Less than Truckload (LTL) Freight

Types of Services available

Less than truckload shipping, or LTL shipping, is a popular form of freight shipping. While couriers can handle anything up to 150 lbs, LTL shipping covers heavier shipments. However, there is an upper limit - just as its name says, LTL shipping works best for loads that are not so big as to fill out a truck’s trailer completely.

LTL shipping is popular for personal and business use alike. Therefore, we’ll show you which company to choose for your LTL freight shipping needs.

UPS

UPS is well known for its courier services, which usually offer the most favorable price-to-performance ratio. It’s a similar story with freight shipping, as UPS still provides the best service of all LTL freight carriers.

UPS LTL Freight handles shipments through its subsidiary Coyote Logistics. It’s a dedicated freight shipping provider with an extensive global carrier network. Additionally, UPS provides full online coverage, including detailed tracking of your shipments. Therefore, it’s no surprise that UPS is one of the most sought-after LTL companies on the market.

FedEx

FedEx LTL Freight is another excellent less-than-truckload shipping option. It provides a choice of several services, mainly based on shipping speeds. Therefore, FedEx Freight Priority promises to deliver your shipment in as little as one to three days. On the other hand, the economy option is a little slower at three to six days to delivery, but it offers much better rates.

FedEx also offers a direct freight shipping option. Direct shipping provides an attractive perk - it’s very flexible regarding delivery time and destination. Therefore, this option can schedule a specific time to receive your shipment. That way, you get the perfect home freight shipping service.

It’s worth noting that FedEx provides LTL freight all over the USA, including remote areas like Alaska and Hawaii. Likewise, it can be shipped throughout the continent to Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, etc.

Estes Express

While Estes Express is not as famous as ups or fedex, it’s not exactly new in the field of freight shipping. Quite the opposite - the company has over 90 years of experience in freight shipping and commands a fleet of more than 7.000 tractors and 30.000 trailers. You can be sure that Estes Express LTL freight has what it takes to handle your shipments effectively.

Unlike FedEx, Estes Express doesn’t provide a choice between faster and cheaper options. However, the company’s shipping times are usually very good. Estes Express’s website also offers a calculator showing the exact shipping time from start to finish.

ABF Freight Systems

ABF stands for ArcBest Freight, another popular choice for less than truckload shipping. This company has been in business since 1923, which means it has excellent experience handling all shipping matters. 

Safety is the main selling point of ABF Freight Systems LTL. It boasts many safety awards and ensures each driver reaches regular safe driving milestones. While safety in traffic is commendable on its own, it also means that your shipment will arrive unscathed.

Conclusion

Less than truckload freight shipping is a popular and convenient way to send large shipments. There is no shortage of shipping providers, each offering its benefits and drawbacks. Our chosen companies will make LTL freight shipping look easy, and your only job is to make the right choice. Consider the nuances of each - that’s the only way to meet your shipping needs to the letter.