Many people do not realize the variety of products and equipment that semi-trucks haul. Industries rely on trucking and freight companies to assist their operations in the areas of heavy hauling, FTL (full truckload), LTL (less than truckload), and expedited shipping needs.
Defining Shipping Terms
The basic difference between LTL and FTL, when featured by domestic trucking services, is in load capacity. While LTL (less than truckload) means that an item or items will not take up the complete space available on a semi, FTL (full truckload) means a shipment will take up the entire capacity of a truck.
Shippers who assist in hauling FTL accommodate clients who usually ship products or items in bulk. The larger amount of shipped goods offsets the expense of a bigger truck. For companies shipping smaller items or loads via LTL, the amount of the utilized space is billed for shipping purposes. When shipping companies haul loads LTL, many times a variety of shipments from various companies is included on the truck. Because other companies are also using the service at the same time, the length of delivery can take longer than it does for FTL freight.
While LTL deliveries may consist of more pick-up and delivery destinations and locations, FTL loads usually are shipped to one company and to one place. Smaller companies like to take advantage of the cost savings extended by choosing LTL services.
Major industries and construction companies often request heavy hauling for such items as used and new construction equipment, industrial machines, mining equipment and oil and gas products. Other companies rely on expedited shipping services. They count on domestic trucking services to deliver the fastest response possible for both urgent and critical loads, whether it is a full truckload or one pallet. Last-minute shipments can be handled through the services of such expedited carriers as straight trucks, dry vans or cargo vans. Expedited shipping is synonymous with 24-7 delivery.
Rail Deliveries and Intermodal Shipping
In some instances, shipments must be made by rail delivery. This type of delivery is recommended for companies that have shipments that can be coordinated with locations along railroad lines. Sometimes shipments are combined with semi-truck delivery. A full-service shipper will provide intermodal transportation that can be customized to a customer’s cost requirements and logistic needs.
Therefore, whether a business is small or large, it has a variety of logistic options that can be considered in the shipment of goods or equipment. That is why it is important that a business align itself with a full-service shipper and logistics provider. Make sure the company can answer your transport needs with all-inclusive logistic choices and services. Click here for more information.
