Items you use every day had to come from somewhere, and there are several different ways they could have been transported to end up in your possession. On a daily basis, products are moving constantly across the US and across the world to reach their destinations. These products are mainly transported through trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes, sometimes multiple of these in the whole process. Trucks are one of the more popular modes of transportation companies and people use, but sometimes a whole truck is not needed, yet the shipment is considered too big to be parcel. This is where LTL shipping comes in.
What is LTL Shipping?
LTL stands for “Less-Than-Truckload” shipping. It’s a freight transportation method designed for shipments that are too large for parcel carriers but don’t require the full capacity of a truck. LTL shipping allows multiple shippers to share space on the same truck, with each customer paying only for the portion of the trailer they use.
LTL is considered to be the opposite of FTL (full truckload), which is a shipment that takes up either most of or the whole truck. When the full truck is not needed, customers can choose the LTL option and save money by only reserving a certain amount of a 48 to 53 foot trailer. The rest of the space is shared with other cargo from different customers of the carrier.
What Does LTL Mean in Shipping and Trucking?
In the shipping and trucking industry, LTL is the standard abbreviation for less-than-truckload freight. The term defines both the shipping method and the segment of the freight industry that handles partial truckload shipments. When someone refers to “LTL freight,” “LTL shipping,” “LTL delivery,” or “LTL transportation,” they’re all talking about the same less-than-truckload service model.
When to Use LTL Shipping
For a company that has freight over 150 pounds and under 15,000 pounds (typically 6-28 pallets) and does not need a full truck, LTL would be a great service to use. Shipments are typically shipped using wrapped pallets, wood crates, or corrugated containers.
LTL shipping is ideal when:
- Your shipment weighs between 150 and 15,000 pounds
- You have 1-6 pallets of freight
- You don’t need the entire trailer capacity
- Cost savings are important
- You can accommodate slightly longer transit times than expedited services
- Your freight doesn’t require exclusive truck use
LTL vs FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping
Understanding the difference between LTL and FTL is essential for choosing the right shipping method:
LTL Shipping:
- Shipments typically 150-15,000 pounds
- Shares truck space with other shippers’ freight
- More economical for smaller loads
- Multiple stops for pickups and deliveries
- Freight passes through terminals for sorting
- Transit time is typically 1-5 days depending on distance
- Cost is based on freight class, weight, and dimensions
FTL Shipping:
- Shipments over 15,000 pounds or requiring full trailer
- Exclusive use of entire trailer (typically 26-53 feet)
- More cost-effective for large volumes
- Direct delivery from origin to destination
- Faster transit times
- Lower risk of freight damage (no handling at terminals)
- Cost is based primarily on mileage and equipment
The decision point often comes down to whether you have enough freight to justify a full truckload. If your shipment exceeds 12-15 pallets or 15,000 pounds, FTL typically becomes more economical.
LTL vs Parcel Shipping
Many shippers wonder where the line is between parcel and LTL freight:
Parcel Shipping:
- Individual packages typically under 150 pounds
- Handled by carriers like UPS, FedEx, USPS
- Packages move through automated sorting facilities
- Best for small, individual items
- Faster delivery times (1-3 days)
- Higher cost per pound for heavier items
- Size and weight restrictions apply
LTL Shipping:
- Shipments over 150 pounds
- Handled by freight carriers and trucking companies
- Freight moves through freight terminals
- Best for palletized freight and larger items
- Typically 2-5 day transit
- More economical for heavy/bulky items
- Can handle larger dimensions and weight
The transition point is usually around 150 pounds. Once your shipment exceeds this weight, or if you’re shipping multiple pallets, LTL becomes the more appropriate and cost-effective choice.
How Does LTL Shipping Work?
