When it comes to shipping items throughout Canada, you should know about the different kinds of shipping options available to people or businesses to ship items effectively. LTL shipping in Canada is one of the most cost-effective shipping methods. But what is it, and how can it benefit you?
This blog will cover LTL shipment, how it compares to FTL shipping in Canada, and why it may be the best option for you.
What is LTL Shipping?
The transportation method known as LTL (less than truckload) combines several shipments from various businesses or customers into a single large shipment. While FTL (full truckload) involves one shipper paying for a truck in full, LTL shipping in Canada allows multiple customers to utilize the cargo space in one truck, which can be a good, budget-friendly product for anyone shipping items that can’t fill an entire truck.
LTL is the best option for businesses or individuals who want to move smaller amounts of freight that do not require a full load. Normally, LTL shipments can range from 150 lbs to up to approximately 10,000 lbs. The cost to ship LTL freight is based on a number of factors, including the weight, dimensional size, and generally the number of miles the shipment will travel.
How Does LTL Shipping Work?
LTL Canada collects your goods from your location, loads them onto a truck, and transports them to a central hub for sorting. After this, the shipment is routed to its destination. LTL shipping typically involves multiple stops along the way as items are picked up and delivered to various locations.
One of the key benefits of LTL shipping in Canada is that it allows multiple shipments to be combined into a single truck, saving costs on transportation. However, due to the shared nature of the shipment, the delivery may take longer than FTL shipping in Canada.
Benefits of LTL Shipping in Canada
Many benefits of LTL shipping make it a wise option for businesses and people shipping smaller loads:
- Affordable: For smaller shipments in Canada, LTL shipping is significantly less expensive than FTL shipping because multiple businesses share the truck’s cost.
- Flexibility: LTL shipping in Canada allows you to ship things of different sizes and weights, which is beneficial for companies needing to ship smaller objects or for individuals who do not have enough things to ship a full truck.
- More Access to Shipping Corridors: LTL shipments can be delivered, typically without limit, to additional locations since the truck is stopping at various locations. So, you have access to more locations across Canada, allowing you to ultimately get your shipments where they need to go.
- Environmental Benefits: By combining shipments, LTL shipping helps to minimize the number of trucks on the road, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to FTL shipping in Canada.
- Security and Handling: LTL shipping companies ensure proper handling and secure packaging to ensure your goods arrive in optimal condition. The items are tracked the entire way, which provides peace of mind.
LTL vs FTL Shipping in Canada
Choosing between LTL Canada and FTL shipping in Canada is crucial. It’s vital to understand the basic differences:
LTL Shipping: Best for smaller shipments (less than 10,000 lbs.). It is cheap and allows for less urgent deliveries, but it may take longer due to multiple stops.
FTL Shipping: Best for larger shipments that require a full truck. It is more expensive than LTL, but it is faster and you will know your shipment will not be damaged because the truck is only for your stuff.
If you are shipping a few items or need a more cost-effective option, LTL shipping is the best choice. However, if you need to ship a large quantity of items that fill an entire truck, FTL shipping is the best option.
When Should You Choose LTL Shipping?
LTL shipping is ideal when:
- You are unable to fill an entire truck with goods.
- You are looking for an economical solution for small shipments.
- You are willing to wait a little longer for delivery in exchange for the savings.
- You want to ship across Canada and require the flexibility of multiple stops or destinations.
How Much Does LTL Shipping Cost in Canada?
The price of shipping via LTL shipping can be driven by a number of factors, including
- Weight and Size: Larger and heavier shipments will cost more to ship LTL.
- Distance: If you are shipping across Canada, they will cost you more.
- Type of Goods: Certain goods may incur additional charges for special handling, for example, if they are hazardous.
- Freight Class: Different types of cargo will have a freight class, based on the density and how it is handled, which will affect the cost of shipping.
Most LTL carriers provide online tools that allow you to estimate shipping costs based on these factors. In any case, it’s beneficial to get a few quotes so you are comfortable you received a deal.
Choosing the Best Courier Service in Canada for LTL Shipping
When choosing an LTL courier, be sure to use the following criteria:
Dependable Delivery Times: Make sure that the courier provides you a definitive delivery timeframe and tracking system.
Excellent Customer Service: A well-equipped customer support team can help you resolve problems and track your shipment at every stage of its journey.
Inexpensive Rates: Compare rates for different couriers to obtain the lowest possible rates for your shipping needs.
Flexible Options: Some carriers offer additional options like liftgate delivery, residential delivery, or guaranteed transit times that might be helpful depending on your needs.
Some of the best courier services in Canada for LTL shipping include ME to U, Canada Post, FedEx, and UPS
Shipping Across Canada with LTL Shipping
LTL Canada is widely used for shipping across Canada. Whether you are shipping from Toronto to Vancouver or from Calgary to Montreal, using the services of LTL shipping is a dependable method to transport goods with efficiency. The delivery network of LTL carriers is very broad, thus allowing for shipment to the majority of Canadian locations.
Even more, LTL Canada is a fantastic option for your business if you are shipping products across the country without seeking FTL shipping costs.
Cheap Delivery with LTL Shipping
For companies or individuals with tight budgets, LTL shipping is your best bet for cutting down on shipping costs. When your product shares truck space with other loads, you don’t have to pay for a full truck. LTL shipping in Canada becomes more affordable when compared to paying for the entire truckload.
If you’re a regular shipper, you can also save more by getting a discount on frequent shipments or booking a larger quantity. Many LTL carriers offer discounts for frequent shipments or bulk bookings.
Conclusion
LTL shipping in Canada gives an affordable, flexible, and safe solution for those who want to ship small loads across the country. Whether you are a small business wanting to save on shipping costs or a person needing to send goods, LTL shipping provides the best balance between cost and services.
By understanding the advantages of LTL shipping and comparing it to FTL shipping, you can choose the best shipping option for your needs. If you are ready to start shipping. Check out some of the best courier options in Canada that offer LTL shipping and get your items moving across the country today!
