Truckload Shipping: Types, Benefits, and Considerations
Truckload Shipping
Truckload shipping is a popular freight transport method for large shipments, offering efficiency and cost-effectiveness for many businesses. This truckload routing guide defines what truckload shipping is, along with its benefits, and the equipment type differences between van freight, reefer trailers, and flatbed freight.
What is Truckload Shipping?
Truckload shipping (FTL shipping) refers to a method where an entire truck trailer is filled with cargo from a single shipper. This method is ideal for shipments that occupy more than half of a 48’ or 53’ trailer. It is often chosen for large, time-sensitive shipments or when it is more cost-effective than other options. Unlike less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, where multiple customers share a trailer, truckload shipping ensures that one type of cargo is transported without mixing with other shipments.
Types of Truckload Freight
Van Freight (Dry Van)
Dry Van EquipmentVan freight uses enclosed trailers that protect cargo from the elements. This type of trailer is versatile and suitable for various goods, including construction materials and consumer products. Dry van trailers offer a secure and weatherproof environment, making them ideal for general freight that doesn't require special conditions.
Reefer Trailers (Temperature Controlled Trailers)
Temp Control Truckload ShippingReefer trailers are equipped with refrigeration units that maintain a specific temperature range. This makes reefer truckload shipping perfect for routing goods that require temperature control, such as perishable items like food and pharmaceuticals.
Reefer trailers ensure that cargo is kept fresh throughout its journey, preventing spoilage and maintaining quality.
Flatbed Freight
Flatbed Freight Truckload ShippingFlatbed trailers have an open platform without sides or a roof, making them suitable for large and heavy items that cannot fit in enclosed trailers. This includes construction materials like steel beams and machinery.
Flatbed shipping is beneficial for loads that need to be loaded and unloaded from the sides or top, offering flexibility for bulky or irregularly shaped items. It is important to advise if tarping will be required prior to load tendering.
RGN Gooseneck Trailers (Hot shot)
Hotshot Truckload ShippingAn RGN (Removable Gooseneck) trailer is a specialized type of flatbed trailer designed for transporting heavy and oversized loads. Its standout feature is the removable gooseneck, which allows the trailer to be lowered to the ground for easier loading and unloading. This design creates a ramp-like access, making it particularly useful for handling large machinery and equipment. The low deck height achieved when the gooseneck is detached minimizes the need for additional ramps or lifting equipment, facilitating the efficient and safe handling of heavy cargo.
Built with a robust construction to support substantial weight, RGNs are often employed in transporting construction machinery, agricultural equipment, and other large or oversized items that cannot be accommodated by standard trailers. The trailer’s versatility is enhanced by various lengths and multi-axle configurations, providing additional support and weight distribution. This makes RGNs ideal for specialized cargo that requires careful handling and precise loading and unloading processes.
Specialty Truckload shipping
Specialty Truckload ShippingSpecialty truckload shipping involves transporting goods that require specialized equipment or handling due to their size, weight, or nature. Unlike standard full truckload shipping, which often uses conventional dry van or reefer trailers, specialty truckload shipping caters to unique cargo needs. This method includes the use of specialized trailers and equipment designed to accommodate oversized, overweight, or unusually shaped items that do not fit conventional shipping solutions. For instance, shipments that require precise temperature control, extra stability, or specific loading and unloading procedures fall under the category of specialty truckload shipping.
TLI utilizes a range of specialized equipment to handle various types of cargo efficiently. Step deck trailers, also known as drop deck trailers, have a lower deck that provides additional height clearance for tall loads while allowing for easier loading and unloading. Lowboys, or low bed trailers, feature a very low deck height, ideal for transporting heavy machinery and equipment that need to be close to the ground for stability and ease of loading. Double drop trailers, with their two lower deck sections, are specifically designed for extremely tall loads that need to be transported without exceeding height restrictions. Conestoga trailers, equipped with a retractable tarp system, offer versatile protection for cargo from weather elements while providing easy access. Each type of equipment is tailored to meet the demands of specialized truckload shipping, ensuring safe and efficient transport of challenging loads.
