Freight Shipping: Exploring Methods, Top Carriers, and Preparations

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Updated on: February 11, 2026

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TL;DR: Freight shipping methods include FTL, LTL, PTL, intermodal, and expedited shipping, each designed for different cargo sizes and delivery requirements. The choice of method significantly impacts cost, transit time, and handling complexity. Route optimization tools like Zeo Route Planner address delivery challenges with AI-powered route optimization and real-time GPS tracking, helping logistics teams save 2+ hours daily.

Freight shipping is essential in global trade because it allows for easy movement of commodities from one area to another. Whether a tiny box or a huge shipment, efficient and dependable freight transportation is critical for businesses to meet ever-increasing client needs.

In this detailed guide, we will delve into the world of freight shipping, addressing its definition, procedures, top carriers used by eCommerce organizations, preparations, and the role of route optimization in assisting freight shipments.

What is Freight Shipping?

Freight shipping transfers commodities or cargo using various modalities such as trucks, trains, ships, or airplanes. Unlike parcel shipping, which often involves smaller products, freight shipping concentrates on larger shipments that require specialized handling and transportation.

The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that freight transportation supports over $19 trillion in economic activity annually, highlighting the critical role of efficient freight operations in maintaining supply chain stability and economic growth.

What are the 5 Methods of Freight Shipping?

There are various methods of freight shipments suitable for specific requirements:

1. FTL (Full Truckload) shipping entails using a whole vehicle for a single consignment. Because the entire trailer is committed to one customer’s cargo, this strategy is cost-effective for large shipments weighing 15,000 pounds or more.
2. LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping combines smaller shipments from various customers into a single truckload. This strategy is ideal for organizations with smaller shipments between 150-15,000 pounds that do not require an entire vehicle.
3. PTL (Partial Truckload) shipping includes both FTL and LTL shipping aspects. It entails sharing a truckload with other customers without extra stops for pick-ups or drop-offs, resulting in shorter travel times and less handling.
4. Intermodal shipping transports commodities through various mediums, such as trucks, trains, and ships. This strategy provides flexibility, economic savings, and environmental benefits, especially when shipping long distances or internationally.
5. Expedited shipping prioritizes time-sensitive or urgent shipments, aiming for speedier delivery via dedicated transportation and optimized logistics operations.

Understanding Freight Classification and Cost Factors

Freight classification plays a crucial role in determining shipping costs and handling requirements. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) classifies freight into 18 different classes based on four key factors: density, stowability, handling characteristics, and liability. Class 50 represents the densest, most durable freight with the lowest shipping rates, while Class 500 covers the least dense, most fragile items with the highest rates.

Understanding these classifications helps businesses accurately estimate shipping costs and select appropriate packaging methods. Factors such as seasonal demand, fuel prices, and distance also significantly impact freight costs, with businesses often seeing 10-15% fluctuations in rates throughout the year.

Read more: The Role of Route Optimization in E-Commerce Delivery.

What are the Top 3 Freight Carriers used by E-Commerce Companies?

When it comes to freight transportation, eCommerce companies frequently rely on established carriers known for their dependability, coverage, and specialized services. The top three carriers in this domain are:

UPS Freight: UPS Freight offers a wide range of freight transportation services, including LTL, FTL, and specialized solutions. Their broad network, excellent technology, and commitment to customer satisfaction make them a popular choice for eCommerce firms.

FedEx Freight: FedEx Freight provides a variety of freight delivery alternatives, including LTL, FTL, and expedited services. They are a favorite carrier for many eCommerce enterprises due to their extensive network, excellent tracking features, and reputation for quick delivery.

XPO Logistics: XPO Logistics is a multinational transportation and logistics firm that provides a full range of freight shipping services. Their expertise in handling complicated supply chains, modern technology solutions, and large networks make them a top choice for eCommerce enterprises looking for efficient and dependable freight transportation.

How to Prepare a Freight Shipment?

Here are some essential procedures that you need to follow to ensure a seamless and successful freight shipment:

Establish Shipment Specifics: Determine your goods’ weight, size, and nature. This information will assist you in selecting the best freight shipment method and carrier.

Packaging and Labeling: Protect your items throughout transit by properly packaging them. Use strong materials, padding, and secure packaging practices. In addition, clearly label your packages with addresses, tracking numbers, and special handling instructions.

