I had a complex item pick-up to do. The only company that I found in the phone book capable of doing taking care of the shipping needs for highly sensitive equipment (pick-up, packaging, shipping) was located in Suffolk, VA. To pick the equipment up, they quoted me $900 solely to pick it up and bring it to their packaging warehouse.
I was able to list on uShip and get a cost-effective bid from an experienced driver within mere hours. With that we were on our way.
The driver smoothly navigated several layers of government security procedures to make the pick-up. He was able to deliver my items to the packaging facility for less than 1/2 of their quoted price - saving around $500.
The best part was that the driver kept me informed every step of the way - great communication, flawless transaction.
Try to request that with a major trucking company - if you can stomach the additional "communication charge"!