What is LTL (Less Than Truckload)?
LTL (Less Than Truckload), known in Portuguese as Carga Fracionada, is a transport mode where a single shipper's goods do not occupy the full capacity of the vehicle (truck). In these cases, the cargo is consolidated with goods from other clients sharing the same route or destination, allowing each company to pay only for the space (volume/weight) it uses.
Advantages and Operational Challenges
Cost Savings
Ideal for SMEs or companies with frequent small shipments (e.g., 1 to 6 pallets), avoiding the high cost of hiring a full truck (FTL).
Handling Complexity
Since the truck carries cargo from multiple clients, goods pass through more transshipment and consolidation points.
The Role of WMS and Carrier Integration
In an LTL operation, information accuracy is critical. The WMS ensures that:
Standardized Labeling
Each package is labeled with SSCC codes and route information to prevent losses during consolidation.
Cubage Calculation
The system calculates the exact weight and volume of the cargo so that the collection request sent to the carrier is accurate, avoiding extra costs due to measurement discrepancies.