Less-Than-Truckload

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), also known as less-than-load, is a shipping service designed for relatively small loads or quantities of freight. It bridges the gap between individual parcels (handled by parcel carriers) and full truckloads (handled by full truckload carriers). LTL services are particularly beneficial for businesses that need to move smaller batches of goods frequently.

Importance of LTL Shipping

Cost Efficiency

LTL shippers offer economies of scale, minimizing freight costs for individual shipments. By combining loads from multiple companies on their trucks, LTL providers make it more cost-effective than hiring an entire truck for a small load.

Inventory Availability

Companies often choose LTL to maintain dependable inventory availability. Rather than waiting until a wholesaler runs low on product inventory, they ship smaller batches to mitigate the risk of potential sales loss due to inventory shortages.

Sophisticated Logistics

LTL shipping requires coordination and sophisticated logistics planning. Information technology systems play a critical role for both shippers and customers.

How Royal Management Logistics Handles LTL Needs

Royal Management Logistics, like other LTL providers, follows a hub-and-spoke system to efficiently transport goods. Here’s how it works:

  1. Consolidation: Royal Management Logistics consolidates smaller shipments from various businesses into a single truckload. This assembly service ensures cost-effectiveness.
  2. Variable Factors: Specifics of an LTL shipment depend on several factors:
  3. Origin and Destination: Where the shipment starts and where it needs to go.
  4. Packaging Type: The type of packaging used.
  5. Weight and Pieces: The weight of the shipment and the number of pieces.
  6. Special Handling: Whether any special handling is required.
  7. Size and Capacity: LTL shipments typically range from 150 to 15,000 pounds. They occupy less than 24 feet of a truck’s trailer and consist of no more than six pallets.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the weight range for LTL shipments?

    LTL shipments generally fall between 150 and 15,000 pounds.

  • How does LTL compare to full truckload shipping?

    LTL is more cost-effective for smaller shippers, even though delivery times may be longer.

  • What role do information technology systems play in LTL logistics?

    IT systems are critical for efficient coordination and tracking of LTL shipments.

Consider exploring LTL

If your business frequently deals with smaller quantities of freight, consider exploring LTL shipping options. It can save you money and provide reliable inventory availability. 

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