What Is LTL Freight?

LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight is a shipment that does not occupy the entire storage space of a truck yet is larger than a small package or parcel. Typically, many separate shipments are transported on a single truck, so LTL shipments are arranged on a pallet and can range from 150 pounds to 10,000 pounds. For perspective, this equals the weight range of a White-Tailed Deer to an Asian Elephant! And, since you pay for space on the truck, LTL freight can be a great choice for businesses on a budget looking for an environmentally friendly shipping option.

What Is the Difference between LTL and FTL Freight?

Compared to LTL freight, where the packages within the truck are from different companies, FTL (Full Truckload) is when the freight on a truck is exclusive to one company. Essentially, the company is filling the truckload. This shipping method is generally used when there are high-risk packages or 10 or more pallets that need to be shipped. These shipments stay on a single truck the entire time and are not transferred from truck to truck while in-route, resulting in shorter transport times but higher costs.

How Many Pallets Are Considered LTL?

LTL shipments are typically between one and six pallets. Pallet size and weight can vary by company, but the standard pallet dimensions are 48” x 40” and, generally, the weight should not exceed 2,500 kilograms.

How Are LTL Freight Rates Calculated?

The rate you pay to ship packages usually depends on the freight company you choose along with a few other factors such as weight, weight rate, density, distance, additional services required, and fuel surcharge if applicable.

When calculating LTL freight rates, the first step is to determine which weight rate to use based on a shipment’s weight. As your shipment weight increases, it moves into the new weight category which has a lower rate per CWT or per hundred pounds. Once you determine your weight rate, divide the total weight by 100 to get your CWT. Finally, take this number and multiply it by the applicable weight rate.

For example: (4200 lbs / 100) x 10.38 (2000 lbs rate) = $435.96

Some companies also have the option for pallet rates, which simplify pricing. This method is based on the amount of skid spots used within a trailer and, like CWT rates, the more pallets shipped, the cheaper it is.

Is LTL Cheaper than UPS?

Package size tends to be limited to around 70-150 pounds or 108 inches with carriers such as UPS. It is common for LTL shipments to be the economical solution and more ideal for regular shipments than UPS if many packages are going to the same destination.

Ship LTL Freight to All 48 Contiguous States with East Coast Transport, LLC

LTL carriers need extensive knowledge of federal regulations for shipping a variety of dry and liquid goods and must ensure that documents are properly filled out every time. When utilizing the right service, such as East Coast Transport, LLC, companies have often realized the significant cost savings of LTL freight.

East Coast Transport, LLC’s dedicated and experienced team is prepared to help deliver on business objectives and your shipments to all 48 contiguous states without any delays.

If you’re interested in working with East Coast Transport, LLC as your LTL freight service provider, please contact us today or call us at 800-257-7877!