what is ltl shipping

Less-than-truckload shipping (LTL) is a shipping method used for transporting an amount of freight that is larger than a parcel but smaller than a full truckload. LTL shipments are usually arranged on pallets and range anywhere from 150 pounds to 15,000 pounds. When shipping LTL, the shipper pays for the portion of a standard truck trailer their freight occupies, while other shippers and their shipments fill the unoccupied space. LTL carriers prefer to handle shipments with the fewest handling units possible, such as one pallet containing many boxes shrink-wrapped to form one piece, to reduce handling costs and the risk of damage during transit. The per-pound rates of LTL carriers are typically less than the per-pound rates of parcel carriers. LTL freight is most widely used for shipping freight packages between 150 pounds and 15,000 pounds which don’t need a full trailer. Some benefits of LTL shipping include reduced costs, increased security, and additional service options.