LTL
LTL (Less Than Truckload) shipping is a transportation method where multiple customers share space in the same truck to ship goods that don't require a full truck. It's like a shared taxi service but for freight - instead of one company paying for the whole truck, several companies split the cost by shipping their smaller loads together. This is different from FTL (Full Truckload) where one customer uses the entire truck. Companies use LTL when they have shipments too big for regular parcel services like UPS but too small to fill an entire truck, making it a cost-effective solution for medium-sized shipments.
Examples in Resumes
Managed LTL carrier relationships resulting in 25% cost savings
Optimized shipping costs by converting Less Than Truckload shipments to consolidated loads
Implemented new LTL freight bidding process across 5 distribution centers
Typical job title: "LTL Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find LTL Coordinators
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you optimize an LTL shipping network to reduce costs?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss strategies like carrier consolidation, negotiating better rates, implementing proper packaging standards, and using technology to optimize shipping routes and consolidate shipments when possible.
Q: How do you handle service failures in LTL operations?
Expected Answer: Should explain their approach to managing carrier relationships, implementing backup plans, tracking and measuring carrier performance, and having clear escalation procedures for service issues.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing between LTL and FTL shipping?
Expected Answer: Should discuss shipment size, urgency, cost comparisons, distance, product type, and delivery requirements as key factors in the decision-making process.
Q: How do you calculate LTL shipping costs?
Expected Answer: Should explain freight class, weight, distance, accessorial charges, and how to use these factors to determine shipping costs and compare carrier rates.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between LTL and FTL shipping?
Expected Answer: Should explain that LTL involves sharing truck space with other shippers for smaller shipments, while FTL means one shipper uses the entire truck for their freight.
Q: What information is needed to book an LTL shipment?
Expected Answer: Should list basic requirements like pickup/delivery addresses, package dimensions, weight, freight class, and any special handling needs.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic shipping documentation
- Understanding of freight classes
- Booking LTL shipments
- Track and trace operations
Mid (2-5 years)
- Carrier rate negotiation
- Route optimization
- Claims management
- Cost analysis and reporting
Senior (5+ years)
- Network optimization
- Strategic carrier management
- Transportation budget planning
- Team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic shipping documentation
- Unfamiliarity with freight classes and their importance
- Lack of experience with transportation management systems
- Poor understanding of shipping regulations and compliance
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