包裹和. LTL freight: Which is best for larger packages?

As a small or mid-sized business (SMB) shipper, you face a myriad of decisions on a day-by-day, hour-by-hour 和 even minute-by-minute basis. 如果你运送大件物品, one of the most fundamental choices you have to make about each of your shipments is if it should be delivered via parcel service or less-than-truckload (LTL) freight shipping.

While parcel shipments are typically smaller in size than LTL freight, some packages — especially those larger, bulkier items — can seem to fall in a confusing middle ground. 然而, even when you could technically choose either service for your shipment, one of these options will likely be more cost-effective for your bottom line. So let’s take a closer look at the differences between these shipping options, the advantages each can offer 和 how to ensure you make the right selection for each of your unique shipments.

什么是包裹运输?

Most parcel shipments are individual small packages, which can be shipped in a variety of packaging types. There are two key questions you can ask yourself to help determine if your shipment qualifies for small parcel shipping through UPS^®: “Does it weigh less than 150 pounds?” 和 “Can it be lifted without assistance?” If the answer to both of these questions is “yes,” then you’ve likely got a parcel shipment on your h和s. If not, it may be time to consider LTL.

什么是LTL货运?

轻型货运 usually weigh between 150 和 15,000 pounds 和 consist of multi-package or single bulky shipments contained in crates or on pallets. 不像 全卡车货运 — which utilizes the entire truck for one company’s shipment — LTL is used when a shipment only occupies some (but not all) of the space on the truck. Learn more about the benefits of LTL shipping.

Now that you underst和 the basic characteristics of parcel 和 LTL shipping, let’s dive into when it makes sense to utilize each service.

When should I use parcel service?

If your packages don’t take up too much space, weigh too much or require a lot of special h和ling, parcel shipping through UPS will likely be your best option. 包裹 shipping is also typically more cost-effective than LTL shipping due to the higher volume of packages making their way through the carrier’s network. If your shipment is on a time crunch, you also have many more time-based delivery options with small package shipping. 澳门威尼斯人直营网站提供了一个 wide array of affordable UPS delivery speed options, including delivery as early as the next day.

When considering parcel shipping for a large or oversized package, it’s important to note that many carriers have weight 和 size restrictions. Packages found in their systems that exceed these limitations are technically unauthorized for transport 和 may be refused or returned to you. 在某些情况下, the package may be accepted 和 delivered, but it will incur additional charges — raising your final UPS shipping cost. 一定要复习具体内容 UPS的指导方针 用于小包裹运输和 learn more about how your package’s size 和 weight can affect your final UPS quote. If your package exceeds st和ard small package limits, it may be time to consider LTL.

什么时候应该使用LTL服务?

If you are shipping big 和 bulky items — especially if they exceed st和ard UPS size 和 weight limitations — you will likely be better served by opting for LTL service. A good rule of thumb is this: “Heavy weight? 随同澳门威尼斯人直营网站!“然而, even if your package’s weight 和 dimensions technically fall within UPS parcel guidelines, LTL can also be an affordable option if you have a high volume of small packages going to the same destination.

Beyond the weight 和 size of your shipment, another deciding factor to consider when choosing between parcel 和 LTL shipping is security. 总的来说, freight shipments pass through fewer stops 和 checkpoints than parcel shipments in transit. More stops 和 transfers inherently mean a higher risk of loss, damage 和 theft. LTL freight also offers more flexibility regarding additional services you may require, such as 防冻服务 和 白手套交货. 一定要 考虑额外费用 you could incur when shipping LTL freight!

Either way, we’ve got you covered

Still need help deciding which shipping type is right for your needs? Our team of shipping experts are here to advise 和 assist you! With more than 30 years in the industry, we’ve helped SMBs successfully ship packages of every conceivable shape 和 size. And thanks to our special relationships with UPS 和 our carefully selected network of freight carrier partners, we’re sure to have a service that meets your needs — without breaking the bank. 今天就联系我们开始吧.