An essential consideration for smaller-scale companies is the LTL benefits for small businesses that require freight transport. Businesses have used trucking for over a century to move cargo to the next or final destination. The importance grew over time, and new, smaller businesses began seeing the upside, mainly using LTL (less than truckload) services to ship domestically. The advantages of LTL shipping are especially significant in today’s competitive market, where optimization is crucial for survival. This article will explain how smaller companies benefit from LTL transport and how you can get started.
What Is LTL Shipping And How Does It Differ from FTL
LTL shipping is a type of domestic transport that requires less cargo space than the entire carrier. Instead of using the whole container, shippers use a portion, usually one to six pallets. LTL shipments also tend to weigh between 150 lbs. and 10,000 lbs. FTL (full truckload) differs from LTL since the shipment fills up the entire trailer. They also differ in the number of stops each method usually makes. Carriers typically haul LTL loads together in one container, meaning that there could be multiple stops. FTL shipments may go from the point of origin to the final destination without stopping.
What are LTL Benefits For Small Businesses
Some of the primary benefits that LTL shipping has for small business include:
- Less Costs – As mentioned, LTL carriers carry loads together in one container. The result is that the truck only charges the shipper for the space that their shipment utilizes. This can benefit small businesses, which typically have less volume for an FTL. Small companies also save money by shipping their products in one truck that can make multiple stops.
- More Delivery Options – Compared to regular trucking companies, LTL companies tend to have more shipping options. For example, the size of LTL shipments allows limited access services for hard-to-reach locations. LTLs also allow for other possibilities like liftgates, customer delivery windows, expedited services, and more.
- Flexibility – Another benefit of LTL shipping is its flexibility and scalability. Not needing an entire container allows a company to adjust its shipment volumes to reach its goals. In the long run, shippers can keep their scale up while keeping costs low.
- More Safety – Due to their size, LTL shipments are typically loaded into pallets or crates compared to smaller units using an entire container. The result is a decrease in the chances of damage and wear-and-tear from touching other freight.
- Greater Eco-friendliness – Consolidating smaller shipments into one truck allows for a more environmentally-friendly supply chain. The decrease in the amount of fuel and trucks that a company uses dramatically reduces its carbon footprint.
How Can You Get Started?
With the numerous advantages LTL shipping has, it may be attractive to begin, especially for smaller businesses. However, the shipper must take the proper steps beforehand, including finding a suitable carrier. Shippers can do this by using the assistance of a freight broker. Brokers have a network of trusted carriers that can move your cargo anywhere in the U.S. This saves the shipper the time it takes to find a trucker and lets them focus on other parts of their business. Reach A1 Freight Solutions at 786-375-9420 or info@a1fsinc.com to speak to a broker regarding your cargo’s movement. Whether it’s LTL, FTL, or another type of shipping, we have solutions to help you meet your goals.