LTL Freight Shipping Services
Get instant quotes, compare top carriers, and save big on Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping—all in one place. Whether you're shipping one pallet or multiple, FreightCenter makes it easy to find the best rates and reliable service
Explore More About LTL Freight Solutions and Resources
LTL Freight Classifications and Pricing Freight Shipping Insurance Options How to Prepare Your LTL Freight for Shipping
Explore More About LTL Freight Solutions and Resources
Truckload Freight Services Flatbed Freight Shipping ServicesHassle-Free LTL Freight Shipping at the Best Rates!
Compare top carriers, get instant quotes, and save big on Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping—all in one place. Whether you’re shipping a single pallet or multiple loads, FreightCenter makes it easy, affordable, and reliable.
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
What Is LTL Freight?
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) freight shipping is the cost-effective and efficient way to transport smaller shipments that don’t require a full truck. Instead of paying for an entire trailer, your freight shares space with other shipments, helping you save money while still getting reliable delivery.
LTL is perfect for businesses and individuals shipping palletized goods, crates, or large parcels that are too big for parcel shipping but not large enough for a full truckload. Plus, with real-time tracking, expert support, and competitive rates, FreightCenter makes LTL shipping easy and affordable!
How Does LTL Shipping Work?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight shipping allows businesses and individuals to save money by sharing space on a truck with other shipments. Instead of paying for an entire truck, you only pay for the space your freight occupies. It’s a smart, cost-effective, and efficient way to ship pallets, crates, and large parcels.
Here’s how LTL shipping works:
- Get a Quote – Compare carriers & choose the best rate.
- Prepare Shipment – Package & palletize for secure transport.
- Pickup & Transit – Carrier picks up & consolidates freight.
- Track & Update – Get real-time tracking & delivery alerts.
- Final Delivery – Freight arrives safely & on time.
With FreightCenter’s easy booking system, expert support, and discounted carrier rates, shipping LTL freight has never been easier!
Benefits of LTL Freight Shipping
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipping is a cost-effective, flexible, and reliable way to transport freight without the need for a full truckload. By only paying for the space you use, businesses can significantly reduce shipping costs while still enjoying dependable and efficient transit. LTL shipping is ideal for palletized freight, crates, and oversized parcels, offering frequent pickups and deliveries to keep your supply chain moving smoothly.
With real-time tracking, you’ll always know where your shipment is, while professional handling and minimal transfers ensure your freight arrives safely. Plus, consolidating shipments helps reduce fuel consumption, making LTL an eco-friendly shipping option. Whether you’re shipping locally or across the country, FreightCenter connects you with top-rated carriers, discounted rates, and expert support to make LTL shipping simple and stress-free.
How to Get the Best LTL Freight Rates
Want to save big on LTL freight shipping? FreightCenter makes it easy to find the lowest rates by giving you instant access to top carriers, exclusive discounts, and expert support. Here’s how you can maximize savings when booking your LTL freight:
Start by using FreightCenter’s instant quote tool to compare multiple LTL carriers side by side. Instead of calling around for rates, our platform shows you real-time pricing from the best freight providers so you can choose the most cost-effective option.
Next, optimize your shipment. Properly palletizing your freight reduces handling fees and minimizes damage risks. Knowing your freight class, dimensions, and weight ensures an accurate quote, preventing unexpected charges. If you’re unsure, FreightCenter’s shipping experts can help classify your freight correctly.
Consider adjusting your pickup and delivery options to save even more. Business-to-business shipping is often cheaper than residential delivery, and using terminal-to-terminal services can further cut costs.
Take advantage of FreightCenter’s exclusive carrier discounts. We partner with leading LTL carriers to negotiate lower rates, passing the savings on to you. Plus, our dedicated freight agents are always available to help you find the best deal for your specific shipping needs.
When should you use LTL freight shipping?
