Freight Rates

Get the Best Freight Rates – Fast and Easy
Compare real-time freight rates from top carriers in one place. Save time and money with instant quotes, unbeatable discounts, and expert support. Ship smarter with FreightCenter—book your freight today!

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Shipping option

LTL (Less-Than-Truckload)

LTL shipping is used for small freight or when the items don't require the use of an entire trailer. Your freight is combined with other shipments to fill an entire trailer. It is ideal for shipments under 15,000 pounds.

Full Truckload

Full truckload is used when shippers have enough items to fill an entire truck or they want their shipment in a trailer all by itself.

Pickup and delivery locations

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Destination city/ZIP

Shipment information

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Width

Height

Weight

Pickup and delivery locations

Pickup city/ZIP

Destination city/ZIP

Shipment information

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What are you shipping?

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Freight rate calculator

Shipping option

LTL (Less-Than-Truckload)

Full Truckload

Full truckload is used when shippers have enough items to fill an entire truck or they want their shipment in a trailer all by itself.

Pickup and delivery locations

Pickup city/ZIP

Destination city/ZIP

Shipment information

Length

Width

Height

Weight

Pickup and delivery locations

Pickup city/ZIP

Destination city/ZIP

Shipment information

Weight

Choose Equipment

What are you shipping?

limit of 70 characters

Table of contents

Freight Rates – Compare, Save, and Ship Smarter

Freight rates play a crucial role in determining the cost of transporting goods, whether you’re moving a single pallet across town or a full truckload across the country. At FreightCenter, we make it easy for businesses and individuals to compare real-time freight rates from top carriers and secure the best possible deals. Our platform allows you to instantly access discounted rates for a wide range of shipping options, including LTL, FTL, flatbed, and specialty freight services.

With over 24 years of experience, FreightCenter has built a network of trusted carriers and developed tools to streamline the shipping process. From small businesses seeking affordable freight solutions to large companies with complex logistics needs, we offer expert support at every step. Use our freight rate comparison tool to quickly find the right option for your budget and schedule—so you can ship smarter, faster, and more affordable.

What our customers are saying

We provide competitive freight shipping prices and an all-inclusive, easy-to-use shipping experience for our customers. Exceeding our customers’ expectations results in thousands of satisfied customer reviews and repeat business. We believe in the power of our customer relationships. Check out FreightCenter reviews from real customers, and learn what they have to say about their freight shipping experience!

Let’s Get Started! Compare shipping rates in an instant!

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Our Certifications

Awards and Endorsements

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

freightcenter-mobile-residential-shipping

Why Choose FreightCenter for Managing Freight Rates?

FreightCenter simplifies the shipping process by providing instant rate comparisons from over 100 top carriers. Our platform helps you quickly find the best option for your budget, giving you access to exclusive discounts that lower your freight costs. With automated tools for tracking shipments and managing invoices, we make it easy to stay on top of every detail.

Whether you’re shipping a small parcel or a full truckload, FreightCenter offers a seamless experience with support from dedicated account managers who guide you through the entire process. We ensure you always get the most competitive freight rates and reliable service so your shipments arrive on time and within budget.

FreightCenter by the numbers

25 Years In Business

1.5m+ Shipments Delivered

93%+ On-Time Performance

99.1% Damage Free Shipments

What Are Freight Rates?

Freight rates are the costs associated with transporting goods from one location to another, charged by carriers based on various factors. These rates vary depending on the type of freight, shipping method, distance, weight, dimensions, and market conditions. Freight rates are crucial in determining the overall shipping cost, impacting businesses and individuals relying on efficient logistics to move products or equipment.

At FreightCenter, we simplify finding the most competitive freight rates. Our platform provides real-time rate comparisons from top carriers, allowing you to secure the best shipping option. Whether you’re booking LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) or FTL (Full Truckload) shipments, we help you quickly understand and manage your freight costs.

How Are Freight Rates Calculated?