The LTL Delivery Process
Understanding the typical LTL delivery process helps set proper expectations:
- Pickup: The carrier collects your freight from the shipper’s location
- Local Terminal: Freight is transported to the carrier’s local terminal or hub
- Sorting and Consolidation: Freight is unloaded, sorted, and consolidated with other shipments heading in the same direction
- Linehaul Transportation: Consolidated freight moves on a long-distance truck (linehaul) to a destination terminal
- Destination Terminal: Freight arrives at the terminal nearest the delivery location
- Final Sorting: Freight is sorted for final delivery
- Delivery: Freight is loaded onto a local delivery truck and delivered to the consignee
This multi-stop process is why LTL takes longer than FTL but costs significantly less for smaller shipments.
Assess and Pack Your Shipment
Take note of your shipment and account for all items you are planning to ship and the value of it all for insurance purposes. The items should also be listed on your bill of lading (BOL).
Put your shipment together and pack from the inside to the outside on a pallet. Pack tightly and use quality materials to ensure a durable and stable shipment to prevent damage during the transportation process. Freight that is packaged correctly and securely lowers the chance of any damage happening during transportation.
LTL Packaging Best Practices:
- Use new or sturdy pallets (48×40 inches is standard)
- Stack boxes uniformly without overhanging edges
- Wrap pallets with stretch wrap (6-8 layers minimum)
- Use edge protectors for added stability
- Label clearly with “Freight” labels
- Keep freight dimensions under 96 inches tall
- Ensure weight is distributed evenly
- Secure loose items to prevent shifting
Prepare Your Shipment Documentation
Make sure to calculate the weight, dimensions, and density of your package, including the packaging and pallet, to come up with the freight class. Your 3PL provider can also help assist with this process if you give them the correct weight and dimensions.
Key Documentation:
Bill of Lading (BOL): The BOL is the primary shipping document that serves as a receipt, contract, and title document. It includes shipper and consignee information, freight description, weight, dimensions, freight class, and special instructions.
PRO Number: Once your freight is picked up, the carrier assigns a PRO (Progressive Rotating Order) number, a unique tracking number for your shipment. You’ll use this PRO number to track your freight throughout its journey.
Provide the origin and destination addresses and declare any special requirements for your shipment such as a liftgate or residential pickup or delivery.
Transit and Delivery
Once your freight is picked up by your chosen carrier, the carrier’s truck will also collect other customers’ shipments from around the area. Once the truck completes the pickups, it will head to a terminal where the freight will be unloaded and each one will be processed. Shipments with destinations in a similar region will be assembled and loaded into another truck that will be transported to a delivery terminal based in that area. Once they are sorted at the terminal, they will be sent out for delivery.
How Long Does LTL Shipping Take?
LTL transit times vary based on distance and service level:
- Regional shipments (under 500 miles): 1-2 business days
- Long-haul shipments (500-1,500 miles): 2-4 business days
- Cross-country shipments: 4-7 business days
- Expedited LTL: Can reduce transit by 1-2 days
- Guaranteed LTL: Specific delivery date with money-back guarantee
Keep in mind that LTL freight must pass through multiple terminals, which adds time compared to direct FTL service. Weather, holidays, and carrier capacity can also impact delivery schedules.
Understanding LTL Carriers
What is an LTL Carrier?
An LTL carrier is a trucking company that specializes in transporting less-than-truckload freight. These carriers operate networks of terminals across regions or the entire country, allowing them to efficiently consolidate and distribute freight from multiple shippers.
LTL carriers differ from FTL carriers in several ways:
- They maintain terminal networks for sorting and consolidation
- They handle multiple shipments on each truck
- They offer standardized service levels and pricing
- They provide advanced tracking systems
- They specialize in handling palletized freight
Types of LTL Carriers
National Carriers: Operate terminal networks across the entire United States. Examples include major carriers with coast-to-coast coverage. They’re ideal for shipments traveling long distances.
Regional Carriers: Focus on specific geographic areas and often provide better service within their regions. They may offer faster transit times and more competitive pricing for regional shipments.
Inter-regional Carriers: Partner with other carriers to provide coverage outside their primary regions while maintaining quality service.
What Does an LTL Driver Do?
