Building a strong supply chain hinges on striking the right balance between cost and efficiency. Finding this balance can be particularly challenging when it comes to shipping. Conventional shipping methods often lead to wastage and inflated costs, especially if you’re not using the entire trailer for every shipment.
If this problem sounds familiar, you may benefit from using less-than-truckload freight shipping services. LTL offers a cost-effective solution for companies that ship smaller quantities of goods. Learn more about LTL freight services, their benefits, and how they could help you optimize your shipping budget.
What Is Less-Than-Truckload Freight?
Less-than-truckload freight shipping is a transportation service designed for shipments that don’t fill an entire trailer. LTL carriers consolidate freight from multiple businesses into a single trailer, maximizing shipping space and spreading transportation costs to several users.
Here’s how it works:
- LTL freight typically ships on pallets, making it ideal for goods that are too large or heavy for traditional parcel delivery services but don’t need an entire dedicated semi-truck trailer.
- Multiple LTL shipments from different companies are loaded onto one truck, with each business paying for the space their freight occupies in the trailer.
- LTL carriers use a network of terminals to sort and consolidate freight as it moves to its final destination. Using a nationwide network ensures the shipment reaches its destination quickly and cost-effectively.
Less-than-truckload freight services can handle a range of shipment sizes and weight capacities, so it’s a good option for various freight needs.
The Benefits of LTL Freight
The most obvious benefit of LTL freight is the cost savings. Using LTL services means you only pay for the space your shipment occupies on a trailer instead of the entire trailer. It’s ideal for businesses that don’t have enough freight to justify the expense of having a dedicated truck.
But the advantages extend far beyond savings. There are other key benefits of choosing less-than-truckload freight services for your business.
Flexibility
LTL can accommodate a wide range of shipment sizes and weight capacities, especially compared to traditional parcel delivery services. That means you can ship what you need, when you need it, without worrying about filling an entire trailer.
National Coverage
LTL carriers work with large networks of carriers across the United States. They’ll be able to get your shipment to almost any destination. That means you can reach new markets and expand your customer base without worrying about the logistics.
Convenience
LTL carriers handle more than just transportation, including pickup, scheduling, and tracking. Using their services can free up your time and internal resources to focus on other aspects of your business.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
By consolidating smaller freight loads onto a single truck, using LTL services reduces the environmental impact of having more vehicles on the road. It’s a more environmentally friendly shipping solution you and your customers can feel good about.
Scalability
As your business grows, your shipping needs will increase. LRL freight can scale with you. If you outgrow LTL services, your carrier can seamlessly transition you to a new shipping method.
Let BLS Find the Right Service for Your Shipment
Beitler Logistics Services offers a range of LTL freight services to ensure we find the perfect solution for your needs. Our experienced team will work with you to understand your freight needs and then find the most cost-effective LTL options. We use our extensive carrier network to ship your freight anywhere in the country, ensuring it arrives safely and on time. With competitive rates, you’ll get the best value for every mile.
Contact BLS today to learn more about LTL freight and get a quote on your shipping needs. Let’s work together to streamline your supply chain and reduce shipping costs.