You should use LTL freight shipping when your shipment is too large for parcel delivery but doesn’t require a full truckload. If you’re shipping palletized goods, crates, or bulky items that weigh between 150 to 15,000 pounds, LTL is the most cost-effective and efficient option. It’s ideal for small businesses, eCommerce retailers, and manufacturers who need reliable freight transportation without paying for unused truck space. LTL is also perfect for regular shipments that don’t fill a full trailer, allowing you to share space with other shippers and save money. Whether you’re moving freight across the country or to a local destination, FreightCenter makes LTL shipping easy with instant quotes, top carrier options, and expert support.
LTL freight shipping goes beyond just pickup and delivery—sometimes, extra services are needed to ensure a smooth shipment. Accessorials are additional options like liftgate service, inside delivery, or limited access pickup that help accommodate special shipping needs. While these services add convenience, they can also impact your final shipping cost. Understanding which accessorials you need upfront can help you avoid unexpected fees and ensure a hassle-free delivery.
Explore the most common LTL freight accessorials below to optimize your shipment!
No dock? No problem! LTL Liftgate Service makes deliveries easy by using a hydraulic lift to safely load and unload heavy freight. Perfect for businesses without docks, residential shipments, and oversized freight, this service saves time and effort.
Need your freight picked up or delivered beyond the curb? Inside Pickup/Delivery ensures your shipment is moved inside a business or residence for added convenience. Perfect for locations without loading docks or when extra handling is needed.
Shipping to or from a home? Residential Pickup & Delivery brings your freight right to your doorstep—no need for a loading dock! Perfect for home businesses, oversized items, and heavy shipments, this service ensures smooth, hassle-free delivery.
Shipping to a location with restricted access? Limited Access Pickup & Delivery ensures your freight reaches places like construction sites, schools, military bases, and storage units—even when standard trucks can't. Perfect for hard-to-reach destinations that require extra coordination.
Need your freight delivered at a specific time? Appointment Delivery ensures your shipment arrives when it’s most convenient for you. Perfect for businesses with set receiving hours or locations that require scheduled drop-offs.
Stay informed with LTL Notify Before Delivery service. Discover how this proactive option keeps you in the loop, allowing you to prepare for your shipments' arrival with confidence.
Elevate your LTL shipping experience with White Glove Service. Explore how this premium option ensures the utmost care and professionalism in handling and delivering your valuable cargo.
Safeguard your LTL shipments with expert Hazardous Materials Handling. Learn how specialized training and equipment ensure the secure transportation of dangerous goods.
Make a lasting impression at your next trade show with LTL Trade Show Delivery. Discover how this service streamlines logistics, ensuring your booth and materials arrive on time and in perfect condition.
Meet tight deadlines with LTL Expedited Service. Explore how this fast-track shipping option accelerates delivery, ensuring your time-sensitive shipments reach their destination with speed and efficiency.
Protect your temperature-sensitive cargo with LTL Freeze Protection service. Learn how specialized equipment and protocols safeguard your goods from freezing during transportation, ensuring product integrity.
Reliability meets peace of mind with LTL Guaranteed Service. Explore how this commitment to on-time delivery provides confidence in your shipping, ensuring your cargo arrives exactly when and where you expect it.
Guaranteed competitive pricing every time you ship.
Why Shippers Choose FreightCenter for LTL Shipping
When it comes to LTL freight shipping, smart shippers trust FreightCenter to deliver affordable rates, top carriers, and expert support—all in one place! Whether you’re shipping a single pallet or managing recurring freight, we make the process fast, easy, and cost-effective.
With instant quotes from leading LTL carriers, you can compare rates in seconds and lock in the best deal. Our team of freight experts is always ready to help, ensuring your shipment moves smoothly from pickup to delivery. Plus, with real-time tracking and dedicated support, you’ll always know where your freight is and when it will arrive.
Shippers choose FreightCenter because we offer:
Exclusive Discounts – Save more with our negotiated carrier rates.
Reliable Service – Partnering with top LTL carriers for on-time deliveries.
Expert Support – Our freight specialists guide you every step of the way.
Real-Time Tracking – Stay updated on your freight’s journey from start to finish.
Join 100K+ happy shippers who trust FreightCenter to move their LTL freight with ease. Get your instant quote today!
Compare LTL Freight Rates & Save Big!
