What is truckload shipping and how does it function?
The road shipping i.e. trucking is one of the biggest parts of the US economy. There are two major modes: full truckload shipping and less than truckload shipping. Both the methods are advantageous for the shopper, but both are different to a great extent. A truckload has its own specifics which should be kept in mind while using the two modes.
Definition of truckload shipping
Truckload shipping in simple words means transporting big volumes of load, sufficient enough to fill the complete trailer, over the road. Usually full truckload loads are transported in trailers which can manage up to 43,000 pounds of items or 45 pallets. The regular dimensions for full truckload transportation are 48ft. or 53ft.
Difference between FTL and LTL:
The major difference between less than truckload and full truckload can easily be acknowledged through their names. LTL can move several loads from different shippers while FTL allows you to transport big volumes of good which can completely fill the trailer. Also the difference lies in the rates formed for LTL and FTL truckloads. Dissimilar to LTL, there isn’t any density based pricing also called freight classification which happens in full truckload shipping. So, for their ease of service, and their relatable lower prices, plus the safety of your goods – You can always try less-than-load freight shipping companies of high repute.
Benefits of truckload shipping
Small shippers as well as big companies can make use of truckload shipping for transportation. You will get highest advantage from FTL if you have sufficient load to fill in the truck and if you ship goods on a regular basis. Overall, there are a number of benefits of truckload shipping. Some of them are given below:
Speed: Truckload shipping is quicker than LTL because the truck doesn’t make regular stops during transportation. In LTL, the route involves several stops to drop and pick up freight from a number of shippers. In FTL, the truck has just one load which means shorted transmit duration.
Low handling: Surely, if there is just your freight on board, it won’t need as much handling as LTL. This lowers the chance of damage as in most of the cases, the goods are just picked and delivered just once.
Cost effective: Truckload is costlier than LTL. However, it can be cost-effective if you have high volume or heavy items.
Why do truckers use load boards?
Load boards give truckers a 24 x 7 access to loads. No matter you are an owner operator or a fleet owner, you can avail the opportunity of finding as much load as you want. Some truckers use load boards for most of their loads while others rely on them to eliminate deadheading to home. No matter what vehicle you have, you can expand opportunities of being a delivery driver by using a load board.
How to find loads?
Once you have made your account on Shiply, you can click through to browse and filter thousands of jobs listed by route, region or area. Once you have narrowed down the search results, you can pick your preferred job and bid on it. As soon as you win the bid, you will be given the job.