Several key factors determine freight rates. Shipping distance plays a significant role, with longer routes leading to higher costs. The weight and size of your freight also impact pricing, as larger and heavier loads require more transportation resources. The shipping method matters too—LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) rates are based on the space your freight occupies, while FTL (Full Truckload) charges cover the entire truck for direct delivery. Fuel prices also influence rates, with carrier pricing adjusting based on fluctuations in fuel costs. Additionally, carrier availability and seasonal demand can drive up rates during peak times or in areas with limited capacity.

FreightCenter’s freight rate calculator considers all these variables, providing accurate, real-time quotes to help you find the best option for your shipment.

What Affects Freight Rates and Why Do They Vary?

Freight rates vary based on several key factors, including your chosen carrier and the mode of transportation—whether LTL, FTL, flatbed, or intermodal. Each shipping option has unique pricing structures, with LTL being more affordable for smaller loads that share truck space and FTL offering faster, direct delivery for larger shipments. The weight and dimensions of your freight significantly impact the cost, as larger or heavier shipments require more resources. Additionally, freight class—especially for LTL—affects pricing based on how easily goods can be transported.

The distance between the point of origin and destination also plays a significant role, with longer routes increasing mileage costs. The type of goods being shipped may require special handling, permits, or packaging, further influencing rates. For high-value items, insurance coverage adds an extra layer of cost. Accessorial fees for add-on services like liftgate assistance or inside delivery can also increase the total shipping expense.

Freight rates are also dynamic, fluctuating based on seasonal demand—especially during peak periods like holidays. Carrier availability impacts pricing, with limited capacity in certain regions driving up costs. Fuel surcharges adjust with changes in market fuel prices, and time-sensitive shipments often incur premium charges for expedited delivery.

Understanding these factors allows you to plan better and manage your freight expenses. With FreightCenter, you can access real-time rate comparisons, exclusive discounts, and personalized quotes that reflect current market conditions, ensuring you get the best value for every shipment.

How to Get the Best Freight Rates

Securing the best freight rates requires strategic planning. Booking shipments in advance helps avoid peak-season surcharges when demand drives up prices. It’s also essential to compare rates from multiple carriers using FreightCenter’s comparison tools to find the most affordable option. Flexibility with pickup and delivery dates can further reduce costs, as carriers may offer better rates during off-peak times. Additionally, consolidating shipments by grouping multiple loads can maximize truck space and minimize expenses.

With FreightCenter’s rate comparison platform, you can explore multiple carrier options, compare prices, and find the ideal freight solution with just a few clicks.

Calculating Freight Rates

Types of Freight Shipping | LTL, FTL, Flatbed, and More

Explore the different types of freight shipping, including LTL, FTL, flatbed, refrigerated, intermodal, and more. Find the right solution for your shipping needs, whether you're transporting oversized loads, temperature-sensitive goods, or urgent deliveries.

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Shipping

Ideal for smaller shipments that don’t require a full truck, sharing space with other cargo.

Learn More

Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping

Used for larger shipments that fill an entire truck, offering faster and direct delivery.

Learn More

Flatbed Shipping

Open trailer shipping, ideal for oversized, heavy, or irregularly shaped freight like machinery or construction materials.

Learn More

Refrigerated (Reefer) Shipping

Used for temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.

Learn More

Intermodal Shipping

Combines multiple modes of transportation (rail, truck, or ocean) for cost-effective and long-distance shipping.

Learn More

Expedited Shipping

For urgent shipments that need to be delivered quickly, often with dedicated trucks or air freight.

Learn More

Heavy Haul Shipping

For oversized or overweight freight that exceeds standard regulations, requiring specialized equipment and permits.

Learn More

Ocean Freight Shipping

Used for international shipping of large quantities of cargo by sea, ideal for import/export businesses.

Learn More

Get Your Freight Rates Today

Don’t let fluctuating rates slow down your business. Use FreightCenter’s platform to compare rates, book shipments, and manage everything in one place. Get a free quote today using our freight rate calculator, or speak to one of our logistics experts at 800.716.7608 for personalized assistance.

