When shipping doesn’t fill an entire trailer, businesses face a critical choice. Do you pay for empty space or find a smarter solution? Less-than-truckload shipping has emerged as the answer for countless companies across North America.
This method allows multiple shippers to share trailer space, creating cost efficiency without compromising service quality. The logistics landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years. E-commerce growth, lean inventory practices, and supply chain optimization have made LTL shipping more relevant than ever.
What Makes LTL Shipping the Right Choice for Your Business?
LTL trucking companies specialize in consolidating shipments from multiple customers into single trailers. This shared-space model creates significant advantages for businesses shipping between 150 pounds and 15,000 pounds of freight.
Key benefits of choosing LTL shipping include:
- Cost savings – You only pay for the space your freight occupies, not the entire trailer
- Flexible scheduling – Accommodates businesses with varying shipping volumes throughout the year
- Professional handling – Access to established networks of terminals and distribution centers
- Reduced environmental impact – Shared trailer space means fewer trucks on the road
- Additional services – Options for liftgate delivery, inside pickup, and real-time tracking
The financial benefits are substantial for small and medium-sized businesses. Instead of paying for an entire trailer, you share costs with other shippers. This approach dramatically reduces transportation expenses, especially for companies without regular large-volume shipments.
LTL shipping companies have developed sophisticated networks across North America. These hubs enable efficient freight movement while maintaining competitive pricing structures. The infrastructure allows businesses to access professional freight services without the burden of commissioning full trailers.
How Does the LTL Process Actually Work?
The journey begins with freight pickup from your facility. Trucks collect shipments from multiple businesses within a geographic area, maximizing efficiency from the start. Your freight then travels to a local terminal where it undergoes initial consolidation.
From the local terminal, freight moves to regional hubs strategically positioned across the continent. These hubs serve as sorting centers where shipments are reorganized based on final destinations. The consolidation process ensures trucks operate at optimal capacity, reducing fuel consumption.
Long-haul transportation connects major hubs, with freight traveling alongside shipments from various origins. Upon reaching the destination hub, the process reverses. Freight is sorted again and distributed to local terminals near final delivery points. Local trucks then complete the final delivery leg.
When Should Your Business Consider LTL Over Full Truckload?
Size matters in freight transportation decisions. If your shipment doesn’t exceed 15,000 pounds or fill more than 12 linear feet of trailer space, LTL becomes the economically sensible choice.
LTL shipping services work best in these scenarios:
- Shipments consisting of 1 to 6 pallets
- Freight weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds
- Deliveries with flexible timelines allowing 2-5 business days
- Non-fragile items that withstand standard handling
- Regular shipments to multiple destinations
- Businesses without dedicated transportation fleets
Timing flexibility provides another key consideration. LTL typically requires longer transit times due to multiple stops and consolidation processes. If your delivery timeline allows for these additional touch points, the cost savings often justify the extended schedule.
Freight characteristics also influence the decision. Palletized shipments offer added protection during transit and simplify loading procedures. Proper packaging becomes essential, as freight will undergo handling at multiple terminals throughout its journey.
What Factors Influence Your LTL Shipping Costs?
Distance between pickup and delivery locations forms the foundation of rate calculations. However, LTL trucking services pricing extends beyond simple mileage. Freight classification plays a crucial role in determining your final costs.
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association establishes 18 classes based on several factors. Density measures weight per cubic foot. Stowability considers how easily freight fits with other shipments. Handling requirements assess loading and unloading complexity. Liability accounts for damage or theft risk.
Accurate measurements are non-negotiable. Both weight and dimensions determine the space your freight occupies, directly impacting costs. Dimensional weight calculations ensure fair pricing for large but lightweight items.
Special handling requirements add to base rates. Liftgate services, inside delivery, temperature control, and expedited shipping all carry additional fees. LTL transportation companies structure these accessorial charges transparently, allowing businesses to select only the services they truly need.
How Can You Optimize Your LTL Shipping Strategy?
Packaging excellence reduces damage risk and potential reclassification fees. Load heavier items on pallet bottoms to maintain stability during transit. Shrink wrap provides additional security, keeping items together throughout multiple handling points.
Clear labeling on pallet sides ensures proper routing and minimizes delays at sorting facilities. Place labels where they’re easily visible to terminal workers. Include all relevant information such as destination, handling instructions, and shipment identification numbers.
Documentation accuracy prevents costly mistakes. The bill of lading serves as your contract with the transportation provider, detailing freight contents, classifications, and special instructions. Errors in documentation can lead to additional charges or delivery delays.
Strategic planning amplifies LTL benefits. Consolidating multiple small shipments into larger ones when possible can improve your freight class rating. Choosing standard pallet sizes avoids wasted space and unnecessary dimensional charges. Regular performance monitoring helps identify reliable partners.
Why Choose MGA International for Your LTL Transportation Needs?
MGA International combines over 25 years of logistics expertise with an extensive network spanning Canada and the United States. As a comprehensive transportation and logistics provider, we offer cross-border door-to-door delivery through LTL, FTL, flatbed services, and freight management solutions.
Our access to highly-skilled drivers and meticulously maintained vehicles has secured our place among the leading LTL trucking companies on the continent. We understand that every shipment represents your business reputation. Our experienced logistics team works closely with clients to develop customized solutions.
Cross-border expertise sets us apart in the North American market. We handle all documentation, customs compliance, and regulatory requirements seamlessly. Our truck-to-rail intermodal services provide eco-friendly alternatives while maintaining competitive transit times.
As one of the fastest-growing and most reliable entities in the transportation and logistics sector, MGA International delivers safe, cost-effective transportation experiences for all cargo types. Whether you’re shipping domestically or across borders, our proven track record ensures your freight arrives safely and on schedule.
Ready to optimize your shipping strategy? Contact MGA International today for a free, no-obligation quote and discover how our LTL solutions can reduce costs while maintaining the service quality your business demands.
