LTL Trucking Solutions

Ship smarter with DHL’s LTL Trucking Solutions. Whether you’re moving a few pallets or partial loads, our Less-Than-Truckload solutions help your business scale with flexible, reliable road freight across all 48 continental U.S. states.
With defined lead times, an extensive trucking network, and DHL’s expertise, you save time and keep your supply chain moving without interruption.

Connect with an LTL Shipping Expert

• Defined lead times: Know exactly when your shipment will arrive, so you can plan production schedules and customer deliveries with confidence.
• No single-shipment surcharges: Send smaller loads without paying extra fees, keeping costs predictable for both one-off and recurring shipments.
• Scheduled and on-demand departures: Match your shipping to your business rhythm—whether you need regular, set routes or flexible, urgent departures.
• Oversized cargo handling: Ship larger or irregular freight with confidence, knowing DHL has the trailers and processes to handle oversized loads without complication.
• Nationwide and cross-border coverage: Our LTL freight shipping options cover both domestic and cross-border: all 48 continental states, Mexico and Canada to support your growth at home and internationally.
• Global expertise: Access DHL’s worldwide network and compliance know-how, reducing risk and helping shipments move smoothly across borders.

In the U.S., LTL freight pricing is based on the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), which assigns a “class” to your shipment between 50 and 500. This class depends on density, handling, stowability, and liability — in short, how difficult your freight is to move.

• Lower classes (50–100): Dense, durable products such as bricks or metal rods. These are cheaper to ship because they take up less space.
• Mid-range classes (125–250): Goods like furniture or electronics that balance weight and size.
• Higher classes (300–500): Lightweight but bulky freight, such as plastic goods, which cost more to move because they occupy more trailer space.

Selecting the correct class is essential for accurate pricing and to avoid re-billing or delays. Need guidance? Our DHL Freight Class specialists are here to help you make the right choice.  You can also use a LTL freight class calculator, like our Freight Density Calculator, to help you determine the right class for your shipment.

DHL offers a versatile set of equipment options to ensure your freight moves the way it should — whether it’s a single pallet, a regional load, or oversized cargo that needs special handling.

• Semi-trailers: Standard trailers used for most shipments, giving customers reliable capacity for both LTL and full truckload needs.
• 40-ft trailers: A flexible option for smaller or regional shipments where a full 53-ft trailer isn’t required.
• 53-ft trailers: The largest standard option, providing maximum space for large consolidations or high-volume freight.
• Oversized cargo handling: Designed for freight that doesn’t fit standard pallet dimensions, ensuring even complex or irregular loads can be transported safely.

Every freight LTL shipment is unique, and costs are shaped by several variables, including:

• Distance between pickup and delivery
• Freight class assigned under NMFC standards
• Weight and dimensions of the goods
• Special handling requirements such as fragile or irregular cargo
• Seasonal demand and overall network capacity

DHL sets out to keep these variables transparent. With our LTL freight shipping services, you benefit from clear definitions of lead times, flexible scheduling options, and straightforward invoicing without penalties for small-volume shipments. This makes it easier to plan budgets and compare service levels.
Get a freight quote now and see your shipping costs upfront, for no hidden surprises.

Your DHL LTL freight shipping quote covers the essentials needed to move goods reliably within the United States:

For businesses with more complex shipping needs, DHL offers tailored services that go beyond the essentials. These include:

• White Glove service: inside delivery, unpacking, assembly, and debris removal for sensitive or high-value shipments.
• Cross-border Transborder Connect with full-service brokerage and bilingual support:
  - In-house U.S., Mexican, and Canadian brokerage services
  - 24/7/365 bilingual customer service and a single consolidated invoice
  - Import Management System (IMS) for U.S. Customs compliance and reporting
• Optional add-ons such as inventory management, order fulfillment, Non-Resident Importer (NRI) programs, and courier services for high-volume NRI customers

Choose a trusted LTL freight carrier and simplify your shipping with tailored solutions:

• Nationwide access: Local pickup and delivery across the 48 continental states, supported by regional DHL offices and customer service centers.
• Instant online quoting: Use DHL’s Freight Quote tool to see preliminary rates based on your shipment details.
• Expert guidance: Connect with a DHL specialist and receive expert guidance on the best service for your route and timeline.
  Partner with DHL today and see how our expertise can unlock your business’ growth.

From pickup to delivery, we give you full visibility and the dedicated support your business depends on, which includes:

• Comprehensive tracking: Monitor shipment status online with DHL’s Track & Trace for easy and convenient LTL freight tracking.
• Customer service when you need it: Access DHL’s customer service for help with your inquiries.
• Enterprise support options: Account holding customers can use dedicated online portals for greater shipment visibility and fully integrated management.