FTL Shipping
ViewPoint TMS software and shipping services boost FTL shippers' operational efficiency.
What is full truckload (FTL) shipping?
Full truckload shipping (FTL) involves direct transportation from the manufacturer's pickup point to the final delivery destination.
FTL shipments, as implied by the name are full, dedicated truck loads, providing ample space for transportation needs.
Typically, FTL carries a single shipment due to the product's requirement for significant carrying capacity. Utilizing a full container streamlines the process for such loads.
How can I sign up as a shipper?
Getting started is quick and easy! Simply fill out this form so we know where you want your freight bills to be sent, and who wants TMS system access:
How much does FTL shipping cost?
The weight of freight is a crucial factor to consider as it will impact the fuel burn. Determining the weight and dimensions of your freight is essential for selecting the most cost-effective and efficient shipping method.
Furthermore, assessing the nature of the commodity will highlight any additional care your shipment might necessitate, such as increased cargo liability that impacts the overall cost. TLI provides shippers with a standard cargo liability of $100k per load, with the option to offer higher coverage if the value is communicated prior to load pickup. Additionally, the cost of truckload shipping depends on factors like FTL equipment type (van, reefer, flatbed, or specialty), the unique pricing of each market based on zip code pairs, and whether the truckload is a spot load or a contract truckload. The good news is that TLI, with its experience since 1994, can manage all these details for you.
FTL Shipping Services
Despite the increased carrying capacity offered by FTL, less than truckload (LTL), or even partial truckload, is frequently preferred when routing an order that does not cube out an entire truckload trailer. LTL offers a versatile freight shipping solution for clients, routing 1-6 pallets, with diverse shipping accessorial services.
Because LTL shipments are smaller in size, shippers pay only for the portion of the shipment they require, rather than for an entire trailer. This results in LTL shipments often consolidating multiple orders from different clients into a single truck.
FTL Shipping
There are occasions when it becomes more economically advantageous for a shipper to dispatch a full load instead of several smaller ones. FTL is frequently employed by shippers transporting inventory to major retailers or other large-scale merchants for B2B e-commerce purposes.
With growing demand for certain products, larger loads may become necessary to sustain a consistent supply chain. FTL offers advantages as the entire truck is dedicated solely to your raw material and inventory, granting you enhanced control over the entire shipment process.
With the truck exclusively allocated to the shipper, deliveries proceed swiftly, directly, and encounter fewer potential obstacles. Moreover, FTL reduces handling times as the product undergoes only one delivery. When scheduling, quote rates are more readily available, facilitating decision-making between shipping carriers for FTL services.
FTL Shipping
TLI serves full truckload shippers with tailored, comprehensive freight services and innovative TMS technology.
At TLI, we provide shippers with a full suite of freight management services to simplify operations, reduce costs, and optimize supply chains. Our offerings go beyond just FTL tendering and include:
Freight Audit & Payment
- Expert freight invoice auditing detects billing errors and disputes improper NMFC freight classifications and weighing, identifying recovery opportunities
Claims Management
- Seasoned specialists efficiently handle cargo claims by liaising with carriers to expedite resolutions and settlements
Mode Optimization
- Leverage our operations experts to analyze shipping lanes and collaborate on tailoring the most efficient transport routes and modes
Omnimodal Brokerage
- Access diverse equipment types like dry vans, refrigerated, flatbeds via our vast carrier network to handle specialized hauling requirements
Expedited Shipping
- For time-sensitive air freight, rely on TLI’s guidance in coordinating rapid transportation while selecting equipment to safely meet urgent delivery targets
TMS Technology
- Our ViewPoint cloud-based TMS shipping system promotes supply chain transparency through real-time tracking, analytics, accounting, and more
FTL RFP Management
- We oversee tailored FTL bid solicitation processes to secure ideal rates & services from carriers based on historical shipping data trends
At TLI, our commitment is delivering top-tier freight brokerage service and support, offering expertise in consolidating freight invoices, optimizing transportation modes, and analyzing supply chain data to drive your supply chain forward.
Save Money on FTL Freight
While FTL shipping can be costly, here are some strategies to save money and reduce excessive expenses when transporting a full load:
- Optimize internal processes: Ensure your logistics team operates efficiently to avoid detention fees during loading and focus on maximizing productivity.
- Plan lead times effectively: Extend lead times for FTL shipments to allow carriers to manage their schedules effectively, potentially reducing costs. Aligning your scheduling with carrier availability can lead to savings, while accommodating carrier schedules may incur a slight premium.
- Partner with TLI carriers: Foster close collaboration with TLI to facilitate better communication with carriers, fostering positive relationships, efficient teamwork, and mutual respect. Building recurring partnerships with familiar carriers can result in better service and stronger relationships.
- Manage accessorial fees: Budget for and anticipate accessorial charges to avoid penalties for inaccurate information, such as incorrect consignee zip codes or failing to specify required credentials like a TWIC card.
- Analyze FTL market trends: Stay abreast of changes in the FTL market analytics to make informed logistical decisions when selecting and managing carriers.
- Maintain routine management: Regularly oversee preferred FTL carriers, monitor reliable truckload lanes, and nurture relationships with FTL carriers to prevent unexpected financial setbacks.
- Establish contingency plans: Recognize that unforeseen circumstances may disrupt preferred carrier arrangements. Having resources like TLI readily available can offer security and alternative solutions.
FTL Freight Management
TLI offers a consultative approach and a wide range of services, spanning from freight payment to carrier sourcing and supply chain data analysis. This comprehensive approach provides shippers with a tailored, all-in-one solution for logistics management. We become your partner in consolidating invoices, enhancing transportation efficiency, and utilizing data-driven insights to enhance FTL shipping operations.
LP - 3PL Management Services
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