Reviewed October 25, 2026. Based on XPO’s LTL explanation and transportation glossary.
| LTL | Truckload |
|---|---|
| Several shippers share trailer capacity. | One shipper uses the trailer’s capacity. |
| Freight can transfer between terminals and trailers. | Freight typically remains on the same vehicle. |
| Prepare for handling within a carrier network. | Confirm the vehicle and loading arrangement for the shipment. |
These describe common operating patterns, not a promise about a particular route. There is no single pallet count on this page that guarantees acceptance or makes one service cheaper.
How an LTL shipment moves
XPO describes a hub-and-spoke network with local terminals and larger freight assembly centers. A shipment can travel from pickup to a terminal, join other freight for a longer leg, then transfer again for delivery. The exact route depends on the carrier and service.
That handling is why a load needs suitable protection and securement. A carton arrangement that fits on the pallet can still leave exposed edges or unstable packages. The pallet shipping guide covers preparation, and the pallet calculator estimates a uniform carton layout without certifying its stability.
Example: two pallets, one quote request
Suppose you have two identical finished pallets. Each measures 48 × 40 × 42 inches and weighs 560 lb including packaging. These are hypothetical measurements, not a carrier limit.
= 46.666… ft³
Two pallets = 93.333… ft³ and 1,120 lb
Combined density = 1,120 ÷ 93.333… = 12 lb/ft³
On this site’s 2025 density scale, exactly 12 lb/ft³ enters class 85. That is a conditional density estimate: the applicable commodity provision still needs confirmation. Calculate your own freight class estimate using the finished load.
The quote request also needs the goods’ description, origin, destination and service requirements. “Two pallets, class 85” leaves out information the carrier needs. For example, whether the receiver has unloading equipment is a separate question from the freight’s density.
Identical pallets keep the same density
Quantity doubles volume and weight. Both lookups are exactly 12 lb/ft³, while a quote still needs the origin, destination, goods, and services.
What to prepare before asking for a price
- The goods
- A specific product description, packaging and confirmed classification. Use the NMFC lookup guide when the item is unclear.
- The finished load
- Piece count, complete outside dimensions and gross weight. Record different sizes separately; follow the pallet measurement guide.
- The journey
- Pickup and delivery addresses, contacts, ready time and receiving hours.
- The service
- Confirm ground-level unloading, residential or restricted access, appointments and other needs at both ends. See accessorial service definitions.
XPO’s guide lists weight, space, distance, class and special services among pricing considerations. Compare quotes with matching inputs and service assumptions. This site does not provide carrier rates, transit guarantees or a booking service.
Where NMFC fits
The National Motor Freight Classification provides a framework for classification. NMFTA identifies density, handling, stowability and liability as its four transportation characteristics. A density number does not identify the goods or replace the applicable item provisions.
Before pickup, make sure the quote and shipment paperwork describe the actual packed load. If the invoice later uses different measurements or classification, the reclassification guide explains what records can help you review the change.
Questions before you ship
What does LTL mean in shipping?
LTL means less-than-truckload. A shipment uses part of a trailer, with freight from several shippers consolidated through a carrier network. It is often palletized. A particular weight or pallet count alone does not establish whether a carrier will accept it.
Is LTL the same as pallet shipping?
No. A pallet is a way to package and handle goods; LTL describes a transportation service. Palletized goods can move by different services. Confirm the loaded dimensions, weight, destination and handling needs when requesting a quote.
Does freight class give me an LTL shipping price?
No. Class is one input. XPO also identifies shipment weight, space, distance and special services as pricing considerations. Give the carrier the complete shipment details and confirm the quote assumptions.
Sources and scope
All sources checked October 25, 2026. Service arrangements depend on the carrier and shipment.
XPO: What Is Less-Than-Truckload Shipping? — network, documentation and quote factors.
XPO: Transportation Glossary — LTL and truckload definitions.
NMFTA: Navigating Updates to the NMFC — classification scope and current lookup.
NMFTA: Decoding Density, June 19, 2025 — density bands used in the example. Calculation methodology.