LTL Freight Shipping
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Explore More About LTL Freight Solutions and Resources
LTL Freight Classifications and Pricing Freight Shipping Insurance Options How to Prepare Your LTL Freight for Shipping
Explore More About LTL Freight Solutions and Resources
Truckload Freight Services Flatbed Freight Shipping ServicesLess-Than-Truckload Shipping Made Simple
Shipping freight doesn’t always mean filling a whole truck. Sometimes you need to move a few pallets, a crate, or a heavy item that’s too big for standard parcel service, but not big enough to book a full trailer. That’s where LTL freight shipping comes in.
At FreightCenter, we help you compare rates, choose from trusted LTL carriers, and book your shipment—all in one place.
We’ve been helping businesses and individuals ship smarter for over 25 years. Whether you’re new to freight or manage shipping every day, this page will guide you through how LTL works, when to use it, and how to get the best possible rate.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
- 2013, 2011, & 2010 Diversity Business Top Businesses
Why Shippers Trust FreightCenter
For over two decades, FreightCenter has helped over 100,000 customers ship freight across the U.S. and internationally. We’ve built strong relationships with the nation’s top LTL carriers, so you get trusted service and competitive rates—every time.
Behind the technology is a team of experienced shipping experts who are available to assist with quotes, scheduling, claims, and any other issues that may arise.
We’re not just a platform—we’re a partner.
What Is LTL Freight Shipping?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping is a freight shipping method used for shipments that do not require a full trailer. Multiple shipments share space on the same truck, allowing shippers to pay only for the portion of the trailer their freight occupies as it moves through carrier terminal networks to reach the destination.
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping is designed for shipments weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds and that don’t require a full trailer. Instead of booking an entire truck, your freight is combined with other shipments traveling in the same direction. This shared capacity keeps your costs down while still delivering reliable service.
Common items shipped via LTL include:
- Palletized retail inventory
- eCommerce goods
- Industrial equipment
- Furniture and appliances
- Seasonal retail stock
How LTL Shipping Works with FreightCenter
When you book an LTL shipment through FreightCenter, the process is straightforward and built around getting your freight matched with the right carrier and service level from the start.
First, the carrier picks up your shipment from the origin location and transports it to a nearby terminal. At the terminal, your freight is combined with other shipments headed in the same general direction. This shared capacity is what keeps LTL shipping cost-effective.
From there, your shipment moves through the carrier’s terminal network until it reaches the destination terminal closest to the delivery address. A local driver then completes the final delivery.
Because LTL trucks make multiple pickups and deliveries along the way, transit times are typically longer than those for full truckload shipping. That said, many carriers offer expedited LTL options for time-sensitive freight, and FreightCenter helps you compare those services upfront so you can balance speed and cost.
If your pickup or delivery location doesn’t have a loading dock or requires additional handling, such as a liftgate, inside delivery, or a scheduled appointment, those services can be added during booking. FreightCenter’s team helps make sure these details are accounted for early, reducing delays and unexpected charges later.
With FreightCenter, you’re not just booking a shipment; you’re working with experienced freight professionals who help ensure your LTL shipment is priced correctly, appropriately routed, and delivered as expected.
Benefits of LTL Freight Shipping
LTL, or Less-Than-Truckload shipping, allows shippers to move freight without booking a full trailer. You pay only for the space your shipment uses, which helps reduce transportation costs while maintaining reliable delivery.
LTL shipping is ideal for palletized freight, crates, and mid-size shipments. Carriers move freight through established terminal networks with regular pickup and delivery schedules, making LTL a dependable option for regional and nationwide shipping.
Most LTL shipments include tracking, giving shippers visibility as freight moves between terminals. By consolidating multiple shipments onto a single truck, LTL shipping also improves trailer utilization and reduces unnecessary fuel use compared to partially filled trucks.
How to Get the Best LTL Freight Rates
Getting the best LTL freight rates starts with accurate information and the proper carrier selection. At FreightCenter, we help shippers avoid common pricing mistakes by combining real-time carrier data with hands-on freight expertise.
The first step is comparing multiple carriers at once. FreightCenter’s online quote tool shows live LTL rates from trusted national and regional carriers in one place. This eliminates the need to call carriers individually and makes it easier to balance price, transit time, and service level.
Accurate shipment details are just as crucial as carrier choice. Properly palletized freight moves more efficiently through LTL terminal networks and helps reduce handling-related charges. Entering the correct weight, dimensions, and freight class upfront prevents reclassification fees and billing adjustments after pickup. When classification is unclear, FreightCenter’s freight specialists assist with selecting the correct NMFC class to keep pricing accurate.
