Running a business with a growing demand is exciting. Your brand is gaining traction, your hard work is showing tangible results, and you’re positioned for growth and further success.
But what does this mean for your product distribution and delivery? How do you distribute your inventory, restock your stores and ensure that they’re delivered on time without costing too much?
Less-than-truckload shipping (LTL shipping) offers a cost-effective way to ship your goods. It cuts down delivery time and expands coverage area, especially when you have a growing customer base.
So, what is less-than-truckload shipping and how exactly can it help you?
Also read: Effective Strategies for Scaling a Business
How LTL shipping works
LTL shipping is a method commonly used for small loads that don’t fill out an entire truckload. It can accommodate multiple shipments by different parties — LTL service providers consolidate and distribute these shipments depending on a streamlined route.
You only pay for the space that your cargo takes up in the truck, resulting in lower transportation costs and greater cost savings.
to distribute your stocks.
LTL shipping is an ideal option for small and medium businesses with cargo types and shipment sizes that don’t take up an entire truck. Businesses with infrequent and changing shipping needs enjoy its cost-effectiveness, too — it provides flexibility in terms of cargo accommodation and delivery schedules.
This shipment option is also ideal for:
- Ecommerce businesses that ship small, individual orders to customers
- Retailers or shop owners needing to restock their store branches
- Distributors and wholesalers that ship products to their retailers
- Medical and pharmaceutical businesses that ship sensitive supplies
- Appliance and furniture companies that ship to stores or warehouses
5 benefits of LTL shipping
1. Reduces your shipping and transportation costs
Less-than-truckload allows you to ship small cargoes alongside other parties’ goods, so the overall transport costs are split among you.
Your business will only pay for the space your small shipments will utilize. LTL shipping also has a wider reach, so it lets you ship to rural destinations without spending more on distribution and delivery costs.
2. Shortens the transit time of your goods
Your products will reach their destination on time and in fresh condition, as you won’t need to wait until you can fill up an entire truck to maximize the transportation costs.
This ensures your stores will never run short of stocks.
well-stocked to avoid any disruption in your service and sales.
3. Increases visibility of shipments and deliveries
Reliable LTL carriers use top-of-the-line shipment tracking systems that show you the current location and status of your cargo. These systems also utilize the GPS tracking function to provide accurate delivery time estimates.
This provides peace of mind by giving you greater visibility in tracing and monitoring your shipments and deliveries.
4. You have more flexible freight shipping options
Less-than-truckload shipping provides greater flexibility because it gives you access to areas and regions that aren’t easily accessible to regular on-demand truck services.
LTL carriers also know how to navigate their way through roadways regardless of road conditions and traffic volume. As a result, you can rest assured that your shipment will always meet delivery deadlines.
5. Supports eco-friendly product shipment
Sustainability is another thing you should consider about LTL shipping. This shipment method reduces the number of trucks on the road. Not only does it help clear roadways, it cuts down fuel consumption and reduces your carbon footprint.
Be more environmentally responsible by choosing LTL.
What to consider when choosing LTL shipping
Choosing the LTL shipping method can be tricky, as it involves balancing cost, speed and reliability. Determine whether less-than-truckload shipping is the most suitable solution to deliver your goods by considering these factors:
Package weight and dimensions
LTL carriers charge based on weight and dimensions, so providing accurate shipment information helps in getting accurate quotes.
Other factors, like fragile items or hazardous materials, may require special handling and additional costs.
Distance from pickup point to delivery point
Where are you shipping to? A greater distance between the pickup and delivery points naturally uses more fuel and takes up more time, meaning more costs for you if you opt for full truckload shipping.
But with LTL, you usually pay a flat rate no matter the distance. Consider whether the lower cost and delivery deadlines align with your needs.
Transit time and delivery date of LTL vs FTL shipping
Less-than-truckload is a cost-effective option if you’re transporting small cargo or a few boxes. On the other hand, full truckload shipping might be preferable for a more predictable transit time and delivery date.
Evaluate the transit time offered by different LTL carriers. Consider the urgency of your shipment and choose a carrier that can meet your delivery timeline requirements.
Understand the rates and quotes
Consider not only the cost but also the services provided. Some LTL companies may have additional fees for additional requests or longer distances, so be sure to understand the full pricing structure.
Once you’ve determined whether LTL shipping is right for you, choose a dependable and experienced LTL provider to assist with product fulfillment and inventory transportation. You will also want to consider the following factors before you choose the right LTL carrier for your goods:
- The logistics solutions provider’s service options
- Delivery coverage areas and transit times
- GPS technology and tracking services
Also, check whether the company can accommodate additional or special services if your cargo has unique shipping requirements.
Streamline your deliveries with Ninja Restock
It’s important to have cost-effective shipping options for your growing business. Less-than-truckload shipping can reduce your delivery time and costs, boosting your profitability.
Ninja Restock is a Ninja Van service that gives you fast and affordable resupply logistics service. Replenish your stocks or move your inventory from:
- Warehouse to warehouse
- Warehouse to store
- Store to store
Pay only for the space you need (rate is per CBM) when you use Ninja Restock’s LTL shipping service. You can track your shipment real-time using Ninja Van’s tracking technology and get hassle-free deliveries of your goods.
Ninja Restock will deliver your goods when you need them, where you need them!
Learn more about Ninja Restock today!
More logistics solutions from Ninja Van:
Shipping from China to the Philippines: An Easy Guide
From Storage to Shipping: Ninja Van Boosts Your ECommerce Fulfillment
The Benefits of Postpaid Shipping for E-commerce
