If you’re in need of freight transportation, you may be considering truckload shipping rates in regards to how much you have to move, and how many trucks it will take. Depending on what you’re shipping, and potential deadlines or expiration, expedited freight transport is an option to consider. Expedited trucking is something many companies offer; however, in order to find the best truckload shipping rates, expedited or otherwise, you’ll need to understand industry differences and equipment.

Truckload Shipping Equipment.

The most common types of trucks used for transport are:

• Climate Controlled. Climate controlled and refrigerated trucks are specially designed to transport temperature sensitive goods. This is important if you are shipping something that can expire or otherwise be damaged without a controlled environment.
• Flatbeds. These trucks are used to transporting large loads, usually machinery or building materials. Flatbeds can be used to loads that are either too large, or otherwise unable to be transported easily in a trailer.
• Dry Van. These are trailers that aren’t temperature controlled, and can be used for most manner of goods; provided they’re not too large, or need special climate care.

Knowing what type of equipment you need will come in handy when trying to get accurate truckload shipping rates.

Full Truck or LTL?

Full Truck shipping if for materials that will take up the entire trailer. Less than truckload, LTL, is for shipments that will only partially fill a truck. The delivery times can be more flexible with LTL, with full truck usually being the fastest choice. This is because with a full truck the supplies will go directly to the destination, wheres as LTL might have additional stops. If you don’t have much to ship, and aren’t concerned about a deadline, LTL might be the better option.

How Much Can A Truck Carry?

As a standard, a traditional truck is capable of carrying up to 30 pallets of goods. The average pallets are usually 40 x 48; however, specialized ot larger pallets will require extra planning, and possibly more trucks for shipping.


In terms of weight limits, the average truck can haul around 42-44,000 pounds, with some dry vans can even carry up to 45,000. If you’re planning on shipping a full truck, you’ll want to make sure to work with the freight company so that no weight limits are exceeded.

Keep In Mind.

Knowing how much you’re shipping, the deadlines, and potential weight limits, will help you draw up more accurate truckload shipping rates. If the weight or pallet limit is exceeded, additional trucks may be required. Additionally, keep in mind any products that will require special climate controls. Always communicate your needs with the freight service so that everything can go as smoothly as possible. When everyone is up-to-date with what is being shipped, the margin for error is drastically lowered.