LTL Freight Shipping Canada | Less Than Truckload Services

Save money on smaller shipments with our LTL (Less Than Truckload) freight services. Share trailer space with other shippers and pay only for the space you use.

Cost-Effective Shipping

LTL shipping is ideal for shipments between 150-15,000 lbs that don't require a full trailer. You share transportation costs with other shippers, resulting in significant savings compared to FTL rates.

Flexible Freight Classes

We handle all freight classes from 50 to 500. Our team helps determine the correct classification for your shipments to ensure accurate quotes and avoid reclassification charges.

What is LTL Freight Shipping?

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) freight shipping is a cost-effective transportation method for shipments that don't require a full trailer. Instead of paying for an entire truck, you share trailer space and transportation costs with other shippers, paying only for the space your freight occupies. LTL is ideal for shipments between 150 and 15,000 pounds that don't fill a 53-foot trailer. This shipping method has become increasingly efficient with modern hub-and-spoke networks, sophisticated routing software, and improved terminal operations. LTL carriers consolidate freight from multiple shippers, optimize routes, and deliver to various destinations, making it the most economical choice for small to medium-sized shipments across Canada and the United States.

Understanding Freight Classes

LTL shipping uses a freight classification system ranging from class 50 (densest, least expensive) to class 500 (least dense, most expensive). Classification is based on four factors: density (pounds per cubic foot), stowability (ease of loading with other freight), handling (special equipment or care requirements), and liability (risk of damage or theft). Common examples include class 50 for items like nuts and bolts, class 70-85 for machinery and automobile parts, class 100-125 for boat covers and electronics, and class 150-200 for clothing and furniture. Accurate classification is critical as misclassification can result in reclassification charges and billing adjustments. Our team helps determine the correct freight class for your shipments to ensure accurate quotes and avoid surprises.

LTL Shipping Process and Transit Times

The LTL shipping process involves several steps: pickup from your location, delivery to the origin terminal where freight is sorted and consolidated with other shipments heading in similar directions, line-haul transportation between terminals (sometimes with intermediate stops at hub terminals), delivery to the destination terminal, and final delivery to the consignee. Due to these multiple handling points, LTL transit times are typically longer than FTL. Standard LTL service within a region takes 1-3 days, cross-country shipments take 5-7 days, and cross-border shipments add 1-2 days for customs clearance. Guaranteed and expedited LTL options are available for time-sensitive shipments requiring faster delivery.

LTL Accessorial Services

LTL carriers offer various accessorial services for shipments requiring special handling beyond basic terminal-to-terminal service. Liftgate service uses a hydraulic platform to load/unload freight when no loading dock is available, commonly needed for residential and small business locations. Inside pickup or delivery means the driver brings freight inside the building rather than just to the door or dock. Residential delivery applies to locations without commercial facilities. Limited access locations like schools, churches, or construction sites may require additional time and special arrangements. Other accessorials include notification before delivery, appointment scheduling, freeze protection in winter, and trade show delivery with specific timing requirements. Each accessorial adds to the base rate but provides necessary services for successful delivery.

LTL Shipping Best Practices

Maximizing LTL shipping efficiency starts with proper preparation. Palletize freight whenever possible using standard 48x40 inch pallets, as loose or floor-loaded freight is difficult to handle and risks damage. Shrinkwrap pallets thoroughly to prevent shifting during transit. Provide accurate weight and dimensions as understatement leads to reweighing charges. Classify freight correctly to avoid reclassification fees. Use adequate packaging with corner protectors, bubble wrap, or other cushioning for fragile items. Label each pallet clearly with handling instructions and destination information. Consolidate shipments when possible to fill pallets efficiently and reduce per-pound costs. Consider the freight class impact of packaging choices - lighter, bulkier packaging increases class and cost. Complete all documentation accurately including BOL (Bill of Lading) with correct weights, dimensions, and product descriptions.

Key Features

Competitive LTL rates across Canada
Cross-border LTL to/from USA
Freight class assistance
Liftgate pickup and delivery
Inside delivery and white glove service
Guaranteed and expedited options

Benefits

Pay only for space you use
No minimum shipment fees
Professional handling at terminals
Access to major LTL carrier networks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum weight for LTL shipping?

Most LTL carriers have minimums between 150-500 lbs. For smaller shipments, we can arrange parcel or courier services.

How is LTL freight priced?

LTL rates are based on weight, freight class, dimensions, distance, and any accessorial services like liftgate or residential delivery.

LTL Freight Shipping Services Canada