For many growing brands, there comes a moment when small-parcel shipping starts to feel like a pair of shoes that no longer fits. Whether sales are steadily increasing or volumes spike suddenly, many brands can benefit from sizing up. Enter less-than-truckload (LTL), the middle lane between parcel and full truckload shipping that can unlock scale, reach, and new efficiencies across the supply chain.
“A lot of shippers first dip into LTL during peak season, when parcel volume spikes, but then they realize it can be a scalable, repeatable part of their growth strategy that they can tap into as needed,” says Morgan Roberts, Supply Chain Manager at Amazon Freight. “There can be a learning curve, but the upside is huge.”
What shippers ask about LTL
Small-parcel shipping will always play a critical role for early-stage and fast-moving brands. It offers speed, simplicity, and a broad reach, making it ideal for lightweight, low-volume shipments and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. As sales increase, order profiles change. That’s why many shippers don’t abandon small parcel. They simply grow out of relying on it exclusively, and LTL emerges as the natural next step.
But, LTL isn’t just bigger box. It’s an entirely different system. In this article, we’ll share shippers’ frequently asked questions about LTL and what they need to know when graduating from small parcel to LTL.
How is LTL different from small parcel shipping?
LTL operates in a completely different network from parcel with its own processes, cost drivers, planning considerations, and requirements. LTL providers consolidate freight from multiple shippers into shared linehaul networks. Shippers share dedicated space inside of a trailer, which means the accuracy of weights, dimensions, and scheduling matters.
LTL often serves as a bridge for shippers that are growing but don’t need a dedicated trailer. “LTL opens the door to flexibility you can’t get in parcel or full truckload. It lets shippers move more product without waiting to build a full load and without paying parcel premiums,” says Roberts. “For growing businesses, it can be the sweet spot.”
Are there different documentation requirements for LTL?
Yes. Unlike small-parcel shipments, where labels are often the only required documentation, LTL shipments require more paperwork. One of the biggest shifts new LTL shippers face is the introduction of the PRO number (primary reference number) which is the unique tracking ID for LTL shipments. LTL moves also require a bill of lading, or BOL, that outlines freight class, handling requirements, and the destination. Accuracy is essential in all LTL documents. Misclassification or incomplete details can lead to re-billing or delays.
What cost changes can I expect?
LTL pricing is determined by freight class, weight, and dimensions. Unlike parcel, where zones and package count dominate pricing, LTL carriers focus more heavily on how freight uses space and how it needs to be handled.
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system groups commodities into freight classes based on density, handling, stowability, and liability. The NMFC also specifies rules, packaging requirements, and handling instructions.
What are accessorial fees?
Accessorial fees are supplemental charges applied when a shipment requires services beyond standard dock-to-dock delivery. LTL pricing is structured, but accessorial fees can be significant variables that affect the total landed cost.
Some accessorials are predictable, such as liftgate service and appointment scheduling, and can be built into freight planning. Unexpected accessorials can appear after pickup and are often related to inaccurate weights and dimensions on the BOL, detention fees if freight isn’t ready, or additional handling fees caused by poor packaging or labeling.
“Many new LTL shippers are surprised by the impact of dimensional accuracy. Even an inch of overhang or a difference between the planned and actual density can create accessorial fees,” says Roberts.
How can I avoid accessorial fees?
Properly weighing and categorizing freight, standardizing labeling, and communicating timelines and expectations to the warehouse team can help prevent accessorials.
Tips to avoid accessorial fees in freight
Accessorial risk |
Why it happens |
How to avoid it |
Incorrect weight |
Carriers frequently reweigh freight, especially when weights are missing or appear inaccurate |
Weigh freight (including the pallet) before listing the weight on the BOL |
Incorrect dimensions |
Even small errors can affect the cube and pricing, triggering remeasurement fees |
Measure freight after wrapping and record the longest points, even if there are bulges or overhangs |
Misclassified freight |
Shippers list the wrong class due to density errors or misunderstanding NMFC rules |
Calculate density correctly using NMFC standards and confirm packaging dimensions |
Freight is not ready at the pickup time |
A driver has to wait on freight, triggering detention or missed-pickup charges |
Confirm pickup windows, stage freight so it is ready, and communicate schedule changes early |
Poor labeling |
Missing or hidden labels force carriers to troubleshoot manually, causing delays and potential fees |
Place two visible labels per pallet and shrink-wrap securely |
How can I optimize LTL shipments?
As shipment profiles evolve, packaging and palletization become more important. Strategies include consolidating orders into single pallets when possible, standardizing pallet dimensions to improve cube efficiency, and investing in packing materials to reduce claims and damage.
Is there an ideal mix of small parcel, LTL, and truckload?
There is no one-size-fits-all formula or a perfect mix of small parcel, LTL, and truckload. Many companies rely on a blended strategy. The breakdown can fluctuate, both in the short- and long-term, depending on peak seasons and shifts in customer demands, order size and frequency, and total freight needs.
Can I transition back to small parcel if my needs change?
Absolutely. The transition to LTL does not need to be permanent. Many companies adjust seasonally or in response to product launches, promotions, or shifts in customer behavior. Maintaining relationships with parcel and LTL carriers ensures flexibility.
Amazon Freight is here to help
If you’re ready to grow beyond parcel, Amazon Freight can help you scale with confidence. You can quickly quote LTL loads on the Amazon Freight online portal.
