When it comes to shipping products, small parcel shipping with UPS or FedEx is often the most cost-effective and convenient option for businesses. Small parcel shipping allows you to send packages that weigh up to a certain limit without having to use a full truckload or freight service. However, there are weight limits for small parcel shipping, and if your packages exceed these limits, you may need to consider less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping. In this blog post, we’ll discuss weight limits for small parcel shipping and when to consider LTL shipping.
Weight Limits for Small Parcel Shipping
Most carriers have weight limits for small parcel shipping, which typically range from 70 to 150 pounds per package, depending on the carrier. If your packages exceed these weight limits, you may need to use a different shipping method, such as LTL shipping.
When to Consider LTL Shipping
LTL shipping is a good option for businesses that need to ship large or heavy items that exceed the weight limits for small parcel shipping. LTL shipping allows you to pay only for the space that your products occupy on a truck, rather than paying for an entire truckload. This can be a cost-effective option for businesses that need to ship products that are too heavy or large for small parcel shipping.
In addition to weight limits, there are other factors to consider when deciding whether to use LTL shipping. These factors include:
Volume: If you’re shipping a large volume of products, LTL shipping may be more cost-effective than small parcel shipping.
Fragility: If your products are fragile or require special handling, LTL shipping may be a better option than small parcel shipping, as LTL carriers are typically equipped to handle larger and more fragile items.
Delivery time: LTL shipping can take longer than small parcel shipping, as LTL carriers typically consolidate multiple shipments to optimize their routes. If you need your products to arrive quickly, small parcel shipping may be a better option.
Shipping distance: LTL shipping is typically more cost-effective for longer shipping distances, as the cost per mile decreases as the distance increases. In conclusion, small parcel shipping is a great option for businesses that need to ship lightweight products. However, if your products exceed the weight limits for small parcel shipping, or if you need to ship large or fragile items, LTL shipping may be a better option. When deciding whether to use LTL shipping, consider factors such as volume, fragility, delivery time, and shipping distance to determine the best option for your business.
There are always pros and cons to freight and small parcel shipping. This is why you partner with a company like Freightwire which can help consult you through the best method for your given circumstance. We offer a full suite of shipping options from 1 oz packages to entire truckloads; we will ensure you have the right setup every time.