The Differences Between LTL and Parcel Shipping

If your business ships freight, you most likely need to handle the details of how things get from point A to point B. Knowing the differences between LTL and parcel shipping is essential when you’re trying to figure out the most efficient and cost-effective way to handle transportation.

What Are LTL and Parcel Shipping?

LTL shipping, which stands for less-than-truckload shipping, is a form of freight shipping for businesses that don’t require an entire truck trailer. These shipments typically weigh between 150 and 1,500 pounds. Companies that opt for LTL shipping share the remaining trailer space with another company utilizing the same service.

Meanwhile, parcel shipping is for packages that weigh less than 150 pounds and that are deliverable without the need for extra equipment or personnel. Parcel-shipping items are generally individually packaged and quickly dropped off at their destinations.

Transit Times

One of the differences between LTL and parcel shipping is the amount of time it takes to transport them. Typically, options such as same-day delivery or expedited shipping are available with parcel shipping. However, since LTL shipments require forklifts to get freight onto the trailers and since multiple companies may share a trailer, delays in the transit period may occur. When your business finds a regular LTL shipping partner, knowing its delivery schedule can result in more accurate time frames.

Risk of Damage

LTL shipping is an advantage because companies place and wrap freight on stacked palettes. These extra precautions allow companies to safely and securely store items with minimal risk. Parcel shipping comes with a higher risk of item damage due to delivery vans packing them in larger volumes.

Checking the Cost

Traditionally, parcel shipping is more cost effective thanks to the more lightweight items. However, some delivery companies may charge extra fees for certain services, such as delivering on weekends. LTL is generally higher cost, but it has more fluctuating prices based on how much of the trailer your freight fills up.