📦 Shipment Details
Estimated Freight Cost
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Base Rate
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Fuel Surcharge (~25%)
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Accessorials
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Cost Per Hundredweight
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⚠️ These are rough estimates only. LTL rates vary significantly by carrier, lane, relationship, and current market conditions. Always get actual quotes from 2–3 carriers via broker or direct. Use these estimates for planning and budgeting, not for invoicing.
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LTL vs. FTL: When to Use Which
| Factor | LTL | FTL |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment size | Under 15,000 lbs / under 10 pallets | Over 15,000 lbs or full trailer |
| Transit time | 2–5 days (multiple stops) | 1–2 days (direct) |
| Cost | Pay only for space used | Flat rate for full trailer |
| Damage risk | Higher — multiple handling points | Lower — loaded once, delivered direct |
| Freight class | Critical — affects price significantly | Less important |
| Best for | Regular small-medium shipments | Large, time-sensitive, fragile freight |
What is freight class and how is it determined?
Freight class is a standardized classification system (Class 50–500) set by the NMFC (National Motor Freight Classification). It's determined by four factors: density (lbs per cubic foot), stowability (how easily it stacks/stores), handling difficulty, and liability (value and damage risk). Higher class = higher rate. A dense, durable item like steel (Class 50) is much cheaper to ship per pound than bulky, fragile items (Class 150+). Mis-classifying freight is a common and costly mistake.
What are accessorial charges in freight?
Accessorial charges are fees for services beyond standard dock-to-dock delivery. Common ones: residential delivery ($50–150), liftgate service ($75–150 — required when no loading dock), inside delivery, appointment scheduling, limited access, and fuel surcharges. These can add 20–40% to a base freight rate. Always confirm what accessorials apply before getting a quote to avoid billing surprises.