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Full Truckload Freight (FTL) Shipping

Joe McDevitt • Mar 21, 2024

Full Truckload Freight Shipping

Receive a swift, no-obligation quote tailored to your Truckload Freight Shipping essentials, with options for dry van, flatbed, and refrigerated freight. Pay only for the portion of the trailer utilized, ensuring cost efficiency. Access TLI's ViewPoint TMS for savings on Truckload Freight Services.

FTL Full Truckload Software System

Truckload Freight Shipping Made Simple

Securing top-tier Truckload Freight Services is effortless. Provide brief shipment details, and access Truckload shipping options from leading freight shipping companies, all in one convenient TMS platform. Count on TLI's expertise to deliver optimal pricing and solutions for your shipping requirements.

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Why Choose Translogistics for Truckload Services (FTL)?

Translogistics stands out for FTL shipping services, boasting an expansive carrier network, competitive rates, comprehensive services, technology-driven solutions, and unparalleled customer support.

Translogistics

Key Features of Translogistics:


  • Extensive Carrier Network: Access a vast array of pre-screened and certified carriers for diverse transportation options.
  • Competitive Freight Rates: Benefit from negotiated rates, ensuring cost savings and hassle-free transactions.
  • Comprehensive Shipping Services: Enjoy end-to-end logistics solutions encompassing pickup, delivery, tracking, insurance, and dedicated customer assistance. Shipping services include freight invoice audit and cargo claims support.
  • Technology-Driven Solutions: Experience  tracking and visibility of shipments through cutting-edge TMS technology.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: Rely on a team of seasoned logistics professionals for expert guidance and support. Read our 3PL Case Studies here!


Truckload Freight

FTL Shipping

Understanding Truckload Freight:

Truckload freight, or FTL freight, involves using a truck to transport a substantial volume of goods from one point to another. Unlike LTL carriers or parcel carriers, truckload shipping dedicates the entire truck to a single shipment, typically from a sole customer or consignor.

  • What is truckload freight shipping?

    Truckload freight shipping (FTL) involves transporting goods that occupy the entirety of a truck trailer. It's commonly utilized when a shipper has enough cargo to fill the entire trailer, especially for time-sensitive or specialized handling shipments.

  • What are the advantages of truckload shipping?

    Truckload shipping offers advantages such as quicker transit times, minimized handling and lower risk of damage, dedicated capacity for your shipment, and increased scheduling flexibility.

  • How is truckload shipping different from less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping?

    Truckload shipping entails dedicating an entire truck trailer to a single shipment, whereas LTL shipping consolidates smaller shipments from various customers into one truck. Typically, truckload shipping is faster and more cost-effective for larger shipments, while LTL shipping is better suited for smaller loads.

  • What types of goods are typically shipped via truckload?

    Truckload shipping accommodates a diverse array of goods, including manufactured products, raw materials, machinery, perishable items, and other large or heavy items that necessitate the use of an entire trailer exclusively. TLI offers this service to 53 unique industries.

    Industries
  • How are truckload rates determined?

    Truckload rates are contingent upon several factors, including the distance to be traveled, the weight and dimensions of the shipment, the nature of the goods being transported, fuel expenses, prevailing market conditions, and any supplementary accessorial services needed, such as liftgate or inside delivery.

  • What information do I provide when requesting a truckload freight quote?

    When requesting a quote, please furnish information such as the shipment’s point of origin and destination, the weight and dimensions of the cargo, preferred pickup and delivery dates, any specific requirements, and your contact details.








  • How do I find a truckload carrier or freight broker?

    ruckload carriers or freight brokers can be located online, through logistics companies, or via freight matching platforms, which connect shippers with carriers that meet their unique shipping needs. To get started with TLI, the premier freight broker, simply complete the form linked below.

    Signup
  • What does a freight broker do in truckload shipping?

    Freight brokers serve as liaisons between shippers and carriers, facilitating the process of finding trustworthy carriers for truckload shipments and negotiating advantageous rates and terms. Additionally, freight brokers manage paperwork, conduct freight bill audits, handle cargo claim submissions, track shipments, and ensure seamless communication throughout the shipping process. For a reliable partnership, TLI is the freight broker of choice.

