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In the world of domestic transportation, most shippers feel trapped between two extremes. On one side, you have Standard LTL (Less-Than-Truckload), perfect for a couple of pallets but prone to frequent handling and terminal delays. On the other, you have FTL (Full Truckload), which offers speed and security but forces you to pay for an entire 53-foot trailer even if it’s half-empty. But what happens when your shipment is "too big" for LTL and "too small" for FTL? Enter Volume LTL. It is the "hidden gem" of the logistics industry—a middle-ground solution that offers the cost-savings of shared space with the efficiency of a dedicated move.
What Exactly is Volume LTL?
Volume LTL (often referred to as "Partial Truckload" in some circles) is designed for "tweener" freight. While every carrier has slightly different rules, a shipment typically qualifies as Volume LTL if it meets these criteria:
- Pallet Count: 6 to 12 pallets.
- Weight: 5,000 to 20,000 lbs.
- Linear Feet: Occupies 12 to 32 feet of trailer space.
Instead of being priced by complex NMFC freight classes (which can fluctuate based on density and commodity), Volume LTL usually relies on spot market pricing. This means you pay a flat rate based on the actual space you use in a trailer that has extra capacity.
The 3 Major Benefits of the Volume Move 1. Significant Cost Savings Because Volume LTL utilizes "backhaul" capacity—space in a truck that would otherwise go empty—carriers price it aggressively. If your shipment is over 6 pallets, a Volume LTL quote is almost always lower than a standard LTL rate and significantly cheaper than paying for a full 53-foot trailer. 2. Reduced Risk of Damage One of the biggest headaches with standard LTL is the "hub-and-spoke" model. Your pallets are unloaded and reloaded at multiple terminals, increasing the chance of a forklift accident. Volume LTL shipments typically stay on the same trailer from pickup to delivery. Fewer "touches" means your freight arrives in the same condition it left. 3. Faster Transit Times for Large Loads Since the driver isn't stopping at every regional terminal to sort small packages, Volume LTL moves more like a Full Truckload. It bypasses the traditional LTL network, often resulting in faster delivery times for mid-sized shipments moving across the USA, Canada, or Mexico.
Is Volume LTL Right for Your Business?
While the benefits are clear, Volume LTL is best suited for specific scenarios:
- Flexible Timelines: Because these moves rely on available "gaps" in carrier networks, pickup windows might be slightly wider than FTL.
- Low-Density Freight: If you have large but lightweight items that would be "up-classed" in standard LTL, Volume LTL pricing can save you thousands.
- Cross-Border Shipping: For shipments moving between the USA and Mexico or Canada, Volume LTL provides a streamlined way to move large quantities without the price tag of a dedicated international truck.
“About LDP Logistics
At LDP Logistics, we specialize in finding the "sweet spot" for your freight. As a leading provider of domestic transportation services, we don’t just offer LTL, FTL, and Drayage—we offer strategy. Our deep network of carriers across the USA, Canada, and Mexico allows us to secure competitive Volume LTL spot quotes that save our clients up to 30% on their shipping spend.
Whether you're moving 8 pallets or 80, LDP Logistics ensures your cargo moves through the most efficient channel possible.
