When to Use LTL Shipping

18 May 2021 Freight Shipping

When it comes to shipping products for your business, it can be difficult to determine which method is best. Each method offers a distinct set of advantages and disadvantages based on the size of your business and what you are shipping. Knowing when to use a shipping method is crucial for optimizing value and efficiency. For most businesses, LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping offers a great balance of cost-effectiveness and speed. At C&D Logistics, we strive to help businesses select the best freight logistics service for their unique needs. That is why we have compiled some important information on when to use LTL shipping and how it can benefit businesses of all sizes.

Learn about how businesses benefit from LTL shipping.

What is LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is the transportation of products and goods that do not require a full truckload. If a business is shipping a few large boxes or a single pallet of goods, these items can be combined with shipments from other businesses on a single truck. LTL shipping is typically more cost-effective and flexible, making it a great choice for small or medium-sized businesses. A drawback is that shipments will often take a bit longer to arrive at their destination, making LTL a poor choice for rush shipments or time-sensitive parcels.

When Should LTL Shipping be Used?

LTL shipping is a great option if you are:

Shipping Small Parcels

If you are shipping anything from a few large boxes to a few pallets, you can benefit from LTL shipping. Though the shipment will have a few more stops and take a bit longer to arrive, the cost savings are often well worth the wait. If your shipments are planned and scheduled well in advance, these delays can be accounted for and will not be a problem.

Using Sturdy Packaging

One drawback to LTL shipping is that more fragile items can become damaged during handling on the truck or when placed with other goods. Depending on the route the driver takes, packages may be loaded and unloaded multiple times, increasing the risk of damage. If you are using LTL shipping, it is a good idea to ensure that all items are well-packaged to minimize the risk of damage.

Looking to Save Money

LTL shipping offers significant cost savings compared to many other methods of shipping. As your shipment is not using the entire truck trailer, you only need to pay for the space (and weight) that you are using. This means that you only pay a fraction of what FTL (Full Truckload) shipping costs.

For more information on LTL shipping and other logistics solutions, get in touch with our team. C&D Logistics can be reached at 604-881-4440 and will be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your needs.