At RLS Logistics, we understand the critical importance of maintaining the integrity of our customer’s products throughout the supply chain. Whether you’re shipping produce, frozen foods, or beverages, selecting the right freight brokerage option is vital to success. In this blog, our Cold Chain Experts will explore the unique advantages between less than truckload (LTL) and truckload (TL) freight options for your supply chain.
Understanding LTL and Truckload in the Cold Chain
Less than truckload shipping consolidates freight from multiple shippers into a single truck, with each shipment occupying only a portion of the space. This is ideal for businesses with smaller orders, as costs are shared across multiple shippers, boosting cost efficiency. This service typically comes with a set delivery schedule, it is important to understand the days providers delivery to a state, or even consignee.
Truckload shipping utilizes an entire truck for a single shipment, offering direct delivery from point A to point B. With all your products placed on one truck, this dedicated transport option reduces handling while maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the transportation process. Moreover, direct routes result in faster delivery times, which are ideal for time sensitive products such as dairy, meat, and fish. Additionally, there is more flexibility when delivering to time sensitive consignees. Just remember to assess the days in transit to ensure the truck is able to meet the due dates.
How to Decide: LTL or Truckload Shipping?
Your choice between less than truckload and full truckload can depend on several factors. Shipment size plays the biggest role in this decision. Smaller shipments lean toward LTL, while bulk loads benefit from truckload. Truckload shipping offers premium service but at a higher cost for time-sensitive shipments, while LTL shipping can save money for lighter loads. Truckload shipping also reduces handling risks, which is crucial for fragile or highly perishable items.
Accelefrate®: The Ultimate Solution for Your Cold Chain Storage and Transportation Needs
Whether you’re torn between LTL or truckload, RLS Logistics’ Accelefrate® Managed Transportation Solution offers a streamlined, data driven solution to make your decision easier and more effective.
Accelefrate® MTS is our solution designed to optimize your cold chain logistics. By letting RLS Logistics manage the day to day transportation and distribution functions, our customers can focus on production and growing their business. This program also houses all the data, helping customers make data driven decisions. Our team of dedicated experts works hand in hand with your business, simplifying logistics planning and execution. Accelefrate® Managed Transportation Solution optimization features ensure you maximize value, whether you choose LTL, truckload, or a mix of both.
ABOUT RLS LOGISTICS: Headquartered in Glassboro, NJ, RLS Logistics is a family-owned, third-party logistics provider specializing in value-added cold chain solutions, including LTL and FTL transportation, cold storage warehousing, and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Founded in 1968, the company has been owned and managed by the Leo family for over 55 years and has grown into a leading integrated cold chain 3PL. For more information on cold storage warehousing at RLS Logistics, contact us today.
