At GoShip, we make quoting truckload freight shipments simple. With our online calculating tools, you can get a list of customized services and freight truck shipping rates from our reliable carriers. When you’re shipping truckload, you can rely on our technology, carrier network, and optimal solutions for your business.
What is truckload freight?
Full truckload freight shipping means moving freight that fills an entire truck trailer or most of a trailer’s space. A truckload shipment consists of over six pallets of goods. A trailer for truckload shipping can handle up to 43,000 lbs., with an average size of 48 to 53 ft in length. Truckload shipping is the most common type of over-the-road freight transportation. Carriers who move truckloads use different equipment types, including dry vans, flatbeds, and refrigerated trailers.
What are the benefits of truckload freight shipping?
Reliability
Truckload shipping is the safest and most reliable delivery option. Unlike less-than-truckload (LTL), there is no freight handling during transit. This reduces the chances of freight damage. Enclosed trailers also help ensure your freight is protected from external influences like weather.
Speed
Truckload transit times are usually much faster than less-than-truckload. Carriers don’t have to make loading and unloading stops while in transit. Thanks to a more consistent route, drivers can deliver your freight faster.
Diversity
Truckload shipping has a broad coverage of trailers and modes. It means you can ship any cargo through full truckload due to the variety of equipment available. Dry van, refrigerated, and flatbed trailers can move everything from household goods to industrial, oversized freight.
Cost-efficiency
Usually, truckload is more expensive than LTL. However, it can be cheaper if you have heavy, high-volume loads. In that case, delivery will be much more cost-effective than booking several LTL shipments.
What are the types of freight truck shipping?
Dry van shipping
Dry vans are sealed, fully enclosed trailers mostly used when shipping full truckload. These trailers work for shipping any goods that don’t require temperature control. Dry vans are safe and protect your freight from external influences.
Dry van trailer
Dimensions:
Length: 28, 32, 36, 40, 42, 43, 45, 48, 53 feet
Widths: 102 inches
Door Height: 110 inches
Total Height: 12.5 – 13.5 feet
Typical cargo maximums:
Width: 98 – 101 inches
Height: 108 – 109 inches
Weight: 45,000 lbs.
Pallet Count: 24 – 26
Refrigerated shipping
Refrigerated trailers, or reefers, are the same as vans but have a climate control option. These trailers are primarily used for moving temperature-sensitive goods like food, produce, plants, and fine art.
Reefer trailer dimensions:
Lengths: 28, 32, 36, 40, 48, 51, and 53 feet
Widths: 102 inches
Door Height: 110 inches
Total Height: 12.5 – 13.5 feet
Typical cargo maximums:
Width: 96 – 98 inches
Height: 102 inches
Weight: 42,000 lbs.
Pallets: 24 – 26
Flatbed shipping
Flatbed trailers are open trailers with no roof. This equipment is used for moving oversized and bulky freight that doesn’t fit into enclosed trailers. Pipes, rigs, heavy equipment, machinery, auto parts, and steel pieces are commonly shipped with flatbeds. Our platform partnered with Equipment Trader and Commercial Truck Trader to provide heavy equipment and machinery shipping services.
Flatbed trailer
Dimensions:
Length: 40, 42, 45, 48, 53 feet
Width: 102 inches
Total Height: 58 – 62 inches
Typical cargo maximums:
Width: 102 inches
Height: 102 inches
Weight: 45,000 lbs.
Pallet Count: 24 – 26
What is the difference between full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping?
The main difference between FTL and LTL shipping is that truckload shipping suggests filling an entire truck trailer with your freight, while LTL shipping only serves a small part of the trailer’s space.
LTL freight shipment is a shipment from 1 to 6 pallets (up to 20,000 pounds), and a full truckload can be from 6 to 26 pallets and take up to 45,000 lbs.
Additionally, there is a difference between the pricing of the two modes. LTL shipping rates include freight classification – special codes representing different cargo types. You can learn about freight class and density-based pricing to determine which option works for you.
Freight Truck shipping doesn’t involve freight classification, and freight rates depend on traditional factors like weight, dimensions, address, etc. Usually, a full truckload is more expensive than LTL, but if you have large volumes of freight, FTL will be more cost-efficient.
Both FTL and LTL can be beneficial for your shipment. However, it depends on many factors like freight volume, commodity type, lane, and address destination. Truckload shipping can be a better solution for shippers who move large quantities of goods since it becomes cheaper.
How are truckload freight rates calculated?
Despite truckload freight rates depending on some stable factors, they can fluctuate. To understand the nature of truckload freight rates, let’s look at the key factors that determine truckload freight rates:
- Origin and destination address
- Shipment weight and dimensions
- Seasonality
- Lead time and flexibility
- Urgency
- Fuel surcharge
- Commodity type
- Accessorial charges
Truckload freight rates can vary because of the weight and spikes in seasonal capacity demand and volatile fuel prices. It’s important to know that the more time you give a shipping company or the carrier to provide a freight rate, the lower it will be.
Truckload shipping with GoShip
Truckload shipping is the most used shipping option. Here at GoShip, we simplify with our vast network of freight carriers, instant freight quotes, and 24/7 shipment tracking.
- A vast network of reliable active carrier partners
- Instant freight quotes
- Online shipment booking
- Real-time tracking and tracing 24/7 through our online portal
- Custom solutions to meet your business needs
Why choose GoShip?
With GoShip, the process of arranging your shipments is easy and convenient. We have long-standing relationships with thousands of reliable, experienced carriers across the country. Our self-service website makes finding a suitable carrier as simple as possible. We offer free quotes, online booking, tracking tools, and workable solutions to meet your supply chain needs.
Logistics are more vital than ever for any retailer’s success. With our experience and extensive network of carriers, we can help keep your promises to your customers. Get a free quote today!