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LTL freight shipping is designed for freight that does not require the full space of a truck. Typically, LTL shipments weigh between 150 and 15,000 pounds. This shipping method is ideal for businesses that need to transport smaller, more frequent shipments and want to reduce costs by sharing truck space with other shipments on LTL freight carrier trucks. This freight shipping method is versatile, accommodating various types of goods, including boxed, crated or palletized items. It's particularly beneficial for businesses that have flexible delivery schedules but need a reliable, cost-effective solution for transporting goods without the expense of hiring an entire truck.

LTL shipping offers several benefits, making it a preferred choice for many businesses. Primarily, it is cost-effective because it allows multiple shippers to share space in a single truck and split the transportation costs. LTL also provides flexibility in shipment size and frequency, accommodating businesses that do not have enough goods to fill an entire truck. LTL freight carriers also typically offer tracking services, giving shippers better control over their inventory. Finally, LTL shipping is environmentally friendly, as consolidating shipments reduces the number of trucks on the road, lowering carbon emissions.

The LTL freight process begins with an LTL shipping quote and then moves the collection of goods from different shippers. These goods are then taken to a terminal where they are sorted and consolidated according to their destination. The consolidated LTL shipments are loaded into a truck that makes deliveries across various stops. This method is efficient for distributing smaller shipments economically while ensuring they reach their destinations safely and in a timely manner.

Freight classification is a standardized system created by the NMFTA that categorizes shipments based on factors like density, value, handling and liability. It ensures accurate pricing for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments, helping businesses control costs and avoid billing issues.

Unishippers provides small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) with access to competitive carrier rates, expert guidance and personalized support. With nationwide partnerships and hands-on service, we simplify LTL shipping while saving you time, money and stress.