Frequently Asked Questions

LTL Shipping

  • What is less-than-truckload shipping?

    Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is used to transport small freight or freight that doesn’t fill an entire trailer. It is generally used for freight that weighs between 150 and 15,000 lbs.

    In LTL freight, shippers pay for the portion of the truck they use and their freight travels with other LTL loads, meaning it usually takes longer to transport than FTL shipments because the truck will make more than one stop. However, it can be a more cost-effective mode of transportation.

  • How do I get real-time LTL rates?

    Your company can get real-time less-than-truckload rate quotes from your preferred carriers by integrating APIs, application programming interfaces, into your transportation management system. Because you are able to compare all of your preferred carriers’ rates on one screen, your company will be able to achieve greater cost savings. Banyan Technology’s LIVE Connect™ LTL aggregator platform has more fully automated LTL carrier connections than any other provider.

  • How do I get the best LTL rates?

    Rate shopping through APIs is a great way to start. For more tips on reducing your LTL freight spend, read this blog.

  • What is the difference between FTL and LTL freight shipping?

    FTL, which stands for full truckload freight, means your load is large enough to fill an entire semitruck/trailer. LTL, or less than truckload, shipping means that your freight would not fill the trailer. Most carriers have a weight limit for LTL shipments between 10,000 lbs. and 15,000 lbs. LTL is often less expensive because your freight will share trailer space with other LTL shipments.

  • What is better – LTL, parcel or FTL?

    It depends on your freight. And choosing correctly has numerous benefits. Read this blog for more information on determining the right shipping mode for your freight.

  • What technology is important in today's LTL industry?

    Any technology that helps your company automate processes, saving time and money. This can include multiple platforms and solutions. We answered this question in a recent blog posting.

  • How is LTL different from parcel shipping?

    The biggest difference in less-than-truckload, or LTL, and parcel shipping is the size of the freight. Parcel is for smaller packages, usually less than 150 lbs. and can be lifted unassisted, whereas LTL is for loads up to 10,000-15,000 lbs. LTL loads are generally palletized. Parcel is also used for individual packages and/or personal shipping services.

  • What does API stand for in logistics?

    API stands for application programming interface. In logistics, APIs help connect carriers, shippers and 3PLs in real time while aggregating and sharing data between connection, and often result in saving money on freight shipment.

  • What are shipping APIs?

    Shipping APIs connect shippers to carriers’ application programming interfaces and enable the company to book a shipment with that provider.

    In LTL shipping, APIs are integrated into transportation management systems or enterprise resource planning systems and provide real-time access to carrier’s systems that include rating, tracking and shipment visibility. Your company can access each carrier’s API individually or go through an aggregator platform like Banyan to reach multiple carriers at once – saving your company time and money.

    For more information on APIs and what to know before integrating them into your TMS, check out this blog.

  • How can I track my LTL freight?

    You can track LTL freight shipments through APIs or through a carrier directly. The API digitizes the process, making it easier and more accessible. Through a carrier, the shipment can be tracked via the PRO number. Through the API, it can be tracked from any identifier on the order (order number, PRO number, booking confirmation, invoice, etc.)

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