LTL drivers have distinct roles compared to FTL drivers:
- Pickup and Delivery (P&D) Drivers: Handle local pickups and deliveries, typically returning home nightly
- Linehaul Drivers: Transport consolidated freight between terminals, often overnight runs
- City Drivers: Work within metropolitan areas, making multiple stops per day
- Operate specialized equipment (liftgates, pallet jacks)
- Handle documentation (BOLs, delivery receipts)
- Inspect freight condition
LTL drivers typically require less LTL experience than other trucking roles since they follow set routes and return home regularly, making it an attractive option for those entering the trucking industry.
Things That Factor Into LTL Rates and Pricing
Before your shipment can be picked up and shipped to its destination, your carrier or 3PL coordinator will send you a quote. The quote you receive will be a total of the different factors below.
How Does LTL Pricing Work?
LTL pricing is more complex than FTL pricing because it considers multiple factors beyond just weight and distance. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate costs and find ways to reduce them.
Primary Pricing Factors:
Freight Class
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system assigns a freight class to different types of commodities based on four characteristics: density, stowability, handling, and liability. Freight classes range from 50 (densest, least expensive) to 500 (least dense, most expensive).
The weight and dimensions of your shipment will primarily be used to determine the freight class. The freight class is essential information as it has a major influence on the overall LTL rate you receive. Items with higher density (weight per cubic foot) receive lower freight classes and cost less to ship.
Common Freight Classes:
- Class 50: Dense items like nuts and bolts, bricks
- Class 55-70: Automotive parts, bottled beverages
- Class 85-100: Mid-density items like crated machinery
- Class 125-200: Light, bulky items like furniture, electronics
- Class 250-500: Very light items like ping pong balls, bags of gold
To calculate density: Divide weight (in pounds) by volume (in cubic feet). Higher density = lower class = lower cost.
Distance
The longer the distance the higher the price will be. LTL carriers calculate distance between origin and destination zip codes using standard mileage guides. Cross-country shipments cost significantly more than regional moves.
Weight
Total shipment weight directly impacts pricing, but LTL pricing includes weight breaks. The more you ship, the lower the cost per hundredweight (CWT). Shipping 1,000 pounds costs less per pound than shipping 500 pounds.
Additional Services and Specialties (Accessorial Charges)
Sometimes shipments require special trucks, services, or equipment depending on the cargo. These accessorial charges can significantly impact your final cost:
Common Accessorials:
- Liftgate service: $75-150 per pickup or delivery
- Residential delivery: $75-200 per delivery
- Limited access: $75-150 per location
- Inside delivery: $100-200 per location
- Appointment delivery: $50-100
- Notification services: $25-50
- Redelivery: $75-150
- Storage: $25-50 per day
If a liftgate, residential pickup or delivery is needed, or your freight is perishable, the rate can fluctuate depending on which carrier is used. Always disclose all special requirements when requesting quotes to avoid surprise charges.
Fuel Surcharges
LTL carriers adjust rates based on fuel prices through fuel surcharges, typically expressed as a percentage of the base rate. These fluctuate weekly based on the Department of Energy’s national diesel average.
LTL Weight and Dimension Requirements
Maximum Weight for LTL Shipments
Most LTL carriers set the maximum weight for a single LTL shipment at 15,000 pounds, though some carriers may accept up to 20,000 pounds. Beyond this threshold, FTL shipping becomes more appropriate and often more economical.
Weight Guidelines:
- Minimum: 150 pounds (below this, use parcel)
- Standard LTL range: 150-15,000 pounds
- Maximum: Typically 15,000-20,000 pounds (carrier dependent)
- Single piece weight limit: Usually 2,500 pounds
LTL Truck Dimensions
Standard LTL trailers match FTL truck dimensions:
- Length: 48-53 feet (53 feet is most common)
- Width: 8-8.5 feet interior
- Height: 8-9 feet interior clearance
- Total capacity: Approximately 45,000 pounds maximum
- Pallet positions: 26-30 standard 48×40 inch pallets
Shipment Size Limits:
- Individual freight pieces should not exceed 96 inches in any dimension without prior approval
- Pallets should not overhang the pallet base
- Over-dimensional freight may require special handling and additional charges
How Many Pallets is Considered LTL?
