Freight class is established by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) based on four factors: density (lbs per cubic foot), stowability, handling, and liability. Classes range from Class 50 (dense machinery and metal) to Class 500 (lightweight, fragile cargo). Accurately determining your freight's density upfront protects against carrier re-classification surcharges.

In a shared LTL network, freight is typically moved across cross-dock terminal aprons 4 to 8 times by forklifts during transit. Freight must be secured to sturdy pallets using 80+ gauge stretch-wrap bound to the pallet base, protected with corner edge-guards, and clearly labeled with shipping information on opposite sides.

Tell us whether either facility lacks a dock and whether liftgate, pallet-jack, or inside-delivery assistance is needed. Equipment limits, service scope, and charges must be confirmed with the carrier.

LTL may involve terminal transfers and different schedules from a direct truckload move. Transit estimates and any time-definite service terms must be confirmed with the selected carrier for the route.

When a shipment occupies 6 to 12 pallets or weighs between 8,000 and 20,000 lbs, Volume LTL bypasses intermediate cross-dock facilities and travels directly on a linehaul trailer. It provides substantial cost savings compared to paying for a full truck while drastically reducing handling touches.

Yes. Start with your estimated pallet count, approximate total weight, origin zip, and destination zip. Our freight coordinators will help verify the proper NMFC classification and recommend the optimal regional carrier options.