Freight Shipping Explained

Freight shipping is the process of transporting large quantities of goods—commonly referred to as “freight”—by land, sea, air, or rail. It’s the backbone of global commerce, moving everything from raw materials to finished products across continents and supply chains.

While parcel delivery handles smaller items, freight shipping moves the heavier, bulkier loads that keep industries running—whether that’s pallets of consumer goods, construction materials, or retail inventory.

At its core, freight shipping enables businesses to get their products from point A to point B safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

How Freight Shipping Works

Freight shipping involves moving cargo that exceeds the size and weight limits of parcel delivery. Typically, any shipment over 150 pounds or 108 inches in length qualifies as freight.

These goods are often stacked on pallets or packed in containers, then transported via one or more modes of transportation—trucks, trains, ships, or planes. The process may include:

1. Pickup: The carrier collects goods from the supplier or warehouse.
2. Transport: Depending on the route, goods travel by road, rail, air, or ocean—sometimes a combination.
3. Customs or Handoffs: For international shipments, customs documentation and clearances are required.
4. Delivery: The shipment is transferred to a distribution center or directly to the customer.

Modern freight shipping relies heavily on technology and logistics coordination to track, optimize routes, and ensure timely delivery across supply chains.

Main Modes of Freight Shipping

Freight can travel through several key transportation modes—each with unique advantages depending on budget, timeline, and distance.

1. Truck (Ground Freight)

Truck transport is the most flexible and widely used method, ideal for both domestic and regional deliveries. Ground freight options include:

• Less Than Truckload (LTL): For shipments between 150 and 15,000 pounds that don’t fill an entire trailer. Cost-effective but involves multiple stops and handling.
• Full Truckload (FTL): For larger shipments occupying a full trailer. Faster and less risk of damage since it avoids transfers.
• Partial Truckload: Combines multiple shippers’ loads in one truck, balancing cost and speed.
• Expedited Freight: For urgent shipments that require faster delivery, often by dedicated truck or air.

2. Rail Freight

Rail is ideal for long-distance, heavy cargo. It’s one of the most economical and sustainable transport methods, often used to move bulk goods like raw materials, vehicles, and industrial equipment.

3. Ocean Freight

Ocean freight carries about 80% of all international trade. It’s the most cost-effective way to move massive quantities of goods globally. Containers (typically 20 or 40 feet long) allow products to be efficiently transferred between ships, trains, and trucks—also known as intermodal shipping.

4. Air Freight

Air freight is the fastest but most expensive mode, typically used for time-sensitive or high-value items such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or fashion products. It’s crucial for global supply chains that rely on just-in-time delivery.

5. Intermodal Freight

Intermodal shipping combines multiple modes—like truck, rail, and ocean—under one contract. It streamlines global logistics, reduces costs, and improves efficiency by leveraging each mode’s strengths.

Common Freight Shipping Equipment

Different cargo types require specific equipment to protect and transport goods safely. The most common include:

• Dry Van Trailers: Enclosed trailers used for standard, non-perishable goods.
• Flatbed Trailers: Open trailers used for oversized or irregularly shaped freight (e.g., machinery, lumber).
• Refrigerated Trailers (“Reefers”): Climate-controlled units for perishable or temperature-sensitive goods.
• Shipping Containers: Metal boxes used across ships, trains, and trucks for international transport.
• Pallets: Wooden or plastic platforms that allow easy stacking, movement, and handling with forklifts.

Benefits of Freight Shipping

Freight shipping plays a critical role in maintaining supply chain efficiency and ensuring that businesses can scale globally. Key advantages include:

1. Cost Efficiency

Shipping in bulk—via LTL, FTL, or ocean freight—reduces per-unit transportation costs, helping companies maintain competitive pricing.

2. Wide Range of Options

Businesses can choose from multiple modes and service levels based on size, urgency, and budget, ensuring flexibility in every situation.

3. Reliability and Speed

With the right carriers and logistics partners, freight shipping delivers consistent, on-time performance—critical for meeting customer expectations.

4. Scalability

Freight shipping grows with your business. Whether shipping one pallet or an entire container, it can accommodate fluctuating demand.

5. Environmental Efficiency

Consolidating shipments via freight—especially rail or ocean—reduces emissions per unit compared to smaller parcel shipments, supporting sustainability goals.

What Determines Freight Shipping Costs?

Freight rates vary depending on multiple factors. The main pricing determinants include:

• Shipping Distance: Longer distances typically mean higher costs.
• Mode of Transport: Air is fastest but most expensive; ocean and rail are most cost-effective.
• Weight and Dimensions: Larger, heavier shipments occupy more space and limit truck or container capacity.
• Freight Class: In the U.S., LTL shipments are classified by density, value, and handling requirements (classes 50–500).
• Origin and Destination: Remote or congested areas may increase rates due to limited carrier access.
• Special Handling: Fragile, hazardous, or perishable goods require special equipment and added care.

Businesses can often lower costs by optimizing packaging, consolidating shipments, or using 3PL partners that negotiate better carrier rates—like Selery Fulfillment.

How to Prepare Freight for Shipping

Proper preparation helps protect your goods and ensures compliance with carrier requirements. Follow these steps:

1. Choose the Right Packaging: Use durable boxes, crates, or pallets suitable for your cargo’s size and weight.
2. Secure the Load: Strap or wrap goods tightly to prevent shifting during transit.
3. Label Clearly: Include addresses, barcodes, and handling instructions on all sides.
4. Complete Documentation: Prepare bills of lading, commercial invoices, and customs paperwork if shipping internationally.
5. Partner with a Reliable 3PL: A trusted fulfillment provider can manage the entire process—from booking carriers to tracking shipments and handling returns.

Future Trends in Freight Shipping

The freight industry continues to evolve with new technologies and sustainability initiatives. Key trends shaping the future include:

• Automation and AI: Real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and AI-driven route optimization are improving efficiency.
• Green Logistics: Electric trucks, biofuels, and carbon offset programs are reducing environmental impact.
• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving trucks and drones are being tested to reduce labor costs and increase safety.
• Resilient Supply Chains: Companies are diversifying carriers and routes to prevent disruptions and maintain stability.
• These innovations are transforming how freight is shipped—making it smarter, faster, and more sustainable.

The Role of Freight Shipping in Modern Fulfillment

For ecommerce and B2B brands, freight shipping is far more than just transportation—it’s a vital link in the customer experience. From inbound shipments of inventory to outbound fulfillment for retail distribution, efficient freight operations ensure speed, reliability, and cost control.

Partnering with a logistics provider like Selery Fulfillment gives businesses access to optimized carrier networks, transparent pricing, and real-time visibility—so every shipment, whether a single pallet or a full truckload, arrives on time and in perfect condition.