LTL carriers combine shipments from various customers that have similar routes or destinations. Each customer pays only for the portion of the truck space their freight occupies.

LTL services accommodate shipments typically ranging from 150 pounds to 10,000 pounds. Smaller shipments, like pallets, boxes, or crates, can all be shipped using LTL.

Since the cost of the truck space is shared among multiple customers, LTL shipments are more affordable than Full Truckload (FTL) shipping for smaller deliveries. You pay for the space you use, not for the entire truck.

LTL shipments often involve multiple stops along the way. After pickup, the freight is transferred to sorting hubs or terminals where it is reloaded onto another truck. This transfer process allows carriers to optimize their routes and reduce costs.

Each LTL shipment is assigned a freight class based on its density, towability, handling, and liability. These factors influence the shipping rate. For example, items that are dense and easy to stack tend to be less expensive to ship than items that are bulky and fragile.

LTL services typically offer tracking systems that allow customers to monitor their shipments in real-time. However, due to the frequent transfers of goods, it may be harder to pinpoint exact delivery times.

LTL shipments are handled more than FTL shipments, increasing the risk of damage. It’s crucial to ensure that goods are packaged properly to avoid any issues during transit.