Guide to Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Shipping

Stick with

If your business already uses UPS for shipping, save yourself some time by checking out LTL services offered by UPS Freight.

I recommend: Consider UPS Freight your regional, inter-regional and long-haul LTL shipping needs, as well as service to Canada and Mexico and offshore capabilities to Alaska and Hawaii, plus Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Island.

Pick a shipping partner

While the big shippers offer these services, it may be worth shopping around and see how other vendors stack up.

I recommend: See the deals from UPS and FedEx and check Business.com for a comprehensive listing of LTL carriers and service vendors.

Bone up on LTL basics

Brush up on key differences between traditional shipping methods and less-than-truckload services.

I recommend: Wikipedia and Wisegeek have a good overview of the industry, useful phrases and packaging suggestions.

Leverage technology

As your shipping volume increases, you'll likely be juggling more contract documents, shipping notices, invoices, price quotes and a host of other related documents. Take a look at how software tools and Web sites can help you get a handle on these activities.

I recommend: Agistix, which has a tool that can be customized for startups, expanding business and larger-scale operations, provides dynamic bidding and invoice consolidation. Freightquote.com gives instant quote comparisons from various carriers.

Get schooled

Stay up to speed on the latest industry trends.

I recommend: In addition to providing data services and technology tools, SMC³ also has a number of educational programs and conferences to keep folks updated.