Less-than-Truck-Load, or LTL, is a service companies can use when cargo is too big to ship packages but not big enough to fill a semi. Cargo weighing more than one hundred fifty-one pounds qualifies for this type of service. Carriers use logistics to determine the most cost-effective way to combine loads from multiple businesses and provide a quote based on specific factors. The software is used to determine which carriers have space and who will charge the best price for the required route.

In an LTL setup, drivers have designated routes to travel each day or on certain days of the week. Your truck is loaded in the morning so deliveries can be made en route. New cargo is picked up as they return to the terminal or hub. A reduced shipping cost is one of the main benefits received from this service. Carriers also provide additional services such as residential, internal and pre-delivery notifications. LTL freight quoting software can be used to determine the best method of transportation as well as provide additional cost savings on each freight load.

What features make LTL software an affordable option?

The solutions that a company chooses for shipping can have a negative result in both the amount paid for shipping and the delivery time. Logistics helps companies minimize costs by helping to find an efficient, affordable and timely solution for each transport. A business can hire in-house help, an outside vendor, or incorporate LTL software into its shipping practices. Hiring a professional can be expensive for small or medium-sized businesses because the volume of cargo is usually minimal.

Budget constraints may also prevent in-house or third-party vendors from being a good fit. These services are beneficial for larger loads; however, a technological solution is sometimes the most economical option. The right application can alleviate typical business logistics program expenses such as annual maintenance, freight margins, and license costs. These costs can be dramatically reduced when a company chooses the right technology provider.

Look for a provider that develops the technology itself, offers competitive prices and knows the industry. LTL software designed around proprietary tools creates financial dependency on the provider company. A good product will use a Windows platform in combination with Microsoft tools. These components make it easy to integrate the program into an existing infrastructure, are easy to learn, and reduce total cost. It should work in conjunction with a relational database to avoid extensive maintenance. Remote access, reduced installations, and support for multiple installations should be possible through the program’s interface without the need for a full installation on each computer.

LTL freight quoting software will be most versatile when it can be part of highly integrated programs, configured for a central server environment, or used as a web-based interface. Email notifications, query creation, tracking, and auto-update are other features to look for when purchasing logistics software. Any business can implement logistics software or services to streamline their shipping processes and experience significant cost savings.