We get it that some freight brokers aren’t crazy about handling less-than-truckload (LTL) freight. There’s a big learning curve, further complicated this summer with a revised freight classification system. And LTL certainly isn’t as straightforward as linehaul — literally, it’s not point A to point B; there can be points C, D, and E too.
Today it’s possible — easy even — to streamline LTL operations with automation. And Drumkit is leading the way in providing freight brokers with the operational efficiencies they need to stay ahead of the competition.
Lots to Learn: Figuring Out Freight Classifications
The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) overhauled the LTL classification system in mid-July.
While the NMFTA touted the “successful implementation” of the revamped classification system, FedEx Freight was worried enough about adoption that it delayed enforcement of the new classification rules by 150 days — until December 1 — to give shippers more time to get used to them.
And there was a lot to digest. The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) system hadn’t changed much in 90 years.
FedEx Freight issued a statement highlighting the burden on shippers. “Since several commodities are moving to density-based classification, it’s more important than ever for shippers to record shipments’ density, weight, and dimensions accurately. If you ship these types of commodities, the density will determine the classification,” it said.
The NMFTA granted that the overhauled system fundamentally impacted how LTL freight is classified, rated, and billed. It said the changes included a standardized density scale, unique identifiers for freight with special handling requirements, condensed and modernized commodity listing, and improved usability of the ClassIT classification tool.
“For 3PLs managing LTL shipments, this means access to the latest data, updated classification details, and clear communication with shippers and carriers will be key to ensuring smooth transactions and accurate rating,” the NMFTA said.
Lots to Lose: Multiple Chances for Things to Go Sideways
LTL shipping enables small and midsize businesses to ship regularly; they don’t have to wait until they have a full truckload of goods to deliver. LTL is said to be a good fit for shipments ranging from a few boxes to several pallets, anywhere from 150 to 15,000 pounds.
Of course, there is a BUT with LTL shipping. That big BUT is that shippers don’t have the truck to themselves. Multiple shippers pay for portions of the same truck. That means there are multiple opportunities for error. Freight misclassification, poor packaging and labeling, or inaccurate paperwork, for instance, can result in delivery delays for a shipment — and all subsequent shipments.
According to a Transport Topics 2024 report, LTL trucking made up about 10-15% of total freight volume, and the “LTL trucking network is highly dependent on hubs and distribution centers where loads are sorted and consolidated for effective routing.”
BUT the more hubs and DCs involved, the opportunities for errors and delays multiply.
“Increased volume and fragmented shipments also create more complex logistics,” Transport Topics said. “For example, customers have increasing expectations for fast delivery, which is forcing some carriers to rethink their operations. Speed can impact efficiency, which lowers margins.”
Drumkit Eliminates Opportunities for Error
“Automation and data analytics have become core components of a modern fleet operation rather than something that is simply nice to have,” Transport Topics said. “AI and machine learning are becoming mainstream, helping to more accurately forecast rates further in advance and handle routine tasks, freeing up back-office staff to focus on higher value work and customer service.”
At Drumkit, we know real-time visibility and instant email responses are essential in LTL shipping. Our AI-powered freight broker software automates the tedious and error-prone tasks involved in LTL. Our tools include automated load building, smart email triage, and instant integration with carriers and TMS platforms.
Quoting complex LTL shipments with multiple stops along the route shouldn’t take all day — or require 10 tabs and a calculator. Drumkit makes multi-stop quoting fast, flexible, and shockingly easy — right from your inbox or browser. You can respond to quote requests faster, boost your win rates, and streamline your workflow — all without leaving your current screen.
Drumkit automates appointment scheduling directly from your email or browser. Whether it’s a pickup confirmation, a delivery time change, or a reschedule request through a carrier portal, Drumkit handles the back-and-forth so you don’t have to.
Get to Know Drumkit
With Drumkit, LTL freight brokers can automate everything from rate quotes and load management to real-time tracking and customer communication. Book an introductory call and get to know us.
Or meet up with us at the Broker-Carrier Summit, taking place October 28 to 30 in Orlando, Florida.
