What is Less than Truckload?
Less than truckload (LTL) is road freight in which shipments from several shippers share one trailer, moving through a network of terminals where freight is picked up, cross-docked and delivered on scheduled routes. Shipments typically range from a single pallet to several handling units that do not justify a dedicated truck. In the United States, LTL pricing relies on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA), which groups commodities into 18 classes from class 50 to class 500 based on density, stowability, handling and liability. Carriers apply class, weight, origin and destination to their rate bases, then add discounts, minimum charges, fuel surcharges and accessorials. In Europe the equivalent groupage networks generally price on weight, pallet places or loading metres rather than freight class.
Why it matters for forwarders
Misclassification and inaccurate dimensions are the most common LTL cost leaks: carriers inspect and re-weigh freight and issue correction invoices when the declared class, weight or density is wrong. The NMFC changes that took effect on July 19, 2025 moved over 2,000 items to full density-based classification and introduced a 13-subprovision density scale, so shippers, forwarders and 3PLs must provide accurate handling unit dimensions and weights. Accessorials such as liftgate, residential, limited access, inside delivery and appointments are added when not booked in advance, so collect delivery details at the order stage. Because freight is handled at several terminals, LTL carries more damage and loss risk than full truckload; palletise, wrap and label every handling unit. Carrier liability is often limited by tariff, so check the limits and consider declared value or cargo insurance for high-value goods.