5 Common Mistakes in LTL Freight Shipping

Less Than Truckload (LTL) freight shipping has become a go-to solution for businesses looking to move moderate volumes of goods without paying for an entire truck. By consolidating multiple smaller shipments into a single trailer, LTL carriers allow businesses to share space and cut costs—a win-win for both shippers and carriers.

Yet despite its advantages, LTL shipping also comes with unique challenges. Sending multiple partial loads on the same truck invites possible issues such as handling errors, inaccurate billing, and delays. Below, we’ll examine five of the most common mistakes people make when using LTL freight—and, more importantly, how you can avoid them. Whether you’re a shipping novice or a seasoned pro, understanding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and plenty of headaches down the road.

Introduction to LTL Freight

Why LTL Is Popular for Small and Mid-Size Shipments

The primary draw of LTL shipping is efficiency. Rather than filling a single truck with one company’s cargo, carriers load freight from multiple shippers heading toward the same general region. This setup lets small and mid-sized businesses ship more regularly, so they don’t need to wait until they have a full truck’s worth of goods. If your products range from a few boxes to several pallets—anywhere between 150 and 15,000 pounds—LTL shipping is likely a strong fit.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Sharing Truck Space

When you use LTL, you’re essentially paying for the percentage of trailer space you occupy. This “pay for what you need” model avoids the steep cost of underused truck space if you can’t fill it completely. It also reduces the number of trucks on the road, which can translate into fewer carbon emissions overall—a plus for the eco-conscious. However, the cost-effectiveness hinges on providing precise shipment details and using the correct freight class, which brings us to the first big mistake on our list.

Mistake #1: Inaccurate Shipment Details

Underestimating Weight and Dimensions

One of the easiest (and costliest) mistakes you can make is giving the carrier inaccurate dimensions and weight. If your freight weighs more than declared or takes up more space than you reported, the carrier can reweigh or reclassify your shipment. This often triggers additional fees, late invoices, and headaches you could’ve dodged by accurately measuring from the start.

• Use a Freight Scale: Home or small-office scales might not be sufficient for larger shipments.
• Measure Thoroughly: Include the pallet, crates, and any packaging material in the total dimensions.

   

Consequences of Incorrect Freight Class

Freight class is primarily determined by density, stowability, handling, and liability. If you claim a lower freight class to save money but the carrier finds otherwise, expect an expensive reclassification. Conversely, if you overshoot the class, you’ll end up overpaying. The moral? Get your class right the first time by calculating density accurately and consulting the NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) codes.

Mistake #2: Poor Packaging and Labeling

Risks of Damaged Goods

Most LTL loads get moved multiple times—from the initial pickup to regional terminals, cross-dock facilities, and finally the end destination. Every extra touchpoint increases the chance of damage. If your packaging is weak or your items aren’t securely loaded on pallets, you risk broken goods, refused deliveries, and ultimately lost revenue or unhappy customers.

Palletizing Best Practices

• Choose Quality Pallets: Sturdy, undamaged pallets reduce the risk of cargo collapse.
• Stack Strategically: Heavy items at the bottom, lighter or fragile items on top.
• Wrap Tightly: Secure goods with stretch wrap or banding to prevent shifting.
• Label Clearly: Make sure each pallet or box has legible addresses, “Fragile” markings if needed, and orientation labels (like “This End Up”) to guide handlers.

Effective palletizing and labeling minimize confusion at transfer points and help ensure your cargo arrives intact.

Mistake #3: Overlooking Accessorial Services

Liftgate, Inside Delivery, and Limited Access Locations

Not all business locations have the luxury of a loading dock. If the driver arrives and discovers you need a liftgate or inside delivery—services you didn’t specify—this can add unexpected fees to your final invoice. Other scenarios like residential areas, construction sites, or farms may also require special handling known as “limited access,” which often comes with a surcharge.

Unexpected Charges and Delivery Delays

Failing to mention these details can do more than just rack up extra costs; it can also delay your delivery schedule. If a truck arrives without the right equipment, you’ll have to reschedule or wait for a different vehicle to come equipped with what you need. To avoid last-minute curveballs, be upfront about your site’s access requirements and the necessity for special equipment.

Mistake #4: Failing to Compare Carriers and Rates

The Downside of “One-Carrier” Reliance

Staying loyal to a single carrier might feel like a comfortable routine, but it can lead to overpaying. Rates differ widely among LTL providers, depending on factors like route density, terminal locations, and regional coverage. While loyalty can sometimes get you better terms, you might miss out on competitive offers that fit your shipment volume or schedule better.

How Brokers and 3PLs Can Help

If you find it time-consuming to request quotes from multiple carriers, consider partnering with a freight broker or a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. They often have relationships with various carriers and can quickly compare rates, negotiate on your behalf, and offer additional logistics services. This can simplify your shipping process and potentially save you money—so long as you find a trustworthy partner with a strong track record.