LTL(less than truckload) shipping is a method that is used by many companies. They can ship partial shipments that range from 151 to 20,000 pounds. When partial shipments are shipped with other partial shipments, the packages are shipped as one load. When the packages are on the truck, the shipments travel to various terminals, so they can be sorted. Partial shipments will change hands many times depending on the distance the shipments will travel. One of the main reasons why businesses use LTL services involves the shipping cost. The overall cost of shipping a package is less when compared to other shipping methods. A parcel service will charge customers higher rates to ship packages. LTL services are needed by trucking companies because LTL shipping options let them increase their business with other companies that are smaller. However, when LTL services are used instead of other shipping methods, the shipping time will be longer. LFL services are best for businesses that have small shipments.

Parcel services usually piece packages that weigh 150 pounds or lower. They usually divide shipments in smaller packages, so they can use algorithm based pricing. LTL companies, however, use other methods. They ship as little items as possible, and this reduces overall processing time. The LTL freight shipping companies also use procedures to reduce damage during transit. Most individuals don’t understand the benefits of parcel services and LTL services because the services are somewhat similar. LTL and parcel services each use a system of terminals to transport items. However, the main different is the price. Businesses pay less when this uses trucking shipping methods.

Although LTL shipping services and parcel services compete for business, most companies hire these companies because of the benefits. For example, a company could use LTL shipping to ship an item to a state. The company could then use a parcel service to ship an item to a certain locale. This method is called zone skipping because companies use LTL services to skip parcel zones. Most trucking companies, however, will not use zone skipping procedures because they affect their businesses. Many new companies consider the benefits of LTL, parcel services, and zone skipping.

Overall, less than truckload shipping services is needed when a company has many small shipments, and the shipments must be shipped on one truck. This reduces the overall cost, and this is a huge benefit to companies that need to save cash.