Do Size and Weight Limits Exist for LTL Freight?

Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a popular way to move goods when a full truck isn’t required. This is a favored option among small businesses that need reliable shipping. Goods are placed in boxes, pallets or crates to avoid damage, then sent to destinations across the country.

One of the questions customers most frequently ask is about the size and weight limits for this type of shipping. There are limits, but they tend to be pretty broad. Read on to find out how an LTL trucking provider can make shipping a cinch for your business.

Weight requirements

The most common weight guidelines state that a single LTL shipment can be anywhere from 100 to 10,000 lbs. That said, some providers will offer an upper limit of up to 20,000 lbs. Typically, an LTL trucking provider will specify that the shipment be no larger than six pallets.

Your shipment will go with several others on a truck to a destination. The cost is shared among all those using the truck, and you’ll only pay for the space you use.

Shipping rates for LTL freight

Small business owners often choose LTL because it’s a more cost-effective way to move goods. The price of this service is dependent on the dimensions of the shipment, the weight of the shipment and the type of shipping. Let’s go through each of these aspects of the cost:

• Type of shipping: If you choose expedited shipping, for example, expect to pay a bit more. Your LTL trucking provider may also offer special services including inside pickup/delivery, residential pickup/delivery and liftgate pickup/delivery. These all come at an additional cost.
• Dimensions and weight: These will determine the freight class of the shipment and, therefore, the price.
• Destination: The farther you ship your goods, the more it will cost.
• Other considerations: Fragile, perishable or hazardous shipments will likely add to the total price.

Reasons to choose LTL shipping

LTL shipping often compares favorably to full truckload (FTL) shipping in a number of ways. Of course, if you have a larger business that’s moving full truckloads of goods around, then FTL shipping makes sense. But if the volume of goods you’re moving doesn’t occupy the entire space within the truck, then you’re doing business in an inefficient way.

LTL shipping is a service that caters to businesses that want to only pay for the portion of the truck they’re using. A reputable LTL truck service will provide you with ways to easily track your goods as they move on to their destination. LTL freight also has enhanced security, as a well-packaged pallet will securely hold boxes of goods together.

The next time you need a quality LTL trucking provider, choose the pros at K-Way Express Inc. For more than 70 years, we’ve helped businesses move goods across the country. We’re a reputable, trusted trucking company that will meet your needs, ensuring your customers are never left disappointed. We do more than pick up and drop off cargo—we create customized transportation solutions for your business. Give us a call today to learn more and get a free quote.