saving on the cost of shipping online merchandise

If your business demand has picked up and you're looking to expand your shipping services to less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping, you're probably getting ready to start calling some services for quotes. For those who have never dealt with LTL shipping before, the quote process may be a little bit confusing. Here's a look at some of the things that will affect the total price of the quotes that you receive for your LTL shipping needs.

Location, Location, Location

The location of the shipment to be delivered, as well as the location where that shipment is going, will both directly affect the cost of your LTL shipping quote. The biggest single factor in this figure is the distance that those loads must travel. Remember that, the further the load will be transported, the more that's going to cost you. After all, the further away the destination is, the more fuel, wear and tear, and time will be involved. Make sure that you know both the current location and the shipment's ultimate destination before you call for a quote.

Weighty Issues

Another important consideration for the cost of your LTL shipments is the weight of those loads. The heavier the goods are, the more the load will cost you. If you're looking to get a more accurate quote, you'll need to know how much each shipment is going to weigh. Make sure that you provide as close an estimate as possible on the weight, but know that the trucking company will weigh each load to get the precise weight, and your total cost will be adjusted accordingly.

It's Special

When you're shipping products that require special handling, you'll need to disclose that during the estimate process as well. For example, if your loads will need refrigeration, a security escort, or any other special care, those things will need to be accounted for in your estimate. 

Additionally, if you're transporting anything that's of high value and needs to be specially insured, you'll need to discuss that with each shipper as well. Any products that are that valuable will often cost you a bit more for transport because of the risks.

You'll have to pay for the additional services, so make sure that you're clear with the shipper about these special instructions.

These are a few of the things that you need to know in advance if you're going to be calling for an LTL quote. Talk with a few LTL freight shipping providers near you today for more information.