LTL Cargo (Less Than Container Load, abbreviated as LTL) is a mode of transportation, mainly used to transport less than the entire container (container) cargo. Unlike Full Container Load (FCL), LTL cargo refers to goods from multiple different shippers, which may be combined in the same container.
LTL cargo applies to the following:
1. The cargo volume is not enough to fill a complete container: If the cargo volume is not enough to fill a complete container, then LTL transportation can provide a more cost-effective option.
2. Multiple consignors combined transportation: different consigners' goods can be combined transportation in LTL containers, thus saving transportation costs.
3. Small volume orders: Small retailers or suppliers may choose LTL shipping to meet small volume orders.
4. Shipping frequency is low: for shipping frequency is low, LTL shipping can avoid storing a large amount of inventory.
LTL transportation usually involves centralized unbundling, transportation, consolidation and redistribution processes of goods. During transportation, the goods may need to be transferred and processed many times, so in LTL transportation, ensuring the safety and accuracy of the goods is very important.
LTL(Less Than Container Load) Cargo's standard operating procedure includes the following main steps:
1. Collect and split goods: different consignor's LTL goods are first collected to the logistics center or collection station, and then according to the destination to split, the different goods are combined.
2. Packaging and Marking: Each LTL cargo needs to be properly packaged to ensure that it is not damaged during transportation. At the same time, each goods need to be marked, including the consignor and recipient information, as well as the destination address.
3. Choose a transport provider: Logistics companies will be based on the characteristics of the goods, destination and aging and other factors, select the appropriate transport provider, such as LTL transport company or transport network.
4. Transportation and Transshipment: LTL goods are transported to transfer stations or nodes of the transportation network, which are usually located on the main transportation routes. At transit stations, goods may need to be transshipped, consolidated or split to achieve optimal routing and transport efficiency.
5. Merger and redistribution: At appropriate transit stations, different goods may be merged into one LTL container, or depending on the destination again split and combined.
6. Delivery to destination: LTL goods will eventually be delivered to the destination, usually a logistics center, terminal, warehouse or customer's address. The transportation provider will ensure that the goods are delivered on time, and the acceptance and record are carried out at the time of delivery.
7. Delivery notice and tracking: Logistics companies usually provide delivery notice to inform the recipient of the expected arrival time of the goods. At the same time, the recipient can track the location and status of the goods at any time during transportation through the tracking number.
8. Goods acceptance and reporting: The recipient carries out acceptance after receiving the goods to ensure the integrity and quality of the goods. If there is damage or missing, it needs to be reported to the transportation provider for processing.
The entire LTL cargo transportation process requires logistics companies and transportation providers to coordinate and collaborate to ensure that goods are safely and accurately delivered to their destinations, while minimizing transportation costs.
The following are some well-known LTL transportation companies and platforms in the United States, as well as some of their advantages and disadvantages:
1. FedEx Freight:
Advantages: Extensive transportation network with multiple service options, including ground transportation and regional transportation.
Disadvantages: Sometimes it can be more expensive, especially for smaller goods.
2. UPS Freight:
Strengths: Strong nationwide network, multiple service options, including fast delivery and time commitment service.
Disadvantages: Prices may be higher and some services may be limited.
3. XPO Logistics:
Advantages: Multiple transportation solutions, including LTL, regional transportation and cargo distribution.
Disadvantages: Sometimes may be more expensive, may vary by service option.
4. Old Dominion Freight Line:
Advantages: Focus on customer service, provide LTL and logistics solutions, emphasize delivery time and quality.
Disadvantages: Prices may be higher and may focus on specific regions.
5. YRC Freight:
Advantages: Nationwide network, multiple transportation services, including LTL and regional transportation.
Disadvantages: Have faced financial difficulties, may be part of the service adjustment.
6. Saia:
Advantages: Focus on regional LTL transportation and provide customized services.
Disadvantages: Only in specific areas, may not be suitable for national transportation needs.
7. Estes Express Lines:
Advantages: Provide national and regional LTL transportation, focus on customer relations.
Disadvantages: May be in some areas coverage is not extensive.
8. ABF Freight: provides national and regional LTL transportation, emphasizing customer service and reliability.
9. R L Carriers: Provide nationwide LTL transportation, focusing on technological innovation and customer satisfaction.
10. Central Transport: Focus on regional LTL transportation and provide customized solutions.
11. New Penn: Provides regional LTL shipping, emphasizing delivery time and customer support.
12. Southeastern Freight Lines: focus on the southeast region of LTL transportation, pay attention to service quality and efficiency.
13. AAA Cooper Transportation: Provides regional LTL transportation with a focus on customer satisfaction and innovation.
14. Pitt Ohio: In the Northeast, Midwest and Southeast provides LTL and cargo transportation services.
15. Dayton Freight Lines: Provides Midwest LTL transportation, emphasizing reliability and value.
These are just some of the famous LTL transportation platforms and companies, each company has its own characteristics and advantages, you can choose according to your specific needs. When choosing, please consider your shipping range, budget, delivery time and other needs to ensure that you can find the most suitable partner.
in the LTL transport process, the shipper is usually required to provide a code called "Class Number" or "Freight Class", which is used to describe the nature and characteristics of the goods, to determine the transport cost of one of the important factors. The Freight Class of the goods can affect the transportation cost and pricing method.
Freight Class is usually a number, ranging from 50 to 500. It reflects the volume, weight, value, vulnerability and other characteristics of the goods. The specific Freight Class is determined by the carrier according to the National Freight Classification System (NMFC,National Motor Freight Classification).
Calculating the Freight Class takes into account the following factors:
1. Density (Density): The ratio of the volume and weight of the goods. It is usually calculated in terms of weight per cubic foot. High-density shipments may have a lower Freight Class because they take up less space.
2. Value: High-value goods may require a lower Freight Class to avoid high transportation insurance costs.
3. Vulnerability (Susceptibility to Damage): Vulnerable goods may require a higher Freight Class to ensure proper handling and protection during transportation.
4. Special nature (Special Characteristics): the special nature of the goods, such as dangerous goods or special packaging requirements, may affect its Freight Class.
specific method of calculation may be adjusted according to carrier policies and national freight classification systems. It is recommended that when you cooperate with LTL transportation company, ask for a detailed Freight Class calculation method to ensure that you provide accurate information and get the correct transportation quotation.
Source: American International Logistics Association