Less than truckload freight (LTL), is a type of freight shipping where the cargo does not use up the entire space of a truck. Instead, the truck carries shipments from multiple customers, with each customer’s goods often weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds. Each shipper’s cargo may take up a few pallets, crates, or large parcels, and they only pay for the portion of the truck space that their freight occupies. The rest of the truck is filled with other customers’ freight.

1. Cost-effectiveness: LTL shipping is an economical option for those who don’t have enough cargo to fill an entire truck. As the transportation cost is shared among different shippers, smaller businesses can afford to ship their goods without worrying about filling an entire truckload.
2. Flexibility: LTL freight offers flexibility that is often lacking in other types of shipping. You can send smaller quantities of goods more frequently, which can help manage inventory more effectively.
3. Additional services: LTL carriers often provide value-added services like liftgate service at pickup and delivery, residential service, inside pickup and delivery, and notification options. These services, while available with FTL, often come at a premium cost.
4. Environmentally friendly: By consolidating shipments from multiple customers into one truck, LTL shipping can reduce the number of trucks on the road and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Unlike FTL shipments which can require an entire truck and weigh up to 20,000 lbs., LTL will not fill an entire truck, leaving space for other small shipments.

The decision between LTL and full truckload (FTL) shipping depends on the specific needs of the shipper. FTL shipping is typically faster and less likely to result in damaged goods, as the shipment remains in the same truck throughout the entire journey. However, it is also more expensive, particularly for shippers who do not have enough goods to fill an entire truck.

On the other hand, LTL is more cost-effective for smaller shipments, though it may take longer and carry a slightly higher risk of damage due to the frequent handling of goods.

We provide accurate quotes from the start, unlike some providers that show fees after the shipment is sent. That means no hidden fees.

Many businesses struggle with gaining consistent live updates with their LTL shipments—our team takes the guesswork out by contacting terminals directly and relaying accurate shipment details.