How are LTL (Less Than Truckload) Rates Calculated?

Understanding LTL Shipping

 
LTL shipping is the perfect solution when you don’t have enough freight to fill an entire truck. Instead of paying for unused space, your shipment shares the truck with goods from other businesses, making it a cost-effective option for smaller loads. With Freightzy, navigating LTL shipping is straightforward and stress-free.

Factors That Determine LTL Rates
Your LTL shipping rate depends on three main factors:

  1. Weight: The heavier your shipment, the higher the cost. However, consolidated loads can offer savings by optimizing space.

  2. Distance: Longer distances naturally increase shipping rates, as they require more resources and fuel.

  3. Freight Class: Freight class is a standardized system that categorizes your cargo based on:

    • Density: How compact or bulky your freight is.
    • Value: The worth of the items being shipped.
    • Handling Needs: Special care or equipment required.
    • Liability: The likelihood of damage or theft.

(Maybe we add our freight calculator graphic here?)

To help, Freightzy offers a Freight Class Calculator on our website—a quick and easy way to determine your freight class. Need help? Email us at cs@freightzy.com, and our team will guide you through the process.

Ensuring Accurate Freight Class
We understand that getting your freight class right can be tricky. That’s why we’ve simplified it:

  • Once your shipment is booked, we save the exact NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) number to your profile, ensuring transparency and avoiding disputes with carriers.

  • Accurate freight class data helps you avoid surprise charges and predict your shipping costs.

Accessorial Services
Sometimes, your shipment requires additional services, known as accessorials. Here are a few common examples:

  • Liftgate Service: For loading or unloading heavy freight when a loading dock isn’t available.

  • Limited Access Deliveries: For tricky locations like downtown offices, construction sites, or film sets.

Booking these services in advance saves time and money. Not sure what you need? Our team is here to help you figure it out and avoid unexpected fees.

Negotiating Deeper Discounts
At Freightzy, every client starts with competitive LTL rates. After 2-3 months of shipping with us, we leverage your shipping history to negotiate even greater discounts with carriers. This means bigger savings and improved efficiency for your business—another way we make freight easy.

Need More Help?
Freightzy simplifies freight shipping so you can focus on your business. Whether you’re calculating rates, determining freight class, or booking accessorials, we’re here to make the process seamless. Contact us today or visit the Freightzy Knowledge Database for more helpful resources.