Shared Truckload Guide

TL;DR: Shared Truckload (STL) is an efficient, cost-effective shipping solution that combines multiple shipments from different customers to optimize truck space and reduce costs. With STL, businesses can maximize transportation efficiency, lower their shipping costs, and benefit from faster delivery times. In this shared truckload guide, we’ll explore the benefits, logistics, pricing, and best practices for STL shipping. We’ll also compare shared truckload vs. LTL truckload methods and outline steps to plan for a successful STL shipment.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Shared Truckload Shipping
• Benefits of Shared Truckload Services
• When to Use Shared Truckload Shipping
• Shared Truckload vs. Full Truckload vs. Less-Than-Truckload
• Planning & Preparing for Shared Truckload Shipments
• Best Practices for Shared Truckload Shipping
• Pricing and Cost Factors
• Industries That Benefit From Shared Truckload
• How to Choose a Shared Truckload Company
• Sunset Pacific Transportation’s Shared Truckload (STL) Services
• Shared Truckload FAQs

Introduction to Shared Truckload (STL) Shipping

STL is a shared truckload logistics method where multiple shipments from different shippers are combined into one truck. Typically, the shared truckload carriers leverage advanced technology to find the best combinations for optimal space use and efficient routes.

Shipments that are too large for Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) shipping but don’t require an entire full truckload (FTL) are prime candidates for shared truckload freight. By paying only for the space used, STL is a more cost-effective option for medium-sized loads. Similar to partial truckload (PTL) shipping, shared truckload STL allows multiple customers to “share” truck space, reducing transportation costs and improving speed compared to traditional LTL.

Benefits of Shared Truckload Services

1. Cost Savings: By consolidating freight from multiple shippers, shared truckload services lower the cost per unit. Medium-sized shipments can thus benefit from lower overall expenses.
2. Faster Delivery: With freight bound for similar destinations, STL minimizes additional stops and complex handling. Fewer detours equate to quicker deliveries and improved supply chain performance.
3. Reduced Damage Risk: Shared truckload freight typically has fewer touchpoints and nearly no onloading or offloading while the shipment is in transit. Carefully handling consolidated shipments lowers the likelihood of damage—ideal for delicate or high-value items.
4. Eco-Friendly Option: By consolidating shipments, STL reduces the number of trucks on the road, cutting carbon emissions and promoting greener operations.

When to Use Shared Truckload Shipping

Shared Truckload (STL) shipping is ideal for businesses with medium-sized shipments (5–21 pallets or up to 35 feet of truck space). This middle ground fits shipments that are too large for LTL but don’t fill an entire FTL.

• Bulky/Heavy/Oversized Products: Ideal for goods that exceed LTL capacity but don’t justify a whole trailer.
• Fragile or Specialized Freight: Fewer touchpoints and better protection for items needing careful handling.
• Timed Deliveries: Shared truckload warehouse operations can schedule pick-ups and drop-offs precisely, ensuring shipments arrive within designated windows.
• Seasonal Shipping: Adjust capacity during peak periods without overcommitting to full-truck pricing.

Shared Truckload vs. Full Truckload vs. Less-Than-Truckload

Full Truckload (FTL): FTL shipping uses an entire truck for one customer’s shipment—ideal for larger shipments that need the exclusive use of a truck. However, it can be cost-prohibitive when you don’t have enough freight to fill the entire truck.

Less-Than-Truckload (LTL): LTL shipping is used when your shipment is smaller than a full truckload. But it’s not always the most cost-effective for larger loads with multiple stops and longer transit times.

Shared Truckload (STL): STL is a hybrid solution. It offers dedicated truck space even for large items (like FTL), but the cost is split among multiple shippers (like LTL). It’s the perfect option when you don’t need a full truck, but you want the most efficient and cost-effective route possible.

Planning & Preparing for Shared Truckload Shipments

Proper planning is crucial when preparing for Shared Truckload (STL) shipments. Start by determining the exact size of your shipment to ensure it fits within the optimal range for STL, typically between 5-21 pallets or up to 35 feet of space. Then coordinate with your carrier to establish pickup and delivery windows that align with your business’s needs.

