With 71.5% of the nation's freight being moved by weight, it's no wonder that there are so many kinds of freight services available. Logistic transportation is different for every company due to varying needs in costs, weight, and product types. One popular type of shipping option, especially among smaller companies, is less-than-truckload shipping (LTL shipping). LTL trucking companies offer freight services for companies who don't need an entire truck to send out their goods.

LTL transportation services come with a variety of benefits. While they may not be the perfect fit for every company, these services are worth considering for companies that want to save money and keep greater control over their shipments. Below we will take a closer look at the benefits of LTL trucking companies and whether or not your small business can benefit the most.

1. Lower Costs

One of the biggest benefits of LTL freight companies is that they can help you lower costs. Companies only have to pay the weight of their freight rather than paying for an entire truckload that they aren't using. This is ideal for businesses whose shipments are regularly more than 150 pounds, but under a truckload.

Keep in mind that the weight is a huge component to your business. While an electronic supplier might have to pay more for fewer items, a slipcover shop or paper supply company will typically pay less. Your LTL trucking companies should be able to explain this in-depth when you give them a quick call.

2. Easier Tracking

Being able to easily track shipments helps improve a company's customer service. They can give better arrival estimates and provide regular updates on shipments so you have better communication with your clients. It also makes warehouse processes run smoother, the bane of any small business owner's shipping experience. LTL trucking companies offer more in-depth tracking by utilizing the latest in shipping technology, like form tracking, GPS tracking, and more.

3. Increased Security

Being able to get packages to customers in the best condition possible is an important job for a business. Generally, your freight will be loaded on a pallet or into crates, which means that it will be safe and kept together. There is less risk for damage and loss this way. Companies with smaller shipments that are still able to fill pallets and crates can benefit from this greatly.

4. Make an Environmental Difference

If you want your company to be more environmentally conscious, LTL shipping can help with that as well. It utilizes the full space of a truck rather than having multiple partially full trucks out and about. This helps to reduce your company's carbon footprint, which helps you on the track to becoming an environmentally friendly business.

5. Ship Items Sooner

If you don't like keeping your customers waiting, LTL can help to lower shipping times as well. This is because you don't have to wait until you have enough orders to full a truck. You can send out smaller shipments and get orders moving faster. This is a feature that customers will love and can help you to expand your business.

LTL isn't always going to be the right method for every company or every shipment. Some companies regularly have shipments that can fill an entire truck. However, any company who has smaller shipments and is looking for a way to make some positive changes in their shipping process should give LTL shipping some thought. If you're a small business owner looking for the best in LTL freight companies, rely on Daybreak Express today.