LTL Freight
Less-than-truckload rate structure and carrier selection for partial loads.
Overview
Less-than-truckload (LTL) freight is how partial loads move from near-port distribution centers into the US interior — multiple shippers' goods consolidated onto one trailer, priced by NMFC freight class, distance, and weight. For cross-border sellers, the LTL surprise is almost always the reclassification: independent dispatch data shows that LTL shipments from Inland Empire and South Bay distribution facilities are frequently re-weighed and re-measured at the carrier's first terminal stop, and a meaningful share get reclassified to a higher freight class at that point, generating an invoice adjustment after pickup. The base rate you're quoted isn't necessarily the rate you pay — LTL requires more upfront classification diligence than FTL or drayage precisely because the carrier verifies (and can reclassify) your freight after pickup.
Timeline
| Milestone | Window | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| NMFC classification & quoting | Before booking | Freight class (50-500) is determined by density, stowability, handling, and liability — accurate classification at booking prevents post-pickup reclassification adjustments |
| Pickup & first terminal reweigh | Day 1-2 after pickup | Carrier re-weighs and re-measures at first terminal — this is where reclassification happens if booked class doesn't match verified dimensions and weight |
| Linehaul transit | 2-5 days cross-country | LTL moves through the carrier's hub-and-spoke network, with consolidation and deconsolidation at intermediate terminals — longer than FTL for the same distance |
| Final delivery | 1-2 days from destination terminal | Last-mile delivery is typically scheduled via appointment; residential delivery, liftgate, or inside delivery add accessorials |
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NMFC freight class
Class ranges from 50 (dense, easy-to-handle freight) to 500 (light, bulky, fragile). Density (weight per cubic foot) is the biggest single determinant — lighter, bulkier freight gets a higher class and a higher rate per pound. Reclassification by the carrier after pickup is common; accurate dimensions and weight at booking are the only defense.
Accessorial charges
LTL accessorials can exceed the base linehaul charge: liftgate delivery, residential delivery, inside delivery, limited access locations, appointment delivery, and reclassification adjustments are the most common. Model these in before booking, not after the invoice arrives.
Volume LTL vs. partial truckload
When a shipment fills roughly 20-50% of a trailer, volume LTL quotes (based on space occupied rather than weight class) can be cheaper than standard class-based LTL. Above ~50% of a trailer, partial truckload or spot FTL often becomes more cost-effective than LTL on a per-unit basis.
Prep Checklist
- ✓Classify NMFC freight class accurately at booking — provide exact dimensions and weight, not estimates, to prevent post-pickup reclassification adjustments
- ✓If shipping from near-port DCs in the Inland Empire or South Bay, expect a reweigh at the carrier's first terminal — build in a small cost buffer for potential class adjustments
- ✓Model accessorial charges (residential delivery, liftgate, appointment, limited access) into total cost before booking — these can double the base linehaul rate on small shipments
- ✓For shipments approaching 20-50% of a trailer, request a volume LTL quote alongside a class-based quote to compare — volume quotes often undercut class-based rates on bulkier freight
- ✓For shipments above ~50% of a trailer by space, compare partial truckload or spot FTL against LTL — the per-unit cost crossover point can favor FTL sooner than most shippers assume
Related Wiki
LTL Shipping Basics: Less-Than-Truckload Freight Explained
How LTL freight classification (NMFC) drives rates, how LTL fits into West Coast import distribution, and common accessorial charges.
Warehouse Receiving Appointment Types: How Scheduling Systems Work
The common types of warehouse receiving appointments, the fee structures tied to scheduling and delays, and how to avoid detention at the dock.
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FAQ
LTL consolidates multiple shippers' partial loads onto one trailer via a hub-and-spoke network, priced by freight class and weight. FTL is a full trailer dedicated to one shipper's freight, priced by the lane and market rate regardless of weight (up to the legal limit). LTL is cheaper for smaller volumes but slower and subject to reclassification; FTL is faster and simpler but requires enough freight to fill a trailer.