Best Practices for Importing via LTL Freight

Here are some pro tips and best practices for mporting via less than truckload shipping

When it comes to importing goods, Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is a cost-effective solution for smaller shipments of about 2-5 pallets that don’t require a full trailer. However, compared to Full Truckload (FTL) shipping, LTL imports can be somewhat trickier to handle, particularly for international shipments. In this article, we’ll outline some of the best practices for both USA-Canada and Canada-USA imports, to help you navigate the LTL import process and provide you with a seamless shipping experience.

Understand the Complexities of LTL Imports

Importing via LTL means sharing truck space with other shippers, which makes coordination and accuracy crucial. Unlike FTL, where one shipper books an entire truck for their load, LTL requires additional care to be put into accurate labeling, documentation, and packaging to ensure that goods are not lost or damaged. The shared nature of LTL increases the likelihood of delays, as shipments may need to stop at multiple terminals for sorting and consolidation.

You should also take into account the differences in transit times and handling practices compared to FTL. Our all-encompassing freight shipping guide goes into much more detail about it. Planning ahead and making sure that all of your paperwork is in order can help you avoid any potential upsets. A reliable freight platform, like Freightera, can simplify the process for you with real-time tracking and transparent pricing.

Packaging and Labeling

Proper packaging and labeling are especially critical for LTL shipments, and doubly so for importing. Your freight must be packaged securely to withstand multiple handling points along with the stress of transit itself. This means sturdy pallets, shrink wrap, and corner protectors to prevent damage.

Labeling is equally important. Each item should have a clear and accurate label with information such as the shipper’s name, consignee details, and a corresponding bill of lading (BOL) number. Freightera’s platform generates all of the paperwork for you. The only thing you need to do is make sure that it’s placed accurately on each side of each pallet.

Investing in quality packaging materials and ensuring compliance with labeling standards minimizes the risk of damage and loss, and ensures a faster customs clearance process for imports.

Prepare Accurate Customs Documentation

Customs clearance is one of the most complex aspects of LTL importation. Unlike domestic shipments, international freight must comply with various customs regulations. Missing or inaccurate documentation can mean delays, additional fees, or even seizure of goods.

Key documents include the commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin, along with any necessary import permits. You should also be aware of the Harmonized System (HS) codes for their goods, as these codes determine duty and tax rates. Your customs broker will be more than happy to help you out, but they cannot check your paperwork for you. So make sure that the packing list is clearly legible in case of a border inspection.

Consolidate Shipments If Possible

Consolidation can make LTL imports more cost-effective. By combining multiple shipments into a single LTL load, carriers reduce overall costs by a significant amount. However, the tradeoff is that your shipment will wait for the truck to be at capacity before it leaves. So while the price benefit is amazing, the transit downside might not be ideal for everyone. Another benefit, for example, is that grouping shipments that have the same destination or route can minimize the amount of handling.

Freightera can assist in finding consolidation carriers, to help you find the optimal balance between cost and efficiency.

Communicate Clearly and Responsively

Effective communication is essential for successful LTL imports. Make sure to be available for contact from Freightera, customs brokers, and your shipper or consignee to address any potential issues promptly. 

An ideal shipment will have all of the paperwork ready beforehand and all parties will be able to find anything they need straight away. However, something as benign as a random border inspection can complicate a shipment suddenly, which is why responsiveness in communication is key.

Conclusion

Importing via LTL is a very cost-effective solution for smaller shipments, but it requires you to follow best practices in order for everything to go smoothly. From accurate documentation and robust packaging to fast communication, if you follow these guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of LTL imports without a hitch.

Ready to ship? Register at Freightera and get your instant freight quotes, online 24/7. Our system and our team are ready to help you at every step of your shipping journey. 

Happy shipping!