Partial load too small for a full truck?
LTL shipping solutions for South Carolina businesses with freight that needs to share space.
You have freight that fills only part of a trailer. Paying for a full truck doesn't make sense when your shipment takes up just a few pallets. South Carolina businesses face this daily when shipping partial loads across state lines or within the region.
This happens when your freight volume falls between small parcel and full truckload. Your shipment might be 5-10 pallets, a few pieces of equipment, or materials that need more space than UPS can handle but less than a 53-foot trailer. Full truckload rates would cost you for empty space you don't need.
LTL shipping typically costs 60-80% less than paying for a full truck when you have 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, freight class, and distance. Expect higher rates during peak seasons.
Package your freight on pallets for easier handling at consolidation points. Get quotes from multiple carriers since rates vary significantly between LTL providers. Gateway Logistics can connect you with carriers that serve South Carolina routes efficiently and help you compare options based on your timeline and budget.
Your freight reaches its destination safely while you pay only for the trailer space you actually use. Other shippers cover the remaining space and transportation costs. This keeps your shipping budget predictable for regular partial load shipments.
Other things people in South Carolina 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.
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Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in South Carolina and the area around it.