Documentation: Prepare the required shipment documentation, such as the bill of lading, commercial invoice, and other customs or regulatory documents. For customs clearance and easy transit, accurate and complete documentation is required.

Freight Classification and NMFC Codes: Choose the appropriate freight class for your consignment. The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) classifies items based on density, value, and handling characteristics. For accurate pricing and billing, obtain the right NMFC code.

Carrier Selection: Research a reliable freight carrier that meets your transportation requirements. Consider coverage, service quality, transit times, cost, and other services.

Request Quotes and Book Shipment: Contact several carriers to acquire freight quotes based on the specifics of your shipment. Compare costs, services, and transportation times before making a final decision. Once you’ve decided on a carrier, reserve space for your package ahead of time to ensure prompt collection.

Track and Monitor Package: Use the carrier’s tracking features to track the progress of your package. Maintain contact with the carrier to resolve any potential concerns or changes in delivery arrangements.

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How Route Optimization Enhances Freight Operations

Modern freight shipping increasingly relies on sophisticated route optimization to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Federal transportation research shows that optimized routing can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and significantly improve delivery reliability.

Advanced route planning considers multiple variables including traffic patterns, delivery windows, vehicle capacity constraints, and driver availability. This comprehensive approach helps freight operations reduce empty miles, improve asset utilization, and enhance customer satisfaction through more accurate delivery estimates.

For companies managing complex delivery networks, tools like Zeo Route Planner provide AI-powered route optimization and real-time GPS tracking across 150+ countries. The platform’s capacity-based routing ensures vehicles operate within weight and volume limits while dynamic route adjustments help drivers adapt to changing conditions throughout their shifts.

Technology Integration in Modern Freight Management

The freight industry has embraced digital transformation to improve visibility and coordination across complex supply chains. Integration capabilities allow freight operations to connect with existing business systems, streamlining data flow and reducing manual processes.

Modern freight management platforms often integrate with popular e-commerce systems and business applications through APIs and pre-built connectors. This integration enables automatic order importing, real-time status updates, and comprehensive analytics that help businesses identify optimization opportunities and track key performance metrics.

Read more: 8 Best AI Delivery Management Software for 2026

Wrapping Up

Freight shipping is critical to the success of eCommerce businesses because it allows for the efficient and dependable conveyance of goods. It helps businesses expedite their shipping procedures, improve customer happiness, and optimize their supply chain operations by understanding the various modes of freight shipment, using reputable carriers, and leveraging modern technology solutions for route optimization.

As freight operations become increasingly complex, the integration of advanced planning tools and real-time tracking capabilities becomes essential for maintaining competitive advantage and meeting evolving customer expectations.

Book a free demo today to learn more about our tool and experience the benefits!

Read more: How to Increase Payload Capacity of Delivery Vehicles?

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between FTL and LTL shipping costs?

FTL (Full Truckload) shipping typically costs more upfront but offers better per-pound rates for shipments over 15,000 pounds. LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping charges based on weight, distance, and freight class, making it more economical for smaller shipments between 150-15,000 pounds that don’t require dedicated truck space.

How long does freight shipping typically take compared to parcel delivery?

Freight shipping generally takes 1-7 business days for domestic LTL shipments and 1-3 days for FTL, depending on distance and service level. This is typically longer than standard parcel delivery due to additional handling, consolidation processes, and the need for specialized equipment and loading procedures.

What documentation is required for international freight shipments?

International freight requires a commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificates of origin. Additional documents may include export licenses, import permits, insurance certificates, and industry-specific certifications depending on the commodity and destination country’s regulations.

How do freight carriers determine shipping rates and classifications?

Freight rates are determined by the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system, which assigns classes 50-500 based on density, stowability, handling requirements, and liability. Lower class numbers (denser, more durable items) receive lower rates, while higher classes (fragile, low-density items) cost more per pound to ship.

What route optimization features help manage freight delivery schedules?

Route optimization platforms help freight operations through AI-powered route planning, time window constraints for scheduled deliveries, and auto-assignment of stops to appropriate drivers based on vehicle capacity and skills. Zeo Route Planner’s dynamic route adjustments and real-time GPS tracking across 150+ countries enable freight teams to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining delivery commitments, typically saving 2+ hours daily in operational efficiency.