Are you familiar with all the types of freight services available in Canada? There is more than one way to package and transport your product. For some professionals who are new to the transportation industry these shipping modes may be confusing. Not to worry though, as expert providers of freight shipping services, we can help you simplify your understanding of how it works.
In this article, we are going to discuss the different common types of freight services. More importantly, we will show you when to use which freight service to move your cargo.
Different Types of Freight Services
Choosing the ideal type of freight service for your specific needs should not be challenging. Below are some of the standard freight services that you can choose. In this section, we will breakdown each shipping option for better understanding.
Less Than Truckload (LTL) Freight Service
Less than truckload or LTL is one of the most common forms of freight shipping. Among other methods, it is an extremely reliable, cost-effective, and timely shipping service. If you transport small cargo, LTL is the most economical method for you. You can transport smaller items ranging in weight from 100 to 20,000 pounds.
LTL freight shipping allows your business to combine cargo with those of other companies. As a result, you are not going to pay for the cost of using the entire truckload. LTL freight does not only save money but also saves time. In this method, shipments come into contact with several trucks and different transportation hubs. As a result, it is flexible and speedy.
Volume LTL Freight Service
Volume LTL characteristics, language and accessorials are almost the same with the LTL freight method. Also, volume LTL quotes should be compared to standard LTL rates when a shipment consists of more than six standard pallets (48”x40”). In pounds, it should follow the LTL rates if the cargo is more than 6,000 pounds. If it occupies more than 12 feet of a trailer, it should follow standard LTL rates.
Once the cargo exceeds the above specifications, selected carriers may not quote it as standard LTL, but Volume LTL. A shipment weighing less than 6 pounds per cubic foot occupies more than 750 cubic feet of a trailer and is now standard LTL. It can result in a cubic capacity penalty, which may significantly increase freight rates.
Full truckload (FTL) Freight Service
Unlike LTL, a full truckload (FTL) freight shipping uses the entire space available in the truckload. The whole trailer is used to carry the cargo from one location to another. Also, this type of freight service works best for shipments that require more space and additional conditions. FTL is also used for packages that need to arrive at their target destination sooner rather than later.
Intermodal Freight Service
Intermodal freight is a type of shipping method that uses containers, mostly ISO containers, to move loads through various transportation methods. In intermodal freight shipping, a combination of transportation systems like rail, ship, air etc. is used to make sure that cargo reaches its destinations. Shipments slated for intermodal shipping are encased, so this method does not require direct handling.
If you are going to choose this type of freight delivery, it can be more cost-effective to reserve intermodal containers. Reserving intermodal containers makes the transfer from one vehicle to another easier. If utilizing freight with this method, you can also reduce your environmental footprint.
Intermodal Rail Freight Service
Intermodal rail freight service is an efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for shipping bulk construction or dangerous materials. Compared to truck shipping, rail shipping saves you both time and money. You can ship your freight to most North America destination thanks to the extensive railroad systems throughout Canada and the US.
Air Freight Service
The air freight is the fastest freight shipping option available in Toronto. Air freight carriers are dedicated to handling the logistics for transporting smaller shipments. However, if the types of shipping options available, it is the most expensive. Regardless of being expensive, it is still the best option for time-sensitive and urgent shipments.
Ocean Freight Service
Ocean freight is the most cost-effective solution for shipping cargo around the globe. It is a freight delivery service that ships via boat. It offers a selection of transit time options and shipment by full container load (FCL) or less than container load (LCL).
Expedited Freight Service
Aside from air freight, expedited freight service is another ideal choice for transporting time-sensitive shipments. Expedited shipping is a type of delivery that makes no stops until it reaches its destination. Since its load is prioritized, its delivery time is between one and five days. Supply chains mostly use them because they frequently work with critical freights.
Get A Free Quote Today
Knowing the basics of the different types of freight services can help you optimize shipments to save time and money. If you need more help with your shipment operations, consider partnering with a dedicated logistics solutions provider.
Ontario Container Transport team has logistics specialists who work together with you for your shipments. We are here to guide you with the planning stage of your shipment through to the final delivery. If you want to get a free quote for our freight service, call us at 905-695-1501 or email us at dispatch@octi.ca.
