If you've ever received a heavy, oversized, or oddly shaped item at your doorstep, it likely arrived via freight shipping. In fact, most products you've bought, whether online or in-store, were once part of a freight shipment.
Freight shipping is the go-to method for businesses to transport large or bulk items that exceed parcel size and weight limits. These shipments are typically packed and shipped on pallets.
Keep reading to discover more about freight shipping—what gets shipped supply chains running smoothly.
What is freight?
Any shipment over 150 lbs. qualifies as freight. Freight can be moved domestically or internationally by land, air, or sea!
What is freight shipping?
Freight shipping is the process of moving goods and cargo by land, sea, or air. This includes various methods like truckload, less-than-truckload (LTL), and intermodal transport, which combines different modes of transportation.
Freight refers to any goods being transported, whether by truck, train, ship, or plane.
Freight shipping involves transporting goods, commodities, and cargo in bulk —by ship, aircraft, truck, or intermodal methods!
Benefits:
Freight shipping ensures your goods reach their destination on time, safely, and cost-effectively. Whether by land, sea, or air, here are the key benefits:
- Top Carriers: Trusted online providers connect you with high-quality contract carriers to ensure safe and timely delivery.
- Cost Savings: We help you find competitive rates from qualified carriers, saving you time and money.
- On-Time Delivery: Choose from various service levels to meet tight delivery windows and ensure your freight arrives when needed.
Freight shipping Modes:
Freight shipping offers several options, including less than truckload (LTL), full truckload, intermodal, partial truckload, and expedited shipping. Here's a quick breakdown:
Less than Truckload (LTL):
Ideal for shipments that are too big for a parcel but don't need an entire truck. LTL is typically used for shipments weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds.
Full Truckload (FTL):
Used for large shipments that fill an entire semi-trailer, typically over 15,000 pounds. FTL can be more cost-effective and minimizes the risk of damage, as the freight is handled less than in LTL shipping.
Intermodal Shipping:
This method combines different transportation modes, usually rail, and truck, to move freight efficiently. Using rail in your shipping can reduce fuel costs, lower overall expenses, and provide a reliable way to transport goods.
Partial Truckload:
This option allows you to share truck space and costs with other shippers, often leading to savings. It's ideal for shipments over 5,000 pounds or more than 6 pallets.
Expedited Shipping:
For time-sensitive shipments that need fast delivery, expedited shipping is the go-to option, typically using trucks or air transport.
Core Insights:
- Freight shipping is crucial for transporting large quantities of goods worldwide.
- Multiple transportation modes are available, including truck, sea, rail, and air, to suit different shipment sizes, weights, and budgets.
- This method is popular for its reasonable cost, efficiency, and ability to handle a wide range of goods.
- Businesses can utilize technology to compare freight options and select the best choice based on cost and delivery timeline.
Factors Influencing Freight Shipping Rates:
Distance:
The farther the shipment travels, the higher the cost. For example, international trips cost more than short domestic routes.
Timing:
Urgent deliveries cost more. Flexibility with delivery dates can lower the price.
Mode of Transport:
Shipping by sea is usually the cheapest, followed by rail, truck, and air.
Weight:
Heavier shipments cost more due to increased handling and limited space.
Size:
Larger shipments take up more space and cost more.
Location:
Pickup proximity to the carrier’s location and other businesses affects the rate.
Time of Year:
Seasonal factors like bad weather can increase costs.
Density:
Items that pack well and fit efficiently into shipping containers reduce costs.