  • How can I track my truckload shipment?

    Many carriers offer tracking services enabling you to monitor your shipment's progress. They usually provide tracking numbers or online portals for real-time updates on its location and status. TLI provides API integrations to carriers and MacroPoint GPS tracking for FTL loads. Sign up and gain access to our TMS system to track your freight conveniently.

  • What should I do if there is a problem with my truckload shipment?

    Should you encounter any issues or concerns regarding your truckload shipment, such as delays, damages, or lost goods, it is essential to promptly reach out to your freight broker with whom you collaborated on booking the load. They will offer assistance in resolving the problem and initiating any required claims or investigations. If you routed a shipment with TLI this process is very easy, and we will respond with urgency.

FTL Trucking Benefits

  • Faster Transit Times: Direct FTL routes result in swifter delivery compared to LTL shipping.
  • Flexible Pickup and Delivery: Tailor shipment schedules to meet specific requirements.
  • Suitable for Various Goods: Ideal for raw materials, finished products, and industrial equipment that will take up the linear feet of an entire load.
  • Enhanced Security and Visibility: Dedicated trucks ensure safety and easy tracking throughout the journey.


FTL Trucking

Selecting the Right Truckload Equipment

Truckload freight comprises sizable shipments that occupy an entire trailer, ranging from standard dry vans to specialized refrigerated trucks or flatbeds. The capacity of the trailer is dictated by the size and nature of the freight, typically ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 lbs.


In contrast to LTL shipping, where multiple smaller shipments are consolidated onto one truck, truckload shipments are dedicated solely to the customer who commissioned them. It's crucial to assess the appropriate truckload service and trailer type for your commodities before shipping. At Translogistics, we offer guidance in determining the ideal trailer type for your shipment's requirements.

Deciding whether a semi-trailer, drop deck, or flatbed suits your shipment will also inform the optimal packaging method. Here are some of the truckload services routinely provided by Translogistics carriers:


FTL

Truckload Service Varieties

  1. Standard Trailer 48ft or 53ft
  2. Trade Show Shipping
  3. Oversize or Heavy Haul Shipping
  4. Refrigerated Shipping
  5. Intermodal Rail Service
  6. Heavy Haul Shipping
  7. Expedited Freight Shipping
  8. Air-Ride Services
  9. Drayage Port Services

Industry Fluctuations: Truckload Shipping Seasons

The transportation and logistics sector undergoes regular fluctuations tied to truckload shipping seasons. These seasonal shifts directly impact capacity and rates, shaping the options available to shippers. By grasping these shipping seasons, businesses can optimize their supply chains, preparing for heightened demand and tighter capacity periods effectively.

FTL Trucking Seasonality

Seasonal Trends in FTL Shipping

Off-Peak Season – January to March:

Following the bustling holiday season, the transportation and logistics sector transitions into a quieter period from January to March. While overall shipping volumes dip during this time, the industry remains dynamic. Essential items like medication, foodstuffs, face masks, and hand sanitizers continue to be in high demand. Moreover, the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines necessitates refrigerated trucks for nationwide dissemination. Additionally, returns of holiday purchases contribute to shipping activity during this lull. Reduced demand results in favorable truckload rates for shippers, as carriers are more open to taking on work. As March progresses and spring looms closer, shipping volumes gradually pick up.

Rising Demand Season – April to July:

With the arrival of spring, shipping volumes begin to climb, making it easier for drivers to secure jobs compared to the slower months. This period marks an upswing in truckload shipping activity, leading to a tightening of carrier availability and subsequent rate increases. The produce harvest season adds to the surge in shipments, particularly for truckload shippers moving perishable goods or fresh produce. Temperature-controlled equipment becomes essential for preserving freshness, especially in the warmer months.

Peak Shipping Season – August to October:

August through October witnesses the peak of shipping activity, coinciding with the ongoing produce season. Retailers and e-commerce shipping platforms experience a spike in product shipments fueled by heightened online consumer spending. This surge in demand strains capacity further, requiring additional trucks to meet shipper requirements.

