---
title: "The Manufacturer’s Guide to Freight"
url: "https://www.shipstation.com/guides/the-manufacturers-guide-to-freight/"
type: "guides"
modified: "2026-10-23T12:50:14-05:00"
---
LTL Freight guide

The Manufacturer’s Guide to Freight
===================================

Rates, carriers, and technology that protect your margins.

 ![](https://www.shipstation.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/banner-manufacturing-guide.webp)

In this guide

- [Freight costs are climbing](#freight-costs-are-climbing)
- [Why freight management matters](#why-freight-management-matters)
- [Understanding manufacturing freight rates](#manufacturing-freight-rates)
- [Proven strategies to reduce costs](#reduce-costs)
- [How to choose the right modes and carriers](#modes-and-carriers)
- [Technology for costs and visibility](#technology)
- [Protecting your margins](#protect-margins)
- [Build a logistics strategy](#logistics-strategy)
- [How ShipStation can help](#how-shipstation-can-help)
- [FAQs](#faqs)

At a glance: What manufacturers need to know about shipping and freight
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**The quote is only the starting point.** Class, accessorials, and fuel shape the final bill. Accurate information and a matching bill of lading keep surprises off the invoice.

**Better rates start with your own data.** Know your cost per shipment by lane, consolidate where you can, and use volume and performance history to negotiate.

**Match the mode to the shipment.** Parcel, LTL, truckload, expedited, and specialized freight each fit different jobs.

**Build a carrier bench.** Score carriers on service, claims, and visibility as well as price, and keep a backup on every key lane.

**Run parcel and LTL as a single operation.** One workflow for quoting, paperwork, tracking, and reporting gives you a clear view of every shipment.

**Protect and measure your margins.** Prevent damage and disruptions before they happen, then track costs, on-time delivery, claims, and accessorials by lane and carrier.