LTL typically accommodates 1-12 pallets, though this varies by carrier and shipment weight:
- 1-6 pallets: Definitely LTL territory
- 7-12 pallets: LTL or FTL depending on weight and density
- 12+ pallets: Usually more economical to ship FTL
- 15+ pallets: Almost always FTL
The decision depends on total weight and how much of the truck you’re using. A good rule of thumb: if you’re using more than half the truck’s capacity, FTL may be more cost-effective.
LTL Services and Special Options
Not every shipment warrants the same process, pickup, or delivery. A great thing about LTL is it offers additional services and specialties for those situations. If your freight needs any of these options, most carriers will offer them at reasonable costs.
Expedited LTL Shipping
Sometimes freight needs to be somewhere quicker than the normal LTL shipping times. Expedited LTL shipping reduces standard transit times by 1-2 days by prioritizing your freight through the carrier’s network. This service is ideal for time-sensitive shipments but costs 25-100% more than standard LTL.
Expedited Options:
- Standard Expedited: 1-2 days faster than regular service
- Guaranteed Delivery: Specific delivery date with money-back guarantee
- Time-Critical: Same-day or next-day service for urgent freight
- Expedited Air: Air freight for extreme urgency, significantly higher cost
Liftgate Service
A shipper can request a liftgate if the origin or destination does not have dock access, and the freight is over 100 pounds, to move the shipment on and off the truck. Liftgates are hydraulic platforms on the back of delivery trucks that raise and lower freight to ground level.
When You Need Liftgate:
- Loading dock is not available
- Residential deliveries
- Freight exceeds 100 pounds
- No forklift available
Most LTL carriers charge $75-150 per use of a liftgate. Always notify your carrier if liftgate service is needed at pickup or delivery.
Limited Access Locations
If the shipper or the receiver are in a limited access location that will take extra time or effort to pick up or deliver, the limited access option is a requirement and typically includes an additional fee.
Limited Access Locations Include:
- Schools and universities
- Churches and places of worship
- Construction sites
- Prisons and correctional facilities
- Military bases
- Hospitals
- Golf courses and country clubs
- Farms and agricultural locations
- Mines and quarries
- Self-storage facilities
- Locations requiring security clearance
This includes areas that are difficult to get to, have strict security, or operate in restricted areas. Carriers charge limited access fees ($75-150) because these locations require additional time, coordination, or special procedures.
Residential Delivery and Pickup
LTL carriers primarily operate between commercial businesses with loading docks. Residential locations require special handling and typically incur additional charges.
Residential Service Details:
- Applies to locations without commercial signage or operating hours
- Usually includes liftgate service automatically
- Delivery to driveway, carport, or garage entrance
- Driver will not enter the home
- May have specific delivery windows
- Additional charges: $75-200
It is important to know that when it comes to residences, inside delivery involves getting the cargo to the driveway, porch, or garage, but will not go inside the house. Do not expect drivers to unpack or disassemble freight to fit it through doors. They will not bring it inside.
Inside Pickup and Delivery
LTL is typically shipped from dock to dock. However, sometimes a dock is not available. A shipper can request inside pickup and delivery to have the freight picked up or delivered from or to the inside of the building beyond the immediate dock or warehouse area.
Inside Delivery Includes:
- Moving freight past the dock or threshold
- Delivery to a specific room or area
- Typically within the first floor only
- Does not include unpacking or assembly
- Additional charges: $100-200
Freight Collect Shipments
In a freight collect arrangement, the receiver pays the shipping charges upon delivery rather than the shipper paying at the time of pickup. This is common in customer returns, vendor shipments, and specific business arrangements. The carrier collects payment from the consignee before releasing the freight.
