Common LTL Shipping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is a practical, cost-efficient option for moving freight – if done right.

Unfortunately, that last part isn’t always the case. First-time LTL users and even veterans with bad habits often lose money by making a few very avoidable mistakes.

Oh, sh*p.

We’re here to help. Below is a list of the most common errors made with LTL shipping and tips for preventing them. By following this guide, you can ensure that you’re getting the most economical freight shipping service possible.

Incorrect Measurements

LTL freight carriers must factor in the cargo measurements you provide to plan the organization and arrangement of shipments in a given trailer.

Inaccurate measurements, then, can delay operations as the carrier reevaluates the dimensions of your items. Such disruption can lead to extra charges on your bill, delays in your shipment, or both.

Avoid estimation, and make sure to double and triple-check weights and sizes before providing them to the carrier. In doing so, you will save yourself time, money, and goodwill with the people handling your valuables.

Improper Packaging

Taking care of how you package items is vital for a few reasons.

First, carriers will likely handle your items numerous times along the shipping route. If unsecured, your cargo risks being damaged or lost during this process.

Secondly, LTL shipping services typically charge by the shipment density, with less dense shipments costing more per pound. As such, it’s essential to package your items as compactly as possible – ideally in the shape of a cube.

Using pallets and crates is a great way to cover both of these packaging concerns.

Ignoring Other Carrier Options

Various factors determine shipping rates among carriers, such as freight class, weight, density, geography, time of year, and dimensions.

With all of these considerations, carriers may provide different quotes for the same shipment at any given time. Researching your pricing options among various less-than-truckload shipping services will help you find the most affordable choice.

Don’t overpay when it isn’t necessary.

Disregarding Additional Services

Often, shipments require extra considerations, including but not limited to a liftgate, limited-access location delivery, or particular handling instructions.

If you don’t make the carrier aware of these needs upfront, you might later take on additional inflated fees. Even worse, unawareness about such additional services could severely delay your shipment as well.

Communicating these requests beforehand is critical to preventing issues down the road.

Failing to Track

You might be using the best LTL service in the world, but even they are prone to error. With that in mind, you shouldn’t assume that your items will be delivered on time.

Instead, be sure to track the shipment so that you can verify its safe and timely delivery. This will give you and the recipient peace of mind while allowing you to address any issues as they arise.

Ask your carrier about the tracking services they provide.