Pickup and delivery choices also impact LTL pricing. Business-to-business shipments with dock access typically cost less than residential or limited-access deliveries. When timing allows, terminal-to-terminal service can further reduce costs by eliminating last-mile delivery fees.
FreightCenter also helps shippers benefit from volume-based carrier discounts that are not typically available to individual customers. These negotiated rates, combined with expert support from licensed freight professionals, allow shippers to secure competitive pricing without sacrificing reliability or service.
By using accurate shipment data, flexible delivery options, and FreightCenter’s carrier network, shippers can consistently secure better LTL rates and avoid unnecessary freight charges.
LTL freight shipping goes beyond just pickup and delivery—sometimes, extra services are needed to ensure a smooth shipment. Accessorials are additional options like liftgate service, inside delivery, or limited access pickup that help accommodate special shipping needs. While these services add convenience, they can also impact your final shipping cost. Understanding which accessorials you need upfront can help you avoid unexpected fees and ensure a hassle-free delivery.
Explore the most common LTL freight accessorials below to optimize your shipment!
No dock? No problem! LTL Liftgate Service makes deliveries easy by using a hydraulic lift to safely load and unload heavy freight. Perfect for businesses without docks, residential shipments, and oversized freight, this service saves time and effort.
Need your freight picked up or delivered beyond the curb? Inside Pickup/Delivery ensures your shipment is moved inside a business or residence for added convenience. Perfect for locations without loading docks or when extra handling is needed.
Shipping to or from a home? Residential Pickup & Delivery brings your freight right to your doorstep—no need for a loading dock! Perfect for home businesses, oversized items, and heavy shipments, this service ensures smooth, hassle-free delivery.
Shipping to a location with restricted access? Limited Access Pickup & Delivery ensures your freight reaches places like construction sites, schools, military bases, and storage units—even when standard trucks can't. Perfect for hard-to-reach destinations that require extra coordination.
Need your freight delivered at a specific time? Appointment Delivery ensures your shipment arrives when it’s most convenient for you. Perfect for businesses with set receiving hours or locations that require scheduled drop-offs.
Stay informed with LTL Notify Before Delivery service. Discover how this proactive option keeps you in the loop, allowing you to prepare for your shipments' arrival with confidence.
Elevate your LTL shipping experience with White Glove Service. Explore how this premium option ensures the utmost care and professionalism in handling and delivering your valuable cargo.
Safeguard your LTL shipments with expert Hazardous Materials Handling. Learn how specialized training and equipment ensure the secure transportation of dangerous goods.
Make a lasting impression at your next trade show with LTL Trade Show Delivery. Discover how this service streamlines logistics, ensuring your booth and materials arrive on time and in perfect condition.
Meet tight deadlines with LTL Expedited Service. Explore how this fast-track shipping option accelerates delivery, ensuring your time-sensitive shipments reach their destination with speed and efficiency.
Protect your temperature-sensitive cargo with LTL Freeze Protection service. Learn how specialized equipment and protocols safeguard your goods from freezing during transportation, ensuring product integrity.
Reliability meets peace of mind with LTL Guaranteed Service. Explore how this commitment to on-time delivery provides confidence in your shipping, ensuring your cargo arrives exactly when and where you expect it.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
When to Use LTL Freight Shipping
LTL shipping is the smart choice when your freight is too big for parcel but too small for a full truckload. At FreightCenter, we help thousands of shippers find the most efficient and affordable way to move these midsize loads every day.
Choose LTL with FreightCenter if your shipment:
- Weighs between 150–15,000 pounds
- Can be palletized, crated, or boxed
- Doesn’t need a dedicated trailer
- Requires pickup or delivery at a location without a loading dock
Our customers use LTL shipping for everything from retail inventory and eCommerce fulfillment to industrial equipment and residential home deliveries. Whether you ship daily or occasionally, FreightCenter makes it easy to compare carriers, get quotes fast, and ship smarter—all in one platform.
Compare LTL Freight Rates & Save Big!
Why settle for one carrier when you can compare multiple top-rated LTL carriers in seconds? FreightCenter’s powerful rate comparison tool gives you instant access to the best prices, fastest transit times, and top-tier service—all in one place!
LTL Shipping FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Download Our LTL Shipping Guide
Q. What is LTL freight shipping with FreightCenter?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping with FreightCenter lets you move smaller shipments by sharing space on a truck with other freight. You only pay for the space you use, and you can compare quotes from top LTL carriers instantly on FreightCenter.com.
Q. How do I get an LTL freight quote from FreightCenter?
You can get a free, instant LTL quote by entering your shipment details—origin, destination, weight, and dimensions—into our online quote tool. You’ll immediately see rates from multiple top-rated carriers for easy comparison.