Other Specialized LTL Services
Refrigerated (Reefer) LTL: Temperature-controlled trailers for perishable goods, typically 30-50% higher than standard LTL rates.
Hazardous Materials (Hazmat): Special handling and documentation for dangerous goods, requires proper placarding and certification.
White Glove Service: Premium service including inside delivery, unpacking, debris removal, and sometimes assembly.
Blind Shipments: Shipper information is concealed from the receiver, common in third-party fulfillment.
Trade Show Services: Specialized delivery to convention centers with specific time windows and receiving requirements.
International LTL Shipping
LTL International Services
While LTL is primarily a domestic service within the United States, international LTL shipping options exist for shipments to and from Canada and Mexico:
Cross-Border LTL to Canada:
- Similar service structure to US domestic LTL
- Requires customs documentation and clearance
- Transit times are 1-3 days longer than domestic
- Additional fees for customs brokerage
- Weight limits and regulations vary by province
Cross-Border LTL to Mexico:
- Available to major industrial areas and border cities
- Customs clearance at border crossings
- Extended transit times (3-10 days typical)
- Security concerns in certain regions
- Requires careful carrier selection
Overseas International Freight: For shipments to other countries (Europe, Asia, South America), LTL transitions to:
- Ocean LTL (LCL): Less-than-container-load ocean freight
- Air Freight: For time-sensitive international shipments
- International freight forwarders: Handle consolidation and documentation
International LTL requires additional documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and customs bonds.
Understanding the LTL Terminal Network
What is an LTL Terminal?
An LTL terminal (also called a hub or freight terminal) is a facility where carriers sort, consolidate, and transfer freight. Terminals are the backbone of the LTL network, allowing carriers to efficiently combine shipments going in similar directions.
Terminal Operations:
- Receive freight from pickup routes
- Sort freight by destination
- Consolidate compatible freight onto linehaul trucks
- Transfer freight between trucks
- Load freight for final delivery routes
- Process documentation and tracking updates
Types of Terminals:
- Break-bulk terminals: Sort and redistribute freight
- Cross-dock terminals: Minimal handling, fast transfer
- End-of-line terminals: Final delivery terminals in smaller markets
- Hub terminals: Major sorting facilities for regional or national networks
Freight may pass through 1-3 terminals during its journey, depending on distance and carrier network.
How to Drop Off at an LTL Freight Terminal
Some carriers allow shippers to drop off freight directly at terminals rather than scheduling a pickup:
Drop-Off Process:
- Call ahead to confirm the terminal accepts drop-offs
- Prepare your BOL and shipping documentation
- Arrive during terminal hours (typically 7am-5pm weekdays)
- Check in at the terminal office
- Back up to the designated dock door
- Unload freight or have terminal staff assist
- Obtain receipt and PRO number
Benefits of Terminal Drop-Off:
- Saves pickup charges ($50-100)
- Freight enters the system faster
- More control over shipping timeline
- Convenient for regular shippers near terminals
Tracking Your LTL Shipment
LTL shipments are easily trackable, and updates are made all throughout the transportation process.
Tracking Methods:
- PRO Number: Primary tracking identifier assigned at pickup
- PO Number: Purchase order number from your business
- BOL Number: Bill of lading reference number
- Pickup Date Range: Search by when freight was picked up
Most carriers provide real-time tracking through their websites or mobile apps, showing:
- Pickup confirmation
- Terminal arrivals and departures
- Estimated delivery date
- Delivery confirmation with proof of delivery (POD)
Advanced tracking may include GPS location updates, exception notifications, and photo proof of delivery.
Benefits and Advantages of LTL Freight
Cost and Time Effective
Because you are not using a whole truck, you do not have to pay for the unused space, which is perfect for cargo too big to be parcel and too small for a full truckload. With LTL shipping, you can ship faster, in smaller quantities, and more often.
