People considering a career in trucking may imagine solitary cross-country hauls. This isn’t the only path available for professional drivers, however. Lighter-than-load (LTL) shipping jobs offer a locally centered alternative that offers plenty of interaction while keeping drivers close to home. Here, the experts at C&M Transport discuss what drivers can expect from LTL shipping, including its different types and benefits.
What Is LTL Shipping?
First, it’s useful to understand LTL shipping and what it entails. When most people imagine a trucking career, they envision over-the-road (OTR). This form of trucking involves working with one or a few customers to make long-distance deliveries of massive cargo.
In contrast, LTL (lighter than load) drivers don’t carry enough freight for a full truckload. Instead, they collect smaller portions from multiple locations to carry over shorter distances. They make several pick-ups and deliveries during a single shift, often stopping at the same set of customers either daily or weekly. They have a predictable schedule, operate within a set region, and often remain close to home.
P&D vs. Linehaul
LTL shipping comes in two different forms. While similar, the types come with their own demands and lifestyle expectations. Understanding the difference between the following will help you choose the style of LTL trucking that suits you best:
Pickup and Delivery (P&D)
P&D drivers pick up freight from a distribution center and deliver it to customers, or vice versa. The job can include loading and unloading, and drivers interact frequently with customers. This makes P&D a fast-paced and demanding career that allows drivers to flex all of their professional skills. As an added bonus, these jobs rarely travel far, meaning that drivers can spend nights at home.
Linehaul
Linehaul drivers move freight between different service centers within a region. They are often on the road for longer stretches, and they may work day or night shifts depending on the specific shipment’s requirements. Some linehaul drivers make it home most nights, while others may spend more time on the road. Carriers typically cover overnight expenses.
Benefits of LTL
Regardless of the job type you decide upon, LTL driving offers a few advantages over OTR. These are just a few benefits you may enjoy if you become an LTL driver:
- Consistency: LTL truckers often drive the same route repeatedly, making stops at the same set of locations. It’s an appealing career for people who appreciate a predictable schedule.
- Connection: Unlike in OTR, LTL drivers aren’t solitary. They have the opportunity to interact and build relationships with customers, service center workers, and others in the industry.
- Family: Because LTL truckers operate within a region, they can often go home at night. This makes it easier to balance family life and other obligations without hurting your income.
- Stability: OTR income can be unpredictable with sudden spikes and valleys depending on the jobs available. In contrast, LTL drivers enjoy reliable pay and greater peace of mind.
Start Your Trucking Career Today
If LTL shipping sounds right for you, you can get a job today at C&M Transport. We started as road drivers ourselves, so we understand life on the road. This experience has earned us an excellent reputation as one of the best carrier services to work for. Our drivers enjoy no forced dispatch, company-paid expenses, and an open-door policy. We also have 17 locations nationwide, making it easy to find a job where you are. Contact us to learn more, or apply now to get started.