LTL Freight Shipping Services
Compare rates from 50+ trusted LTL freight carriers and book shipments in minutes. FreightRun helps businesses ship palletized freight efficiently across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Compare real-time LTL freight rates instantly
- Access regional and national LTL carriers
- Track shipments online
- Support from experienced freight specialists
What Is LTL Freight Shipping?
LTL freight shipping, or Less-Than-Truckload, is a transportation method used when shipments are too large for parcel carriers but too small to fill an entire trailer.
Instead of paying for a dedicated truck, multiple shipments from different businesses share space on the same trailer, allowing each shipper to pay only for the portion of trailer space used.
Most LTL freight networks operate through hub-and-spoke distribution systems, where shipments move through regional terminals before reaching their final destination.
FreightRun connects shippers with a network of trusted LTL freight carriers, allowing businesses to compare rates, book shipments, and track freight across North America. If you're new to freight shipping, you can also read our guide explaining how LTL shipping works.
Trusted Freight Shipping Platform
FreightRun helps businesses compare freight carriers and book shipments through a network of trusted transportation providers across North America.
- Compare rates from 50+ freight carriers
- Instant LTL freight quotes available 24/7
- Real-time shipment tracking
- Dedicated freight support from experienced specialists
FreightRun has been operating since 2013 and is BBB Accredited with an A+ rating, demonstrating a strong commitment to customer service and shipping reliability. Freight Run LLC operates as an authorized freight broker with active USDOT broker authority.
Typical LTL Freight Shipment Characteristics
| Shipment Attribute | Typical Range |
| Shipment Weight | 150 – 15,000 pounds |
| Shipment Format | Palletized freight |
| Trailer Space Used | 2 – 24 linear feet |
| Typical Pallet Count | 1 – 6 pallets |
| Delivery Type | Business-to-business or residential |
LTL vs FTL Freight Shipping
LTL shipping is used when freight occupies only part of a trailer, while FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping uses an entire trailer for a single shipment. LTL shipping is generally more economical for smaller shipments, while FTL is more suitable for large or time-sensitive freight that requires dedicated transportation.
For larger shipments that require an entire trailer, businesses may prefer Dedicated Transportation Services, which provide exclusive trailer capacity.
Benefits of LTL Freight Shipping
Cost Efficiency
Because multiple shipments share space on the same truck, each shipper pays only for the portion of trailer space used.
Flexible Delivery Options
LTL carriers deliver freight to warehouses, retail locations, small businesses, residential addresses, and limited-access locations. Many carriers also offer liftgate services for locations without loading docks.
Reduced Operational Risk
Working with professional carriers reduces operational liability compared to operating a private fleet. Businesses can also purchase third-party cargo insurance to protect shipments.
Industry Expertise
Freight carriers and brokers help shippers manage freight classification, packaging requirements, documentation, and routing optimization.
How LTL Freight Shipping Works
Preparing and Packaging Freight
Typical packaging methods include palletizing freight, shrink wrapping, crating, and protective packaging. Proper packaging helps reduce freight damage.
Getting an LTL Freight Quote
To obtain an LTL quote, you typically need shipment weight, dimensions, pickup location, delivery location, and any accessorial requirements. FreightRun allows businesses to instantly compare rates from multiple LTL carriers.
Get an LTL Freight Quote
Bill of Lading (BOL)
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is a legal document describing the shipment and serves as the transportation contract between the shipper and the carrier. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the BOL also functions as a receipt for the shipment.
A typical BOL includes the shipment description, freight class, shipment weight, origin and destination, and payment terms.
Freight Tracking
Most LTL carriers track shipments using PRO numbers, Bill of Lading numbers, and reference numbers. FreightRun provides online tracking and shipment notifications.
Freight Shipping Calculators
Planning a shipment often involves calculating freight density, shipment volume, and trailer space utilization. FreightRun offers various tools to help businesses estimate freight needs before requesting a quote.
Types of LTL Freight Shipping Services
| Service Type | Description |
| Standard LTL | Dock-to-dock freight delivery |
| Expedited Shipping | Faster transit times for time-sensitive freight |
| Liftgate Delivery | Delivery without a loading dock |
| Residential Delivery | Home delivery service |
| White Glove Delivery | Inside delivery and setup |
| Distribution Center Delivery | Delivery to major retailers |
How Much LTL Freight May Cost
LTL freight costs depend on shipment weight, shipment dimensions, freight class, shipping distance, and additional services. Because every shipment is different, comparing multiple carriers often produces the best rates.
Why Choose FreightRun for LTL Shipping
FreightRun provides businesses with access to a large network of national and regional LTL carriers. Key advantages include:
- Instant carrier rate comparison
- Online freight booking
- Shipment tracking tools
- Freight documentation generation
- Expert freight specialist support
FreightRun helps businesses compare freight quotes from multiple trusted carriers across North America.
Get an LTL Freight Quote
FreightRun simplifies freight shipping by allowing businesses to compare carrier rates, book shipments, and track deliveries on a single platform. Instead of opening multiple carrier accounts, businesses can access competitive rates and start shipping quickly.
Get an LTL Freight QuoteLTL Freight Shipping FAQs
What does LTL freight shipping mean?
LTL freight shipping refers to shipments that do not require a full truckload. Multiple shipments share space on the same truck, and each shipper pays only for the trailer space their freight occupies.
When should businesses use LTL shipping?
LTL shipping is ideal for shipments weighing more than 150 pounds but not large enough to fill a full trailer.
How are LTL freight rates calculated?
Rates are typically based on weight, dimensions, freight class, shipping distance, and accessorial services.
How can I get an LTL freight quote?
You can get a quote by entering shipment details into a freight rate calculator to instantly compare carrier prices.