Volume LTL Shipping Explained: Complete Guide

Shipping freight comes with its share of challenges, especially when your load doesn’t fit neatly into standard categories. Volume LTL, or Volume Less Than Truckload, is a shipping method designed to address that “in-between” space—when freight is too large for traditional LTL but doesn’t require a full truckload.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about Volume LTL shipping, from how it works to when it’s the most effective choice for your business.

What Is Volume LTL Shipping?

Volume LTL refers to freight shipments that are larger than standard LTL but not large enough to fill an entire trailer. It’s a service category that offers shippers more space and better pricing structures than regular LTL while avoiding the higher cost of a dedicated truckload.

Typically, a shipment qualifies as Volume LTL if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

  • Occupies between 6 to 30 linear feet of trailer space

  • Weighs between 5,000 to 20,000 pounds

  • Consists of more than six pallets

However, the exact thresholds can vary depending on the carrier.

How Does Volume LTL Differ from Traditional LTL?

In traditional LTL, your freight is consolidated with shipments from multiple shippers. This means it will likely be transferred through various terminals before reaching its destination, increasing handling and transit time.

Volume LTL operates differently. Because these shipments take up more space, they’re often assigned more direct routing. They may bypass the typical hub-and-spoke terminal system, resulting in fewer touchpoints and a lower risk of damage.

While Volume LTL is still technically a shared load, it offers a level of service that sits closer to full truckload in terms of speed and care, without the associated cost of reserving an entire trailer.

Benefits of Volume LTL Shipping

One of the key advantages of Volume LTL is cost efficiency. Instead of paying for a full truck when you don’t need one, you pay for the space you use. This makes Volume LTL an ideal option for medium-sized shipments where traditional LTL pricing structures become less economical.

Additionally, Volume LTL offers:

  • Reduced handling: Fewer transfers mean lower risk of product damage.

  • Flexible capacity: Suitable for shippers whose order volumes fluctuate.

  • Faster transit (in many cases): More direct routes compared to standard LTL.

It’s important to note, however, that Volume LTL may require some scheduling flexibility to align with carrier availability and route planning.

When to Use Volume LTL Shipping

Volume LTL becomes a strong option when your shipment exceeds traditional LTL limits but still doesn’t need a dedicated truck. It’s especially effective for:

  • Palletized products that require extra space but not a full trailer

  • Freight sensitive to excessive handling or transfers

  • Cost-conscious shipments where full truckload pricing isn’t justified

  • Businesses looking for more space-efficient alternatives to traditional LTL

Industries like manufacturing, packaging, retail, and distribution frequently utilize Volume LTL for mid-sized loads that need a balance between cost, care, and capacity.

Considerations Before Choosing Volume LTL

While Volume LTL provides a valuable middle ground, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Shipments with extremely tight delivery deadlines or those needing specialized handling (like temperature control) may still require full truckload service.

Additionally, since Volume LTL depends on available capacity within a carrier’s network, not all lanes will offer the same level of service frequency. Planning ahead and understanding carrier schedules is essential to maximizing the benefits of this shipping method.

Volume LTL as a Strategic Shipping Option

Volume LTL bridges a gap that many businesses encounter as they scale operations. It allows shippers to avoid overpaying while still receiving reliable service that protects their freight. When leveraged correctly, Volume LTL can enhance operational efficiency, improve shipping flexibility, and create noticeable cost savings over time.

Conclusion

Volume LTL shipping is a versatile option for businesses needing a tailored approach to freight that falls between traditional LTL and full truckload. It offers a combination of space efficiency, reduced handling, and cost-effectiveness that can streamline supply chains and improve delivery performance.