LTL Freight Quotes: Line Haul, Fuel Surcharge, and Accessorials

LTL Freight Quotes

LTL freight quotes are composed of three main components: line haul (zip to zip pairs) and fuel surcharge, as well as LTL accessorials. In this article, we will delve into each of these elements, explaining their significance in the freight quoting process. Furthermore, we will highlight how Translogistics (TLI) offers advanced Transportation Management System (TMS) software, capable of providing instant freight quotes with comprehensive charges, as well as the convenience of auto-tendering for streamlined booking and scheduling.

What are LTL freight quotes?

LTL freight quotes refer to the estimated costs provided by carriers or freight brokers for shipping goods using the Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping method. LTL shipping is utilized when a shipment does not occupy the entire space of a truck trailer and needs to be consolidated with other shipments to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.

LTL freight quotes provide businesses with an estimate of the expenses associated with transporting their goods from the origin to the destination. These quotes are based on various factors such as the weight, dimensions, freight class, distance, and any additional services required during transportation.



The purpose of LTL freight quotes is to help businesses plan and budget for their shipping needs accurately. By obtaining multiple quotes from different carriers or freight brokers, businesses can compare prices, services, and transit times to select the most suitable option for their requirements.

1. Line Haul: The line haul cost is the primary charge in an LTL freight quote. It covers the transportation of goods from the origin to the destination. The distance between the pickup and delivery locations plays a significant role in determining the line haul cost. Generally, the longer the distance, the higher the line haul charge.
2. Fuel Surcharge: Due to fluctuating fuel prices, carriers may include a fuel surcharge as part of the freight quote. The fuel surcharge helps offset the costs associated with fuel consumption during transportation. It is usually calculated as a percentage of the line haul charge and varies based on the prevailing fuel prices.
3. Accessorials: Accessorials are additional services or special requirements that go beyond the standard pickup and delivery process. These can include services like liftgate assistance, inside pickup or delivery, residential surcharges, appointment scheduling, or any other specific requests. Each accessorial service requested incurs an additional cost, which is included in the LTL freight quote.

LTL Accessorial Examples:

a. Liftgate Service: When a facility lacks a loading dock, a liftgate is necessary to lower or raise the shipment from ground level to the truck's bed.

b. Inside Pickup or Delivery: If goods need to be collected from or delivered inside a building, additional charges may apply.

c. Residential Pickup or Delivery: Transporting goods to or from a residential area may require additional fees due to limited access or specialized equipment.

d. Notification Services: If you require advanced notification of delivery or pickup, carriers may charge an additional fee.

By obtaining LTL freight quotes, shippers can make informed decisions about their shipping options. It allows them to evaluate costs, transit times, and service offerings from different carriers or freight brokers, enabling them to select the most cost-effective and reliable solution for their freight transportation needs.

LTL Freight Quote Solution:

Translogistics (TLI) offers a cutting-edge Transportation Management System (TMS) software designed to simplify the freight quoting and booking process. With TLI's TMS software, businesses can enjoy the following benefits:

Instant Freight Quotes with All-In Charges: TLI's TMS software utilizes accurate and up-to-date data to provide instant freight quotes. This allows businesses to quickly assess and compare different shipping options, including line haul, fuel surcharge, and accessorials. By receiving all-in charges upfront, businesses can make informed decisions regarding their shipping needs.

Auto-Tendering for Streamlined Booking: TLI's TMS software incorporates the convenience of auto-tendering. With this feature, businesses can automatically book rates and generate bills of lading without the need for manual intervention. This significantly reduces administrative tasks and ensures a seamless and efficient shipping process.

Carrier Scheduling: TLI's TMS software also enables businesses to schedule carriers directly within the system. This feature streamlines the process of arranging pickups and deliveries, saving time and effort.

Understanding the composition of LTL freight quotes is crucial for businesses seeking reliable, consistent, quick, and cost-effective shipping solutions. Line haul, fuel surcharge, and accessorials collectively determine the final freight quote. Translogistics (TLI) offers an advanced Transportation Management System (TMS) software that provides instant freight quotes with comprehensive charges. Moreover, TLI's TMS software features auto-tendering capabilities for effortless booking, bill generation, and carrier scheduling. By leveraging TLI's TMS software, businesses can optimize their shipping operations and streamline their supply chain management processes.