Best Practices for Shared Truckload Shipping

• Consolidate Shipments: Group shipments that are heading to the same or similar destinations. This maximizes truck space and ensures you’re only paying for the capacity you need.
• Ensure Proper Packaging: Proper packaging is essential to minimize handling and reduce the risk of damage. Palletize your goods whenever possible and secure items to prevent movement during transport.
• Consider Delivery Scheduling: If your shipments require a specific delivery window, coordinate with your carrier to ensure pre-scheduled appointments. This is crucial for retailers and time-sensitive deliveries.
• Use Technology: If your STL company makes it available, use technology to streamline the process. Real-time tracking and online quotes make managing your STL shipments more efficient and transparent.

Communicate Clearly: Ensure that all parties are aware of the shipment’s requirements, especially when dealing with specialized freight. Providing clear and complete instructions helps prevent miscommunication and delays.

Pricing and Cost Factors

Several factors influence shared truckload pricing, including:

Distance: Longer distances typically come with higher rates.

Size and Weight: Larger or heavier shipments will impact the final cost.

Special Requirements: If your shipment requires special handling, temperature control, or other accommodations, expect to pay more.

Consolidation: The more shipments you can consolidate into one load, the greater the potential savings.

Sunset Pacific Transportation offers competitive rates for STL freight, allowing businesses to maximize space while minimizing costs.

Industries That Benefit from Shared Truckload

Several industries can benefit from shared truckload (STL) services, including:

• E-commerce: Businesses that regularly ship multiple smaller loads to various destinations can save on costs and streamline their logistics with STL.
• Retail: Retailers can consolidate shipments from different suppliers, ensuring efficient inventory replenishment.
• Food & Beverage: STL is ideal for perishable goods, offering quicker delivery times and minimizing the need for additional handling.
• Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals: Time-sensitive deliveries of medical supplies benefit from STL’s efficiency and reduced handling risks.
• Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG): Manufacturers and distributors in the CPG sector use STL to move goods efficiently and cost-effectively across regions.

How to Choose a Shared Truckload Company

When choosing a shared truckload provider, consider:

• Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record in STL logistics.
• Technology: Make sure they offer real-time tracking, easy quoting, and other advanced features.
• Flexibility: Choose a provider that can accommodate your unique shipping requirements.
• Customer Service: Excellent communication and support will ensure smooth operations and timely deliveries.
• Reputation: Work with a provider known for reliable service and on-time deliveries.

Sunset Pacific Transportation’s Shared Truckload (STL) Services

Sunset Pacific Transportation offers comprehensive shared truckload (STL) services, tailored to meet your unique shipping needs. With extensive experience in consolidation, we optimize shipments to provide you with the most cost-effective and efficient freight solutions. Our team handles everything from scheduling to delivery, ensuring that your goods arrive safely and on time. Whether you’re shipping small or oversized loads, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of STL shipping.

Optimize Your Shipping with Shared Truckload (STL) Shipping

Shared truckload (STL) offers an excellent solution for businesses looking to save on shipping costs while maintaining fast, reliable delivery. By consolidating shipments from multiple customers, it maximizes truck space, reduces transportation costs, and minimizes transit times—ultimately improving supply chain efficiency. With the flexibility to accommodate various shipment sizes and the ability to handle specialized freight, STL is a versatile shipping method that suits a wide range of industries.

At Sunset Pacific Transportation, we are committed to providing the best STL shipping services tailored to your needs. Whether you’re shipping bulky goods, time-sensitive shipments, or require specialized handling, we offer an efficient, cost-effective, and reliable solution.

Shared Truckload FAQs

What is shared truckload (STL) shipping?

STL shipping involves combining shipments from multiple customers into one truck, optimizing space and reducing shipping costs.

What are the benefits of Shared Truckload shipping?

STL shipping offers cost savings, faster delivery, reduced risk of damage, and improved efficiency by consolidating shipments with similar destinations.

How does shared truckload shipping work?

STL combines freight from multiple customers into one truck, and each shipper pays for the space they occupy, benefiting from lower costs.

How can I choose a shared truckload provider?

Choose a provider with experience in STL, transparent pricing, and the ability to offer real-time tracking and reliable customer support.