Small businesses are finding themselves with unique opportunities to grow thanks to the internet. But the internet isn’t the only factor. Thousands of smaller businesses are finding themselves accessing bigger markets because of the shipping options that have become available. Never before have there been so many options to move your goods around the country quickly and with ease.
So What is LTL?
LTL is defined as “less-than-a-truck-load” or “less than a load”, a service which is offered by freight companies which allows small businesses to move smaller loads around the country. This is far more cost efficient for a small business as they can share the space in a trailer rather than ship a trailer that is nearly empty just for their own goods. Essentially it is a term used in logistics about how goods are moved from place to place.
How does LTL work?
LTL freight is different from other types of shipping as it allows smaller items to be transported rather than a full truck load (FTL). Goods are moved by companies such Koho through hubs and terminals across the country.
Why is LTL becoming popular?
Small businesses are growing and are constantly looking for new ways to reach their customers and cut their business costs. Transporting goods around the country can be expensive, so sharing space on one truck with several other businesses can be a lot cheaper than using a truck all to yourself as you are only paying for a portion of the truck. This option is also better for the environment and can provide better security for your items.
How to prepare your shipment
There are some important things to remember when preparing your shipment.
- Measure up- As tempting as it is to measure down, you shouldn’t. Measuring your parcel up by an inch or two can help the freight company plan their space better and can prevent you from getting jit with extra fees.
- Packaging- There is a good chance that your goods will be in the trailer for a few days so you will need to ensure that they have been packed properly. Always put heavier stuff to the bottom of the pallet or crate. This will ensure lighter and delicate items are less likely to be broken.
- Labels- It should go without saying but make sure your items are properly labelled. Most companies prefer the labels to be affixed to the side of your parcel which makes it easier to read.
- Documentation- The documentation is one of the vital parts to make sure that your parcel goes where it is supposed to. Always make sure you fill it out correctly.
LTL is a fast-growing service which allows businesses to connect with new customers. As time goes on, we should expect to see new opportunities open up as this exciting industry grows. And if you happen to be a small business and were wondering what your next steps might be, now is the time to look into what LTL can do for you.