The Best LTL Shipping Practices Every Shipper Should Know

Are you looking for a seamless LTL shipping experience? Then again, who isn’t! LTL provides numerous benefits for those with smaller loads to ship, especially if you’re on a tight budget and want to save without sacrificing quality and efficiency.

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Whether you’re running operations yourself or using LTL services in San Diego, it helps to know how to navigate the details. We share some of the best practices to boost productivity along the supply chain. Let’s dive in!

Is LTL the right fit for your shipment?

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It’s important to recognize that LTL isn’t the answer for everything, even if it is a logistics service climbing in popularity. Shippers are enticed by the cost savings that come with only paying for space in a container that you need, however keep in mind that FTL is typically faster and arguably less complicated since less handling is going on.

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Know the accurate weight and dimensions of your load to ensure it’s a right fit for LTL. Generally smaller loads do best. Knowing these measurements is also important for determining the freight class and costs.

Double-check labels and timetables

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Since LTL tends to be slower and shipments are changing hands multiple times, it’s imperative to carefully inspect all labels and documentation. This decreases the risks of a package getting lost or misplaced. 

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To combat delays, know all delivery times and keep communication open to combat any issues that may arise.

Prioritize packaging

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With LTL shipping, proper packaging is vital to ensure your products don’t get damaged. Know your materials and what works best for your products. 

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For example, small items can be grouped together on a pallet. This increases stability and allows for faster handling. Crates offer the most protection, but also tend to be pricier. For most shipments, sturdy cardboard boxes work just fine.

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