What is LTL and what does it entail?

LTL, aka Less than Truckload, is the transportation of products or goods that does not require a full truckload due to the smaller nature of the parcel. LTL shipments are usually arranged on pallets and can range anywhere from 150 pounds to 10,000 pounds.

LTL carriers specialize in optimizing their loads; moving more goods for more shippers in an efficient manner. Shippers like LTL shipping because it affords them flexibility, cost, effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. 

Why should merchants use LTL?

Shipping is expensive. That’s why it is ideal for many merchants to improve the bottom line by switching from their current shipping method to LTL freight. There are multiple benefits of LTL shipping. From reduced cost to increased security options, LTL can be an economical and affordable shipping method for many merchants.

  • Reduced costs: when booking an LTL shipment, you only pay for the portion of the trailer used. The rest of the cost is covered by the other occupants of the trailer’s space. 
  • Increased security: most LTL shipments are packaged onto pallets before being loaded onto a truck. One well-packaged pallet has a better chance of remaining secure than shipments with multiple smaller handling units. 
  • When shipping via LTL in ShipStation we allow merchants to customize their pickup and delivery experience with common LTL accessories such as liftgates, appointed room selection, and debris removal.

How Does ShipStation Offer LTL?

SEKO LTL provides 4 services through ShipStation. Each service includes specific add-ons and any surcharges are built into the rates. These services are exclusive to ShipStation and are only available through the ShipStation platform.

ServiceBundled Add-ons
StandardAppointed delivery window
Outside deliver to the threshold or main entrance of the residence/business (first dry area ground level)
ThresholdAppointed delivery window
Inside delivery over the threshold or main entrance of the residence/business
Signature required
Room of Choice Appointed delivery window
Inside delivery to the location or room of choice
Signature required
White Glove 
Appointed delivery window
Inside delivery to the location or room of choice
Unpack & debris removal
Signature required

How to add LTL to your ShipStation account

To set up SEKO LTL navigate to Account Settings > Select Shipping then choose Carriers from the left-hand sidebar. Next click the Add a Provider Account button. Select the SEKO LTL tile and click Connect.

For additional information check out our Knowledge Base article. 

Maria Fagerland
Maria Fagerland

Maria is a multifaceted writer and editor who is passionate about creating content that helps businesses succeed. When she's not writing, Maria can often be found in her garden tending to her plants.

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