Introduction to Truck Freight
Truck freight has a vital role in connecting manufacturers, suppliers, and ultimately, customers across cities, countries, and even continents.
Today, continuing growth in e-commerce and just-in-time delivery networks puts tremendous pressure on truck freight services.
Amazingly, trucks are responsible for moving raw materials to manufacturers and finished products to retail outlets.
Seamless and effective truck freight enables supply chains to operate efficiently, minimize waste, and respond promptly to consumer demands. The flexibility of trucking to access remote areas, as well as its integration with air, sea, and rail transport, makes it irreplaceable in modern-day logistics management.
What is Truck Freight?
Truck freight refers to the transportation of goods and materials overland with large vehicles. Truck freight is considered one of the most convenient and flexible shipment methods, as it can be used for both short and long shipments. Companies in every industry use truck freight to deliver freight from origin to destination as well as from door to door.
Truck freight services are suitable for areas that lack rail or air services, as well as products that cannot be shipped successfully or efficiently by rail or air. Truck freight is integral for supply chain efficiency and logistics services.
Types of Truck Freight Services
The various truck freight services vary depending on the shipment size, type of freight, and delivery timeframe. The primary types of truck freight services include Full Truckload (FTL), Less than Truckload (LTL), and intermodal freight, which involves the use of various freight transport methods. Specialty services, including flatbeds and refrigerated trucks, are available to transport your freight. Selecting the right truck freight service depends on the specific freight and budget. Topshipping will find customers the most viable and cost-effective truck freight options.
Truck Freight vs Other Transportation Methods
Truck freight services typically move faster than air and ship freight services within regional areas, and can provide greater flexibility in delivery and pick-up timing. Additionally, rail freight has limitations, as it relies on existing tracks for transportation, while freight trucks can operate in areas that rail cannot reach.
Air freight moves shipments across longer distances very quickly, but at a significantly higher cost than truck freight. Ocean freight is typically cheaper and ideal for bulk shipments, but it is much slower and often involves extra handling. Truck freight is a perfect freight option as it provides the right balance of cost, speed, & flexibility for shipping domestically.
Types of Truck Freight Services
Full Truck Load (FTL)
Shipping by Full Truck Load (FTL) is when a full truck is reserved for a shipment. FTL is well-suited for businesses shipping large amounts of goods or those with time-sensitive shipments. FTL shipping results in faster transit times because the truck travels directly from the origin to the destination, with no intermediate stops; therefore, handling the goods becomes easier. FTL has minimal exposure to possible damage or loss. Topshipping also offers customized Full Truckload (FTL) shipping solutions, specifically for high-volume shippers who value speed and want to ensure their products are securely transported.
When to Use Full Truck Load (FTL)
Generally, Full Truckload (FTL) is the best solution when your shipment fills or nearly fills a trailer, or you require a dedicated vehicle for sensitive or high-value cargo. It is also a good choice if you have a tight delivery deadline and delays are not an option. Seasonal shipments or larger one-time orders are typical examples of scenarios where the use of FTL is beneficial. Additionally, FTL may be a more cost-effective option per unit for shipping larger quantities. If you're not certain Full Truck Load (FTL) is the best choice for your logistics needs, please speak with a Topshipping freight agent to discuss your options!
Less than Truck Load (LTL)
Less than Truckload (LTL) is a shipping option that doesn’t fill a full trailer. When using an LTL carrier, your shipments (as well as many shipments from other customers) are all combined into one truck, which decreases shipping costs. LTL carriers specialize in working with shippers to maximize the efficiency of space and travel routes, and then they are able to share the cost savings with their shippers. LTL shipments involve more handling than being loaded onto a truck and, therefore, typically take a bit longer to transit. LTL is a standard method for shipping small to mid-size shipments when there is no time requirement, and budget is a key consideration.
When to Use Less than Truck Load (LTL)
LTL shipments are optimal:
- When your products weigh less than 15,000 pounds or occupy less than half a truck.
- When you have flexibility with your delivery schedules and want to save on freight costs.
- LTL is ideal for small, regular shipments travelling to various destinations.
Businesses that prioritize saving over speed will primarily benefit from less-than-truckload (LTL) services. Topshipping can help you consolidate your shipments to get the best LTL service.
