When shipping goods, you want your items to be safe and secure during transit — and you also want to know you are getting a fair rate.
If your shipment is a small load, what is the best way to transport your items? In this case, LTL transportation is the solution for your shipping needs.
In this blog post, we discuss how LTL shipping can benefit you and what you can expect from the process.
Defining LTL Transportation
LTL stands for “less-than-truckload.” It’s a shipping method for when the size or quantity of goods requires less truck space than a full load. LTL shipments typically weigh between 150 and 15,000 pounds.
LTL transportation may be ideal for e-commerce companies looking to transport bulk orders. Shipping your items using LTL can enhance efficiency and reduce costs by allowing multiple shipments to be transported in the same truck.
Benefits of LTL Transportation
How can LTL shipping benefit your business? Let’s take a look at the advantages.
Cost Effective
When you choose LTL shipping, you may have the option to share truck space with other shipments. That’s because your goods only take up part of the available room in the truck instead of the full truckload.
Safe Handling
Small loads of goods may be secured to pallets to increase safety during transit. This reduces the risk of damage because carriers may need to handle your items less often.
Sustainability
LTL shipping optimizes truck capacity, which minimizes the number of trucks on the road. By sharing truck space with other shipments, LTL transportation helps reduce fuel consumption, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and lessens the overall carbon footprint.
Factors for LTL Shipping Costs
Several factors determine the rate for LTL transportation. Let’s explore each one.
Weight
Carriers may have weight breaks and size restrictions for shipments. If a load exceeds a certain threshold, that can raise the price.
Freight Class
A shipment’s freight class is determined by the specifications, such as:
- Density: What is the size and weight?
- Storage ability: Is it difficult to store?
- Handling: Is special handling needed?
- Liability: Is it perishable or fragile?
A logistics carrier can help you decide what your shipment needs and find the most competitive rate.
Distance
Where is the shipment being picked up and delivered? A carrier may have pricing structures based on distance zones or specific routes. A longer distance may require a higher shipping cost.
Carriers typically have pricing structures based on distance zones or specific routes. Longer distances generally result in higher transportation costs.
LTL Transportation at Beitler Logistics
At Beitler Logistics, our team of experts has first-hand experience with origin and destination sets, freight classes, and weight break ratings. This information helps us find the carrier with the best rate to meet the specific needs of your shipment.
The BLS team is here to handle the work for you. You can count on us to help by:
- Obtaining LTL quotes
- Managing the freight transportation process
- Providing up-to-date tracking information
- Servicing your unique needs
Are you looking for multiple shipment options, competitive pricing, and to protect yourself from shipment liability? BLS is here to help you make it all happen. We work with the shipment requirements to find you the best service options at a reasonable price.
Get a quote today for your LTL transportation needs or any other type of shipment.