, or modify any content from the website without our prior written consent.
9. Intellectual Property
All content on this website, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of LAVA Freight or its content suppliers and is protected by United States and international copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws. The LAVA Freight name, logo, and all related names, logos, product and service names, designs, and slogans are trademarks of LAVA Freight.
10. Indemnification
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless LAVA Freight, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and affiliates from and against any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorney fees) arising out of or related to your use of our services, your violation of these Terms, or your violation of any rights of a third party.
11. Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, LAVA Freight shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from your use of our website or services.
12. Governing Law
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any legal action or proceeding arising under these Terms shall be brought exclusively in the federal or state courts located in Cook County, Illinois.
13. Changes to Terms
LAVA Freight reserves the right to modify or replace these Terms at any time at our sole discretion. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated revision date. Your continued use of our services after any changes constitutes acceptance of the new Terms.
14. SMS Disclosure & Messaging
This section governs all SMS (text message) communications between LAVA Freight and users who have opted in via our website forms.
14.1 — SMS Consent Communication
The information (including phone numbers) obtained as part of the SMS consent process will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.
14.2 — Types of SMS Communications
If you have consented to receive text messages from LAVA Freight, you may receive messages related to the following:
- Quote confirmations and freight updates
- Appointment and pickup reminders
- Follow-up messages related to your inquiry or shipment
- Billing and account inquiries
- Driver recruiting communications (careers applicants)
Example: "Hello, this is LAVA Freight. Your shipment from Chicago, IL to Dallas, TX has been confirmed for pickup on [Date]. Our driver will contact you 30 minutes before arrival. Reply STOP to opt out of SMS messaging at any time."
14.3 — Message Frequency
Message frequency may vary depending on the type of communication and your level of engagement with our services. You may receive up to 4 SMS messages per week related to your shipments, quotes, or account status.
Example: "Message frequency may vary. You may receive up to 4 SMS messages per week regarding your shipments or account status."
14.4 — Potential Fees for SMS Messaging
Please note that standard message and data rates may apply, depending on your mobile carrier's pricing plan. These fees may vary if the message is sent domestically or internationally. LAVA Freight is not responsible for any messaging charges incurred by your carrier.
14.5 — Opt-In Method
You may opt in to receive SMS messages from LAVA Freight in the following ways:
- By checking the SMS consent checkbox on our online contact or driver application form
- Verbally, during a conversation with our team
- By filling out a paper form with SMS consent indicated
The SMS consent checkbox on our website forms is unchecked by default and is never required to submit a form or receive our services.
14.6 — Opt-Out Method
You can opt out of receiving SMS messages at any time. To do so, simply reply STOP to any SMS message you receive from LAVA Freight. Alternatively, you can contact us directly at info@lavafreight.net or (312) 909-8180 to request removal from our messaging list. After opting out, you will receive a one-time confirmation message and no further SMS communications.
14.7 — Help
If you are experiencing any issues with our SMS communications, you can reply with the keyword HELP to any message you receive. You can also get help directly from us:
- Phone: (312) 909-8180
- Email: info@lavafreight.net
- Privacy Policy: lavafreight.net/privacy
If you do not wish to receive SMS messages, you can choose not to check the SMS consent box on our forms.
14.8 — Standard Messaging Disclosures
• Message and data rates may apply.
• You can opt out at any time by texting STOP.
• For assistance, text HELP or visit our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions pages.
• Message frequency may vary.
15. Contact Us
If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us:
LAVA Freight
55W 22nd Street, Suite #130, Lombard, IL 60148
Email: info@lavafreight.net
Phone: (312) 909-8180