What does LTL freight services refer to?
LTL freight stands for less-than-truckload freight, which means that the cargo shipment does not need and hence is not able to fill up a full trailer. This shipment alternative is usually more environmentally friendly and cost-efficient.
What are the processes involved in LTL freight services?
Export freight forwarder do not move the cargo themselves; instead they ensure the logistics are in place for the goods to be moved around. They make sure that the various transport organizations are able to connect up into a smooth chain of operations and the goods are able to turn at the right place and time for the lowest cost.
Benefits of engaging LTL Freight Services
Cost Efficient
Engaging LTL freight services would mean that the shippers would only have to pay a portion of the transportation cost of using the entire truck and trailer. LTL shipping creates a situation where cargo from various shippers are pooled into one truck, which emulates a cost-sharing concept. Hence, each shipper only has to be responsible for part of the truck transportation cost, making LTL freight services a very affordable form of freight transport services.
Time Saving
More often than not, LTL shipments involve handling fewer logistics, which would lead to a shorter delivery time as compared to full truckload shipments. This is because there are fewer pit-stops and less need for weighing to be done along the transportation route.
Control
While full truckload is usually preferred, it is only the better alternative in the case where shippers do require that much of a volume. If the volume cannot be met, shippers should use LTL shipping as it equips them with the ability to have better control of their shipment. Any volume of cargo may be shipped without having to wait for a full shipment.
Pool programs such as pool distribution and pool consolidation are used to ensure time-saving and cost-effective procedures. Pool distribution involves having various LTL shipments transported to a common area and then re-classified onto multiple trucks for further distribution. On the other hand, pool consolidation would be the picking up of many LTL shipments from different locations, bringing them to a common area and onto a truck for further delivery. These programs are beneficial as they are adaptable to any possible last minute changes.
Flexibility
LTL provides flexibility and more options such as services that are not offered by full truckload carriers. For example, some of these options include notification prior to delivery and freeze protection. With LTL, carriers are also able to provide delivery services for smaller businesses. This gives shipping companies a competitive edge as they are able to provide more services to cater to shipping needs.