Benefits of Truckload Shipping
Cost-Effective Option
For large shipments, truckload shipping can be more economical than LTL due to reduced handling and fewer stops. By filling an entire trailer with a single type of cargo, shippers avoid sharing space and costs with other customers.
Faster Transit Times
Truckload shipments typically have faster transit times compared to LTL shipping. Since the trailer is dedicated to one shipment, there are fewer delays associated with loading and unloading multiple shipments at various locations.
Temperature Control
For businesses dealing with temperature-sensitive products, reefer trailers offer crucial temperature control. This ensures that goods like food and pharmaceuticals remain within the required temperature range throughout the shipping process.
Flexibility in Shipping Options
Truckload shipping provides various equipment options to match the needs of the cargo. Whether using dry van, reefer, or flatbed trailers, shippers can choose the best equipment for their specific freight requirements.
Handling of truckload shipments is significantly improved due to the direct nature of the transport process. Unlike less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments that may involve multiple terminal transfers and additional handling, truckload shipments travel directly from point A to point B with minimal interruptions.
This dedicated routing process reduces the risk of damage or loss since the cargo remains in a single trailer throughout the journey. For added security, shippers can seal their loads and record the trailer seal number on the bill of lading, further protecting their cargo. This practice is particularly important for high-value or sensitive items, such as pharmaceuticals and electronics, where maintaining the integrity of the shipment is crucial. By minimizing handling and securing the load, shippers can ensure safer and more reliable deliveries.
FTL Cargo Liability
Typically, cargo liability for a full truckload (FTL) shipment is capped at $100,000 total. This coverage amount represents the standard protection provided for the entire load. However, it’s important to note that this liability is tied to the actual value of the cargo.
For example, if a load of food worth $22,000 is damaged during transit, the maximum claim would be limited to the value of the food, not the full $100,000 liability. At TLI, we offer additional coverage options, well beyond $100,000, to better protect your shipments and ensure you’re fully covered for high-value cargo. For more information on our claims process and how we can assist you with additional coverage, click the button below.
Key Considerations for Truckload Shipping
Delivery Times
Delivery times can vary based on the type of truckload shipping and the distance between the distribution center and the destination. It is important to plan accordingly and choose a shipping service that aligns with your delivery deadlines.
Loaded and Unloaded
Truckload shipments are generally loaded and unloaded at fewer locations compared to LTL shipments, which reduces the risk of damage and improves overall efficiency.
Types of Truckload Equipment
Selecting the right truckload equipment—whether it's a dry van, reefer, or flatbed—is essential for ensuring that your cargo is transported under the best conditions.
Detention Chargers
Detention charges refer to fees assessed when a truck is delayed beyond the allotted time for loading or unloading at a shipping or receiving location. These charges are designed to compensate the carrier for the extra time their equipment and driver are tied up, which affects their ability to manage other shipments and routes.
Typically, detention charges accrue after a grace period defined in the shipping contract or bill of lading, often ranging from one to two hours. This shipping accessorial fee helps offset the costs associated with extended wait times and encourages efficient handling of cargo. For shippers and receivers, understanding and managing detention charges can help avoid unexpected costs and ensure smoother logistics operations.
Truckload Shipping Service
Truckload shipping provides several key benefits for moving large shipments, including cost savings, quicker delivery times, and flexible shipping options. By learning about the various types of truckload freight and their advantages, businesses can better choose the shipping solutions that fit their needs.
For expert assistance in handling your truckload shipments, partnering with a trusted 3PL logistics provider is essential. At Translogistics, we specialize in tailored truckload shipping services designed to meet your unique requirements. Reach out to us today to discover how we can enhance your shipping strategy, mode optimize, and streamline your logistics operations.
TLI Insights
For the latest insights, tips and commentary surrounding the logistics industry, look no further. Shippers will find thoughts from the award-winning team at Translogistics covering everything related to your transportation processes and plans. If you have a question we are readily available at marketing@tli.email
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