Partial load too small for a full truck?
LTL shipping solutions from Gateway Logistics in Maine, ME.
You have freight that fills only part of a trailer. Paying for a full truck doesn't make sense when you're shipping just a few pallets. Maine businesses deal with this every day when moving products from Portland warehouses to customers or suppliers across New England.
This happens when your shipment takes up less than half a trailer. Full truckload rates charge you for the entire truck whether you use it or not. Your freight sits alone in a big empty space, costing more than it should.
LTL shipping typically costs 60-80% less than full truckload for partial loads. You share trailer space with other shippers going the same direction. Transit time runs 2-5 days longer than full truckload because your freight makes multiple stops for pickups and deliveries.
Palletize your freight before pickup. This makes loading faster and reduces damage risk during handling. Get quotes from multiple LTL carriers since rates vary by route and freight class. Gateway Logistics can compare options across our carrier network to find the best rate and service combination for your Maine shipment.
Your freight moves efficiently without paying for unused space. You get reliable delivery at a fair price. Other businesses share the transportation costs, making LTL the smart choice for partial loads.
Other things people in Maine ask
why are freight costs so high
Freight rates swing with fuel, driver shortages, and seasonal demand. A freight broker tracks these patterns daily and can lock in better rates through carrier relationships. They also spot when you're getting overcharged.
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.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in Maine and the area around it.