LTL Freight

Arranging truck transportation for small shipments is DIFFICULT. You may get an expensive deal. But shared space with LTL shipment is your way for a low cost. 

Our experts have handled hundreds of LTL shipment cases for small quantities. Here is the complete guidebook on LTL freight. You get an OVERVIEW of LTL shipment with sea freight. Ultimately, you get tips for best prices.   

Keep reading the guidebook for the BENEFITS of LTL shipment. 

LTL freight definition

LTL stands for “Less Than Truckload.”  A single truck carries goods for many customers in different locations. LTL shipments are smaller than full truckload freight shipping (FTL). 

It is cost-effective for small truckload shipments. You pay for a small space, not full truckload shipping. It is a shared space. Freight carriers MERGE your shipment with others in the same truck trailer.  Specialized carriers use trucks, trailers, and vans to TRANSPORT the goods.

When to use LTL shipping?

LTL freight services are a good option for shipping a SMALL number of goods. Most LTL shipments have weight & size limitations. It is the best option for short distances. It takes a long time than full truckload shipments due to CONSOLIDATION. 

They have to load and unload many freight shipments on local terminals. So transit time is long. LTL shipping is a cost-effective option for small businesses with flexible delivery times.

How does LTL shipping work?

LTL shipping works by consolidating many customers’ goods onto a single truck. It is a cost-effective solution for small shipments.  The cost of the TRUCK and shipping distributes among customers. 

Here’s an overview of the process:

• You contact a freight service provider for the SHIPMENT of your goods. You provide information for the goods’ size, weight, and destination of the shipment.

• You get quotes on your freight classification. You book the shipment with a pickup schedule. You send INSTRUCTIONS for packaging. You request protective layers for fragile goods. 

• The carrier picks up your goods. You get the shipment reference number. You get deliveries heading to your DESTINATION. They load the goods onto the truck and transport them to the nearest terminal or warehouse.

• You can choose the hub and spoke model if you want proper DISTRIBUTION. They send your shipment to ports or warehouses as per your need. 

Benefits and challenges of LTL freight

There are several benefits to using LTL freight for shipping goods:

• Less than load shipping is less expensive than FTL shipping.  The cost of the truck and driver is being SHARED among many customers.

• Less than truckload shipping involves various equipment. It includes trucks, tractor-trailers, and vans. The good shipping method for small sizes. 

• National carriers equipped with a network of terminals and warehouses across the country. Freight occupies space in warehouses before merging and distribution. 

• LTL carriers provide tracking information. You check the progress of your shipments.

There are also some CHALLENGES to consider when using LTL shipping:

• LTL carriers take longer time to deliver goods than FTL. They make many stops to pick up and drop off goods. Not a good option for time-sensitive freight goods. 

• LTL carriers have weight and size limits for the goods they will accept. It’s important to make sure that your goods fall within these limits.

• LTL shipments have to go with other shippers’ shipments. It includes several loading and unloading. This can increase the risk of damage to the goods. You request protective layers, but it costs. 

• LTL carriers operate over shorter distances than FTL carriers. Specialized services are a better option for long distances.

Best practices for LTL freight shipping

Here are more detailed explanations of the best practices for LTL freight shipping:

1. Choosing right carrier

Choose the right freight forwarder for your SHIPPING needs. There are many LTL carriers. Consider the following factors. 

• Reputation or credibility
• Delivery TIMES
• Logistic and transport infrastructure

It is helpful to read REVIEWS and ask for recommendations. You use Social media groups for reviews and recommendations. Credibility matters most because you will be safe from scams. You should discuss TERMS & CONDITIONS before the agreement. Discuss every service in detail. You avoid hidden costs with proper discussion.

2. Packaging and Consolidation

Proper packaging can help protect your GOODS during shipping. It reduces the risk of damage. Use strong boxes and plenty of padding, and ensure the boxes are completely sealed. 

Use appropriate labels and markings to identify your goods & destination. You mark special HANDLING instructions with marking.

You use pallets. Pallets make your goods EASIER to handle and reduce the risk of damage. Make sure to use pallets in good condition and the appropriate size and weight for your goods.

3. Best pricing

Provide the carrier with accurate and complete INFORMATION about your goods. It includes the size, weight, value, and special handling requirements. They provide an exact quote on your information. Try to get quotes from different agents. 

You get the best price with BACKUP options. Consider packaging and merging your items before shipment. It reduces cost by reducing the weight & dimensions of goods.

4. Insurance and tracking. 

Consider insurance to protect your goods in case of damage or loss during shipping. This provides peace of mind and compensates you for any issues.

Use the tracking information to CHECK your shipment and stay informed. You plan for any potential disruptions.

FAQs about LTL Freight

What’s Next

Inventory damage is the biggest concern while LTL shipping. You share your space in a container or truck. It involves FREQUENT loading and unloading. You request protective layers with handling requirements. 

Only a few companies have experienced STAFF handling. We focus on customer satisfaction. We have been handling LTL shipments for more than a decade. Get your shipment WHOLE and intact! 

Contact us to get your quote with different LTL shipping options!