Q. Is FreightCenter a carrier or a broker?
FreightCenter is a licensed third-party logistics (3PL) provider, not a carrier. We partner with trusted LTL carriers, including FedEx Freight, Estes, and XPO, to help you find the best rates and services all in one place.
Q. What LTL carriers does FreightCenter work with?
FreightCenter works with a wide network of national and regional LTL carriers, including FedEx Freight, R+L Carriers, Estes, XPO, SAIA, TForce, and many others, giving you more options and better rates.
Q. How does FreightCenter help me save on LTL shipping?
We leverage our volume discounts and long-standing carrier relationships to offer lower rates than you’d typically get by going directly. Additionally, our technology enables you to find the optimal balance of price and service tailored to your specific needs.
Q. Can I track my LTL shipment through FreightCenter?
Yes! All LTL shipments booked through FreightCenter include real-time tracking via your dashboard. You can also receive notifications by email, SMS or speak with your dedicated shipping agent for updates.
Q. How do I book an LTL shipment on FreightCenter.com?
After receiving a quote, select your preferred carrier, add any necessary accessories (such as liftgate or residential delivery), and follow the prompts to book online. You’ll receive your bill of lading (BOL) and confirmation instantly. Book a shipment
Q. What is included in FreightCenter’s LTL quote?
Your LTL quote includes base rate, fuel surcharges, transit estimate, and any accessorials you choose. What you see is what you pay—no surprise fees if your shipment details are accurate.
Q. Can FreightCenter help me choose the right LTL carrier?
Absolutely. If you’re unsure which carrier to choose, our shipping experts are available by phone or live chat to guide you based on factors such as price, speed, service area, or reliability.
Q. Does FreightCenter handle claims for damaged LTL freight?
Yes. If your LTL shipment is lost or damaged, FreightCenter’s claims department will help you file and manage the claim with the carrier, making the process faster and less stressful.
Q. What accessorial services can I add when shipping LTL with FreightCenter?
FreightCenter offers a full range of LTL accessorials, including liftgate service, residential delivery, inside pickup/delivery, limited access locations, and appointment scheduling—all selectable during checkout.
Q. How do I know if I need a liftgate service through FreightCenter?
If the pickup or delivery location does not have a loading dock or forklift, you’ll need to request liftgate service when booking. This ensures your freight can be safely loaded and unloaded at the curbside.
Q. Does FreightCenter support LTL freight shipping to residential addresses?
Yes, we offer residential LTL delivery and pickup, complete with liftgate and appointment scheduling options to ensure a smooth delivery experience for home-based businesses or individual customers.
Q. Can FreightCenter ship LTL freight internationally?
Yes! FreightCenter offers LTL shipping to and from Canada and Mexico, along with cross-border expertise to help you manage customs, documentation, and compliance.
Q. What payment options are available through FreightCenter?
You can pay for your shipment using major credit cards, ACH transfers, or prepaid accounts. Business customers can also apply for credit terms with an approved credit.
Q. Does FreightCenter offer volume LTL discounts for frequent shippers?
Yes. We offer custom pricing programs and dedicated account managers for businesses that ship frequently or in high volumes. Contact us for a tailored shipping solution.
Q. What freight types can I ship LTL through FreightCenter?
FreightCenter can handle nearly any palletized or crated freight, including retail goods, e-commerce inventory, machinery, furniture, appliances, auto parts, and more. Some restricted or hazardous materials (Hazmat) items may require special handling.
Q. How does FreightCenter ensure my freight is handled safely?
We only work with reputable, insured carriers, and our platform helps you select the right services for secure pickup, transit, and delivery. We also offer guidance on packaging best practices to reduce the risk of damage.
Q. Can I ship hazmat LTL freight with FreightCenter?
Yes, FreightCenter can assist with hazmat shipments, although only qualified carriers are authorized to handle those loads. Be sure to indicate that your freight is hazardous during the quote process.
Q. Why do businesses choose FreightCenter for LTL freight?
Businesses choose FreightCenter for our easy-to-use platform, expert support, competitive pricing, and trusted carrier network. Whether you’re new to LTL or a seasoned shipper, we simplify freight from quote to delivery.
Top Advantages of LTL Freight Shipping
Cost Savings
Pay only for the space your freight occupies instead of an entire truck. With shared shipping, LTL helps businesses cut costs while still ensuring reliable delivery.
Flexibility and Scalability
Perfect for shipments that are too big for parcel but too small for a full truckload. LTL offers frequent pickups, multiple delivery options, and the ability to ship as needed without waiting for a full load.
Real-Time Tracking & Security
Ship with confidence knowing your freight is monitored throughout transit. With fewer touchpoints and professional handling, LTL provides a secure, trackable, and efficient shipping solution.
