Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is a type of trucking service where your shipment shares space on a truck with other shipments. This is in contrast to full truckload (FTL), where you would have an entire truck to yourself. LTL shipping is often used for smaller shipments that are not large enough to fill an entire truck. It’s also used when time is not as critical as it would be for FTL shipping. If you’re considering using LTL shipping for your next shipment, here’s what you need to know about this type of service.
How is LTL shipping different from full truckload (FTL) shipping?
LTL shipping is a type of freight transportation that is used to ship smaller shipments that weigh less than 10,000 pounds. LTL shipments are typically palletized and shipped on trucks that have multiple compartments for different types of freight. Full truckload (FTL) shipping is a type of freight transportation that is used to ship larger shipments that weigh more than 20,000 pounds.
FTL shipments are typically not palletized and are shipped on trucks that have a single compartment for all types of freight. When you ship LTL, your goods are consolidated with other shippers’ freight on the same route, which helps to keep costs down.
Advantages of LTL shipping
There are many transportation options available for businesses shipping products, and each has it’s advantages. Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a popular option for businesses that don’t have enough product to fill an entire truck, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons of LTL shipping before making a decision.
Advantages of LTL Shipping:
1. Cost-effective – LTL shipping is typically less expensive than shipping via full truckload (FTL). This is because you’re only paying for the space you use in the truck, rather than renting an entire truck.
2. Flexible – LTL shipments can be scheduled more flexibly than FTL shipments. This can be helpful if you need to ship smaller quantities more frequently.
3. Less paperwork – Because LTL shipments are typically smaller in size, there is less paperwork involved with arranging and tracking the shipment.
When is LTL shipping the best option?
There are a few key factors to consider when trying to decide whether less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is the best option for your needs. First, you need to think about the specific items you are looking to ship. If you are shipping large or bulky items that wouldn’t fit well on a traditional parcel delivery truck, then LTL shipping is likely your best bet. Additionally, if you are shipping a high volume of smaller items, LTL shipping can also be a good option since it allows you to consolidate your shipments into one larger shipment.
Finally, you’ll need to consider shipping timeframes and distances. LTL shipments typically take a bit longer to arrive than parcel deliveries, so if you need your items to arrive quickly, it might not be the best option. However, if you’re not in a rush and are willing to trade off some speed for cost savings, LTL shipping can be a great option.
Conclusion
Less than truckload, or LTL, is a type of freight shipping that involves sending smaller shipments that don’t require an entire truck. This type of shipping is often used for businesses that only need to ship small orders regularly. While LTL can be more expensive than shipping by the truckload, it can be a more cost-effective option for businesses that don’t have large shipments to send. Whether it is FTL or LTL we have got you covered, Stream Logistics provides quality services at competitive prices.
