Types of Freight Shipping Options

Are you a business owner or an individual looking to ship goods and packages? If so, you know how overwhelming navigating the world of freight shipping can be. Determining which shipping option is the most fantastic match for your particular needs might be challenging due to the numerous options available.

Fear not. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision, from understanding the different types of freight shipping to knowing the pros and cons of each shipping method.

FTL (Full Truckload) Shipping

FTL (Full Truckload) shipping is the best option for companies that need to ship large amounts of freight. Additionally, the method of transport has numerous advantages over other shipping methods, such as.

  • With FTL shipping, you can use the entire truck, meaning only your shipment will be on the vehicle.
  • FTL shipping is faster than LTL shipping. The truck goes from the pick-up to the delivery location without any stops.
  • While it may be more expensive than LTL shipping, it is cheaper than shipping many LTL shipments. 
  • You won’t have to worry about paying for the extra space on the truck that you don’t need.
  • FTL shipping is more reliable, as there is less room for error when loading and unloading the truck.

Therefore, FTL shipping is an excellent option for businesses that need to move large amounts of freight.

LTL (Less Than Truckload) Shipping

LTL shipping is a popular option for companies that only need to ship part of the truckload of freight. It lowers shipping costs by bundling your package with other loads on the exact vehicle. So, it’s ideal for businesses that only need to ship a little freight.

The benefits of LTL shipping are:

  • It’s flexible. You can ship as little or as much freight as you need, and you only pay for the space you use on the truck. 
  • LTL reduces the number of trucks on roads, thus, fewer carbon emissions.

Yet, LTL shipping can take longer than FTL shipping, as the truck will make many stops to pick up and drop off other shipments. Additionally, there is a higher risk of damage, loss, or delays with LTL shipping as your shipment combines different loads.

Intermodal Shipping

Intermodal shipping is a type of shipping that involves using many modes of transportation. It’s ideal for businesses that need to move large amounts of cargo over long distances, as it can be more cost-effective than a single mode of transportation. The methods may include a combination of trucks, trains, and ships.

Intermodal shipping is more reliable, allowing for more flexibility in case of delays or other unforeseen circumstances. Yet, intermodal shipping can be more complex than other shipping options. It entails organizing many transportation forms and ensuring the freight is secured correctly for each one.

Expedited Shipping

Expedited shipping is a type of shipping that focuses on businesses that need to move their freight quickly. The shipment delivery takes shorter than standard delivery since accelerated shipping prioritizes it above other shipments.

The primary advantage of expedited shipping is that it is fast and reliable. Your shipment will be delivered quickly, and you can track it at every step to ensure it arrives on time. Furthermore, expedited shipment can match your demands, such as weekend delivery or specific handling requirements.

However, expedited shipping can be more expensive than other shipping options, as you pay for the speed and priority of the delivery.

Air Freight Shipping

According to IATA, the overall increase in air freight volumes in 2021 was 18.7%, the second-best annual performance since 1990. Air freight shipping is a type of shipping that involves transporting freight by airplane. Air freight shipping is ideal for businesses that need to move their freight quickly, as it is faster than other shipping methods. Also, it’s appropriate for companies that need to move freight overseas.

One of the main benefits of air freight shipping is that it is fast. Your shipment will be delivered quickly, and you can track it at every step to ensure it arrives on time. Additionally, air freight shipping is ideal for businesses that need to ship high-value or perishable goods, as it provides a fast and secure method of transportation. 

Ocean Freight Shipping

Ocean freight transportation is the best option for companies transporting cargo across vast distances because it may be more affordable than other shipping options. Additionally, ocean freight shipping is ideal for businesses that need to ship large amounts of freight, as it provides a cost-effective method of transportation.

Ocean freight shipping is cost-effective. You can ship large amounts of freight at a lower cost than other shipping methods. However, ocean freight shipping can take longer than other shipping methods as it involves traveling long distances by sea.

Before 2021, there was continuous external control of the American shipping industries. Thus, on Feb. 22, 2022, President Joe Biden announced an agreement between the Department of Justice and the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). The deal prevents foreign maritime freight firms from taking advantage of American businesses.

Freight Shipping Costs

When it comes to freight shipping, the cost is always a consideration. The shipping cost will depend on several factors, including:

  • The weight and size of your shipment, 
  • The distance it needs to travel, and 
  • The type of shipping method you choose. 

If you want to cut the price of your freight transportation, consider looking into condensed shipments or negotiating reduced rates with your carrier. You should also check rates from several providers to ensure you’re receiving the ideal deal.

Parting Shot

The realm of freight transportation is complicated. However, with the proper knowledge, you can choose the best type of freight shipping. Thus, consider the weight and size of your shipment, the distance it needs to travel, and the shipping method you choose.