Modes of Freight Transportation
FreightCenter can help you decide which of the following types of freight transportation and services will best fit your needs.
Modes of Freight Transportation
Less Than Truckload (LTL)
By far, the most popular type of freight transportation, LTL freight, is generally shipped by truck to and from your pickup and destination locations. LTL freight shipping is the most cost-effective, reliable, and timely service because your shipment shares a truck with other LTL freight shipments.
Partial Truckload
Different from LTL freight, this type of freight involves a dedicated truck that moves fewer loads at one time and handles all types of commodities, including refrigerated, temperature-controlled, hazardous material, and overweight or oversized goods. Partial truckload shipping is reserved for medium-size loads that are booked by volume or require running feet of a truck.
Truckload (TL)
This service is ideal for commodities that are unpackaged or may require refrigeration, climate control, flatbeds, or other special accommodation for oversize or overweight shipments. Truckload shipping is not the least expensive transportation option, but it can be much faster than LTL freight because it requires no truck transfers (e.g., unloading and reloading of your shipment).
Air Ride Truckload (Full or Partial)
If your shipment is delicate or has a high risk of damage, then a dedicated truck with air-ride suspension is the most preferred method of transportation. For this type of freight, air ride provides a softer ride than a standard freight truck. Because this type of service is used less frequently, it can often be more expensive than a standard full or partial truckload shipment.
Air Freight
Air freight services have the fastest transit time by far. Cargo airlines or air freight carriers are dedicated to handling logistics for the transport of cargo. Specifically, for the shipping of smaller packages, types of air freight usually have a higher density, which means they don’t take up much space on a cargo plane, but they do meet the weight requirements to be considered freight. If the package weighs more than 100 pounds and is tightly packed, air freight shipping can be more cost-effective than LTL freight methods. Learn more about air freight shipping.
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!
- 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 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
- 2020 & 2017 SmartWay® Transport Partner
- 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 Ship With FreightCenter?
Expertise in Freight Shipping: With over 25 years in the logistics industry, FreightCenter is dedicated to guiding you through the entire logistics process, from beginning to end. Our goal is to make freight shipping easy to understand and book. Don’t waste time researching and receiving quotes from individual carriers- FreightCenter’s got your back!
Competitive Rates with Tailored Solutions: We prioritize high-quality customer service without breaking your wallet. We utilize our relationships with regional and national carriers to offer you competitive, affordable rates while providing personalized solutions to your needs. Need a liftgate? We got you! Want to expedite your order? Leave it to us! We’re ready to provide tailored solutions that don’t compromise your freight shipment.
Personalized Customer Support: FreightCenter is committed to satisfying our customers. Our friendly customer support team is here to help you every step of the way, from initial inquiries to post-shipment concerns. We handle all aspects of logistics, including tracking, paperwork, and communication with carriers, so you can focus on your business while we manage your shipment. Choose us for our reliable service and affordable quotes!
Blanket Wrap or Van Move
Another method of shipping freight that cannot be boxed, palletized, or crated is to request blanket wrap or van move services. A perfect solution for large pieces of furniture that cannot be repackaged, blanket wrap shipping and van moves are slightly more expensive than basic LTL freight shipping. Since both services require more specialized planning, a slower transit time is inevitable. Although a slower method, you can rest assured that your goods will be handled with care.
Intermodal Rail Freight
Shipping by rail is a cost-effective, efficient, and green transportation method. Widely used as a method of shipping bulk construction or hazardous materials, intermodal rail freight can save you time and money compared to shipping by truck. With railroad systems throughout the United States and Canada, our extensive network of rail freight carriers can deliver your cargo to most places in North America. Learn more about intermodal freight shipping.
International Shipping
Similar to the differences between LTL and truckload freight, there are different types of shipping loads for container shipping, which are separated by full container loads (FCL) and less-than-container loads (LCL). Through our network of freight forwarders and ocean or air transporters, FreightCenter agents can arrange international freight shipping to and from most parts of the world. Whether you have smaller, dense packages or a shipment that can be moved by container or boat, we have solutions to keep your imports and exports moving. Learn more about international shipping.