Holiday Rush Season – November and December:

November and December emerge as the busiest months for the transportation and logistics industry. Consumers capitalize on major sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, with retailers extending promotions throughout November. December sees a flurry of last-minute purchases as gifts are shipped to loved ones. Retailers ramp up shipments during this period, intensifying overall shipping volumes. However, as mid-December approaches and holiday shopping winds down, industry activity slows once again.

Truckload Shipping

Anticipating these seasonal shifts in truckload dynamics is essential for businesses aiming to refine their shipping strategies. TLI assists shippers by initiating transportation RFPs to gauge the market and secure improved pricing. By anticipating changes in demand and capacity, companies can strategically prepare for each season, guaranteeing smooth and effective transportation operations.

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What is Truck Freight?

Truck freight, typically called truckload (TL) freight, a robust transportation method, efficiently moves significant quantities of goods, ideal for shipments surpassing other options like parcel or LTL carriers. Truck freight can be classified into two categories: FTL and partial truckload (PTL). FTL shipping involves dedicating an entire truck to a single shipment, while PTL shipping involves sharing the truck with other loads.


This includes FTL dedicating a truck to one shipment and Partial Truckload (PTL) sharing with others, accommodating diverse commodities domestically and internationally, ensuring expedited delivery, flexible scheduling, secure handling, and potential cost savings.


Truck freight accommodates a wide range of commodities, including raw materials, finished products, and industrial equipment, making it a versatile option for both domestic and international shipping needs. This mode of transportation offers several advantages over alternative methods, such as faster transit times, flexible pickup and delivery scheduling, specialized handling for fragile or hazardous shipments, and potential cost savings for larger loads due to favorable rates.

TruckFreight Software

Truck Freight Software

TLI provides a user-friendly online Transportation Management System (TMS) platform, streamlining the process by enabling users to easily compare truck freight rates from different carriers. This section delves into how the Translogistics platform functions, empowering users to make informed decisions and obtain the most competitive prices for their shipping requirements.

Shipping Process

TLI's TMS platform starts by collecting essential details about the shipment. Users enter information such as the goods’ origin and destination, the shipment’s size and weight, and any special requirements. This comprehensive input ensures accurate rate comparisons tailored to specific shipping needs.

Next, the TMS software platform swiftly generates a list of available carriers and their rates. This feature enables users to evaluate multiple options side by side, considering both the cost and the quality of services provided. The ability to compare rates from different carriers at a glance empowers users to make well-informed decisions that align with their priorities.


Shipping Carriers Rate Comparison

After users pinpoint the carrier and rate that best fits their needs, TLI's platform facilitates the booking process seamlessly, allowing users to secure their shipment directly through the platform. By eliminating tedious paperwork, TLI's TMS simplifies operations, saving users precious time and effort.


Moreover, the platform automatically generates all required shipping documents, from bills of lading creation to customs paperwork. This automated function alleviates administrative tasks, ensuring a hassle-free experience for users. With paperwork handled by TLI, users can focus on other critical aspects of their business or personal ventures.


TMS ERP Integration

Translogistics boasts a team of seasoned and dedicated Truck Freight Experts committed to addressing your shipping requirements with exceptional service and support. Leveraging their extensive industry knowledge and grasp of shipping regulations, they guide you in selecting the right carriers and shipping methods. Collaborating closely with you, they craft personalized shipping strategies tailored to your budget, timeline, and cargo specifications. Providing regular updates, addressing concerns promptly, and ensuring timely and flawless deliveries are integral to their service ethos. Contact Translogistics today to experience their unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction.


By choosing TLI, you gain access to a vast network of carriers, ensuring competitive rates and dependable services. Their user-friendly platform simplifies freight shipping by facilitating easy comparison of truck freight rates across multiple carriers, empowering you to make informed decisions and secure the best deals. With streamlined booking processes and automated document generation, Translogistics ensures a hassle-free shipping experience.



Book a Shipment

Benefit from Translogistics extensive carrier network, competitive rates, and reliable services to simplify your freight shipping endeavors.

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 insidesales@tli.email 

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