If you’re in the business of selling products of any kind, you know there are only two ways to sustain profitability.
The first is to get the customers to your products. The second is to get to your products to your customers, preferably in one piece and on time.
So if you have a business without a storefront and the first option isn’t viable to you, your choice of shipping method is absolutely essential.
It can make or break your business.
That’s why you should do your research. We could help you with that.
Let’s start with LTL shipping: what it is and how it can benefit you.
What Is LTL Shipping?
“LTL” is short for “less-than-truckload.”
In plain English, that means what you’re shipping doesn’t fill up the truck that’s shipping it.
It’s ideal for small freight, defined as anything from 150 to 15,000 pounds.
And that means it’s probably ideal for you. Read on for more of its benefits.
1. It’s Cost-Effective
Remember, your freight won’t be filling up the truck that’s shipping it. But that truck isn’t going to have just your freight.
It’ll also be carrying freight from other people and businesses.
And you’ll only be paying for the space that you’re taking up. The other occupants are responsible for the space that they take up.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out that this is a pretty sweet deal.
2. It Reduces Your Carbon Footprint
You may not think about climate change much, but you probably should. All evidence points to the fact that global temperatures are steadily rising; this poses a number of risks to humanity and to the earth.
But don’t worry. We’re not going to bore you with a lecture.
We will, however, remind you that sharing a truck with other businesses means that there are fewer trucks on the road.
Fewer trucks on the road means fewer emissions of harmful greenhouse gases.
And that’s a good thing.
3. It Gives You More Options
There are several services that you can opt for with this method of shipping that may not be available with others. Here are just a few:
- Liftgate
- Freeze delivery
- Inside pickup and delivery
- Notifications prior to delivery
- Special handling
There’s more, too. Make sure to ask your provider for a comprehensive list to learn more about them.
4. It Can Make Your Life Easier
Lots of carriers offer tracking options — many of them real-time — that can save you a lot of time and stress.
You’ll be able to track your freight through the bill of lading, PRO, PO, and shipment reference numbers. You can even get in-transit updates; you’ll know about every pick-up or stop-off, and whether or not the delivery will be delayed.
This will help you manage your inventory, plan your receipts, and manage your workflow efficiently.
5. It’s Safer
LTL freight is usually loaded into crates or onto pallets. These prevent handlers from damaging them and offer protection not just from general wear-and-tear, but from all the other freight in the truck as well.
Reap the Benefits of LTL Shipping
And there you have it: a small, concise beginner’s guide to LTL shipping and its benefits.
If you still have questions or are interested in learning more, contact us. We’d be happy to help you and your business where we can.