Expedited Freight Services
Expedited freight shipping is predictable because it allows different types of freight to be moved at a very high speed. Although not the same as “Guaranteed Delivery,” expedited freight has a speedy transit time and is usually arranged with delivery between one and five days after pickup. Learn more about expedited freight services.
Guaranteed Delivery Freight Services
If the type of freight you are shipping requires it to be delivered on a certain date and time, then guaranteed delivery is your best option. If the delivery is late, you will be reimbursed for the difference between the guaranteed price and the standard or non-guaranteed rate.
For more information on freight types and the statistics connected to them, visit the DOT website.
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
Rail shipping is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation method that utilizes trains to move goods over long distances. It's known for its efficiency in handling large volumes of cargo, making it a sustainable and economical choice for businesses seeking reliable freight transport options.
Expedited shipping is a premium service designed to meet urgent delivery needs. It prioritizes speed and quick turnaround, ensuring that packages or goods reach their destination faster than standard shipping options. Expedited shipping is the go-to choice when time-sensitive deliveries are essential, providing businesses and individuals with reliable and prompt service for critical shipments.
White glove shipping is a premium service that goes beyond standard delivery, offering meticulous handling, specialized packaging, and in-home setup or installation for valuable or delicate items, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for customers.
Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a smart logistics solution for businesses with smaller shipments. It combines multiple smaller shipments into a single truckload, optimizing space and reducing costs. LTL shipping offers affordability and efficiency while ensuring timely delivery, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to save on transportation expenses without compromising on service quality.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What types of freight benefit most from air ride truckloads?
Air ride truckloads are particularly beneficial for:
- Fragile items (e.g., glass, ceramics).
- High-value goods (e.g., electronics, artwork).
- Medical or scientific equipment.
- Perishable products that require minimal jolting to preserve quality.
- Machinery and components sensitive to vibrations.
Q. How is the cost of an LTL shipment calculated
LTL shipping costs are usually based on:
- Freight Class: Determined by multiple factors such as weight, density, and handling requirements.
- Weight: Heavier shipments cost more, but the cost per pound may decrease with weight.
- Distance: Longer distances increase costs.
Additional Services: Fees for liftgate service, residential delivery, or inside delivery.
Q. How is the cost of air freight calculated?
Air freight costs are based on:
- Weight vs. Volume: Carriers use the dimensional weight formula to determine costs, charging by whichever is greater.
- Distance: Longer routes generally cost more.
- Speed of Service: Expedited services like next-day delivery are more expensive.
- Additional Services: Fees for customs clearance, insurance, or special handling.
Q. What are the transit times for air freight?
Air freight is the fastest mode of transportation, with transit times typically ranging from 1 to 7 days, depending on the route and service type. Domestic shipments can often be delivered within 24-48 hours, while international shipments may take longer due to customs processes.
Q. What types of freight are ideal for partial truckload shipping?
Partial truckload freight is best suited for:
- Shipments weighing 5,000–25,000 pounds.
- Bulky items or cargo requiring a significant amount of trailer space.
- Freight that doesn’t require frequent handling or multiple transfers (to reduce damage risks).
25 Years in "The Biz"
We have over 25 years of experience, as evidenced by our large network of professional carriers. Our knowledgeable team of shipping experts is ready to help you optimize your small business for the intricate world of logistics.
Customizable Shipping Options
Need a liftgate? No problem! Need to ship your products quickly? We got you covered! Our FreightCenter agents can offer you tailored solutions for your specific shipping needs, no matter what kind of small business you are.
Amazing Customer Care
Our customer support team has the answers to many of your shipping questions and concerns. We’re here to help you through every step of the shipping process, from initial inquiries to post-shipment issues.
