Freight classification is an important part of LTL — shaping everything from pricing to operational efficiency. LTL freight is complex, comprising a wide variety of products and materials. Classification gets even more complicated with models like hub and spoke, where freight is moving constantly between different docks and trailers. With all this complexity, how does freight get classified?

For LTL, getting a grasp of what constitutes fair freight pricing goes a long way toward building better relationships between shippers and carriers. A recent session of The SMC³ LTL Online Education webinars asked the experts to zero in on some core fundamentals of pricing. Kevin Housley, Senior Director of LTL pricing at Scan Global Logistics and Clete Cordero, Director of Pricing at Southeastern Freight Lines, provided insights grounded in years of experience on all the factors that should go into LTL pricing in 2024.

LTL continues to grapple with how sustainability concerns are poised to reshape the industry in the coming years. Promising innovations from within the industry and stringent regulations imposed by state and federal agencies all but guarantee seismic shifts on the near horizon. The question on everyone’s lips: will these changes transform the industry for the better – or do they have the potential to destroy it?

Featuring two Leadership Series sessions and one panel discussion, the second day was chock-full of insights and pressing questions. Both Leadership Series sessions explored emerging industry trends, actionable business strategies, and the technologies driving the future of trucking and supply chain management. Sandwiched in between the two leadership sessions, a panel discussion featured three of the many giants in the third-party logistics (3PL) industry, leaders who are reshaping the space. Featuring an innovative playbook of strategies and trends, the panel addressed the relentless pace of emerging technologies—and how to keep up.

Technology plays a central role in the Less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. While the trucking industry as a whole has been slower to adopt new technology, it’s apparent today that technology solutions are where to turn to optimize freight spend, achieve shipment visibility and streamline transportation planning.

Managing operations for less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping involves a complex network of transportation options and decision-making. The bill of lading comes into focus as accuracy helps ensure the best rates and minimizes the potential for unexpected charges. Shipments need to be ready to go when the driver arrives at the dock for pickup. And not all truckload (TL) carriers offer LTL transportation, so shippers need a robust network of carriers at their disposal to keep products moving.