LTL Shipping: Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve ever shipped LTL, you’re likely aware of how complicated and confusing it can sometimes be, especially compared to shipping a full truckload. We’ve compiled a list of some commonly asked questions about the nuances of shipping LTL.

On a basic level, what are some key differences between shipping truckload and shipping LTL?
A huge difference is transit time. LTL shipments take longer – it’s sort of like taking a bus instead of a taxi. There are multiple stops, rather than one direct trip. The cost of shipping LTL is much cheaper, of course, because the shipments are smaller than a full truckload. There are stricter requirements for the details provided when booking the shipment, as well as how the shipment is packaged. LTL carriers provide a different level of service than truckload carriers, in general  – the customer is not able to communicate with the driver, and they have a pre-set schedule that cannot be interrupted. Overall, shipping LTL is just a little less flexible and a little more complicated than shipping truckload.

Why is the insurance coverage different on a spot/volume LTL shipment vs. a standard LTL shipment?
Liability is only $1 per pound on spot/volume LTL shipments because the LTL carriers are giving you a very good price, depending on the capacity available in the lane.  You’re sacrificing liability coverage and transit time for a great deal. This is something to take into consideration when deciding to go with standard LTL services or ship based on a spot quote, as sometimes you will have both options.

What classes/commodities/types of shipments do LTL freight companies absolutely LOVE to ship?
LTL carriers love heavy freight that cannot be easily damaged. This includes bricks, stone, sand, pet food, and other dense commodities. It also depends on the shipper and consignee – they love being able to deliver dock to dock. Anything that requires extra time for the driver (prisons, schools, churches, residents, ports, grocery warehouses, etc.) will likely result in a higher rate, as the carriers do not want to be held up at all. The more freight they get on and off the truck, the more money they make – so understandably, they want to go in, get loaded (or unloaded), and get out.

Why is my LTL freight class so high?! 
There could be a few factors that contribute to this. Does your LTL freight have a high value? Is the commodity light and bulky or easily damageable? Does the packaging make it more vulnerable? All of these aspects can drive up your freight class. The one aspect you have control over is your packaging. Products should be crated or boxed to be protected from other freight on the truck, and it also helps the carrier move your freight around easily when they’re at their terminals.

Why don’t I get two hours of free time to load and unload my LTL shipments?
While a truckload carrier has to worry about loading and unloading your shipment only, LTL carriers have a lot of freight to pick up and deliver in a day.  Wait time costs the LTL carriers both time and money, and pushes back all their other appointments.  It’s vital for them to stay on schedule.

What does interline mean?
Interline means that the LTL freight company has a partner carrier that services an area that they do not go into.  Instead of the LTL carrier denying service in that area, they hire another carrier to pick up freight or deliver freight to those areas.

Hopefully some of the things you’ve wondered about shipping LTL have been cleared up! Did we miss a question that you’re been perplexed about? If so, leave a comment below and we will get back to you with the answer! Don’t forget that you can request an LTL quote right here on our website. Let us help you wade through the confusing and sometimes frustrating process using LTL services – we’ll make it a breeze!