Cost Advantages:
- Pay only for the space you use
- Avoid minimum FTL charges
- Weight breaks reduce per-pound costs
- Consolidate multiple shipments efficiently
- Reduce inventory carrying costs
This eliminates the need to stockpile or wait on a number of customer purchases in order to make a full truckload worth it. This also reduces warehousing costs, creating faster turnaround times for your customers and an opportunity for more sales.
Flexibility and Scalability
LTL shipping provides unmatched flexibility for businesses with varying freight volumes:
- Ship small quantities without waiting to accumulate FTL volumes
- Adjust shipping frequency based on demand
- Test new markets with minimal freight commitments
- Respond quickly to customer orders
- Maintain lean inventory practices
Eco-Friendly Shipping
There is an environmental gain when companies choose to use LTL versus FTL. Shippers sharing the space of one truck means fewer trucks on the road, which means less pollution in the air. This maximizes truck capacity utilization and reduces the carbon footprint of each shipment.
Environmental Benefits:
- Reduced fuel consumption per shipment
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions
- More efficient use of transportation resources
- Fewer total trucks needed
- Supports sustainability initiatives
Professional Expertise and Experience
When shipping LTL, there are many companies that can assist and are experts on the market and the industry. For all the companies out there that do not have the resources to employ an in-house shipper, there are 3PL providers and coordinators that can help regarding LTL shipping.
3PL Benefits for LTL:
- Access to negotiated carrier rates
- Freight class determination assistance
- Carrier selection and management
- Claims handling support
- Technology platforms for booking and tracking
- Industry expertise and consultation
Support and Security
Customers who choose to ship LTL are going to experience a good sense of support and security during the whole process. LTL carriers and 3PL providers care about getting your freight from point A to point B successfully.
Logistics coordinators, carriers, and drivers will take note of special handling needs for all shipments and ensure it is delivered safely to the receiver. They will also offer all information needed for insurance claims or replacement products if an issue were to occur.
Security Features:
- Professional handling by trained drivers and warehouse staff
- Freight inspection at terminals
- Climate-controlled facilities when needed
- Insurance options available
- Comprehensive tracking and visibility
- Proof of delivery documentation
Challenges and Drawbacks of LTL Shipping
With most things, challenges come right along with advantages, and that includes LTL shipping. Understanding these limitations helps you plan accordingly and set realistic expectations.
Longer Transit Times
Because LTL freight stops at multiple terminals for sorting and consolidation, it takes longer than direct FTL shipping. The multiple touchpoints add 1-3 days to transit times compared to direct delivery.
Handling Risk
More handling means more opportunities for damage. Your freight is loaded and unloaded multiple times as it moves through terminals. While carriers take precautions, the risk of damage is higher than FTL shipments that load once and unload once.
Mitigation Strategies:
- Use proper packaging and palletization
- Clearly mark fragile items
- Consider freight insurance
- Use wooden crates for delicate items
- Request special handling for high-value freight
Capacity Constraints
In the past year and a half, an increase in consumer buying has caused an increase in demand for LTL trucks. Recently, it has been hard with driver shortages, lack of capacity, and smaller delivery windows. Many customers are having trouble finding LTL trucks to haul their freight in the time frame they want.
Peak Season Challenges:
- Holiday shipping surges (October-December)
- Back-to-school season (July-August)
- Harvest season in agricultural regions
- Weather-related disruptions
Some companies are having to resort to expedited service in order to get freight delivered in a decent amount of time.
Complex Pricing Structure
LTL pricing is more complicated than parcel or FTL shipping. Freight class determination, accessorial charges, and various surcharges can make it difficult to predict exact costs without experience.
Limited Flexibility
Once freight enters the LTL network, making changes becomes difficult and expensive. Rerouting, delivery appointment changes, or pickup modifications often incur additional fees.
Not Ideal for Extremely Time-Sensitive Freight
If you need guaranteed arrival times or same-day delivery, expedited FTL or air freight may be better options despite higher costs. Standard LTL service offers estimated delivery dates, not guarantees.