FreightCenter makes finding the correct freight rate fast, easy, and affordable—so you can keep your business moving forward.

Did you know that using a freight broker like FreightCenter also has advantages? When you book through FreightCenter, you take advantage of our negotiated rates – which you otherwise would not have access to.

Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.

Freight Rates FAQs

Q. What are freight rates?

Freight rates are the charges imposed by carriers for transporting goods from one location to another. These rates vary depending on factors like weight, distance, shipping method, fuel costs, and the availability of carriers.

Q. How are freight rates calculated?

Freight rates depend on several factors. Distance affects costs, with longer routes being more expensive. Weight and size also impact rates, as heavier or larger loads require more resources. Shipping methods like LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) are typically cheaper than FTL (Full Truckload), which offers direct delivery. Fuel surcharges fluctuate with fuel prices, and carrier availability and seasonal demand can drive up rates during peak periods.

Q. What’s the difference between LTL and FTL freight rates?

LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) rates are more affordable because multiple shipments share truck space, but delivery may take longer with multiple stops. FTL (Full Truckload) rates are higher, offering faster delivery with a truck dedicated entirely to one shipment, minimizing handling and reducing the risk of damage.

Q. Why do freight rates vary by region?

Freight rates can differ across regions based on carrier availability, fuel costs, and local demand. Certain areas may have fewer carriers, leading to higher prices.

Q. How do I get the best freight rates?

To secure the best freight rates, it’s essential to compare quotes from multiple carriers, which you can easily do using FreightCenter’s online tools. Booking shipments in advance helps you avoid peak-season surcharges when demand and prices are higher. Flexibility with pickup and delivery dates can also unlock better rates, as carriers may offer discounts for off-peak times. Additionally, consolidating shipments into a single load reduces costs by maximizing space, minimizing trips, and optimizing efficiency. With careful planning and FreightCenter’s resources, you can consistently find the most cost-effective shipping options.

Q. Do freight rates include fuel surcharges?

Yes, most freight rates include fuel surcharges, which vary with market fuel prices. FreightCenter’s rate calculator provides quotes that reflect these charges.

Q. Are freight rates fixed or negotiable?

Freight rates can be negotiable, especially for high-volume or long-term contracts. FreightCenter helps you compare and negotiate competitive rates with carriers.

Q. How often do freight rates change?

Freight rates can fluctuate daily or weekly due to market conditions, including fuel prices, seasonal demand, and capacity constraints.

Q. Can I get instant freight rate quotes?

Yes, FreightCenter offers instant rate comparisons from top carriers through our online platform. You can also speak with a logistics expert at 800.716.7608 for personalized quotes.

Q. Does FreightCenter offer discounted freight rates?

Yes! FreightCenter provides exclusive discounts through our partnerships with over 100 carriers, ensuring you get the best shipment value.

Q. Are international freight rates available?

Yes, FreightCenter offers cross-border shipping services to Canada and Mexico, and we provide competitive international freight rates tailored to your needs.

Q. How do I track my shipment once it’s booked?

FreightCenter provides automated tracking and notifications, allowing you to monitor your shipment in real time from pickup to delivery.

3 Tips to Save on Freight Rates with FreightCenter

Book Early to Avoid Peak Rates

FreightCenter gives you access to real-time rates, allowing you to book in advance and avoid higher costs during peak seasons or when carrier capacity is tight. Early booking ensures you secure the best available rates.

Compare Rates from 100+ Carriers

Use FreightCenter’s rate comparison tools to instantly view pricing from multiple carriers. This allows you to select the most affordable option while ensuring your shipment stays on schedule.

Leverage Discounts and Bundle Shipments

Take advantage of exclusive discounts through FreightCenter and consolidate shipments when possible. Combining multiple loads into one shipment maximizes space and reduces overall shipping costs.

Freight Rates