Why settle for one carrier when you can compare multiple top-rated LTL carriers in seconds? FreightCenter’s powerful rate comparison tool gives you instant access to the best prices, fastest transit times, and top-tier service—all in one place!
LTL Shipping FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Download Our LTL Shipping Guide
Q. What is LTL freight shipping?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight shipping is a cost-effective method for shipping smaller freight loads that don’t require an entire truck. Your shipment shares space with other shipments, reducing costs while ensuring reliable delivery.
Q. How does LTL freight shipping work?
LTL freight consolidates multiple shipments onto a single truck. Each shipper pays for the space they use, making it an efficient and affordable way to move freight. Carriers pick up, transfer, and deliver shipments through a hub-and-spoke network.
Q. How do I get the best LTL freight rates?
To secure the lowest rates, compare multiple LTL carriers using FreightCenter’s rate comparison tool, classify your freight correctly, package it efficiently, and opt for cost-saving options like business-to-business shipping.
Q. What is the difference between LTL and FTL shipping?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) is for shipments that don’t require a full trailer, making it a budget-friendly option for smaller loads. FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is used for larger shipments that fill an entire truck, often resulting in faster transit times.
Q. What factors affect LTL freight costs?
LTL shipping costs depend on factors such as freight class, weight, dimensions, shipping distance, fuel surcharges, and any additional services like liftgate delivery or inside pickup.
Q. Can I Track My LTL Shipment Along the Way?
Absolutely! Most LTL carriers provide real-time tracking, so you’ll know where your shipment is at every stage. FreightCenter’s tracking tools make it easy to stay in the loop from pickup to final delivery.
Q. How do I determine my LTL freight class?
Freight class is determined by density, stowability, handling, and liability. Using a Freight Class Calculator or consulting with FreightCenter’s shipping experts can help ensure accuracy and prevent reclassification fees.
Q. What can I ship with LTL freight?
LTL shipping is ideal for palletized goods, machinery, furniture, electronics, retail products, and industrial equipment—items too large for parcel shipping but not big enough for a full truckload.
Q. How long does LTL shipping take?
Transit times for LTL shipments typically range from 2 to 7 business days, depending on distance, carrier routes, and service level. Expedited LTL options are available for faster delivery.
Q. Can I track my LTL shipment?
Yes! FreightCenter provides real-time tracking, allowing you to monitor your shipment’s progress from pickup to delivery by entering your tracking number.
Q. Do I need a liftgate for LTL shipping?
A liftgate is required if the pickup or delivery location does not have a loading dock. Liftgate service ensures the safe loading and unloading of heavy shipments.
Q. What is LTL inside pickup and delivery?
Inside pickup and delivery means the driver moves the freight inside a business or residence instead of leaving it curbside. This service is helpful for locations without loading docks or requiring additional handling.
Q. What is limited access delivery in LTL?
Limited access delivery applies to locations such as construction sites, schools, military bases, and storage units that require special arrangements for pickup or drop-off.
Q. Can I schedule an LTL shipment for a specific time?
Yes! Appointment delivery allows you to schedule shipments for a specific time, making it ideal for businesses with strict receiving hours.
Q. What happens if my LTL shipment is reweighed or reclassified?
Carriers verify freight details, and if the weight or class is incorrect, they may adjust the cost. Accurately measuring, weighing, and classifying your shipment before booking helps avoid unexpected charges.
Q. How do I book LTL freight shipping?
Booking LTL freight is quick and easy with FreightCenter. Enter your shipment details, compare rates from top carriers, choose the best option, and book your shipment in minutes.
Top Advantages of LTL Freight Shipping
Cost Savings
Pay only for the space your freight occupies instead of an entire truck. With shared shipping, LTL helps businesses cut costs while still ensuring reliable delivery.
Flexibility and Scalability
Perfect for shipments that are too big for parcel but too small for a full truckload. LTL offers frequent pickups, multiple delivery options, and the ability to ship as needed without waiting for a full load.
Real-Time Tracking & Security
Ship with confidence knowing your freight is monitored throughout transit. With fewer touchpoints and professional handling, LTL provides a secure, trackable, and efficient shipping solution.
