Falling somewhere between less-than-truckload (LTL) and full truckload (FTL), partial truckload (PTL) carriers offer a freight mode for large shipments where the use of an FTL trailer is not required. Usually a straight shot, partial truckload shipping – also referred to as shared truckload or co-load shipping – allows your freight to remain on one truck, so there is less handling and reduced opportunity for damage. While PTL shipping has been around for a long time, new technologies have allowed shared truckload services to flourish.
Employing the hub and spoke methodology – where cargo is unloaded and reloaded as it travels through a series of distribution centers and terminals – LTL shipping also uses a form of ride-sharing for multiple shippers. Where partial truckload shipping differs from LTL, partial truckload carriers avoid the operational complexity of hub and spoke networks. Shared freight shipping allows several shippers to consolidate loads traveling along a similar route into a single, multi-stop, full truckload trailer. Cargo travels directly from pick-up to destination, stopping only to pick-up or drop-off freight shared with other shippers in the same trailer. More flexibility concerning pick-up/delivery times is required, and products transported must be compatible in order to optimize trailer space.
On the surface, a partial truckload shipment will not appear much different from a full truckload shipment. Cargo will be loaded and transported door-to-door from origin to destination – the only difference being the trailer is shared with freight from another shipper or shippers.
The transportation sector is responsible for generating over a quarter of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. By consolidating shipping into a shared truckload, CO2 emissions can be reduced by up to 40%, which can improve operational efficiency and lead to cost savings of up to 20% or more.
MGA International Logistics can help determine whether partial truckload services are a viable shipping option, as rates are subject to available capacity, lanes, and distance. Our professional team is available to assist and answer any questions you may have about our partial truckload (PTL) service.
Partial Truckload Shipping is just one of the many services we offer. We invite you to ask us for a free, no-obligation quote today.
Expedited Shipment available on Request
Single drivers can travel approximately 500 miles per day, depending on shipment details. Add 1 day extra for less-than-truckload shipments. Check with dispatch for actual times. Team Drivers available upon request.
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.