While less common than LTL and FTL shipments, shipping mid-sized freight domestically can be advantageous when moving goods by truck. Mid-sized cargo is the type of shipment between LTL (less-than-truckload) and FTL (full truckload) shipments. In particular, the trucking industry describes this as goods greater than five pallets and between 10 and 28 feet. Domestic transport further separates mid-sized into PTL (Partial truckload) and volume LTL (volume-less-than-truckload). PTLs are usually between eight and 18 pallets weighing 8,000 to 27,500 lbs. Similarly, volume LTLs typically weigh over 5000 lbs., have six or more pallets, and occupy more than 12 container feet. This article will explain what to understand when shipping mid-sized freight and describe its drawbacks and benefits.
What Should You Know When Shipping Mid-Size Freight Domestically?
When shipping mid-sized freight, a shipper must decide if PTL or volume LTL is ideal for their shipment. A primary difference between the two types is that Volume LTL requires a freight class while PTL does not. Freight class is a shipping industry standard for grouping cargo developed by the NMFTA (National Motor Freight Traffic Association). Used for interstate, intrastate, and international transport, shippers use classes to determine rates. PTLs determine rates based on the weight, mileage, linear space, and shipment lane. Another difference is the loading process. For volume LTLs, local carriers pick up the cargo and ship it to a regional hub. They then move it to the final destination based on the location and available space.
Carriers combine the shipment with other shipments for partial truckloads before shipping it to the destination as a full load. Due to this, the delivery time can differ vastly between the two methods. PTLs can take quicker since they’re more predictable, and cargo usually goes directly to the final location. Volume LTLs may take longer since the carrier may make multiple stops at its convenience. Understanding what to expect and knowing your goals when deciding on a method is essential. For example, PTLs are ideal if a shipper prioritizes speed, while volume LTLs benefit shippers looking for cost savings.
Using Shared Truckloads
Another method that shippers can utilize for mid-sized freight without having to deal with the drawbacks of PTLs and Volume LTLs is using shared truckloads. An STL (shared truckload) is when multiple shipments from different shippers go into one truckload. STLs benefit the shipper since it lowers the chance of cargo damage while streamlining the delivery process. The likelihood of cargo damage lessens since it doesn’t have to go through terminals, meaning less handling. STLs are also less costly since shippers only pay for the space that their goods occupy. They also benefit the environment since sharing a truckload means fewer trucks are on the road, releasing carbon dioxide.
Whether you’re shipping mid-sized or other-sized freight, it is essential to find carriers that can handle your shipment. You can do this by speaking to a freight broker, who is the middleman between the shipper and the trucker. A1 Worldwide Logistics has freight brokers specializing in transporting cargo regardless of size, volume, or weight. We do this by contacting a network of carriers ready to transport freight anywhere in the U.S. Speak to our brokers at info@a1fsinc.com or 786-375-9420 to learn about our numerous solutions for moving your goods domestically. In addition to transporting mid-size cargo, these include FTL, LTL, expedited, temperature-controlled, heavy haul, and more.