We live in a consumerist society where we need more and more items to replace what we already have. Things to eat, things to use in our houses, things to drive, things to wear, things to entertain ourselves, and things to read. Different types of freight are the last thing we think about. We don’t usually consider how all of our goods get to our local stores or our front door. It’s only there when we need it.
The truth is that things are shipped in various methods worldwide and locally, with some companies employing different types of freight. So, who are the freight carriers that deliver us our stuff?
We’ve grown accustomed to ordering items online and delivering them to our doorstep in our modern world. E-commerce is becoming the standard for how we do business. However, we may not know how our product or commodity gets from point A to point B.
This is where knowing the different types of freight plays a role. Cargos can normally be delivered via land, air, or water; however, there are more options. Even though these are the most well-known types of freight, a closer look shows many more varieties.
Five Different Types of Freight
- LTL Freight
LTL freight, or less-than-truckload freight, is one of the different types of freight, typically used when an item has to be sent from a distribution center to a destination. The cargo is forwarded on the ground, with the actual items weighing less than a full truckload. It is the most cost-effective mode of transportation, and items are generally delivered in the morning.
LTL freight is one of the longest in terms of travel length due to its cost efficiency because the shared payload is being transferred. It is, nevertheless, widely acknowledged as the most common sort of freight, and you will almost certainly meet it throughout your freight audit and payment.
2. PTL Freight
Partial Truckload Freight (PTL), while similar to LTL freight types in nature, is another one of the many different types of freight. A specialized truck carries fewer loads but can handle nearly any cargo using this freight transit mode. When the necessity to move vast amounts of merchandise arises, you’ll frequently see enterprises or businesses use Partial Truckloads.
- FTL Freight
A full truckload, or FTL, is a type of freight transit that is grounded and reaches its full capacity. When a corporation wants to deliver exceptionally large quantities of merchandise in a specific condition, this freight service is usually necessary. Since some items, such as refrigerated goods, must be transported in specified states, FTL freight is normally used.
Additionally, the process of transferring commodities and products is quickened, with incredibly short travel lengths. The main downside of using FTL freight is the higher relative cost of doing so. However, if your goods should be delivered fast and in perfect condition, this may not be an issue.
- Expedited Freight
The very word being used to describe this type of freight defines it. Expedited freight services are a unique, grounded type of the different types of freight, in which various sorts of merchandise can be delivered quickly. The travel time from the distribution center to the destination is short, and you can pick up your cargo as soon as possible, even in one day!
- Intermodal Freight
The use of containers – usually ISO containers – to transport cargoes across numerous modes of transportation (train, ship, etc.) to their destinations is known as intermodal freight. This technique does not require direct handling because shipments are enclosed.
Booking intermodal containers, which can be quickly moved from one truck to another, can be more cost-effective. You may also lower your environmental footprint by using freight with this strategy.
The Final Word
There are several ways to get our things delivered to us, just as there are multiple ways to get our commodities delivered to us. One kind of freight may be more practical than others, depending on your circumstances; you can read experienced people’s ideas on different websites like Quora, talk to freight professionals and then choose what works best for you; this way, you’ll have your items in no time! DFreight can assist you in shipping your goods around the world. Just fill out the contact form on our website for further help.
What are the different types of freight shipping?
There are four main types of freight shipping: air freight, ground freight, ocean freight, and rail freight.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of freight shipping?
The main advantage of air freight is that it is the fastest shipping method. The main disadvantage of air freight is that it is the most expensive shipping method. Ground freight is less expensive than air freight but also slower. Ocean freight is the least expensive shipping method, but it takes the longest. Rail freight is faster than ground freight, but it is more expensive.
What are the differences between intermodal and multi-modal shipping?
The main difference between intermodal and multi-modal shipping is that intermodal shipping uses multiple modes of transportation, while multi-modal shipping uses only one mode of transportation.
