Let’s be honest—shipping freight across the country can get a little confusing. Between all the different carrier types, freight classes, and pricing models, it’s no wonder a few myths have crept into the conversation. One of the biggest topics that’s often misunderstood? Less than truckload in USA—aka LTL.
Whether you’re new to shipping or just trying to make sense of your growing logistics costs, you’ve probably heard a few things about less-than-truckload services that made you second-guess using it.
But here’s the thing: most of those “facts” are completely outdated (or just plain wrong).
Let’s unpack the six most common myths about less than truckload freight—and clear the air once and for all.
1. “Less than Truckload is only for small businesses.”
This one comes up a lot. People assume that only tiny startups or mom-and-pop shops use LTL because they “can’t afford” full truckload services.
But here’s the truth: LTL isn’t just for small players—it’s for smart ones.
Plenty of mid-size and even large businesses ship via LTL because it gives them flexibility. If you’re shipping to multiple locations or your loads vary week to week, less than truckload shipping just makes more sense.
2. “LTL costs more than full truckload”
Let’s think about it: why pay for an entire truck if you’re only using half of it?
With less than truckload in the USA, you share space with other shippers. You only pay for the space your freight actually takes up. It’s like splitting the fare in a rideshare—same destination, way less money.
Sure, there might be extra handling involved, but overall, LTL is usually the more affordable option for mid-sized freight (think 150 to 15,000 lbs).
3. “LTL takes forever”
Another common one. Some people believe that because your freight is sharing a ride, it’ll take days longer to get there.
But let’s not forget that less than truckload runs on tight, optimized schedules—especially with modern logistics tech.
Unless you’re shipping something extremely time-sensitive, most LTL deliveries happen pretty quickly, especially regionally. And if you really need it fast? Many LTL carriers now offer guaranteed delivery and expedited options.
4. “LTL is only for nearby or regional shipments.”
Not even close.
Less than truckload freight covers coast to coast. Most less than truckload carriers in the U.S. have solid national networks or partnerships that make cross-country shipping possible and efficient.
In fact, Less than truckload in the USA moves over 140 million shipments each year across states, cities, and industries. So if you thought you were stuck with FTL just because you’re shipping far, think again.
5. “LTL is too complicated to deal”
We get it—scheduling, tracking, freight classes, NMFC codes… it sounds like a headache.
But in reality, it’s not nearly as complicated as it used to be. These days, most less than truckload in the USA offer easy-to-use tools for quotes, tracking, and scheduling. And if you work with a reliable dispatching service, they’ll handle all of that for you.
No stress, no chaos—just smarter shipping.
6. “Your freight isn’t safe in an LTL shipment”
Here’s the concern: if my freight is sharing space with someone else’s, won’t it get damaged?
But the truth is, most LTL shipments are well-packed, palletized, and handled with care by experienced less than truckload carriers. Because LTL shipments go through specific hubs and follow carefully managed routes, damage claims are no more common than with full truckload logistics services.
You also get tracking, insurance options, and regular status updates—so you’re not left in the dark.
7. The Future of Less Than Truckload in the USA
What’s exciting is that less-than-truckload shipping isn’t just popular—it’s evolving fast. With better tech, smarter routes, and stronger networks, LTL is now faster, safer, and more flexible than ever before.
More businesses—big and small—are choosing less than truckload freight to keep up with demand, reduce overhead, and ship smarter in today’s fast-moving market.
Final Take: Don’t Let the Myths Hold You Back
Less than truckload in the USA isn’t some confusing, second-rate shipping option—it’s a flexible, cost-effective, and reliable way to move freight for businesses of all sizes.
If you’re looking to reduce costs, improve delivery flexibility, and still keep your freight moving efficiently, less than truckload shipping might just be your new favorite logistics move.
Curious if LTL is right for your business?
Truckverse provides reliable less than truckload in the USA—handled by experienced carriers, delivered on time, and tailored to your needs. Let’s talk. You might be surprised how much time (and money) you’ve been leaving on the table.
