LTL Trucking
Definition

LTL (less than truckload) trucking involves shipping freight that only requires a portion of the trailer. Ideally, the load weighs less than 150 pounds and can be transferred to different trucks before getting to their ultimate destinations.

Generally, there are 18 freight classes as defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association. The classes range from 50 to 500 depending on their weight and density. Carriers mostly use these classes to determine freight tariffs, quotes, and rates. Compact and high-density freight belongs to the lower class, which translates to lower shipping costs. Other factors that determine your LTL freight class include:

Liability: It refers to your commodity value, probability of damage, theft, or the likelihood of damaging other freight. Generally, freight possessing higher risks belong to the higher freight class and, therefore, higher shipping costs.

Stowability: It refers to the ease of shipping your freight together with other commodities. Hazardous, flammable, or perishable materials cannot be shipped with certain items and belong to a higher class.

Ease of Handling: The level of care required when shipping your cargo also affects its classification. If your freight is fragile or perishable, requiring any special handling, it automatically falls into a higher class.