Partial load too small for a full truck?
LTL shipping solutions for Virginia businesses with freight that doesn't fill a trailer.
You have freight that only takes up part of a trailer. Paying full truckload rates for half the space makes no sense. Virginia businesses face this challenge daily when shipping smaller loads across the state or beyond.
Your freight fills maybe 8 pallets, but a full truck holds 26. Full truckload pricing charges you for space you don't use. LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping lets multiple shippers share one trailer, so you only pay for your portion.
LTL typically costs 60-80% less than full truckload for smaller shipments. Transit time runs 2-5 days longer since trucks make multiple stops. Cost depends on weight, dimensions, distance, and freight class. Shipments under 10,000 pounds usually work best for LTL.
Palletize your freight before pickup. Standard 48x40 pallets stack easier and reduce damage risk. Get quotes from multiple LTL carriers since rates vary widely. Gateway Logistics can compare options across our carrier network to find the best rate and service for your Virginia shipment.
Your freight moves efficiently without wasting money on unused trailer space. You get reliable delivery at a fraction of full truckload cost. Other shippers help fill the truck, making everyone's shipping more affordable.
Other things people in Virginia 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 Virginia and the area around it.