LTL Freight Shipping: The Smart Choice for Small to Mid-Sized Loads

When it comes to freight shipping, not every business needs a full truck. For companies with smaller shipments that don’t require an entire trailer, LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight shipping is the perfect solution. It’s cost-effective, efficient, and highly flexible—making it a popular choice for growing businesses, manufacturers, and eCommerce companies alike.

In this post, we’ll break down what LTL freight is, how it works, its benefits, and why Trex Shipping is your trusted partner for reliable and affordable LTL shipping across the U.S.

What Is LTL Freight Shipping?

LTL freight shipping, or Less Than Truckload, is a method of transporting goods that don’t require a full 48- or 53-foot trailer. In an LTL shipment, your freight shares trailer space with other shippers’ cargo. Each shipper pays for only the portion of the truck their freight occupies, making LTL a cost-effective shipping solution for smaller loads.

At Trex Shipping, we specialize in matching your freight with carriers that optimize routes, reduce costs, and ensure on-time delivery.

How LTL Freight Works

The LTL process is straightforward yet optimized for efficiency:

1. Shipment Preparation – Your freight is palletized, labeled, and measured. Accurate dimensions are key to avoiding reclassification fees.

2. Pickup – A local carrier picks up your shipment and consolidates it with others headed in the same direction.

3. Transportation Hub Transfers – The shipment is sorted at one or more terminals and routed toward the destination.

4. Final Delivery – The last-mile carrier delivers the freight to the receiver.

While LTL shipments may involve multiple transfers, Trex Shipping works with experienced carriers to ensure your shipment remains safe and on schedule.

Top Benefits of LTL Freight Shipping

1. Cost Savings

Only pay for the space you use. This makes LTL more affordable than booking a full truck when your freight doesn’t require it.

2. Environmental Efficiency

Consolidating shipments reduces the number of trucks on the road, lowering emissions and fuel consumption.

3. Flexibility

LTL is ideal for businesses with fluctuating shipping volumes or frequent smaller shipments.

4. Additional Services

With LTL, you can request liftgate delivery, inside delivery, residential service, and more—perfect for specific needs.

Who Should Use LTL Shipping?

LTL shipping is a great fit for:

• Small to mid-size manufacturers

• Distributors sending regular pallet shipments

• ECommerce businesses

• Retailers with multi-location inventory drops

• Construction material suppliers with partial load needs

If your shipment weighs between 150 and 15,000 pounds and doesn’t require a dedicated truck, LTL is the optimal freight service.

When Is LTL Not the Best Option?

LTL shipping may not be ideal for time-critical freight or highly fragile items that can’t be transferred. In these cases, consider our specialized services:

Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping for dedicated trailers and direct delivery

Expedited Freight Services for urgent, time-definite shipping

Partial Truckload Shipping for shipments larger than typical LTL but not quite a full truck

Choosing the Right LTL Carrier: What Matters Most?

Not all carriers offer the same quality of service. Here’s what you should look for:

Reliability

Does the carrier have a strong reputation for on-time delivery and safe handling?

Coverage

Make sure your LTL provider offers strong regional or national coverage based on your shipping lanes.

Tracking & Visibility

Real-time shipment tracking and proactive updates should come standard.

Pricing Transparency

Avoid hidden fees by working with providers that give clear, all-inclusive rates.

Trex Shipping partners only with vetted LTL carriers that meet these standards, giving you peace of mind from pickup to delivery.

How Trex Shipping Makes LTL Easy

At Trex Shipping, we’re more than a freight platform—we’re a logistics partner. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Nationwide LTL Carrier Network: We connect you with the best carriers at competitive rates.

• Real-Time Tracking: Know exactly where your shipment is at every stage.

• Dedicated Customer Support: Speak with real freight experts—not bots.

• Custom Solutions: Need residential delivery? Liftgate assistance? We’ve got you covered.

• Fast Freight Quotes: No waiting around. Get a reliable quote quickly.

You can start here: Request an LTL Freight Quote Now

Frequently Asked Questions About LTL Shipping

How long does LTL shipping take?

LTL transit times vary by distance and terminal transfers. Most regional shipments take 1–3 business days; cross-country deliveries may take 4–7.

How is pricing calculated?

LTL rates are based on freight class, weight, dimensions, distance, and accessorials like liftgate or residential delivery.

Is LTL secure?

Yes. Your freight is wrapped, palletized, and handled by professionals. However, for high-value or fragile items, added protection or FTL might be better.

What is freight class?

Freight class is a classification system based on density, value, handling, and liability. Getting it right prevents reclassification fees.

Final Thoughts: Is LTL Right for Your Business?

If you’re shipping freight that’s too large for parcel and too small for a full truckload, LTL is the smart solution. With the right partner, it delivers cost savings, flexibility, and reliability without compromise.

At Trex Shipping, our goal is to make shipping simpler, more transparent, and more efficient. Let us help you move smarter—whether you’re shipping once a month or every day.