Not all businesses required the use of a full semi or a full cargo truck for their delivery needs. For these types of shipments, an LTL freight broker can help a business to get the best possible freight rate on the shipment.
LTL or less than truckload is a common term in the trucking industry. These trucks will haul partial loads, usually less than 20,000 pounds and above 150 pounds. Small freight amounts less than 150 pounds are typically carried by parcel carrying services, although this can depend on the physical bulk and size of the freight in addition to the weight.
The Broker Difference
Working with an LTL freight broker is not the same as contracting directly with a trucking company. Through a broker, prices from several trucking companies are considered, allowing you to have comparative prices and shop for the one that suits your budget.
A top logistics company with freight brokers will know the specialization and the benefits of using specific carriers. This can be instrumental in getting the right match for trucking companies and loads. For instance, some carriers may have experience in hauling perishable items, spirits and wine and other types of specialized cargo. This will make them a better choice for these LTL shipping requirements over simply comparing prices.
Intermodal or Single Mode
Some brokers only work with single mode types of loads. Another LTL freight broker may have experience in handling intermodal transportation requirements.
For long distances, either nationally or internationally, working with a broker with intermodal experience and expertise can help to save you money. With an intermodal LTL freight broker, the cargo is loaded into a container and then transported using the least expensive means. This could include by truck, rail or ship, but the cargo itself is not handled during the change in transportation methods, rather the cargo container is simply moved from one transportation mode to another.
Understand LTL freight broker Needs
Finding a freight broker that takes the time to understand your freight and cargo needs is going to make the coordination of shipments much more effective and efficient. Top brokers will ask questions and suggest options to help you to reduce costs of LTL shipments, speed up delivery times or to maximize the efficiency of the logistics operation.
This type of collaboration between a freight broker and a business, particularly with LTL freight, can have a very positive impact on all aspects of your production and sales. Finding the right broker may take a bit of time, but it is certainly worth the effort in transportation cost savings and boosts in efficiency.
