While these two shipping options can appear quite similar, determining whether to ship parcel or pallet (less-than-truckload) for your business operations is vital. Knowing the differences between the two will assist you in determining the safest, most cost-effective, and most efficient shipping options, when deciding among the best LTL trucking companies.
Parcels are typically small, lightweight shipments that generally weigh less than 100lbs. Boxes can sometimes be categorized as parcels if their combined girth and length do not exceed 165 inches. Parcels are labeled and shipped individually and usually require little assistance to transport. They will often contain protective materials inside, such as bubble wrap or Styrofoam.
The manual handling means that the boxes are more susceptible to damage or being misplaced. Nonetheless, with many checkpoints and transfers, parcels are generally easier to track when compared to other pallet shipping options. Furthermore, parcel delivery trucks have a calculated route that remains static, making parcel shipping perfect for time-sensitive shipments.
If your freight is bulky and weighs more than 100lbs, LTL trucking services may provide a better shipping option. Pallet shipments have a significantly lower risk of getting damaged as there is less manual handling and fewer checkpoints. LTL trucking companies will move freight by using forklifts, which is safer when compared to conveyor belts often used in parcel shipments. Pallet shipping allows for multiple packages to be transported to the same location. Transporting freight pallets to a fulfillment or distribution center – where it is consolidated with other cargo pallets going to the same region – allows for cost-savings on these types of shipments.
Listed below are some of the key differences that exist between parcel and LTL trucking services.
Greg Grimes got it done. I had an unusual shipment that he took on seriously and professionally. Greg was very responsive and communicative, worked many different angles to get me a good price, and overcame several logistical challenges. I would definitely use MGA again.
We have made several trips to Toronto for the 2013 PGA Championship and over the course of those trips we have gotten to know the principles of this organization well. They are headquartered in Toronto and are great people. If you need to reach out to them, ask for Greg or Brad Grimes and let them know you heard of them through this note and they will take good care of you.
Can count on MGA for all my shipping requirements. Fantastic personnel and service.
Simply reach out via telephone, email, live online chat, or use our web-based RFQ form. Our logistics team will take care of the rest.