In today’s complex logistics network, shippers often face a frustrating dilemma: their cargo doesn’t fit neatly into traditional shipping categories. When a shipment is too urgent for Less Than Truckload (LTL) but too small to justify a Full Truckload (FTL), finding the right solution can be challenging. This problem is especially common for businesses needing to ship three to five pallets. They’re left choosing between high costs and the risk of damage when using standard options.

The Challenges of LTL for Small Shipments

LTL shipping might seem like a logical choice for smaller loads, but it has its downsides.

  • Risk of Damage: When shipments are commingled, they’re handled more frequently, which increases the chances of items getting damaged. As Alex Winston, President of Expedite All, explains, "Every time your cargo is transferred between trucks or warehouses, the risk of damage rises. That’s why STL is a great option—it allows your shipment to go directly from point A to point B, so there’s no handling."
  • Time Delays: LTL shipments often take longer to reach their destination because they make multiple stops along the way. This isn’t ideal for businesses that need quick deliveries to meet urgent demands or to protect fragile items.

What is STL and How Does It Help?

Small Truck Load (STL) shipping is a simple, effective solution for businesses stuck between LTL and FTL. It allows shippers to use a smaller vehicle, like a cargo van or box truck, exclusively for their cargo. This eliminates the issues that come with LTL shipping, offering more control and speed.

Benefits of STL:

  • Exclusive Use: Unlike LTL, STL provides the use of a vehicle dedicated to your shipment. Your cargo isn’t sharing space with other goods, which means less risk of damage during transit.
  • Faster Delivery: STL shipments head directly to their destination without making stops along the way, cutting down on delivery time. "STL allows businesses to stay on schedule and avoid the long wait times that often come with LTL," says Winston.
  • Cost-Effective Option: STL strikes a balance between LTL and FTL, giving you a more affordable way to ship your small, high-value freight exclusively without overpaying.

Why Choose Expedite All?

When it comes to STL, Expedite All is a trusted partner. As the largest small truck network in America, they have a network of over 7,200 small trucks and the experience to handle shipments that don’t fit the traditional mold. With a remarkable 98% on-time delivery rate, Expedite All’s reputation for secure and timely deliveries makes them the go-to choice for businesses across the country.

About Expedite All: Expedite All is a leading logistics provider specializing in small truck load (STL) solutions. With a robust network of dedicated carriers and a network of over 7,200 small trucks, the company focuses on delivering exceptional service, speed, and safety for shippers across various industries. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative logistics solutions has established them as a trusted partner in the expedited freight market.

Conclusion

For businesses often shipping small loads of three to five pallets, Small Truck Load (STL) is the smart solution. It offers the speed, safety, and cost-effectiveness that standard shipping methods can’t match. Partnering with a company like Expedite All gives you the peace of mind that your cargo will arrive safely and on time, without the risks and delays of LTL.