LtL GROUND, LESS-THAN-TRUCKLOAD FREIGHT SERVICES BUILT TO DELIVER
Whether you’re shipping one pallet across town or multiple pallets coast-to-coast, our LTL freight experts match your shipment with the right carrier to ensure on-time delivery, proper handling, and competitive LTL rates. From liftgate service and inside delivery to freeze protection and expedited LTL options, Fastline Logistics delivers customized less-than-truckload solutions that fit your budget, timeline, and freight requirements perfectly.
Less than Truckload (LtL) Shipping Services
- Cost-effective shipping for freight between 150 and 10,000 pounds that doesn’t require a full trailer
- Shared trailer space consolidating multiple shippers’ freight to reduce transportation costs
- Regional and national LTL coverage with next-day to multi-day delivery across all major U.S. markets
- Liftgate and inside delivery for locations without loading docks or freight handling equipment
- Real-time tracking with PRO number lookup and delivery status updates
- Freight class assistance determining proper NMFC codes for accurate LTL quotes
LtL Ground Shipping Explained
- Hub-and-spoke network consolidating freight at terminals to maximize efficiency and reduce costs
- Freight class system using NMFC codes to categorize goods by density, handling, and value
- Density-based pricing calculated from weight, dimensions, freight class, and distance
- Multiple handling points as shipments transfer between terminals during transit
- Accessorial charges for services like liftgate, residential delivery, and inside delivery
- Standard transit times of 2-7 days depending on distance and service level
Is LtL Ground Right For You?
LTL ground shipping is ideal when your shipment weighs between 150 and 10,000 pounds, fits on 1-6 pallets, and allows 2-7 day transit windows. This method works best for businesses with regular smaller freight volumes and properly palletized goods that can withstand terminal transfers. If your shipment exceeds 10,000 pounds, requires guaranteed delivery within 24-48 hours, or contains extremely fragile items that can’t tolerate multiple handling points, full truckload or expedited services may be better options. Fastline Logistics evaluates your freight characteristics and delivery requirements to recommend the most cost-effective shipping solution.
Less Than Truckload Pricing
LTL pricing is calculated using shipment weight, freight class (NMFC classification), origin/destination zip codes, dimensional weight, and required accessorial services. Carriers use freight classes ranging from Class 50 (densest, cheapest) to Class 500 (least dense, most expensive) to determine base rates. Your quote includes the linehaul charge plus fees for services like liftgate ($75-$150), residential delivery ($75-$100), and inside delivery ($75-$150). Fastline Logistics provides transparent quotes including all charges upfront and helps optimize costs through accurate classification, proper packaging, and carrier rate comparisons.
LtL Ground or Truckload?
LTL ground is most cost-effective for shipments under 10,000 pounds or 6 pallets with flexible 2-7 day delivery windows. Full truckload becomes more economical above 10,000-12,000 pounds or 12+ pallets, and provides faster direct transit, reduced handling, and guaranteed capacity. FTL also offers advantages for time-sensitive freight, high-value goods requiring minimal handling, or non-standard shipments that don’t fit LTL requirements. Fastline Logistics compares LTL and FTL costs for your specific shipment, analyzing weight, pallets, timeline, and handling sensitivity to recommend the optimal shipping method for your needs.
