Freight Load
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Freight Load
You know the drill—a freight load is a cargo hauled by a carrier, ranging from a few pallets to 20,000 pounds or more, depending on your goods and transport mode. For pros like you, “freight load” often means Full Truckload (FTL) shipments—dedicated trucks where your cargo maxes out the trailer’s capacity or tips the scales past 15,000 pounds. These are your go-to for big hauls that can’t share space, like machinery or time-critical inventory.
FTL means direct routes, less handling, and faster delivery—key when you’re moving high-value or sensitive freight like hazmat or refrigerated goods. But we get it. Not every load is a full trailer. That’s why we also streamline Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) and Partial Truckload (PTL) options—cost-effective solutions when you’re shipping smaller batches alongside other cargo. Whatever your volume, our carrier network scales with you, keeping your operations tight and predictable.
Thousands of businesses trust FreightCenter to move their freight faster, smarter, and cheaper! From unbeatable rates to top-notch service, our customers are raving about their shipping success.
See why they keep coming back!
Award-Winning Service, Trusted by Shippers Everywhere!
- 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
Why Choose FreightCenter?
Decades of Logistics Mastery
With over 25 years under our belt, FreightCenter doesn’t just move freight—we engineer solutions for pros like you who live and breathe logistics. We’ve spent decades building a system that anticipates your next move, streamlining everything from carrier matching to final delivery so you’re never bogged down by the details.
Unmatched Rates, Unrivaled Flexibility
Your high-volume hauls deserve more than cookie-cutter pricing. We leverage our tight-knit alliances with top-tier regional and national carriers to lock in rates that keep your margins strong—while bending over backward to meet your specs. Need a hazmat-certified rig? A cross-country sprint? We deliver custom options that hit your deadlines and budget with no compromises.
Your Personal Logistics Crew
You’re not just a client—you’re a partner with a dedicated team in your corner. Our seasoned support squad thrives on solving your toughest challenges, from real-time load tracking to wrangling complex paperwork and carrier coordination. We sweat the small stuff so you can keep your eyes on the big picture—growing your operation with confidence.
What Are Freight Loads? Types, Classifications & Transport Methods Explained
Freight loads refer to shipments of goods that vary widely in size, weight, and type – ranging from small parcels to oversized items such as heavy machinery, vehicles, or bulk construction materials. Understanding the different types of freight loads is essential for businesses and shippers to choose the most efficient, cost-effective, and timely delivery options.
Types of Freight Loads by Size and Shipping Requirements
Freight shipments are typically classified based on their volume, weight, and logistical needs. The four main freight categories include:
Full Truckload (FTL): Full truckload is for shipments that occupy the entire capacity of a truck. It’s best for large shipments that need direct, fast delivery with minimal handling.
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL): LTL allows for smaller shipments to share trailer space with other freight. It’s best for businesses that need to ship a diverse range of freight anywhere from 150 to 15,000 pounds.
Partial Truckload (PTL): PTL falls between LTL and FTL – large enough to require more space but not enough to fill an entire truck. It’s best for mid-sized shipments that benefit from fewer stops than LTL and lower cost than FTL.
Specialized Freight: Specialized freight is any freight requiring unique equipment or handling processes. Examples of specialized freight would be oversized loads, hazardous materials, and refrigerated goods.
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.
Need to connect the dots between ports, rail yards, and warehouses? Drayage services bridges the gap between long-haul modes like ocean freight and last-mile or regional trucking.
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.
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.
Key Considerations for Shipping Freight Loads
To ensure safe, compliant, and efficient freight transportation, keep these best practices in mind:
Proper Packaging: Use secure, durable packaging to protect goods from damage.
Accurate Measurements: Provide exact weight and dimensions to avoid extra charges or delays.
Clear Documentation: Include bills of lading, invoices, customs forms (for international freight), and labeling.
Compliance: Follow regulations for special cargo types (e.g., hazardous materials or temperature-senstive goods).
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
FreightCenter Handles the Heavy Lifting
FreightCenter handles the heavy lifting by simplifying every step of the freight shipping process. From finding the best carrier rates to managing complex logistics for full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and specialized freight, our experts make shipping freight loads easy, fast, and cost-effective. With access to a nationwide network of trusted carriers and powerful freight management tools, FreightCenter ensures your freight is delivered sfaely, on time, and within budget.
Frequently Asked Question: Freight Load
Q. What is a freight load?
A freight load refers to the goods or cargo being transported via a freight carrier, typically by truck, train, ship, or air. It can be a full or partial shipment depending on size and weight.
Q. How is a freight load classified?
Freight loads are classified based on weight, density, stowability, handling, and liability. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system is used for LTL loads.
Q. How do I determine the best mode of transportation for my freight load?
The best mode depends on factors like shipment size, weight, destination, urgency, and budget. For smaller loads, LTL may be ideal, while larger shipments often require FTL or intermodal transport. Time-sensitive goods may benefit from air freight. If you’d like to know what type of transport would be best for your shipment, reach out to FreightCenter.
Q. What is a freight load board?
A freight load board is an online marketplace where shippers, carriers, and brokers can post and find available freight loads. These platforms help connect parties and streamline the process of booking transportation.
Q. Can I combine multiple shipments into one freight load with FreightCenter?
Yes, shipments can be combined into one freight load to optimize space and reduce costs. This is commonly done for partial truckload (PTL) or less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. Remember to use proper labeling and organization to avoid confusion.
Q. Are there restrictions on what can be shipped as freight?
Yes, carriers have restrictions on hazardous materials, perishables, and items requiring special handling. It’s important to verify these restrictions and communicate any special requirements with your carrier before booking.
Q. What is freight class and how does it affect shipping a load?
Freight class is a standardized system that categorizes freight for LTL shipping. It affects shipping cost, with lower classes being heavier and cheaper, and higher classes being lighter or more fragile.
Q. Can I track a freight load in real with FreightCenter?
Yes, FreightCenter offers real-time tracking tools to track your freight load every step of the way. All you need is your tracking number.
Q. How much does it cost to ship a freight load?
The cost depends on the load’s weight, dimensions, freight class, distance, type of service, and any accessorial fees like liftagate or residential delivery.
Q. What documents are needed to ship a freight load?
Required documents include the Bill of Lading (BOL), freight labels, commercial invoice (for international shipments), and packing list.
Q. Does FreightCenter offer insurance for freight loads?
Yes, FreightCenter provides insurance for freight loads. Insurance is highly recommended to protect your freight in cases of damage, loss, or theft.
Q. What is a live load vs. a drop trailer load?
A live load is when the carrier waits while the trailer is loaded or unloaded. A drop trailer allows the trailer to be dropped off and pickup later.
Q. What equipment is used to move freight loads?
Equipment includes forklifts, pallet jacks, liftgates, hand trucks, and cranes for heavy or oversized freight loads.
Q. Can I ship hazardous freight loads with FreightCenter?
Yes, FreightCenter can ship hazardous materials but require proper documentation, labeling, and compliance with DOT and hazmat regulations.
The FreightCenter Advantage
Over 25 Years of Service
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.
Incredible 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.
