Determining Freight Shipping Costs

Determining Freight Shipping Costs:

There are several different factors that go into determining your freight cost. While shipping LTL (less than truckload), large partial truckload, or full truckload may seem challenging, we are here to help you simplify the process. Let’s dive into the different factors that determine your mode and cost of freight shipping.

Which mode of shipping should I choose?

LTL (less than truckload), large partial and full truckload are the three main methods of shipping freight. LTL shipping is a great solution when smaller cargo needs to be transported. Typically, LTL freight ranges from 1-6 pallets/pieces. Partial truckload is a solution that allows you to ship a shipment that is too large to go via LTL but yet is too small to pay a full truck load rate. A partial shipment is usually priced by how much of the trailer your shipment takes up. Typically, a partial truckload shipment starts at 12’ and can be rated incrementally up to 30’. Full truckload shipping is the best solution when shipping a higher volume of pieces or large/overlength items when compared to LTL or large partial’s.

Benefits of full truckload:

• Dedicated truck – Your freight gets handled much less, and other risks decrease from the time it takes to arrive at the destination.

• Faster transit time – Full truckload shipments are only traveling to one destination, fewer stops translate into a faster delivery time.

• Full truckload rates do not depend on the classification of the shipment. Instead, the pricing depends on the lane and the miles traveled.

Benefits of partial truckload:

• Savings – Partial truckloads can potentially have lower prices than heavy LTL or a full truckload shipment.

• Much like a truckload/dedicated truck – Your freight gets handled much less, and other risks decrease from the time it takes to arrive at the destination.

• No freight class requirement – Unlike LTL shipments, partial and full truckload shipments do not require a freight class or NMFC.

Benefits of LTL (less than truckload):

• Eco-Friendly – LTL results in a lower carbon footprint by dividing space between other shippers on a truck.

• Extra options – Full access to expanded services such as inside pickup and delivery, liftgates, and non-commercial delivery options.

• Visibility – LTL carriers offer tracking capabilities through the assigned PRO number for your cargo, keeping you informed every step of the way.

When shipping less than truckload, it is important that you determine the correct freight class for the item you are shipping. Your freight class plays a major role in the cost of your shipment. There are 18 different freight classes, ranging from 50 to 500. These are established by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA). Freight class is determined by several factors such as density, ability to be stored, ease of handling and liability. Generally, the higher the freight class, the more it will cost to ship.

Our agents are highly skilled in finding the perfect freight class for the items that you are shipping. Taking the time to classify your freight correctly will help you get through the current capacity crunch and maintain great carrier relationships.

If you still have any questions or doubts regarding the freight shipping process or determining an accurate rate, Jameson Logistics is always here to help. We are available 24/7 and are just a phone call away! (800) 741-5043