When choosing how to ship their packages, many shippers believe they have to choose between freight and parcel shipping. However, this assumes that freight and parcel are equal methods of shipping, when in fact, they are not. Parcel shipping revolves around smaller packages, typically anything small enough for one human delivery person to lift and carry to your door. Freight shipping, however, involves transporting large quantities of goods. When you think of terms like “cargo” or “pallets,” you are likely referring to freight.
You may not be able to choose between freight and parcel services; if your package is too heavy and/or large for parcel companies to ship, you will have to ship it with a freight company. However, if your package is medium-sized and could be shipped via parcel or freight, you have some leeway. If you’re weighing your shipping options, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s examine how to ship freight vs. parcel and determine which method is best suited for your package.
Note: We will discuss details about freight assuming you are shipping your freight using less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. If you wish to ship your freight on its own trailer or your shipment is large enough to fill an entire trailer, you will be shipping with a full truckload (FTL). No exceptions.
How to Ship Freight vs. Parcel
When you boil down the prerequisites of shipping freight and parcels, it becomes very clear which option to choose. Is your shipment:
– Over 150 pounds?
– More than 108 inches in length?
– More than 165 inches in both length and girth combined?
If you answered yes to all those questions, congrats! You’re shipping freight. Suppose you answered no to all those questions; congrats! You’re shipping a parcel.
However, if your answers to the questions vary, things can get tricky. Packages weighing between 70 and 150 pounds can be classified as either freight or parcel. If you are shipping large quantities of goods to a specific location, you can package them on pallets and ship them via freight. This is more cost-effective than sending parcels in separate shipments, which would be more expensive.
There are also other factors to consider aside from your shipment’s weight and dimensions. Let’s explore just a few of them to consider which shipping method is right for you.
Durabilility
How durable is your package? Is it very fragile and prone to shattering or breaking? Or is it sturdy enough that you don’t have to package it that much? Freight and parcel shipping can handle both sensitive and robust shipments; however, freight packaging is generally considered more protective than parcel packaging. Parcels are usually packed in cardboard corrugated boxes, insulated mailer bags, or paper envelopes. While cheaper and convenient for parcels taking a day trip to their destination, they aren’t the best protection in the event your shipment is compromised or damaged.
Freight packaging depends on the type of shipment; it ranges from boxes and crates to drums and shipping containers. Almost all of them (except for shipping containers) require being placed on a pallet for easy transport and handling, which may involve wrapping your items in plastic wrap and securing them with strapping for extra protection. As freight must pass through several terminals before reaching its destination, protection is a must. While they could still be damaged during transport, there is a lower chance of damage compared to parcels.
Shipping Speed
How fast do you want your freight to be delivered? These days, the high demands of e-commerce have led to incredibly fast shipping, allowing your parcels to arrive at their destination within just a day. While you have the option to schedule a later delivery for your parcel, you can also choose to pay extra for expedited shipping. If you have an Amazon Prime membership, you may also enjoy free, fast shipping on your orders.
Freight shipping typically operates at a slower pace than parcel shipping. Because freight involves multiple terminals and often includes various packages that delivery drivers must pick up and drop off, the delivery time for your freight can range from a few days to a few weeks. To expedite the process, you can opt for expedited shipping, which utilizes faster transit schedules for freight. However, this option may not always be available and can be more expensive than expediting parcel deliveries.
Space in the Trailer
Parcels do not have to worry about how much space their package takes up in the delivery driver’s vehicle. Since most parcels are small to medium-sized, and drivers are spread out throughout neighborhoods, packages can be squeezed together onto one delivery vehicle without worrying about a lack of space. However, if your package is sensitive, this could be an issue. Having your fragile package squished with other packages could risk damage.
Freight, however, has to worry about space for two reasons. First, freight drivers will only pick up your freight if they have enough space in their trailer. If they are full, your pickup appointment will need to be rescheduled for another day. Second, pricing depends on the amount of space you’re sharing with other shipments. You aren’t paying for the entire trailer with LTL freight shipping; you are only paying for individual space. In contrast, with parcel shipping, you are paying for the product and the shipping fee.
So, How Do You Ship Freight vs. Parcel?
Freight and parcel shipping are two distinct shipping methods designed for different types of packages. Parcel is excellent for small, individual shipments that can be delivered quickly and aren’t that fragile. Freight is perfect for larger shipments that are sturdier and can be shipped at a more leisurely pace. What you need for your shipment, however, will depend on your shipping needs.
Essentially, if your package is:
– Over 150 pounds
– More than 108 inches in length
– More than 165 inches in both length and girth combined
– Is sturdy enough to handle being in a trailer with other packages
– Needs extensive packaging like crates, drums, and pallets
– Doesn’t need to be delivered quickly or you can afford to pay for expedited services
Then your package qualifies for freight shipping! Any other smaller types of packages may be a better fit for parcel shipping. However, that distinction must be up to you and whoever you decide to ship with. Do your research and connect with shipping companies to make an informed decision on how to ship freight vs. parcel.
