TOP Worldwide Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping services with a semi truck driving down the highway at sunset, symbolizing efficient and flexible freight solutions.

FLEXIBLE LESS THAN
TRUCKLOAD SHIPPING

TOP Worldwide semi truck on the highway, representing the transportation backbone of LTL pricing and freight cost strategies.

LESS THAN TRUCKLOAD (LTL) SHIPPING

Cost-Effective Freight Solutions

When your shipment doesn’t require a full truck, Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective solution. At TOP Worldwide, we help businesses streamline their supply chain with reliable LTL freight services, competitive rates, and expert logistics support.

With access to a vast network of vetted carriers, we ensure your freight moves efficiently across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, without paying for unused truck space.

What Is LTL Shipping?

Less Than Truckload shipping is designed for freight that does not fill an entire trailer. Instead, multiple shipments from different shippers share space on one truck, reducing overall transportation costs.

LTL is ideal for shipments typically ranging between 150 and 10,000 pounds, offering a balance between parcel and full truckload shipping.

Use LTL when:

You don’t have enough freight to fill a truck
You want to reduce shipping costs
Flexibility matters more than speed

Hear tips from an expert about the world of LTL shipping on our new podcast episode “What You Should Know About LTL Shipping”.

A TOP Worldwide LTL truck loaded with packages from three different shippers, demonstrating efficient consolidation and cost-effective logistics solutions for small businesses.

Why Choose TOP Worldwide for LTL?

Extensive Carrier Network

We partner with a wide range of trusted national and regional LTL carriers, giving you access to competitive pricing and flexible capacity options.

Cost Savings Through Consolidation

By optimizing space and consolidating freight, we help reduce your shipping costs without sacrificing reliability.

TOP Worldwide geo-fencing alert system monitoring freight movements for enhanced security.

Real-Time Visibility & Tracking

Stay informed with shipment tracking, proactive updates, and accurate delivery timelines.

TOP Worldwide dedicated account manager providing personalized support for full truckload shipping needs.

Dedicated Account Management

Our logistics experts work closely with your team to optimize routing, reduce costs, and improve delivery performance.

Cross-Border Expertise

We simplify shipping between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico with seamless customs coordination and compliance support.

Quick LTL Quotes & Same-Day Pickup

Need an LTL quote or pickup fast? TOP provides quick, accurate quotes and same-day pickups, allowing your business to keep moving efficiently without delays.

Our LTL Shipping Services

Standard LTL

TOP Worldwide expedited services icon representing fast and time-sensitive full truckload shipping solutions.

Expedited LTL

Temperature-controlled LTL

Cross-border shipping

Liftgate, inside delivery & accessorial services

How LTL Shipping Works

Freight Pickup – Your shipment is picked up and transported to a terminal.
Freight Consolidation – Your freight is combined with other shipments heading in the same direction.
Linehaul Movement – Freight moves through a network of terminals.
Final Delivery – Shipment is delivered to its destination.

Because shipments may pass through multiple terminals, working with an experienced provider like TOP helps reduce the risk of delays.

LTL vs. Full Truckload: Learning the Differences

Feature	LTL Shipping	FTL Shipping
Cost	Lower	Higher
Transit Time	Moderate	Faster
Capacity	Shared	Dedicated
Best For	Smaller shipments	Large shipments

Want to get even more value from your LTL shipments? Check out our blog, “7 Game-Changing LTL Shipping Strategies,” to learn how to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Understanding Freight Class & NMFC

Accurate freight classification is essential for controlling costs in LTL shipping.

What Is Freight Class?

Freight class is determined by density, handling, value, and liability. It directly impacts your shipping rate. CLICK ON OUR BLOG to learn more about how TOP can help you understand the latest freight classifications.

NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification)

The NMFC system standardizes how freight is classified to ensure fair pricing across the industry. At TOP Worldwide, we help you correctly classify your freight to avoid reclassification fees and unexpected charges.

Learn more about NMFTA’s Docket 2025-1 and the updated classification guidelines directly from the source.

Accessorial Services That Support Your Shipment

Accessorial services are additional services beyond standard pickup and delivery that may be required to successfully complete an LTL shipment. These services are typically needed when a shipment involves special handling, unique delivery locations, or specific timing requirements.

Because LTL shipping often includes multiple stops, accessorials help ensure your freight is handled properly from origin to final destination. While they add flexibility and convenience, they can also impact overall shipping costs, making it important to plan for them in advance. These may include:

Liftgate service
Residential delivery
Inside pickup and delivery
Limited access locations (schools, construction sites, etc.)
Appointment scheduling

TOP Worldwide ensures all accessorial needs are planned upfront to avoid delays and extra costs.

Industry Expertise

Our LTL solutions support a wide range of industries:

Manufacturing
Automotive
Retail & eCommerce
Food & beverage
Industrial equipment
Healthcare & medical supplies

Game-Changing LTL Shipping Strategies TOP Worldwide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered LTL freight?

LTL freight typically includes shipments between 150 and 10,000 pounds that do not require a full truck.

How many pallets qualify as LTL?

Generally, shipments of 1 to 6 pallets are considered LTL. Larger shipments may qualify as volume LTL or partial truckload.

Is LTL shipping cheaper than FTL?

Yes. Because you only pay for the portion of the truck you use, LTL is more cost-effective for smaller shipments.

How long does LTL shipping take?

Transit times vary based on distance and routing but are usually slightly longer than FTL due to multiple stops and transfers.

What affects LTL shipping rates?

Key factors include freight class, weight, dimensions, distance, accessorial services, and fuel surcharges. July 2025 marks a major change to the LTL freight class system. CLICK ON OUR BLOG to learn more and how TOP can help you with the new parameters.

Learn more about NMFTA’s Docket 2025-1 and the updated classification guidelines directly from the source.

What is freight class and why does it matter?

Freight class determines your shipping rate based on density, handling, and liability. Incorrect classification can lead to added charges.

Can LTL shipments be expedited?

Yes. Expedited LTL options are available for time-sensitive freight.

FLEXIBLE LESS THAN TRUCKLOAD SHIPPING