Intermodal Truck Transport
Intermodal truck transport is a combination of truck transportation with other means of transport (rail or ship). Unlike moving individual freight from truck to rail or ship, intermodal truck transport enables goods to be carried in containers, allowing for seamless transfer between trucks, rails, or vessels. Intermodal can improve the efficiency of long-haul shipping while also reducing costs through less fuel consumption. Intermodal is a highly efficient option for long-haul or international shipments.
Truck + Rail Combination
Truck and rail provide the benefits of both long-haul travel by rail and first- and last-mile delivery by truck. This hybrid transport reduces congestion on highways and has a lower environmental impact. Overall, it's a more economical choice than using a truck alone for non-time-sensitive and bulk freight travelling long distances. While service times and transit times may take longer, the cost savings and sustainability are considerable.
Truck Freight Costs and Pricing
How Truck Freight Rates Are Determined?
Several factors influence the trucking freight price, including the weight of the cargo, the size of the shipment, the route travelled, and the required shipment speed (time in transit). Carriers take into consideration fuel prices, tolls, and handling plans, including stops along the way to the final destination. Rates are not fixed, especially when considering the cyclical nature of the market (supply and demand) and the availability of transportation providers to move shipments along preferred and popular national and regional lanes. Shippers have the option of requesting a spot quote - typically for a one-time shipment or an ongoing contract rate, depending on their shipping frequency. At Topshipping, we deliver transparent pricing that is properly aligned with your unique logistics profile.
Volume and Weight of Cargo
Cargo weight and size will determine the cost, with larger and heavier shipments costing more due to the increased space usage and fuel consumption. Carriers will calculate the dimensional weight or actual weight, whichever is higher. There are options for shipping dimensions that can reduce gross volumetric charges by creatively packaging materials. Special permits and equipment are often needed for shipping oversized shipments, which adds to the cost. Topshipping enhances the transportation profile by repackaging cargo and utilizing regularly used standard units to control costs.
Route Distance
The greater the distance between the origin and destination, the higher the shipping costs. Nevertheless, some routes may see a price reduction if the shipping lane is popular, and therefore has a high volume of traffic. Additionally, delivery to an urban area may cause extra fees for congestion and/or restricted area delivery. Rural location deliveries may increase fuel consumption, which will have an impact on pricing. Topshipping uses smart routing tools and methodology where applicable to help minimize shipping costs.
Seasonality and Demand
Shipping costs are subject to and heavily influence by seasonal trends and demand. Prices can increase during busy or peak seasons, such as holidays or harvest time, due to high demand and the corresponding rise in prices. Fluctuations in weather conditions and fuel prices can lead to changes in prices. The availability of trucks and drivers can reduce capacity and raise prices. To capture better rates, consider pre-booking during peak seasons. Topshipping will continuously monitor and review trends to make recommendations on when it is best to ship.
Fuel Surcharges and Extra Costs
Carriers typically do not charge only a base freight rate. They may also charge you for fuel, accessorial charges, and tolls. Accessorials can also include liftgate, residential (when making deliveries to someone's residence), after-hours, boarding, and waiting time. Accessorials vary from provider to provider, and they should be clarified upfront. Topshipping has transparent billing practices; we disclose charges upfront so that you won't encounter any hidden costs. Likewise, the more you know about these extras going into your project, the better you can budget for your shipments.
Comparing Truck Freight Costs with Other Transport Methods
Truck freight is typically cheaper than air freight, faster than ocean freight, and a quick option for short to medium-distance shipments. In addition, rail service can be more affordable than truck service for shipments over long distances and a range of timeframes; however, it does not provide the same level of flexibility as road transport. Truck freight is a suitable option for businesses seeking a balance between speed and cost. With Topshipping, you can compare all available options, including truck freight, rail, and air freight, and choose the best choice for you. Remember, our logistics experts will review and walk you through all potential options that offer the best value
Truck Freight Routes and Infrastructure
Major Truck Freight Routes
Major freight truck routes include cross-country interstates and regional highways that link logistics hubs. These routes typically have infrastructure in place to support cargo movement, including truck stops and rest areas. In the U.S., freight truck routes, which form critical arterial networks, are I-40, I-80, and I-10. These routes offer quicker delivery than regional routes, with fewer delays due to their increased capacity. Topshipping has route optimization tools to ensure that your freight flows along the most efficient route.
