In the world of logistics and transportation, efficiency is paramount.

This is where Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping comes into play.

When it comes to moving goods, companies are always seeking cost-effective ways to transport products from point A to point B. LTL shipping is a crucial component of the transportation industry, designed to accommodate smaller loads and maximize efficiency. In this article, we’ll delve into what LTL shipping is and explore the requirements of an LTL load.

What is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is a freight transportation method that caters to shipments that do not require an entire truck trailer for transportation. Instead of dedicating an entire truck to a single shipment, LTL shipping consolidates multiple smaller shipments from different customers into a single trailer. This approach optimizes space and reduces costs, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses with smaller loads.

Requirements of an LTL Load:

To utilize LTL shipping effectively, shippers must understand the requirements for this method:

1. Smaller Shipments: LTL is best suited for shipments that do not fill an entire truck. Generally, shipments weighing between 150 to 15,000 pounds (68 to 6,804 kilograms) qualify for LTL shipping. These shipments are often too large for parcel carriers but not large enough to justify a full truckload.
2. Palletization: LTL shipments are typically palletized or crated. Palletization helps protect the goods during transit, facilitates easy loading and unloading, and ensures efficient use of trailer space.
3. Proper Packaging: Items within an LTL shipment must be adequately packaged to withstand the rigors of transportation. Proper packaging reduces the risk of damage during transit and is essential to prevent damage to other cargo in the trailer.
4. Accurate Weight and Dimensions: Shippers must provide accurate weight and dimensional information for their shipments. This information is crucial for carriers to determine pricing and to ensure that the cargo can be safely loaded and transported alongside other LTL shipments.
5. Labeled and Documented: Each shipment in an LTL load should be clearly labeled with shipping and delivery addresses, tracking numbers, and other relevant information. Proper documentation, such as bills of lading and shipping manifests, is essential for smooth handling and tracking.
6. Freight Class: LTL shipments are assigned a freight class based on factors like weight, dimensions, and the nature of the goods. This class determines the shipping rates, so accurate classification is vital.

Have more questions about your LTL loads? Get in touch with us and our LTL advisor can answer any other questions or concerns you might have.

Happy Shipping!