Freight costs keep going up every month?
Real answers about shipping rates from Gateway Logistics, LTL in Georgia.
Your shipping costs jumped 30% this year in Georgia. You're getting different quotes every time you call carriers. Your profit margins are shrinking and you don't understand why trucking got so expensive so fast.
Freight rates swing with fuel prices, driver shortages, and seasonal demand spikes. Carriers adjust pricing weekly based on capacity and route density. When demand is high on popular Georgia routes like Atlanta to Savannah, rates climb fast. Smaller shippers often pay premium rates because they lack negotiating power with carriers.
Typical LTL rate increases range from 15-40% annually depending on your shipping lanes and freight class. Fuel surcharges add another 10-25% on top of base rates. Peak seasons like harvest time or holiday shipping can double your costs temporarily. The more consistent your volume, the better rates you can negotiate.
Start tracking your shipping patterns and costs by route and season. Compare quotes from multiple carriers each quarter instead of using the same one out of habit. Gateway Logistics monitors rate trends daily and maintains relationships with dozens of carriers to secure competitive pricing. A freight broker can lock in contract rates and spot when you're being overcharged.
Once you have rate transparency and carrier competition working for you, shipping becomes a predictable expense again. You'll know what to budget and won't get surprised by sudden price jumps.
Other things people in Georgia ask
partial load freight shipping LTL
LTL shipping lets you pay only for the space you use. Your freight gets consolidated with other partial loads. Expect 2-5 days longer transit time than full truckload. Package your freight on pallets for easier handling.
LTL vs FTL shipping comparison
FTL makes sense when your shipment fills 75% or more of a trailer, or when speed matters more than cost. LTL works for smaller shipments but takes longer with multiple stops. Calculate cost per pound, not just total price.
LTL shipping vs waiting for full truckload
LTL makes sense when you need frequent smaller shipments or can't wait to accumulate a full load. If your customers need steady deliveries and you can't afford to hold inventory, ship LTL. If you can batch shipments and time isn't critical, waiting for a full truckload usually costs less per pound.
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Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in Georgia and the area around it.