Less Than Truckload (LTL): Less than truckload (LTL) ships smaller freight that does not fill a trailer, with several shippers’ freight combined and moved through terminals.
Why it matters to owner operators
LTL carriers run terminal networks, so independent owner operators more often see this work as partial loads or local pickup and delivery. Pricing depends on weight, dimensions and freight class.
Example
A shipper sends four pallets with an LTL carrier, which combines them with other freight at a terminal.
Related terms
Brokerage & Loads: Not sure a broker or load is worth your time? We check brokers before we book freight for you, and you always choose which loads to haul. Talk to our dispatch team or browse the full trucking glossary.
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