If you’ve got inventory that needs to move from storage to a fulfillment center or warehouse so you can get it to your customers, you might be looking into LTL freight to make that transfer happen. LTL freight is for shipments that take up Less Than Truckload (hence the LTL) so there’s room on the trailer for multiple shipments. Your palette is eligible for LTL shipping if it weighs between 100 and 10,000 pounds, doesn’t require special care (like for fragile items) and you don’t mind the truck making extra stops to pick up other shipments.
If you’re considering using LTL freight, take a look at the process to gain a better understanding so you can make the best choice for your company.
LTL Freight - Calculate the cost
One of the major benefits of using LTL shipping is the cost. You’ll be sharing the cost of the truck with the other businesses that are also sending shipments.
There are several factors that determine the final cost. First is the amount of space your shipment takes up. If your shipment is the size of a 1/3 of the truck, your shipment may cost less. The other big factor is weight. So if your shipment is very heavy, you’ll probably pay more. Last is the location. The further your shipment must travel, the more you’ll pay.
LTL Freight - Preparing the shipment
Once you have freight for your shipment, you’ll need to ready the shipment. First, you’ll need to figure out the dimensions of your palette. Take accurate measurements, being sure to round up to the nearest inch. If you send inaccurate dimensions to the carrier, it could throw off the whole shipment, not to mention cost you more money.
Next, you’ll need all the proper documentation. Be sure to accurately complete the bill of lading. This will be like the receipt for whatever goods you are shipping.
Make sure all items are securely packaged. When loading your palette, place heavy items at the bottom to prevent collapse. Labels should be placed on the sides of the packages for easy access.
LTL Shipping
Palettes are loaded via forklift onto the truck. Since you’ll be sharing a truck with other shipments, your shipment may not be the first to be loaded or the last.
LTL freights sometimes need to make multiple stops, depending on their other shipments. It’s possible your shipment won’t be going directly to its end location, but this all depends on the other shipments
Some LTL freight make stops at transfer centers while others head straight for the new warehouse or fulfillment center in the shipping region. At American Manufacturing Solutions, we’re LTL shipping experts, so we can walk you through the process and help you decide if LTL shipping is the best choice for your company. Our logistics experts can take the frustration out of your shipping needs so you can focus on growing your business. For more information about our LTL Freight services, please contact us today!