Interstate and Transcontinental Truck Routes
Interstate and transcontinental routes are crucial for connecting major industrial hubs and ports, regardless of their geographical dispersion. These are the long-haul corridors that can support continuous freight from domestic origins to continents and other international destinations. Utilizing such routes, such as the interstate system, can reduce transit time, which in turn can result in a lower per-mile rate for freight shipments. However, you may also need to comply with state and federal transportation regulations. Topshipping ensures that your cargo complies with the requirements along the designated route.
Key Truck Freight Hubs
Truck freight hubs are operationally critical locations for freight consolidation, distribution, and cargo management. Truck freight facilities, including warehouses, logistics centers, cross-docks, and railroad transfer facilities, utilize truck freight hubs in various ways. Truck freight hubs also help deliver a faster turnaround time, and improve trip planning efficiency. When you are closer to a freight hub your shipping cost and lead time are more likely to be reduced. Topshipping, for example, utilizes key hubs to ensure products are delivered to your customers.
North American Freight Hubs
North American freight hubs include cities such as Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and others. These freight hubs offer a range of intermodal and intramodal freight movement options, including rail and air freight. Their location in the middle of the continent facilitates freight distribution across the country. These important freight cities also offer a robust infrastructure base and a skilled labour market. In partnership with Topshipping, we have access to a connected logistics ecosystem.
European Freight Hubs
European freight hubs, such as Rotterdam, Hamburg and Antwerp, serve a critical part in the movement of cargo throughout Europe. These cities connect a port to its inland receiving destination through vast roads and rail systems. Many of the European hubs are interconnected through customs clearance and warehousing, facilitating a seamless movement of international shipments. The resourcefulness and worldwide connections of these hubs add value to intra-European and global trade. Topshipping collaborates with trusted carriers in Europe that collect and deliver freight throughout these key hubs.
Cargo Types in Truck Freight
Bulk Cargo
Bulk cargo refers to unpackaged goods, such as grain, coal, or minerals, that are shipped in large quantities. Typically, bulk cargo is moved in specialized trailers, such as dump trucks or hoppers. Due to the weight and potential for spillage, carrying bulk cargo always requires safety to be a top priority, and planning the route is of utmost importance. Bulk cargo is often suitable for the agricultural, mining, and construction sectors, respectively. Topshipping has the right tools and knowledge to move bulk freight successfully.
Agricultural Products
Agricultural products, such as wheat, corn, and soybeans, are commonly transported in bulk through covered and open bulk trailers. These materials have to be protected from moisture and contamination. Time is a critical factor for them, as required shipping often needs to occur during harvest time, when demand spikes, and making transportation arrangements has tight timelines. Efficient logistics can reduce waste and loss, maximizing producers' profitability. Topshipping transports bulk farm commodities without any loss of cleanliness, compliance and timeliness.
Coal and Minerals
Coal and minerals, such as iron ore, are commonly shipped in bulk from their source in high-capacity trailers or dump trucks. These are subject to strict environmental and safety regulations. Proper containment of this bulk, along with reasonable loading policies and route permits, is necessary to prevent accidental hazards and minimize downstream ecological impact. Mining companies transport their Crush and Commodities with logistics firms that they trust are competent, reliable and compliant under a Safety Management System. Topshipping will manage the relevant regulations and maximize transportation costs in compliance with shipping regulations.
Containerized Cargo
Materials are containerized for shipment in standard-sized containers. Containerized cargo facilitates the easy handling of goods, including loading and unloading, as well as intermodal movement, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage. Containerized cargo is often suited for high-volume, costly commodities, such as electronics, textiles, and manufactured products. One of the benefits of containerized shipping is that containers can be easily transferred from trucks to ships or railways with little effort. Additionally, containers facilitate the easy storage of cargo. Topshipping offers container transportation services, including real-time tracking and troubleshooting customs issues.
Refrigerated Truck Freight
Refrigerated freight is a term used to describe the shipment of temperature-controlled trucks, also known as reefers, to transport perishable items. Certain products, like meat, dairy, pharmaceuticals, and flowers, require a consistent temperature throughout the shipping process. With temperature-sensitive products, accurate monitoring throughout the shipping process is crucial to ensuring the product's quality. Any delays or changes in temperature can result in huge losses. Topshipping provides the latest in reefer technology and monitoring systems to defend sensitive cargo throughout the shipping process.
