7 Ways to Ensure the Best LTL Freight Quote

Less-than-truckload shipping is oftentimes an affordable alternative to full truckload shipping, but how do you know if you’re getting the best quote possible? With so many variables—carriers, lanes, accessorials and fuel surcharges—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with all the detail required to make sure you are providing all the correct information and still getting a good deal.

Unlike other modes of transportation in the US, there are a finite number of LTL trucking companies in the US, so while there are other modal options (sending something full truckload or even hundredweight parcel) there are less than 100 LTL carriers in the US.

Below is our straightforward guide to help you confidently evaluate and secure the best LTL freight quote.

Step 1: Understand what’s included in the LTL freight quote.

The cheapest quote isn’t always the best if it leaves out key services. Every (or most) LTL freight quotes should include:

• • Base rate
• • Fuel surcharge
• • Accessorial charges (e.g. liftgate, inside delivery, residential fees)
• • Transit time estimates

Pro tip: Always request a detailed breakdown. While sometimes it is attractive to try and see if by leaving out that your shipment requires a liftgate to not get charged – we promise that the less surprises the better. The more information the carrier has on your shipment, the more likely the delivery stays on time and the carrier arrives with the right equipment.

Step 2: Compare multiple LTL carriers.

Don’t settle for the first quote you get. Rates can vary widely between carriers based on:

• • Lane density
• • Carrier network efficiency
• • Seasonal demand
• • Delivery timeframes

Shameless plug, Kuebix TMS can help!

For many LTL shippers using carriers or freight brokers, that oftentimes requires sending out a number of emails, managing responses and keeping track of loads or historical data in spreadsheets. Kuebix connects you to a vast network of LTL carriers across the US, letting you compare real-time quotes side-by-side. Instead of jumping from site to site or calling carriers directly, you get instant access to competitive pricing—all in one dashboard.
With Kuebix, you can:

• • Compare carriers by price, service level, and transit time
• • Book shipments directly from the platform
• • View and track all your shipments in one place

Kuebix TMS streamlines the whole quoting process and ensures you’re making decisions based on data, not guesswork.

Step 3: Know your freight class (especially with NMFC changes).

Freight class plays a huge role in pricing. It’s based on: weight, dimensions, density, stowability, handling and liability.
Misclassifying your freight can lead to re-class fees or surprise charges. Use a freight class calculator or if your freight class is density based find a tape measurer or use a dimensioner to avoid costly surprises.
Kuebix TMS also helps you manage classification more accurately, reducing the risk of reclassification charges and billing headaches.

Step 4: Use accurate dimensions and weight.

Quoting with estimated weight or rough dimensions might speed up the process—but it can backfire. Carriers use dimensioners and scales to audit shipments, and if the actual size differs, they’ll re-rate your shipment and charge extra.
Measure accurately, and always include packaging when reporting dimensions.

Step 5: Watch out for accessorials.

Those little extra services can add up quickly, so again the more information you can provide the better you can budget for your LTL shipment. Common ones include:

• • Residential pickup or delivery.
• • Liftgate service
• • Inside delivery
• • Appointment scheduling
• • Limited access locations

Be upfront about any special requirements when requesting a quote so you’re not hit with surprise fees after delivery. With Kuebix TMS, you can specify these needs during the quoting process—ensuring the quote reflects the real cost, not a stripped-down number that leads to surprise charges later.

Step 6: Check carrier performance.

The cheapest quote won’t mean much if the carrier loses your freight or delivers late. Ask about:

• • On-time delivery rates
• • Claims ratio (or claims process especially as most likely your pallet will be comingled with other freight)
• • Tracking capabilities
• • Customer service responsiveness

Reputation and reliability matter—especially when you have customer deadlines to hit.
Kuebix includes performance data on many carriers, helping you make informed choices based on both cost and quality of service.

Step 7: Partner with a reputable TMS provider.

Data is your friend. Having a TMS in place can help you monitor performance and keep track of your loads, historical costs and more. With a TMS, you can:

• • Quote and book with top U.S. LTL carriers in seconds
• • Track all your shipments in real time
• • Simplify paperwork and documentation
• • Gain visibility into costs and trends
• • Audit invoices for accuracy

Kuebix even offers different tiers even an entry point tier with OnKue, so businesses of all sizes can start saving time and money right away—whether you ship once a week or multiple times per day.

Final LTL Carrier Thoughts
Getting the best LTL quote isn’t about chasing the lowest number—it’s about being upfront with your carrier and providing accurate information, so you can get accurate pricing, dependable carriers and streamlined processes that save you time, money and stress.
If you’re ready to take the guesswork out of quoting and start shipping smarter, platforms like Kuebix TMS can give you the edge you need. More options. Better insights. Less hassle.