Should I ship LTL or wait for a full truckload?
Clear guidance on freight timing and costs from Gateway Logistics in South Dakota, SD.
You have freight sitting ready to ship, but it won't fill a whole truck. Shipping partial loads costs more per pound than waiting for a full truckload. But holding freight in South Dakota warehouses costs money too, and your customers need their orders.
This comes down to cash flow and customer expectations. LTL shipping costs more per pound because you share truck space with other shippers. Full truckload rates are cheaper per pound because one customer pays for the entire truck. The break-even point depends on how long you can wait and what storage costs.
LTL typically costs 15-30% more per pound than full truckload rates. But waiting for a full load ties up your cash in inventory. South Dakota businesses often wait 2-6 weeks to accumulate enough freight for a full truck, depending on their shipping volume. Factor in warehouse costs, insurance, and the risk of orders changing.
Ship LTL when customers expect regular deliveries or when cash is tied up in finished goods. Choose full truckload when you can batch orders, have flexible delivery windows, and want the lowest cost per pound. Gateway Logistics can show you real numbers for both options based on your specific routes and timing.
The right choice keeps your customers happy while managing costs. LTL gives you flexibility to ship when orders are ready. Full truckload saves money when you can plan ahead and batch shipments together.
Other things people in South Dakota 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.
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.
Ready to talk?
Gateway Logistics handles ltl (less than truckload) in South Dakota and the area around it.