When selling via e-commerce and needing to ship pallets, the least expensive shipping method often depends on several factors — such as distance, pallet size and weight, delivery speed, and whether you have negotiated rates. That said, here are the generally least expensive shipping methods for pallets:
1. Less Than Truckload (LTL) Freight Shipping
Best for: 1–6 pallets (150–15,000 lbs)
- Overview: LTL carriers combine freight from multiple shippers into a single truck. You pay only for the portion of space your pallet(s) occupy.
- Why it’s cheaper: You’re not paying for an entire truck — only the space you use.
- Popular LTL carriers:
- FedEx Freight
- UPS Freight (now TForce Freight)
- XPO Logistics
- Estes
- SAIA
Tip: Use freight marketplaces like FreightQuote, uShip, Redhawk, or Freightos to compare LTL rates easily.
2. Freight Brokers or 3PLs (Third-Party Logistics)
Best for: Saving time and money via volume discounts
- Overview: Freight brokers/3PLs act as intermediaries who negotiate better shipping rates due to bulk contracts with carriers.
- Popular 3PLs:
- ShipBob
- Flexport
- C.H. Robinson
- Echo Global Logistics
3. Full Truckload (FTL)
Best for: 10+ pallets or high-volume shippers
- Overview: You rent the entire truck — ideal if your pallet volume is high enough to justify it.
- Cost-effective if: You’re shipping a full truck (around 26–30 standard 48″x40″ pallets).
4. Regional Carriers / Local Freight Companies
Best for: Short-haul or intra-state pallet shipping
- Why it’s cheaper: Smaller regional carriers often offer lower rates for local routes compared to national carriers.
- Example: R+L Carriers, Southeastern Freight Lines, or Dayton Freight.
Bonus Tips to Reduce Pallet Shipping Costs:
- Negotiate rates directly with carriers if you ship frequently.
- Use standard pallet sizes (typically 48″x40″) to avoid surcharges.
- Consolidate shipments when possible.
- Use a freight class calculator to ensure accurate pricing.
- Avoid residential deliveries if possible — commercial destinations are cheaper.