LTL shipping services, or less-than-truckload services, are an excellent option for companies that don’t need to ship large loads of goods. LTL shipping can be used for anything from a single box to several pallets of goods, making it a versatile and cost-effective shipping solution. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the different types of LTL shipping services and their benefits.
What are additional LTL services?
When shipping less than truckload (LTL) freight, various services are available to ensure your shipment gets where it needs to go on time and in good condition. LTL stands for less than truckload, meaning you only pay for the portion of the truck occupied by your shipment. With this type of shipping, you can save money with competitive rates while still getting the transit time you need.
1. Lift gate service
A lift gate service is an additional shipping option where the freight company will drop off the LTL shipment at a predetermined location. This allows the receiver to move the cargo without needing a forklift or other equipment. This can be a great option when shipping fragile or bulky items requiring more labor to drive without a lift gate.
2. Inside pickup/delivery
With inside pickup/delivery, you pay a little extra to have the freight carrier enter your facility to pick up or drop off the shipment. This ensures your freight is loaded and unloaded with care, reducing the risk of damage to the goods.
3. Detention
Detention charges occur when the driver arrives at their destination but cannot complete the delivery due to unforeseen circumstances such as security checks or bad weather. If detention charges are applied, the shipper must pay for the additional wait time so the driver can complete their job.
4. Trade show
If you’re sending your goods to a trade show, many freight companies offer specialized services for large shipments. These services include loading and unloading assistance, setting up and breaking down displays, packing and unpacking services, and storage and delivery coordination.
By considering all your shipping options and opting for additional services, you can ensure your LTL shipment arrives on time and in good condition. Many freight companies offer competitive rates and flexible service options to help you get the most out of your LTL freight service.
Lift gate services
Lift gate delivery service is a convenient way to send and receive items by less than truckload (LTL) shipping. Liftgates are special equipment used to lower or raise cargo from the ground to the level of the truck or trailer. They are instrumental when loading and unloading items into vehicles that may not have ramps or a loading dock. Liftgates reduce the risk of injury and product damage, as they can quickly move heavy loads up and down without manually lifting them.
Liftgates are designed to withstand thousands of pounds of weight and must be properly spec’d for the job. If under-spec’d liftgates are used, it can cause damage to freight or serious injuries. It is important to remember that liftgates can also add to the gross vehicle weight. Companies may want to avoid the cost of liftgates, but this should not be done flippantly.
If you need to transport large items, you should consider using a liftgate delivery service. Several LTL shipping services offer competitive rates, transit time, and reliable shipping options. Shipping less than truckload means that you only pay for the portion of the truck that your shipment occupies. Therefore, you will get a lower shipping rate than full truckload freight shipments.
It is important to research different LTL freight service options and compare prices before deciding. Depending on the size of your shipment, there may be other service options available that do not require liftgate services. By understanding your shipping needs and researching your service options, you can make an informed decision about the best way to transport your goods.
Inside pickup/delivery
Inside Delivery is an accessorial or special service offered by many carriers that must be paid for in addition to the regular shipping rate. This service can benefit those shipping less than truckload (LTL) freight, as it increases the convenience of receiving a shipment at its destination.
Commercial Inside Delivery typically includes leaving the LTL shipment just inside the door of a commercial business but does not cover carrying the shipment onto an elevator or up a long, winding driveway. Residential Inside Delivery involves delivering a shipment up a driveway or to a porch or garage. In some cases, most carriers will only pay for the portion of Residential Inside Delivery that involves placing the freight inside the garage.
Consider the additional options available with LTL freight shipment transit time when looking for shipping services and options. Many carriers offer competitive rates for these services, and it pays to research your options to get the best shipping rate possible. LTL stands for Less Than Truckload and describes a freight shipment less than the capacity of an entire truck. LTL freight service options are a great way to save money while still getting your goods delivered quickly and safely.
Trade show
When shipping freight to or from a tradeshow, it is important to remember that the Bill of Lading (BOL) must include the physical address of the building or complex hosting the tradeshow, the specific name of the tradeshow, the tradeshow booth name and number, and the show decorator and phone number. Also, permits and paperwork may be required for tradeshow shipments, which some regional and smaller carriers may not have. All items picked up or delivered to a tradeshow will be freight class 125.
The freight must also be at the destination the day before the delivery date; otherwise, the carrier must contact the tradeshow authority and set up a new appointment. It is crucial to pick up the freight or shipment immediately after the tradeshow ends. Otherwise, it might be sent to tradeshow storage.
Many companies opt for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping services when shipping freight to or from a tradeshow. LTL shipping stands for shipping less than a truckload and involves sending multiple small shipments simultaneously to save on costs. With LTL shipping, customers only pay for the portion of the trailer they occupy, meaning they can benefit from competitive rates and transit times. Many different service options are available regarding LTL freight shipments, so customers can choose what best suits their needs.