Heavy and Oversized Freight
Heavy and oversized freight typically includes machinery, construction equipment, or wind turbine components, as their dimensions exceed standard sizes. Shipping such loads requires special permits, escort vehicles, and special routing. The logistics are complex and require expertise and thorough planning. Mistakes can lead to delays, fines, or worse consequences. Topshipping can manage the compliance these loads require, from loading to delivery.
Truck Freight Safety and Regulations
Truck Freight Safety Measures
Safety in truck freight is closely tied to vehicle maintenance, driver training, and the secure loading and unloading of cargo. Carriers must comply with maximum load weight and route safety regulations equipped with GPS tracking to improve safety and accountability. Driver fatigue and hazardous road conditions are often managed through regulated driving hours and rest breaks. Topshipping works best with carriers who, at a maximum, comply with safety measures.
DOT and FMCSA Standards
The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establish the existing commercial trucking standards and rules governing driving functions. This includes driver qualifications, permitted hours of service, driving restrictions, vehicle inspections, investigation procedures, and safety performance scoring. Carriers must update licenses, assessments, and insurance for their vehicles. Failing to adhere to service limits, hours of service rules, and inspections can result in penalties and suspension of business operations. Topshipping does its best to ensure that all partners exceed the standards set out by the DOT and FMCSA.
Security in Truck Freight Transport
The security measures in freight transport by trucks include sealed containers, GPS tracking, and secure facilities. High-value cargo may also require armed escorts or designated, security-monitored parking zones. Cargo thefts and tampering are a constant threat, particularly in heavily trafficked areas. However, using a reputable carrier or a monitored route can help reduce the risk. Topshipping strongly endorses security for cargo during transport through the use of technology and vetted partners.
Truck Freight and Sustainability
Environmental Benefits of Truck Freight
Many trucks today use less fuel and produce less pollution than they did in the past. Compared to multiple smaller vehicles, consolidated truckloads reduce overall emissions. The engines have been improved, and alternatives to fuel enhance the "green" effect in freight. The good news is that incentives, such as local emissions laws, also promote a cleaner transportation method. Topshipping always supports green products for carriers whenever possible.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
Options for businesses to reduce their carbon footprint include improving load efficiency, utilizing efficient routing, and using electric or hybrid trucks. Shrinking multiple shipments, reducing empty miles and other inefficiencies, as well as shifting to electric and hybrid trucks are the major options. Other options include technology to reduce emissions, such as route-optimizing apps. Sustainable packaging, reduced idling, and other measures are also viable options. Topshipping takes responsibility for creating environmentally sensitive shipping plans with our clients.
Green Truck Technologies
Green technologies encompass a wide range of solutions, from electric engines and natural gas trucks to aerodynamic trailer technologies. Technologies such as telematics systems enable the management of fuel consumption and driver behaviour, thereby increasing efficiency. Battery-powered refrigeration units and solar panels are now being tested in the industry. The usage of green technologies lowers emissions as well as operating costs. Topshipping continues to pursue trends in green technologies to deliver sustainable logistics solutions to our clients.
Truck Freight Companies and Providers
Major Truck Freight Providers
Top leading Truck Freight Providers typically have large fleets, tracking systems, and a history of a strong delivery track record. Most of these truck freight services offer both LTL (Less Than Truckload) and FTL (Full Truckload) solutions, as well as standard delivery and logistics solutions. Working with a reputable truck provider will lower the probability of delays and poor treatment of your cargo. Topshipping works with both global and regional leaders to provide consistency. Our reviewed and vetted providers include FedEx Freight and UPS Freight.
FedEx Freight
FedEx Freight is one of the most recognized names in the LTL industry, offering nationwide services and delivery schedules. FedEx Freight also has advanced tracking and customer support systems. FedEx operates a large fleet of environmentally compliant vehicles and offers multiple service levels. They provide services to a variety of industries, including healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Topshipping regularly works with FedEx for critical and time-sensitive shipments.
UPS Freight
UPS Freight (TForce Freight) offers regional and long-haul, less-than-truckload (LTL) services. They have notable infrastructure and connections to all of the U.S., as well as the capabilities to integrate seamlessly with other UPS services (including package and tracking), along with end-to-end visibility, reliable service, pricing (revenue), and coverage options that distinguish UPS Freight from its competitors.
How to Choose a Truck Freight Provider
When selecting a freight provider, consider their coverage area, equipment, reliability, and pricing. You should consider their safety record, use of tracking technology, and accuracy of customer service. You will want each freight provider that you work with to align with your business goals and shipment needs. When working with an experienced freight forwarder, it will be easier for you to determine which freight providers are best suited for your organization. Topshipping works with companies to choose the right-fit freight truck provider for their business's logistics needs.
