Common LTL Freight Shipping Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- 9 minutes ago
- 4 min read
3 minute read
Author: M.S.
Key Takeaways:
Always verify freight classification, weight, and dimensions.
Invest in proper packaging to protect your goods.
Be aware of accessorial fees and budget for them.
Leverage TMS and tracking tools for full shipment visibility.
Consolidate shipments to save money and simplify operations.
Maintain accurate documentation to avoid delays.
Introduction:
Shipping less-than-truckload (LTL) freight can be a game-changer for businesses that don’t need a full truck for every shipment. It’s cost-effective, flexible, and ideal for small- to mid-sized shipments.
However, LTL freight comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike full-truckload shipments, your goods share space with other shippers’ freight. This means mistakes in packaging, classification, or scheduling can cause delays, damage, or surprise fees.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common LTL shipping mistakes, explain why they happen, and provide actionable strategies to avoid them. Whether you’re new to LTL or a seasoned shipper, these insights can save you time, money, and stress.
1. Incorrect Freight Classification
Why It Happens: Many shippers underestimate the importance of accurate freight classification. LTL carriers use NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification) codes to determine shipping rates. Misclassification can result in unexpected charges, shipment delays, or even denied pickups.
Examples:
Shipping a box of electronics as general cargo instead of properly classified electronics.
Using a generic code for mixed shipments, which may undercharge or overcharge.
How to Avoid It:
Consult NMFC codes and carrier guidelines before shipping.
Use a TMS (Transportation Management System) that integrates freight classification checks.
Double-check product weights, dimensions, and packaging types to match the correct class.
2. Poor Packaging
Why It Happens: LTL shipments move with other freight, increasing the risk of shifting and damage. Skipping proper packaging to save time or costs often backfires.
Examples:
Fragile items shipped without cushioning.
Heavy boxes stacked on top of lighter ones, causing crushing.
How to Avoid It:
Use pallets, shrink wrap, and cushioning materials appropriate for your product.
Follow carrier rules for maximum weight per pallet.
Label fragile items clearly.
Consider double-boxing or adding corner protectors for delicate items.
Pro Tip: Investing in quality packaging upfront can save hundreds in damage claims.
3. Inaccurate Weight or Dimensions
Why It Happens: Estimating instead of measuring often leads to billing disputes or reweigh fees. LTL carriers charge based on the greater of actual weight vs. dimensional weight.
Examples:
A pallet is recorded as 500 lbs but actually weighs 650 lbs.
Using approximate pallet dimensions rather than precise measurements.
How to Avoid It:
Measure and weigh each pallet or shipment accurately.
Input accurate data into your TMS or carrier portal.
For irregularly shaped items, consider using a freight calculator to determine dimensional weight.
4. Failing to Schedule Proper Pickup Times
Why It Happens: Assuming your carrier will pick up automatically can lead to missed shipments and delayed deliveries.
Examples:
Shipping from a location without confirming carrier pickup availability.
Not accounting for holidays or high-volume periods.
How to Avoid It:
Confirm pickup windows with your carrier.
Schedule pickups in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Use a TMS or automated scheduling tool to set reminders.
5. Ignoring Accessorial Charges
Why It Happens: Extra services like liftgate assistance, inside delivery, or residential drop-offs often come with additional fees that many shippers overlook.
Examples:
Needing a liftgate for a pallet without requesting it upfront.
Residential delivery incurs extra fees due to limited truck access.
How to Avoid It:
Review all potential accessorials before quoting a shipment.
Budget these fees into your shipping costs.
Discuss services with your carrier if you’re unsure what’s included.
6. Not Using Tracking or Visibility Tools
Why It Happens: Many shippers rely on manual updates or email notifications, which can delay responses to shipping issues.
Examples:
A delayed shipment causes missed customer deadlines.
Lack of visibility prevents early identification of damaged goods.
How to Avoid It:
Use carrier tracking tools or TMS dashboards for real-time updates.
Set up alerts for exceptions or delays.
Provide visibility access to your team or clients for smoother operations.
7. Failing to Consolidate Shipments
Why It Happens: Shippers sometimes send multiple small shipments separately, assuming it’s simpler than combining them.
Examples:
Sending three small shipments to the same location instead of consolidating onto one pallet.
Paying multiple LTL shipping fees instead of optimizing space.
How to Avoid It:
Combine shipments when possible to maximize truck space and reduce costs.
Use TMS software to plan consolidation based on delivery routes.
Consider scheduled shipments to the same destination to reduce frequency fees.
8. Overlooking Documentation Requirements
Why It Happens: Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can cause delays at carrier terminals or customs (for cross-border shipments).
Examples:
Missing a bill of lading (BOL) signature.
Not including required hazardous material documentation.
How to Avoid It:
Double-check all required documents before shipment.
Train staff on proper documentation procedures.
Keep digital copies for easy reference.
FAQs:
Q: What’s the difference between LTL and FTL freight?
A: LTL (Less-than-Truckload) shares truck space with other shippers and is ideal for smaller shipments. FTL (Full Truckload) dedicates an entire truck to one shipment, usually faster but more expensive for small loads.
Q: How can I reduce LTL shipping costs?
A: Use accurate classification, consolidate shipments, avoid unnecessary accessorials, and compare carrier rates regularly.
Q: Can I ship fragile items via LTL?
A: Yes, but proper packaging, labeling, and optional insurance are essential to prevent damage.
Q: How do dimensional weight and actual weight affect costs?
A: Carriers charge based on whichever is higher. Dimensional weight accounts for space usage, so large but light items can cost more than heavy, compact ones.