Partial load too small for a full truck?
LTL shipping solutions for Minnesota businesses with freight that doesn't fill a trailer.
You have freight ready to ship, but it only takes up a quarter or half of a truck trailer. Paying for a full truckload when you're only using part of the space doesn't make financial sense. Minnesota businesses face this exact challenge every day when their shipments fall between small parcel and full truckload sizes.
This happens when your freight weighs between 150 and 15,000 pounds, or takes up less than a full 53-foot trailer. You're in the gap between what parcel carriers handle and what makes sense for dedicated trucks. Your load needs truck-level handling but doesn't justify truck-level pricing.
LTL shipping typically costs 40-60% less than hiring a full truck for partial loads. Transit time runs 2-5 days longer than full truckload since your freight gets consolidated with other shipments at terminals. Pricing depends on weight, dimensions, distance, and freight class. Loads on standard pallets move faster through the system.
Package your freight on pallets if possible and get the exact weight and dimensions. Call Gateway Logistics for a quote that breaks down exactly what you'll pay based on the space you actually use. LTL carriers pick up your freight, consolidate it with other partial loads heading the same direction, and deliver on schedule.
Your freight moves efficiently without paying for empty truck space. You get reliable delivery dates and tracking updates throughout transit. The math works, and your shipping budget stays reasonable.
Other things people in Minnesota 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 Minnesota and the area around it.