If you’ve ever needed to move freight but didn’t have enough to fill an entire truck, you’ve likely encountered the term Less-Than-Truckload or LTL shipping. For many manufacturers, distributors, retail coordinators, and supply chain managers, LTL freight offers the perfect balance of cost, efficiency, and flexibility. Especially when shipments are consistent but not massive.

At EASE, we help shippers make smart choices about their transportation strategy. Understanding what LTL shipping is and when to choose it over a full truckload (FTL) can have a big impact on your logistics costs, delivery timelines, and overall supply chain performance.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how LTL works, the situations where it makes sense, and why partnering with the right LTL carrier can be the difference between on-time delivery and a supply chain headache.

What Is LTL Shipping?

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping is a transportation method where freight from multiple businesses is combined in a single truck. Instead of paying for an entire trailer you don’t need, you’re charged only for the space your shipment occupies.

Here’s how it works:

• Shipment Consolidation – Your freight shares trailer space with goods from other shippers, but your cost is still dependent on the size, weight, and distance your shipment travels.
• Terminal Transfers – LTL carriers route shipments through a network of terminals, loading and unloading along the way.
• Cost Sharing – Transportation expenses are divided among the shippers sharing the truck, proportionally based on each shipment’s space and weight.

Because you’re not booking a full truck, LTL is typically a more budget-friendly option for shipments weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for small to mid-sized loads that don’t require urgent, same-day delivery.

Why Choose LTL Freight?

LTL freight is about more than just “sharing a truck.” It’s about optimizing your supply chain in ways that make sense for your business operations.

Here are the primary reasons companies choose LTL:

1. Cost Savings

Because costs are distributed among multiple shippers, you’re not paying for unused trailer space.

2. Flexibility

LTL allows for regular, smaller shipments instead of waiting to accumulate enough freight for a full truckload.

3. Lower Inventory Costs

By shipping smaller batches more frequently, you avoid the expense of storing large quantities of product.

4. Nationwide Reach

Through our LTL carrier network, EASE provides coast-to-coast coverage without sacrificing service quality.

5. Sustainability

LTL shipping maximizes trailer space, leading to fewer trucks on the road. That means reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and a more environmentally friendly shipping option

When Should You Use LTL Shipping?

Even though LTL freight is versatile, it’s not the right choice for every shipment. Here’s when it makes the most sense:

• Your Freight Is Between 150–15,000 Pounds

• • • Anything smaller is typically parcel shipping, and anything larger may require a full truckload.

• Your Shipments Aren’t Time-Critical

• • • Because LTL routes involve multiple stops and transfers, they may take longer than direct FTL service.

• When the Urgency Is Low and Cost Control Is a Priority

• • • LTL is the most budget-friendly option when timing is flexible and the focus is on managing shipping costs.

• You Ship Regularly But in Small Volumes

• • • For businesses shipping weekly or monthly without filling a truck, LTL offers consistency without wasted spend.

How LTL Shipping Works

The LTL shipping process can be broken down into five main steps:

1. Quote & Booking – EASE quickly provides rates based on freight class, weight, dimensions, and distance within 15 minutes.
2. Pickup – Your goods are collected from your location, either on a scheduled route or as a one-off request.
3. Terminal Sorting – Freight is routed through carrier terminals for consolidation.
4. Transit – The load moves toward its destination, making stops for other deliveries or pickups.
5. Final Delivery – Your shipment is delivered to its destination within the agreed time frame.

With EASE’s LTL service, we manage the routing, communication, so you can focus on running your business rather than coordinating truck movements.

LTL vs. FTL: How to Decide

Both LTL and FTL have a place in a smart shipping strategy. The key is knowing which fits your needs:

If cost savings and flexibility matter more than speed, LTL is your go-to. If you need faster transit with minimal handling, FTL might be worth the investment.

Common Misconceptions About LTL Freight

Many businesses hesitate to use LTL freight because of outdated perceptions. Let’s set the record straight:

• “LTL is always slow.”
  Modern LTL carriers (especially through EASE’s network) have optimized routes to reduce delays.
• “My freight will get damaged.”
  With proper packaging and carrier handling standards, LTL can be just as safe as FTL.
• “It’s too complicated to manage.”
  That’s why EASE handles everything – from quoting to tracking – so you don’t have to.

The Role of the LTL Carrier

Your LTL carrier is more than just a trucking company, EASE is the logistics partner responsible for keeping your supply chain moving smoothly.

At EASE, we leverage a nationwide LTL carrier network to ensure:

• Consistent capacity availability
• Competitive pricing
• Route optimization to cut transit times
• Proactive communication when delays occur

LTL Freight Best Practices

To get the most from LTL freight, follow these guidelines:

1. Package for Durability – Use sturdy pallets or crates.
2. Know Your Freight Class – The right classification avoids re-billing surprises.
3. Consolidate When Possible – Fewer shipments mean lower costs per unit.
4. Book in Advance – Gives logistics partners more flexibility to plan efficient routes.

Leverage Tracking Tools – Use EASE’s real-time updates to stay informed.

How EASE Makes LTL Shipping Simple

Choosing the right logistics partner for LTL freight means more than getting a good rate. You need reliability, visibility, and a team that actually answers the phone.

Here’s what sets EASE apart:

• Simplified Coordination, Start to Finish – We handle booking, routing, and follow-ups so you don’t have to.
• Smarter Capacity = Optimized Cost – We match your freight with the best carriers and routes for savings.
• Proactive Support & Visibility – Real-time tracking plus a team that contacts you before issues become problems.
• Custom Solutions – From temperature control to specialized handling for fragile freight, we tailor every shipment to your needs.

Is LTL Shipping Right for You?

If your shipments are mid-sized, your delivery deadlines are flexible, and cost-efficiency is a priority, LTL may be the ideal choice.

Still not sure? That’s where we come in. Our logistics team will assess your shipment details and advise whether LTL freight or FTL makes more sense for your budget and timeline.

Next Steps: Ship Smarter with EASE

The difference between a stressful shipping experience and a smooth one often comes down to the partner you choose.

With EASE, you get:

• A deep LTL carrier network for nationwide reach
• Real-time shipment visibility
• Responsive support—2-minute response times, 15-minute quotes, and 15-minute follow-ups
• A team that understands the needs of manufacturers, distributors, retail coordinators, and supply chain managers

Why EASE is the Clear Choice for LTL Freight

When it comes to LTL freight, choosing the right partner can make the difference between delays and dependable deliveries. At EASE, we connect you with the right LTL carriers, provide real-time visibility, and back every shipment with proactive, human support. Whether you’re shipping regionally or coast-to-coast, we make LTL shipping faster, simpler, and more cost-effective, so you can focus on growing your business, not chasing down freight updates.