Optimizing Freight Shipments: Understanding LTL Freight Services

 There is a fine line between balancing the speed of your delivery needs with cost-effectiveness. Every entrepreneur understands that how you leverage delivery services is essential to keeping your bottom line in the black.

As a leading pioneer in the Mid-Atlantic region, our team at Swift has mastered all you need to know about efficient, expedited trucking through LTL freight services. We make moving smaller items and loads more accessible to your target destination without breaking the piggy bank. That is because our team uses flexible timetables, cargo vans, straight trucks, and other efficient vehicles for a nimble, responsive structure you can rely upon.

What is LTL Fright Services?

You’ve probably already heard the term LTL being thrown around when it comes to logistics. This refers to “Less than Truckload” for freight shipping. It is exclusively for smaller cargo sizes that do not require an entire trailer.

Instead of paying for the maximum size of an 18-wheeler when you’re only shipping five mattresses that take up a percentage of the available space, you are charged for just what you use. This is the go-to method for companies shipping cargo typically weighing from 150-15,000 pounds. It's kind of like carpooling for your goods.

With LTL, you get many benefits like:


•    Cost Efficiency: LTL freight services save you the cost of having to pay for an entire truck. You get to “share” the prices with other businesses, only requiring a small space as well.

•    Boosted Security: As separate businesses are inside the truck, you will find your items separately consolidated onto pallets that reduce the chances of accidental drops or damage, offering more protection. Swift also uses a variety of smaller trucks to make things even safer.

•    Service Flexibility: The beauty of LTL lies in its versatility. There is almost always a delivery with the extra room you can hop on given enough notice.

•    Real-time Tracking: Swift relies on GPS tracking to convey any updates on packaging or delivery for your items. That type of real-time action can be passed on to your customers for better service and brand loyalty.

Factors that Shape LTL Shipping Rates

The magic of LTL doesn't mean there aren't variables affecting the cost. Here's what determines your rate:


•    Location: It's a simple formula – the farther the journey, the steeper the cost. But with Swift's extensive network in the Mid-Atlantic region, we ensure competitive rates for your routes.

•    Dimensions: The size and weight of your shipment play a role. These factors influence the freight class, which, in turn, determines the rate.

•    Mode: The more you expedite the delivery, the more you are likely to pay. This may not always be the case. Think of a hotel with a few rooms open late at night. We may lower prices in some instances to optimize shipping efficiency.

•    Shipment Type: Certain goods demand special care. Whether they're perishables, fragile items, or hazardous materials, special handling or equipment can affect the price. But rest assured, Swift's expertise ensures optimal care at competitive rates.

Unlock Further Savings on Your LTL Freight Rates

Now, who doesn't love additional savings? With Swift, you're in good hands. We want to help you find the most efficient way to ship your items without harming your bottom line. We always suggest you consolidate shipments to experience cost savings. If you have flexible delivery windows, it is even better, as that can mean you hop on a load like an airline standby for a ticket.

No matter what, we place a high value on our long-term partnership and will do our best to work out cost-effective deals that optimize your freight shipments and ensure timely delivery. Let’s schedule a time to discuss how our LTL freight services can help improve your business operation.