Route 89 Logistics
Freight Service

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Freight Shipping

Cost-effective options for smaller shipments. We leverage blanket rates with top regional and national LTL carriers.

Less than truckload shipping — better known as LTL — is the smart choice when your freight does not fill an entire trailer. You share trailer space with other shipments and only pay for the space and weight you actually use, which makes LTL shipping one of the most cost-effective ways to move palletized freight.

We leverage blanket pricing with more than 75 best-in-class regional and national LTL carriers, so you get reliable transit and low rates without negotiating contracts yourself. Need a number first? Get a same-day LTL shipping quote and we will shop your freight across the network.

What you get

  • Pay only for the space and weight you ship
  • Blanket rates with 75+ regional and national LTL carriers
  • Liftgate, residential, and inside delivery options
  • Freight class and BOL guidance included
  • Consolidation options to lower your cost per shipment

Ideal for

  • Shipments between 1 and 6 pallets
  • Freight from 150 to 15,000 lbs
  • Businesses shipping a few loads per month
  • Palletized, crated, or boxed goods

How it works

01

Get a quote

Share your origin, destination, freight description, weight, and dimensions. We verify freight class and shop your load across 75+ LTL carriers to find the best rate.

02

We prepare your BOL

Once you approve the rate, we generate your Bill of Lading with the correct freight class, weight, and any accessorial services declared upfront — no surprises.

03

Carrier picks up

The assigned LTL carrier picks up your freight. You receive a PRO number for tracking. Your shipment moves through the carrier's network to the destination terminal.

04

Delivery and confirmation

The carrier delivers to your consignee and captures a proof of delivery. We handle any billing discrepancies or claims so you do not have to fight the carrier yourself.

What affects the price

  • Freight class — determined by density, stowability, and handling
  • Shipment weight and dimensions
  • Origin to destination distance
  • Accessorial charges — liftgate, residential, appointments
  • Weekly fuel surcharge based on diesel prices

Industries we serve

  • Manufacturing and industrial suppliers
  • Retail and wholesale distribution
  • Food and beverage producers
  • Furniture and home goods
  • Auto parts and aftermarket suppliers

Frequently asked questions

How is LTL shipping priced?

LTL rates are based on freight class (a density-based rating from 50 to 500), shipment weight, origin-to-destination distance, and any accessorial charges. Carriers also apply a weekly fuel surcharge. Getting freight class right before booking is the single best way to avoid invoice adjustments.

What is a freight class and how do I find mine?

Freight class is a standardized rating system used by LTL carriers. It is calculated primarily from the density of your shipment — weight divided by cubic feet. Lower density means a higher class and a higher rate. Route 89 verifies freight class on every shipment we book, which prevents reclassification fees after delivery.

How long does LTL shipping take?

LTL transit times typically range from 1 to 5 business days depending on the lane. Regional shipments (under 500 miles) often deliver next or second day. Cross-country lanes can run 4–6 business days. Carriers provide estimated transit times when we quote your shipment.

What accessorial charges should I be aware of?

The most common accessorials are liftgate pickup or delivery (when there is no loading dock), residential delivery, inside delivery, delivery appointment fees, and limited access charges. Declaring these upfront when you book means you know the all-in cost before committing — no surprises on the invoice.

More questions? Visit our full FAQ or contact our team.

Ready to ship for less?

Open a free, no-obligation account for instant LTL quotes across 66+ carriers — or get a quote from our team today.