The logistics and transportation industry relies on efficient freight shipping methods to move goods across the country. One common shipping option is LTL freight, but what exactly does LTL mean, and how does it work?
In this guide, we’ll explain the meaning of LTL shipping, how it differs from other freight methods, and why businesses choose LTL trucking for cost-effective and reliable transportation.
What Does LTL Mean in Freight Shipping?
LTL stands for “Less-Than-Truckload.” This means that instead of shipping a full truckload (FTL) of goods, a shipment only occupies a portion of a truck’s capacity.
LTL freight carriers consolidate multiple smaller shipments from different companies into one truckload, allowing businesses to ship smaller quantities of goods while only paying for the space they use.
How Does LTL Shipping Work?
Key Aspects of LTL Freight:
- Shared truck space: A single truck carries shipments from multiple shippers.
- Freight class and weight-based pricing: LTL shipping rates depend on weight, size, distance, and freight classification.
- Hub-and-spoke distribution model: Shipments pass through regional terminals before reaching the final destination.
- Freight consolidation: Goods are grouped efficiently to reduce transportation costs.
This method is ideal for companies that don’t require an entire truck but still need secure and efficient transportation.
LTL vs. FTL: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) | FTL (Full Truckload) |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment Size | Small to medium-sized loads | Large shipments |
| Truck Capacity Usage | Shared with other shipments | Entire truck used by one shipment |
| Cost | More affordable for small loads | Higher cost for exclusive use |
| Transit Time | May take longer due to multiple stops | Faster direct delivery |
| Ideal For | Small businesses, partial shipments | Large-volume shipments |
LTL trucking is perfect for businesses looking for an affordable, flexible option without needing to pay for an entire truck.
Benefits of LTL Shipping
Cost Savings
Increased Flexibility
Reliable & Secure
Environmentally Friendly
When Should You Choose LTL Shipping?
LTL shipping is ideal for:
Small to medium-sized shipments that don’t require a full truck Businesses looking to save money on transportation costs Freight that is too large for parcel shipping but too small for FTL Companies with flexible delivery timelines
If your business needs cost-effective and reliable refrigerated shipping, Arctic Transportation provides LTL reefer trucking for temperature-sensitive goods.
How Arctic Transportation Supports LTL Freight Shipping
At Arctic Transportation, we specialize in reliable, temperature-controlled LTL freight services. Whether you’re shipping perishable food, pharmaceuticals, or sensitive materials, we ensure that your cargo remains fresh, safe, and compliant.
Why Choose Arctic Transportation for LTL Shipping?
Efficient consolidation and routing to save costs Temperature-controlled LTL services for refrigerated goods Experienced drivers and freight handling specialists Compliance with all cold chain logistics regulations
Looking for a dependable LTL reefer carrier? Get in touch with Arctic Transportation today.
