LTL Freight Shipping
Share trailer space and only pay for what you ship
Less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping is designed for freight shipments that don't require a full trailer — typically between 150 and 15,000 lbs or 1 to 6 pallets. Instead of paying for an entire truck, your freight shares space with shipments from other shippers. LTL carriers operate hub-and-spoke networks, picking up from multiple shippers, consolidating at terminals, and delivering to multiple destinations. Pricing is based on your freight class (determined by density, stowability, handling, and liability), weight, and distance.
150 lbs to 15,000 lbs (1–6 pallets typical)
Weight Capacity
Priced per hundredweight (CWT) based on NMFC freight class — $15 to $180+ per CWT depending on class and distance
Typical Rates
2–5 business days typical. Add 1–3 days over FTL for terminal transfers.
Transit Time
Your freight shares trailer space. Standard pallet positions available. Maximum single piece: 8'L × 4'W × 7'H typical.
Dimensions
Key Features
Everything you get with our LTL freight service.
Pay only for the space your freight occupies — not the whole trailer
NMFC freight class and density-based rating system
Hub-and-spoke network with nationwide terminal coverage
Scheduled pickups with appointment windows
Liftgate, inside delivery, and residential delivery options
Freight class calculator available to estimate your class
Volume LTL discounts for regular shippers
Guaranteed delivery programs available for time-sensitive LTL
Common Commodities
Freight types most commonly shipped via LTL.
Machinery parts and components
Office equipment and supplies
Small batch retail goods
Industrial supplies
Medical equipment
Sample shipments
Trade show materials
Replacement parts
Small manufacturing runs
B2B wholesale orders
When to Choose LTL
Ideal For
Shipments from 150 to 15,000 lbs, 1–6 pallets, non-urgent freight where cost savings outweigh transit time, regular scheduled shipments, and businesses that ship smaller quantities more frequently rather than full truckloads.
Equipment Comparison
How LTL compares to other freight options.
LTL vs. Dry Van (FTL)
FTL gives you a dedicated trailer — faster transit, less handling, lower damage risk. LTL is cheaper for smaller shipments but involves more handling and terminal transfers. At 8,000–12,000 lbs, compare both — FTL can sometimes be cheaper than high-class LTL.
LTL vs. Expedited
Expedited provides dedicated capacity with guaranteed delivery windows. LTL is much cheaper but slower and doesn't guarantee exact delivery times. For urgent smaller shipments, expedited hot-shot is the alternative.
States We Serve with LTL
View detailed LTL freight information for each state, including local industries, key lanes, and regulations.
LTL Shipping FAQs
How is LTL freight shipping priced?
LTL rates are based on four factors: freight class (NMFC classification based on density, stowability, handling, and liability), shipment weight, distance, and any accessorial services (liftgate, inside delivery, etc.). Higher freight classes cost more per hundredweight.
What is a freight class and how do I determine mine?
Freight class is an NMFC classification from 50 to 500 that determines your LTL rate. It's based primarily on density (weight per cubic foot). Higher density = lower class = lower rates. Use our freight class calculator at directfleetdispatch.com/tools/freight-class-calculator to estimate your class.
When is LTL cheaper than FTL?
LTL is typically cheaper when your shipment is under 10,000 lbs and fits on 6 or fewer pallets. Above that weight, FTL often becomes more cost-effective — especially at higher freight classes where LTL per-CWT rates escalate quickly.
How long does LTL shipping take?
LTL transit times are typically 2–5 business days depending on distance. LTL is slower than FTL because shipments are consolidated at terminals along the route. For same-region shipments, expect 2–3 days. Cross-country, expect 4–5 days.
What is a reweigh or reclassification in LTL?
If the carrier's terminal measures your freight and finds the actual weight or dimensions differ from what was listed on the bill of lading, they may adjust the freight class and charge accordingly. This is called a reweigh or reclassification. Accurate BOL information prevents surprise charges.
Need a LTL Carrier?
Tell us about your LTL freight — origin, destination, weight, and timeline — and we will match you with a vetted, FMCSA-verified carrier. Usually within hours.
Mon–Fri 7AM–7PM CT | No obligation, no contracts