There are many different shipping methods, and many of these methods are denoted via a convenient acronym. LTL is one of the most popular carriers for shipping goods and products. What is LTL? What should companies know before they commit to shipping with an LTL carrier?
Lighthouse Logistics wants every potential client to understand each available shipping method. Education is power, and logistics knowledge helps companies make the best shipping carrier choices for their budget, bottom line, and timeline. Buckle up and prepare to jump in the driver's seat in a logistical course all about LTL!
Table of Contents:
What Does LTL Stand for in Shipping?
What are LTL Carriers?
LTL vs FTL
What Labels Should Go On LTL?
How to Calculate LTL Freight Weights
What are the Top LTL Carriers
FAQ: Common Questions about LTL
Synopsis:
LTL freight or LTL shipping denotes less than truckload. This term refers to smaller shipments that don't require a full semi truck for freight movement. LTL is one of the more popular types of carriers in the logistics industry.
What Does LTL Stand for in Shipping?
LTL means less-than-truckload, which refers to any shipment that does not require a full semi truck to haul the freight. Instead, smaller loads from numerous companies (or clients) share the space within a semi or truck.
LTL is an ideal option for companies and businesses that only need to ship a small number of pallets, packages, or items. As numerous shipments are included in the freight haul, LTL allows the shipping cost to be split between each customer. LTL is an affordable shipping strategy for companies that don't need the full shipping space of a semi-trailer.
What are LTL Carriers?
LTL carriers are companies that provide LTL shipping services. These companies enable businesses to send small shipments, sharing the shipping space and cost with other companies. LTL is more affordable and convenient. When shipping via LTL, prices vary based on the shipment weight and the delivery timeline. Expedited shipping services require a higher fee.
There are numerous companies focused on LTL shipping. The largest LTL carrier in the United States is FedEx!
LTL vs FTL
Less than truckload carriers enable multiple companies or shipments to share the same cargo space (and save money). FTL refers to a full truckload. This shipping option dedicates a truck's cargo space to one company's shipments. Some major companies have their carriers; many consumers notice semi trucks with Walmart's brand on the side; food manufacturers also have trucks for shipping products.
Companies that do not have a dedicated fleet need to procure FTL shipping. In addition, companies whose cargo exceeds LTL weights will need to upgrade to FTL. However, there are major benefits when larger shipments require FTL.
Since the whole truck is dedicated to a single customer (or shipper), there are no concerns about products being delivered to the wrong location or mixing into other shipments. FTL is faster, too. When the entire shipment is only for one company, that company's delivery times are the sole priority for the driver.
Can Customers Opt for Expedited LTL?
Shipping rates increase by the shipment weight and by the delivery expectations. Clients who need their shipments delivered in an expedited time frame pay more than the standard shipping. Can customers opt for expedited LTL? Of course!
Remember, the largest LTL carrier is FedEx. Most consumers know that FedEx can expedite deliveries in a very short time–sometimes same-day. These rapid delivery times, though, require a higher budget. However, companies who are in a crunch can opt for their shipment to be expedited. Each carrier's price range varies, and the Lighthouse team will show customers all their options.
What Labels Should Go On LTL?
Using the right shipping label is necessary to ensure proper delivery when shipping via LTL. However, when clients use Lighthouse Logistics to manage their shipping needs, our team knows how every shipment must be labeled and handled to facilitate a smooth handoff through every step of the journey.
How to Calculate LTL Freight Weights
Shipment weight impacts the price. LTL shipments have minimum and maximum weight loads. The minimum weight is 100 pounds, and the maximum is 10,000 pounds. However, weight classes and minimum/maximum weights also could differ by carrier.
Customers shouldn't worry about calculating the cost of LTL. The Lighthouse team provides clients with different LTL shipping options to help them understand the available rates and shipping carrier choices.
What are the Top LTL Carriers?
Transport Topics reports that the top five LTL carriers are FedEx, Old Dominion., XPO, Estes, and TForce. However, FedEx is the dominant carrier.
While these carriers are the most successful, each region has many smaller niche LTL carriers. Lighthouse Logistics reviews rates and the carrier's reputation to help clients find the best shipping carrier. We help clients understand price differences and each carrier's history of delivering what they promise.
FAQ: Common Questions about LTL
How much does LTL shipping cost?
LTL prices depend on the shipment's weight, class and the transit time. Expedited shipments cost more.
What is a less-than-truckload carrier?
Less than truckload carriers combine shipments for various companies into one load. FedEx is the largest LTL carrier in the country.
What is LTL ground freight shipping?
Ground freight refers to shipments moved via truckload. LTL ground freight moves shipments via semi and combines multiple clients' shipments in one load.
What is involved in scheduling LTL freight?
When clients work with Lighthouse Logistics, the team manages all the shipment details.
How fast is LTL freight?
LTL shipments can be expedited; Lighthouse works with clients to ensure shipments are prioritized and to meet tight deadlines.
Comments