Partial load too small for a full truck?
LTL shipping solutions for Maryland businesses with freight that doesn't fill a trailer.
You have freight ready to ship from Maryland, but it only takes up part of a truck trailer. Paying full truckload rates for half-empty space makes no financial sense. You need a way to ship just your portion without absorbing the cost of unused capacity.
This happens when your shipment fills only 6-10 pallets or less than 10,000 pounds. Full truckload pricing charges you for the entire 53-foot trailer whether you use it all or not. LTL lets multiple shippers share one truck, so you only pay for your actual space.
LTL shipping typically costs 15-30% of full truckload rates for partial loads. Transit time runs 2-5 days longer than dedicated trucks because your freight makes multiple stops. Pricing depends on weight, dimensions, distance, and freight class. Residential deliveries and special services add fees.
Palletize your freight before pickup. This makes loading and unloading faster and reduces damage risk. Get quotes from multiple LTL carriers through Gateway Logistics to compare rates and service levels. Book 1-2 days ahead for standard shipments, longer for time-sensitive freight.
Your freight moves efficiently without paying for space you don't need. You get tracking updates and delivery confirmation. Your shipping costs align with your actual freight volume instead of theoretical truck capacity.
Other things people in Maryland 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 Maryland and the area around it.