Navigating the LTL Market
In order to prevent any unwanted or unexpected fees, you must do research to stay on top of the market or find an expert to help you. Check with your carrier or logistics coordinator if you are unsure how to navigate the current LTL marketplace.
Best Practices:
- Get quotes from multiple carriers or use a 3PL
- Accurately describe freight to avoid reclassification charges
- Understand accessorial charges before shipping
- Build relationships with reliable carriers
- Monitor delivery performance metrics
- Maintain proper packaging standards
- Plan ahead during peak seasons
- Consider LTL contracts for regular shipping
Working with LTL Specialists and 3PLs
What is an LTL Specialist?
An LTL specialist is a professional who focuses on managing less-than-truckload freight operations. These specialists work for carriers, 3PLs, or logistics departments and have deep knowledge of:
- LTL carrier networks and capabilities
- Freight classification and rate negotiation
- Terminal operations and routing
- Industry regulations and best practices
- Claims management and dispute resolution
Benefits of Using a 3PL for LTL
Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) offer significant advantages for companies shipping LTL freight:
Negotiated Rates: 3PLs leverage volume across many customers to negotiate better rates than individual shippers can obtain.
Carrier Selection: Access to multiple carrier options ensures you get the best service for each shipment.
Technology: Advanced TMS (Transportation Management Systems) platforms streamline booking, tracking, and reporting.
Expertise: Experienced coordinators handle classification, documentation, and problem resolution.
Claims Management: 3PLs assist with filing and resolving freight claims when damage occurs.
Capacity Access: During tight capacity markets, 3PLs have better access to available trucks.
LTL Requirements and Delivery Requirements
Standard LTL Shipping Requirements
To ship LTL freight successfully, shippers must meet these basic requirements:
Documentation Requirements:
- Completed and signed bill of lading (BOL)
- Accurate commodity description
- Correct freight class
- Total weight and dimensions
- Shipper and consignee contact information
- Special instructions for accessorial services
Packaging Requirements:
- Freight must be palletized or crated
- Secure banding or stretch wrap
- Labels clearly visible
- Fragile markings when appropriate
- Pallets in good condition
- Maximum individual piece weight: 2,500 lbs
Pickup Requirements:
- Freight ready at agreed pickup time
- Accessible loading area
- Forklift or dock available (or request liftgate)
- BOL ready for driver signature
LTL Delivery Requirements
Successful LTL deliveries require preparation at the receiving location:
Receiver Responsibilities:
- Provide accessible delivery location
- Have unloading equipment ready (or request liftgate)
- Inspect freight before signing delivery receipt
- Note any visible damage on BOL
- Provide delivery signature
- Be available during delivery window
Common Delivery Issues:
- Closed or inaccessible locations incur redelivery fees
- Refused freight without valid reason incurs return charges
- Appointments not honored may result in service failures
Conclusion
LTL shipping is an essential service for businesses that need to move freight that’s too large for parcel carriers but doesn’t require a full truck. Understanding how LTL works, what factors influence pricing, and how to properly prepare your freight ensures smooth, cost-effective shipments.
Whether you’re shipping 1 pallet or 10, LTL offers a flexible, economical solution that balances cost with service. By working with experienced carriers or 3PL providers, you can navigate the complexities of LTL shipping and find the right solution for your freight needs.
Key Takeaways
- LTL stands for “Less-Than-Truckload” and is ideal for shipments 150-15,000 pounds
- LTL is more economical than FTL for smaller shipments but takes longer due to terminal stops
- Proper packaging and accurate freight classification are essential for avoiding extra charges
- Accessorial services like liftgate and residential delivery add to base rates
- Working with a 3PL can provide access to better rates and expert guidance
- LTL freight passes through multiple terminals, requiring 1-5 days for most shipments
ATS Logistics is committed to helping our old, new, and current customers successfully get their LTL shipments delivered to the destination. Reach out to us and check with our experienced coordinators if you have any questions, concerns, or need your LTL freight moved!