Do I Need a Full Truckload?

There are two main types of shipping: full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL). As the name suggests, FTL shipping is when a trailer is full of goods from one customer moving from location A to location B. In LTL trucking in Minnesota, the truck is partially loaded with goods from multiple different customers, which could all be going to several destinations.

LTL trucking has become more popular over the past few years, as companies have begun needing to ship items faster without waiting to fill a full truck. Continue reading to learn more about LTL shipping and whether it’s right for your business.

What freight is best for LTL shipping?

Not all freight is right for LTL shipping; some goods require a full truckload to ship. However, items that weigh between 150 and 15,000 pounds and take up less than 20 percent of truck space are generally better suited for LTL trucking. Experts always know best, so if you’re on the fence between LTL and FTL, talk to the professionals at K-Way Express, Inc.

Benefits of LTL shipping

LTL trucking is great for smaller companies or when businesses need to make a shipment but don’t have the need for a full trailer. Here are a few of the other benefits of LTL trucking in Minnesota:

• Reduced costs: Since you’re only paying for the space you use, and not the whole trailer, LTL trucking can be more cost effective than shipping a full truckload. This might not always be the case, though. LTL prices vary based on weight, size and the product being shipped. Sometimes, you might be better off paying for FTL shipping rather than splitting the truck up with other businesses.
• Increased safety: Between accidents on the road and rough handling, there’s no guarantee that your goods will make it without any damage with FTL shipping. Since products are stored on pallets during LTL shipping, they’re often a lot safer and less prone to breaking. Shipping companies will also load the trailers in a way that minimizes stops, and thus reduces handling of the products.
• Easy tracking: Many business owners want to know where their products are in transit at all times. Fortunately, if they utilize LTL shipping, that’s easy as pie. Reputable shipping companies provide real-time updates for LTL shipping statuses. If a product is delayed for some reason, a business owner will be the first to know.
• Eco friendly: If companies are looking to go green, they should start by utilizing LTL trucking. LTL trucking combines shipments for multiple companies, so that means fewer trucks on the road at a single time. With fewer trucks on the road, we get fewer carbon emissions, which is beneficial for the environment.

Get a quote from K-Way Express, Inc. today!

If you have less than a full truckload to ship, then contact our team today to get a quote. We specialize in local, intrastate and regional LTL trucking in Minnesota for all sorts of products. Plus, we offer affordable expedited shipping options to ensure your products make it to their destination as soon as possible.