Tracking and Managing Truck Freight
Truck Freight Tracking Technologies
Modern freight tracking systems utilize GPS, RFID, and telematics to provide real-time location data. These systems enable shippers to track progress and identify delays, ultimately improving overall delivery performance. With visibility regarding shipments, shippers build trust and create confidence for better future planning. Customer integration into your tracking system allows for proactive messaging regarding the progress of their shipments. Topshipping gives their clients visibility of every stage of their truck freight shipments.
Real-Time Freight Management Systems
Real-time freight management systems enable businesses to book, track, and manage shipments from a single view. Real-time freight systems allow performance analytics reports for cost, transit time, and carrier performance. With automation to remove human errors and improve the speed of decision-making, you also benefit from alerts or notifications in case of delays or issues. Topshipping's system has been developed to cover the entire freight operation for your business.
FAQ
Truck freight is the transportation of freight products via trucks or other road vehicles. Truck freight offers flexibility in terms of delivery locations and routes. Rail Freight and Air freight generally serve long-haul or large-quantity freight products, while truck freight provides the best value for smaller quantities over short distances. Truck freight is door-to-door freight, unlike rail freight and ocean freight, which involve transferring freight.
Full Truckload (FTL) refers to a shipment that fills the entire truck, providing exclusive use of the vehicle. When you have a large shipment, FTL can save you money since there are no other touching fees; your freight will be moved straight through without stopping. Less than Truckload (LTL) occurs when the shipment does not fill the entire truck, and the items are combined to utilize available space optimally. Your shipment may be combined with multiple other shipments to save costs on smaller shipment quantities or volumes; however, this could delay your shipment because it is being delivered with other shipment stops.
Truck freight is an effective method to ship the widest variety of goods, everything from bulk commodities (agricultural products, coal), containerized cargo (like shipping containers), refrigerated freight (perishable foods, pharmaceuticals), and heavy or oversized freight (machines, construction supplies). Choosing the method of transport will depend upon the type of cargo being transported, the size, and any specific needs, such as temperature, or if there are hazardous materials which would require special handling.
There are multiple factors that affect the costs of truck freight. The following aspects can determine freight costs: bulk and weight of the cargo, total distance traveled, the rise and fall of fuel prices, service type - full truckload or less than full truckload, and seasonal demand. other aspects that can influence freight costs include loading/unloading times, security checks, or special equipment i.e. refrigerated trucks etc.
Safety regulations for truck freight are governed by national and international standards. In the U.S., for example, the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) ensures safe driving practices, proper truck maintenance, and handling of hazardous materials. Regular vehicle inspections, driver qualifications, and compliance with load limits are all critical components of maintaining safety in truck freight.
Intermodal transportation involves combining truck freight with other modes of transportation, such as trucking and shipping, to create a seamless logistics network. For instance, goods might be transported by rail for long-distance travel and then transferred to trucks for the final leg of the journey, allowing for the flexibility of road transport and the cost-efficiency of rail transport.
While trucks are less energy-efficient than rail, they are more flexible in terms of delivery to remote locations. However, the environmental impact of truck freight can be mitigated by the adoption of green truck technologies, such as electric trucks or the use of alternative fuels like natural gas, which help reduce emissions and contribute to cleaner transport solutions.
Modern truck freight services use advanced tracking technologies like GPS and telematics, allowing both the carrier and the customer to track shipments in real time. These systems monitor the vehicle’s location, speed, and other conditions like temperature for sensitive cargo. Tracking platforms provide updates and alerts, ensuring timely delivery and greater transparency in the transportation process.
Dedicated truck freight services provide exclusive use of a truck for a specific shipment, offering faster and more direct delivery compared to shared services (e.g., LTL). This service is ideal for businesses with high-priority shipments or when speed and reliability are crucial. Additionally, dedicated services offer greater control over scheduling and route optimization.
Truck freight plays a vital role in global supply chains by providing last-mile delivery, connecting warehouses, distribution centers, and ports. Its ability to deliver goods directly to locations, including areas without rail or air transport access, enhances the flexibility and efficiency of supply chains. This efficiency is crucial for meeting customer demands, reducing inventory costs, and ensuring timely deliveries.
