What is LTL Shipping? Frequently Asked Questions about Less Than Truckload

Author: James Spurt
What exactly is LTL freight shipping?

If you ship or receive merchandise in small batches, ie a few pallets or a few packages, then you have surely already used this service. This is a transport service corresponding to a "Less-than- Truck Load" load (hence the acronym LTL), which means "less than a full truck". The term "transport of partial loads", "transport of broken lots" or "groupage" is also used, although the term transport LTL is generally preferred.

How it is different from other types of shipping?

This type of transport is often competed with the courier service, ideal if you have a single package. However, you will need to use LTL transport:

  • If your shipment exceeds the weight-to-volume ratio requirements for messaging

  • If courier charges become really expensive compared to LTL.

Do I get the flexibility of shipping with LTL?

Flexibility in your shipping and delivery dates: you can plan your pick-up and delivery dates according to your needs. Your carrier will often offer temporary storage of your goods before final shipment to the agreed destination. LTL transport is thus the ideal solution for small businesses in the "just in time" management of their shipments.

Is there anything I should know before planning LTL freight shipping?

You must plan your shipments and deliveries by LTL transport in a judicious manner and use the service of a transportation company that has a tracking or tracing system for its vehicles so that you can be informed, at all times, of the position of your goods.

What are the possible services I can get with a LTL shipment?

If you have specific truck needs, the LTL freight services in Canada can pick up and deliver your goods with different vehicles:

  • Truck with hatchback (if you do not have a loading or delivery dock),

  • Refrigerated trucks for perishable goods

  • Heated trucks for frost protection (useful in winter in Quebec)

  • Special trucks for residential deliveries

How does pricing for LTL freight compares with truckload (TL) shipping?

LTL pricing is based on the space you had liked to occupy on the truck, the freight class, its weight, as well as the pickup and delivery destination. LTL is believed to be an economic alternative as the shipper will only pay for the space that their shipment occupies. Priority Logistics can provide you with online quote for your shipment as well as affordable shipment packages.

Is there any way to save my money during shipment?A freight services in Canada team is the most crucial source to know about your shipping details as well as the latest offers. We suggest you contacting them directly to get money saving deals.